plate no. 4961

Excommunication and Execution of Father Hidalgo

David Alfaro Siqueiros, 1953

pyroxylinExpressionismgenre paintingfiguresreligious figurescrosshistorical eventlandscapesky

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure painting, color mixing to achieve muted tones, and creating texture with visible brushstrokes. Students will also learn about composition and how to create a focal point.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement and proportions of the figures and the cross.
step 02
Block in the main color areas for the sky, ground, and figures using diluted washes.
step 03
Start building up the values and details in the figures, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 04
Mix and apply the specific colors for the clothing and skin tones, layering to create depth.
step 05
Add the details of the cross and the inscription, using a smaller brush.
step 06
Create texture in the ground and sky with visible brushstrokes and dry brushing.
step 07
Refine the details and adjust the values to create a sense of depth and realism.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the contrast and create a focal point.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · burnt umber

secondary · cadmium red · titanium white · black

Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors and adding white or black to adjust the value. Use yellow ochre and burnt umber to create the skin tones and clothing colors.

techniques