plate no. 7321

Before a Café: Paris

John Duncan Fergusson, 1907

oilFauvismgenre paintingfigurescafebuildingstreetcityscapearchitecture

some experience helpful

This painting helps students practice simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive and expressive composition. It also encourages experimentation with visible brushstrokes to add texture and energy.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the cafe building.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background and working towards the foreground.
step 03
Mix the primary colors for the building facade and apply with broad brushstrokes.
step 04
Add the figures, simplifying their forms and using variations of pink and brown for their clothing.
step 05
Define the details of the cafe windows and signage with darker tones.
step 06
Introduce highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 07
Refine the brushwork, adding texture and interest to the surface.
step 08
Step back and adjust the composition as needed, ensuring a balanced and harmonious result.

color palette

primary · light blue · pink · brown · white

secondary · dark blue · green · red

Mix pinks by combining red and white, and create variations of brown by mixing red, yellow, and blue. Achieve the light blue of the building by mixing blue with white and a touch of yellow.

techniques

·blocking in
·broken color
·simplification of form
·visible brushstrokes
·color mixing

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details
→Getting bogged down in realism
→Using too many colors
→Ignoring the overall composition

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas
·acrylic or oil paints
·round brushes
·flat brushes
·palette
·palette knife
·linseed oil or acrylic medium

optional

·easel
·painting rags
·odorless mineral spirits

Use a medium-sized canvas (12x16 or 16x20) to allow for sufficient detail without being overwhelming. Acrylics are recommended for beginners due to their faster drying time.

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