plate no. 0374

Davos in Summer

Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, 1925

oil, canvasExpressionismlandscapemountainsbuildingstownskytreesfountain

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using color to create mood and atmosphere. It also provides practice in layering colors and creating depth through color temperature.

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 mountains, buildings, and fountain, focusing on composition.
step 02
Block in the sky with broad strokes, blending the colors for the sunset effect.
step 03
Establish the dark mountain masses using dark blue and brown hues.
step 04
Paint the pink mountain, mixing red, white, and a touch of blue.
step 05
Add the basic shapes of the buildings with simplified blocks of color.
step 06
Define the trees and fountain with darker greens and blues.
step 07
Add details to the buildings, such as windows and rooflines, using smaller brushes.
step 08
Refine the colors and add highlights to create depth and dimension.

color palette

primary · Prussian blue · Cadmium yellow · Crimson red · Titanium white

secondary · Burnt umber · Sap green · Orange

Mix various shades of blue and green for the mountains and trees. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights. Mix red and yellow to create oranges and browns for the buildings.

techniques