plate no. 8743
Cyclists in Sophiatown
Gerard Sekoto, 1942
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and perspective lines of the street, buildings, and figures.
- step 02
Block in the main color areas for the sky, buildings, and road using thin washes.
- step 03
Establish the dark and light values to create depth and form.
- step 04
Add details to the buildings and figures, focusing on capturing their essence rather than precise detail.
- step 05
Use thicker paint and visible brushstrokes to create texture, especially on the road and buildings.
- step 06
Refine the colors and values, paying attention to the overall harmony of the painting.
- step 07
Add highlights and shadows to enhance the three-dimensionality of the scene.
- step 08
Review and adjust the composition as needed to ensure a balanced and cohesive image.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · sky blue · yellow ochre
secondary · titanium white · cadmium red · sap green
Mix muted tones by combining complementary colors. Use white to lighten colors and create variations in value. Achieve the road color by mixing burnt umber with a touch of red and yellow.
techniques
- ·broken color
- ·scumbling
- ·impasto
- ·perspective drawing
- ·alla prima
common pitfalls
- →Overworking details and losing the loose, expressive quality.
- →Ignoring perspective and creating a flat, unrealistic scene.
- →Using colors that are too bright or saturated.
- →Failing to establish a clear focal point.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes
- ·flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·linseed oil or acrylic medium
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·easel
- ·painting medium
- ·rags
Use a medium-sized canvas (e.g., 12x16 or 16x20 inches) for this project. Acrylics are more beginner friendly, but oils will allow for richer colors and blending.
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