plate no. 0822

Corte, Corsica

M.C. Escher, 1933

oilRealismcityscapebuildingscityscapearchitecturestairsskystone

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in perspective drawing, particularly rendering depth and form in architectural subjects, and in using colored pencils to create subtle tonal variations and textures.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the basic shapes and perspective lines of the buildings and stairs.
step 02
Establish the horizon line and vanishing points to ensure accurate perspective.
step 03
Start layering colors, beginning with the lightest tones and gradually building up darker values.
step 04
Focus on rendering the textures of the stone and plaster using short, directional strokes.
step 05
Pay attention to the light source and how it affects the shadows and highlights on the buildings.
step 06
Use a variety of colored pencils to create subtle variations in color and tone.
step 07
Refine the details of the windows, doors, and other architectural elements.
step 08
Add the final touches, such as the sky and any small details in the foreground.

color palette

primary · light blue · yellow ochre · grey · white

secondary · burnt umber · raw sienna · light grey

Mix light blue and white for the sky. Use yellow ochre and burnt umber for the warm tones of the buildings. Mix grey and white for the stone and shadows.

techniques

·hatching
·cross-hatching
·layering
·burnishing
·perspective drawing

common pitfalls

→Incorrect perspective can distort the buildings and make the composition look unnatural.
→Overworking the colors can result in a muddy or flat appearance.
→Ignoring the light source can lead to inconsistent shadows and highlights.
→Failing to capture the textures of the stone and plaster can make the buildings look unrealistic.