plate no. 1323

Cloud

Josef Capek, 1933

oilExpressionismlandscapefigureslandscapepathhillsskytrees

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using expressive brushstrokes to convey mood and texture. It also encourages experimentation with color mixing to achieve a muted, earthy palette.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the figures, path, and hills, focusing on the overall composition.
step 02
Block in the sky with a thin layer of blue and gray.
step 03
Establish the main color areas for the path (pinkish-brown), hills (greens, browns, and oranges), and figures (dark tones).
step 04
Begin adding layers of paint to the path, using visible brushstrokes to create a sense of movement.
step 05
Develop the hills with varying shades of green, brown, and orange, following the contours of the land.
step 06
Refine the figures, paying attention to their simplified forms and the subtle variations in color.
step 07
Add details such as the number '33' and any other small elements.
step 08
Review the painting and make any necessary adjustments to color, value, and brushwork.

color palette

primary · pinkish-brown · dark green · dark blue · black

secondary · orange · gray · light blue

Achieve the earthy tones by mixing browns with greens, blues, and oranges. Use white to lighten colors and black to darken them. The pinkish-brown is achieved by mixing red, brown, and white.

techniques