plate no. 1218
Der Bachsänger (Helge Lindberg)
Johannes Itten, 1916
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand color relationships and how to break down complex forms into simpler geometric shapes. It also provides practice in applying paint in distinct blocks of color.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the geometric breakdown of the figure and objects.
- step 02
Identify the main color blocks and their placement within the composition.
- step 03
Begin filling in the larger color areas with flat, opaque colors.
- step 04
Gradually add smaller color details and refine the edges of the geometric shapes.
- step 05
Pay attention to the value contrasts and adjust colors accordingly to create depth and form.
- step 06
Add the details of the face and cat, maintaining the geometric style.
- step 07
Review the overall composition and make any necessary adjustments to color and shape.
- step 08
Add final details and highlights.
color palette
primary · yellow · blue · red · black
secondary · green · purple · white
Mix greens from blues and yellows, purples from reds and blues. Use white to lighten colors and create tints. Black is used directly for dark areas.
techniques
- ·flat color application
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·color blocking
- ·hard-edge painting
- ·value contrast
common pitfalls
- →Over-blending colors, which will lose the distinct geometric effect.
- →Failing to accurately represent the proportions and angles of the shapes.
- →Creating muddy colors by over-mixing.
- →Ignoring the value structure and creating a flat, uninteresting composition.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas
- ·Acrylic or oil paints (yellow, blue, red, black, white, green, purple)
- ·Set of flat brushes (various sizes)
- ·Palette
- ·Palette knife
- ·Ruler
- ·Pencil
- ·Eraser
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
- ·varnish
Using a palette knife can help create sharp edges and flat color areas. Acrylics will dry faster, while oils allow for more blending time.
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