plate no. 2326

Enchantment of the Sun

Martiros Sarian, 1905

cardboard, temperaExpressionismcityscapecityscapefigurestreesbuildingsskyMiddle East

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand simplified forms and how to create a sense of depth using color and value. It also provides practice in capturing the essence of a scene with expressive brushstrokes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition lightly on the canvas.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the sky and background.
step 03
Define the buildings and trees with their respective colors, focusing on the overall shapes.
step 04
Add details to the figures, keeping them simplified and expressive.
step 05
Introduce shadows and highlights to create depth and dimension.
step 06
Refine the brushstrokes to match the artist's style, using short, visible strokes.
step 07
Add final touches and details to enhance the overall composition.
step 08
Step back and assess the painting, making any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue

secondary · sap green · cadmium red · violet

Mix various shades of ochre and sienna for the buildings. Use blue and green for the trees, and add red and violet for the figures and sky.

techniques

·dry brush texture
·color blocking
·simplified forms
·expressive brushstrokes
·atmospheric perspective

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details
→Using too many colors
→Losing the overall composition
→Ignoring the expressive brushstrokes

materials

surface · Stretched canvas

required

·Stretched canvas
·Acrylic paints (yellow ochre, burnt sienna, ultramarine blue, sap green, cadmium red, violet, titanium white)
·Round brushes (various sizes)
·Flat brushes (various sizes)
·Palette
·Water container
·Paper towels
·Easel