plate no. 2018

Enigma i calma sobre el mar

Angel Planells, 1972

oilSurrealismsymbolic paintingseaskyfiguresarchitecturesurrealclouds

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering complex forms and textures, as well as understanding surrealist composition and color relationships. It also encourages experimentation with unusual subject matter and dreamlike imagery.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main compositional elements: the figures, platforms, architectural structures, and horizon line.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the sky and sea, then the larger shapes of the figures and architecture.
step 03
Develop the sky with subtle gradations of blue and white, paying attention to cloud formations.
step 04
Refine the forms of the figures, adding details to the clothing and anatomical features.
step 05
Add texture and detail to the architectural elements, using dry brush techniques to create a sense of age and decay.
step 06
Mix and apply the specific colors for the chess piece and floating objects.
step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension, focusing on the light source.
step 08
Make final adjustments to color and value to achieve a cohesive and surreal atmosphere.

color palette

primary · cerulean blue · titanium white · burnt umber · cadmium red

secondary · yellow ochre · sap green · payne's gray

Achieve the sky colors by mixing cerulean blue and titanium white, varying the ratios for different cloud effects. The skin tones are achieved by mixing burnt umber, cadmium red, and titanium white.

techniques