plate no. 1686

Bees

Louis Marcoussis, 1940

oilCubismlandscapeabstractgeometric shapeslandscapebeesfigures

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand color relationships in abstract compositions and practice layering techniques to build depth. It also encourages simplification of complex forms into geometric shapes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic geometric shapes and their placement on the canvas.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background.
step 03
Layer in the mid-tones and shadows to define the forms.
step 04
Add details like the bee and the abstract figures.
step 05
Refine the edges and shapes to match the original painting.
step 06
Add highlights and final touches to create depth.
step 07
Check the overall balance and composition.
step 08
Allow to dry completely and varnish if desired.

color palette

primary · green · red · blue · yellow

secondary · purple · orange · black · white

Mix greens by combining blues and yellows, and create shades by adding black or white to the primary colors. Use complementary colors to create interesting shadows and highlights.

techniques

·color blocking
·layering
·geometric abstraction
·scumbling
·dry brushing

common pitfalls

→Overcomplicating the shapes and details.
→Not paying attention to the color relationships.
→Creating muddy colors by overmixing.
→Losing the overall composition and balance.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·Stretched canvas
·Acrylic or oil paints
·Assorted brushes (flat and round)
·Palette
·Palette knife
·Linseed oil (if using oil paints)
·Odorless mineral spirits (for cleaning brushes)
·Rags

optional

·Medium gloss
·Easel
·Color wheel

Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Acrylic paints dry faster and are easier to clean, while oil paints offer richer colors and blending capabilities.

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