plate no. 2782

Cubist Still Life

Nuri Iyem, 1956

oilCubismstill lifestill lifevasestablegeometric shapesfruit

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand simplifying forms into geometric shapes and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive composition. It also encourages practice in precise brushwork and clean edges.

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 of the still life, focusing on the geometric forms.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color with thin washes, starting with the background and largest shapes.
step 03
Refine the shapes and edges of the objects, paying attention to the overlapping forms.
step 04
Mix and apply the specific colors for each area, building up the layers gradually.
step 05
Add details like the lines and small shapes within the larger forms.
step 06
Create the shadows and highlights to give the objects a sense of depth.
step 07
Check for accuracy and make any necessary adjustments.
step 08
Add final touches and clean up any stray marks.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · ivory black · titanium white · cadmium red light

secondary · gray · pink

Mix shades of gray by combining black and white. Create pink by adding a touch of red to white. Vary the yellow ochre by adding small amounts of red or white.

techniques