plate no. 8622

Bathers on the Beach I 1912

Lyonel Feininger, 1912

oilExpressionismgenre paintingfiguresbeachseaboatsarchitecturesky

some experience helpful

This painting provides a good opportunity to practice simplifying complex forms into geometric shapes and understanding how light and shadow create depth on flat planes. Students can also learn about color mixing to achieve the subtle variations in the sky and ground.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures, boats, and architectural elements.
step 02
Divide the canvas into geometric shapes, simplifying the forms of the figures and objects.
step 03
Block in the main colors of the sky, sea, and ground, using thin washes of paint.
step 04
Add the darker values to create shadows and define the geometric shapes.
step 05
Mix and apply the colors for the figures' clothing, paying attention to the subtle variations in tone.
step 06
Add the details of the boats and architectural elements, using a fine brush.
step 07
Refine the edges of the shapes and blend the colors where necessary.
step 08
Add final highlights to create a sense of depth and dimension.

color palette

primary · cerulean blue · yellow ochre · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · burnt sienna · cadmium red light · sap green

Mix the sky colors by blending cerulean blue, titanium white, and a touch of yellow ochre. Create the ground color by mixing yellow ochre, burnt sienna, and ivory black. Use white to lighten the colors for highlights.

techniques