plate no. 9526
Dancer in a café
Jean Metzinger, 1912
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students understand cubist principles of fragmentation and multiple perspectives, as well as how to represent form through geometric shapes and tonal variations.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a rough sketch outlining the major shapes and figures.
- step 02
Divide the composition into geometric planes, simplifying complex forms.
- step 03
Establish the darkest and lightest values to create a sense of depth.
- step 04
Begin filling in the larger shapes with base colors, focusing on accurate tonal values.
- step 05
Introduce subtle color variations within each plane to create interest.
- step 06
Refine the edges of the shapes, paying attention to how they intersect and overlap.
- step 07
Add details like the patterns on the clothing and objects on the table.
- step 08
Adjust the overall balance of the painting, ensuring that the colors and values are harmonious.
color palette
primary · ochre · raw umber · ivory black · titanium white
secondary · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre
Achieve the muted tones by mixing earth tones with white and small amounts of complementary colors to dull the intensity.
techniques
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·tonal shading
- ·color layering
- ·faceted forms
- ·analytical cubism
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the composition with too many details.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Using colors that are too saturated.
- →Losing the sense of depth and form.
- →Not simplifying the forms enough.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·flat brushes (various sizes)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil (if using oil paints)
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·varnish
- ·easel
A medium-textured canvas will work well for this painting. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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