plate no. 6773

Call to Revolution and Table of Universal Brotherhood (Science, Labor and Art)

Jose Clemente Orozco, 1931

oilMuralismsymbolic paintingfigurestoolsrainbowgeometric shapeslabormural

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to use a limited color palette to create depth and form, as well as how to simplify complex figures into geometric shapes. It also provides practice in creating a narrative through symbolic imagery.

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 and proportions of the figures and tools.
step 02
Block in the main shapes with diluted washes of burnt umber and raw sienna.
step 03
Establish the darkest values using a mix of burnt umber and black.
step 04
Begin layering lighter tones to define the form of the figures and objects, gradually building up the highlights.
step 05
Add details to the faces, paying attention to the expressions and shadows.
step 06
Paint the rainbow using thin layers of color, blending them smoothly.
step 07
Refine the edges and add any final details.
step 08
Let dry and apply a varnish to protect the painting.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white

secondary · red · yellow · blue

Achieve the various skin tones by mixing burnt umber, raw sienna, and white in different proportions. Use thin washes of color to create depth and shadows.

techniques