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home·artworks·Fairy tale of the Dwarf
Fairy tale of the Dwarf by Paul Klee

plate no. 6788

Fairy tale of the Dwarf

Paul Klee, 1925

watercolor, cardboardExpressionismmythological paintingfiguregeometric shapesmythologicaldwarfcatabstract
some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors, creating textures with dry brush techniques, and simplifying complex subjects into geometric forms. It also encourages experimentation with abstract composition and symbolic representation.

technical profile

palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the circle, figure, and other elements.

  2. step 02

    Apply a thin wash of dark brown or black to the background, letting it dry.

  3. step 03

    Begin layering in the geometric shapes and patterns within the circle using lighter browns and yellows.

  4. step 04

    Paint the figure with a base of yellow, then add details with red and black.

  5. step 05

    Use dry brush techniques to create texture and add depth to the shapes and background.

  6. step 06

    Outline the shapes with fine lines of black or dark brown.

  7. step 07

    Add the red border around the circle.

  8. step 08

    Refine details and adjust colors as needed.

color palette

primary · dark brown · yellow · black

secondary · red · ochre

Achieve the various shades of brown by mixing black, yellow, and red. Use white sparingly to lighten the yellow for highlights.

techniques

  • ·dry brush
  • ·layering
  • ·scumbling
  • ·hatching
  • ·glazing

common pitfalls

  • →Overworking the details
  • →Using too much water/medium
  • →Not allowing layers to dry properly
  • →Being too literal with the shapes

materials

surface · cardboard

required

  • ·watercolor paints
  • ·watercolor brushes (various sizes)
  • ·cardboard or heavy paper
  • ·palette
  • ·water container
  • ·paper towels

optional

  • ·palette knife
  • ·masking fluid
  • ·ruler

Using a slightly textured cardboard will enhance the dry brush effect. Consider sealing the cardboard before painting to prevent warping.

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watercolor techniques →how to learn by studying the masters →
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