plate no. 7814

Barcelona Cathedral as a Blood Red Orange

Malcolm Morley, 1986

oilExpressionismcityscapecathedralarchitecturecityscapeskysunsetbuilding

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in expressive brushwork and layering colors to create a dynamic and textured surface. Students will also learn to simplify complex architectural forms into abstract shapes and lines.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the cathedral structures and horizon line with a light pencil.
step 02
Apply a thin wash of diluted acrylics or thinned oils for the sky, using broad strokes to capture the sunset colors.
step 03
Block in the main colors of the cathedral structures, focusing on the overall shapes and values rather than precise details.
step 04
Begin layering more opaque colors to build up the texture and complexity of the architecture.
step 05
Use expressive brushstrokes and splattering techniques to create a sense of energy and movement.
step 06
Add highlights and shadows to define the forms and create depth.
step 07
Refine the details of the architecture, focusing on capturing the essence of the cathedral's design.
step 08
Add final touches and adjust colors as needed to achieve the desired effect.

color palette

primary · burnt sienna · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · purple · turquoise

Mix various shades of brown and red by combining burnt sienna, cadmium red, and a touch of ultramarine blue. Create the sky colors by mixing titanium white with ultramarine blue, yellow ochre, and touches of red and purple.

techniques