plate no. 4287

Evening Lights

Piroska Szanto, 1959

oilExpressionismcityscapecityscapebuildingstreesstreetlightsnighturban

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to simplify complex scenes into basic shapes and use color temperature to create depth and mood. It also provides practice in using visible brushstrokes to add texture and energy.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 6 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the buildings, trees, and streetlights, focusing on composition.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin wash of diluted purple/blue.
step 03
Block in the main areas of color, starting with the darkest shadows and working towards the lighter areas.
step 04
Add the warm yellow tones of the streetlights and windows, using them as focal points.
step 05
Define the tree branches and other details with visible brushstrokes, varying the pressure and direction.
step 06
Refine the shapes and edges of the buildings and trees, paying attention to the negative space.
step 07
Add highlights to create a sense of depth and dimension.
step 08
Review and adjust the overall color balance and value contrast.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · dioxazine purple · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · cadmium yellow light · sap green

Mix various shades of purple by combining ultramarine blue and dioxazine purple with varying amounts of white. Use yellow ochre and cadmium yellow light for the warm light sources. Add small amounts of green to darken the purples.

techniques