plate no. 3137

For Auderghem

Paul Delvaux, 1923

oilExpressionismcityscapebuildingscityscapebridgetreesskystreet

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in creating depth using atmospheric perspective and in simplifying complex architectural forms into basic shapes. Students will also learn to create a muted color palette and use visible brushstrokes to add texture.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the buildings, bridge, and landscape, focusing on perspective.
step 02
Block in the sky with a thin wash of muted pink and gray.
step 03
Establish the dark values of the bridge and shadows on the buildings using burnt umber and black.
step 04
Paint the lighter areas of the buildings with a mix of white, yellow ochre, and a touch of burnt sienna.
step 05
Add details to the buildings, such as windows and roof tiles, using small brushstrokes.
step 06
Paint the trees and foliage with a mix of greens, browns, and blacks, varying the brushstrokes to create texture.
step 07
Refine the details of the bridge and add the lamppost.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · black · raw sienna · muted pink

Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors (e.g., a little bit of blue into orange-browns). Use white to lighten values, but avoid pure white for highlights; instead, mix with yellow ochre or a touch of pink.

techniques