plate no. 3641

Diabolo

Roger de La Fresnaye, 1914

chalk, paperCubismstill lifestill lifetablegeometric shapespaperdiaboloabstract

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to break down complex forms into simpler geometric shapes and how to create depth using value and color variations within a limited palette.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition of the still life, focusing on the geometric forms.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background and then the major objects.
step 03
Refine the shapes and edges of the objects, paying attention to their relationships to each other.
step 04
Add details such as the patterns on the diabolo and the highlights and shadows on the paper.
step 05
Mix and apply subtle color variations within each shape to create depth and form.
step 06
Define the outlines with darker tones to enhance the geometric structure.
step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to create a sense of volume and dimension.
step 08
Step back and adjust the overall balance of the painting.

color palette

primary · ochre · burnt umber · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · Prussian blue · cadmium red light

Mix ochre and burnt umber for the warm browns. Use white to create various shades of gray. Add small amounts of blue or red to the browns for subtle variations.

techniques