Barnyard with Herd

surface prep

Prepare a standard oil-primed canvas. De Smet’s work from this period emphasizes solid masses of paint and broad brushstrokes, suggesting a surface that can support impasto without excessive absorption. While specific priming recipes for De Smet are not detailed in the sources, the Flemish Expressionist tradition often utilized robust grounds to support heavy paint application (Source 2).

underdrawing

De Smet’s mature work features simplified lines and shapes, suggesting a structural underdrawing that establishes the 'well-organized and balanced structure' characteristic of his post-1922 style (Source 2). The drawing should focus on the geometric relationships and balance rather than fine detail, consistent with the Cubist influence on his sense of construction (Source 1).

underpainting

Consider a grisaille or monochrome underpainting to establish values and structure before applying color. This aligns with traditional oil painting practices where a neutral ground helps in managing the 'solid masses of paint' and allows for subsequent glazing and scumbling to achieve the desired expressive color effects (Source 3). De Smet’s use of chiaroscuro effects suggests a strong value structure established early in the process (Source 2).

Broad Brushstrokes

De Smet applied paint in broad brushstrokes to create solid masses, a characteristic of his mature style influenced by German Expressionism and the Bergen School (Source 2).

Glazing and Scumbling

These techniques are used to manipulate color and transparency, allowing for the creation of complex visual effects and depth. Glazing adds transparent layers, while scumbling adds semi-opaque layers that interact with the underlying paint (Source 3).

Chiaroscuro

De Smet used chiaroscuro effects to enhance the expressive quality of his work, focusing on personal feelings and new ways of depicting them (Source 2).