plate no. 6189

Candle Vendors

Vicente Manansala, 1976

oilCubismgenre paintingfigurescandlesvendorsportraitsmarketreligious

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in geometric abstraction and color blocking while understanding how to represent figures in a stylized manner. It also provides practice in creating depth and form using value changes within a limited color palette.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the main shapes and figures, focusing on the geometric structure.
step 02
Divide the canvas into distinct planes and shapes, simplifying the forms of the figures and objects.
step 03
Establish the darkest values first, using a mix of blues and browns to create shadows.
step 04
Block in the mid-tones, using a range of blues, browns, and creams to define the figures and background.
step 05
Add the lighter values, using white and light blues to highlight the forms and create contrast.
step 06
Mix the red for the figures and candle wax, and apply it with distinct brushstrokes.
step 07
Refine the details of the faces and clothing, paying attention to the geometric shapes and planes.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to enhance the overall composition and create a sense of depth.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · yellow ochre

Mix blues and browns to create the darker values. Use white to lighten the blues and browns for highlights. Mix red with a touch of brown to create the candle wax color.

techniques