plate no. 1840
Dazzle-ships in Drydock at Liverpool
Edward Wadsworth, 1919
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in geometric abstraction, precise line work, and understanding how to create depth through linear perspective and value changes. It also encourages careful observation of complex forms and simplification into geometric shapes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
2
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the ship, drydock, and background buildings, focusing on accurate proportions and perspective.
- step 02
Divide the ship's surface into the geometric pattern of the dazzle camouflage, paying attention to the angles and intersections.
- step 03
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the darkest and lightest values to establish the overall contrast.
- step 04
Refine the shapes and edges of the geometric patterns, ensuring clean lines and sharp transitions.
- step 05
Add details to the background buildings, simplifying their forms while maintaining a sense of depth.
- step 06
Paint the figures in the foreground, using simple shapes and limited detail.
- step 07
Adjust the values and colors throughout the painting to create a cohesive and balanced composition.
- step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the three-dimensional effect.
color palette
primary · black · white · gray · red
secondary · brown · beige
Mix various shades of gray by combining black and white. Achieve the red by mixing a cadmium red hue with a touch of brown for depth.
techniques
- ·hard-edge painting
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·linear perspective
- ·value blocking
- ·color simplification
common pitfalls
- →Inaccurate proportions in the initial sketch.
- →Uneven or wobbly lines in the geometric patterns.
- →Overly complex details in the background.
- →Lack of contrast between light and dark areas.
- →Inconsistent color mixing.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·graphite pencils
- ·ruler
- ·black acrylic paint
- ·white acrylic paint
- ·red acrylic paint
- ·#2 round brush
- ·#6 flat brush
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·gray acrylic paint
- ·varnish
Use a smooth canvas surface to achieve clean lines and sharp edges. Acrylic paint is recommended for its fast drying time and ease of use.
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