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home·artworks·From now on, a red line ...1970
From now on, a red line ...1970 by Alekos Kontopoulos

plate no. 5842

From now on, a red line ...1970

Alekos Kontopoulos

oilSurrealismsymbolic paintingabstract shapesgeometric formslinescirclestextsurreal elements
some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and texture, as well as practice precise line work and geometric shapes.

technical profile

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

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Lightly sketch the basic geometric shapes and lines of the composition, paying attention to proportions.

  2. step 02

    Apply a base layer of muted gray-green across the background, allowing for variations in tone.

  3. step 03

    Block in the large dark shape at the top with a dark gray or black, and the blue area at the bottom.

  4. step 04

    Paint the orange vertical line, ensuring it is straight and consistent in color.

  5. step 05

    Add the spiral shape, using a fine brush or pen to create the intricate lines.

  6. step 06

    Introduce the smaller details like the circles, squares, and the white 'flower' shape.

  7. step 07

    Carefully add the text using a fine brush and white paint.

  8. step 08

    Refine the edges and add subtle highlights and shadows to enhance the depth and texture.

color palette

primary · gray-green · orange · black · blue

secondary · white · red · purple

Achieve the gray-green by mixing green, gray, and a touch of blue. Mute the colors by adding a small amount of complementary color.

techniques

  • ·layering
  • ·glazing
  • ·fine line work
  • ·geometric construction
  • ·color mixing

common pitfalls

  • →Getting the proportions of the geometric shapes wrong.
  • →Making the colors too bright or saturated.
  • →Rushing the fine line work and creating messy lines.
  • →Not allowing layers to dry properly, leading to muddy colors.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·Stretched canvas
  • ·Acrylic or oil paints (gray, green, blue, orange, black, white)
  • ·Round brushes (various sizes)
  • ·Fine liner brush
  • ·Palette
  • ·Palette knife
  • ·Ruler
  • ·Pencil

optional

  • ·Medium (for oil paints)
  • ·Easel
  • ·Blending brushes

Use a smooth canvas to allow for fine detail work. Acrylics will dry faster, while oils will allow for more blending time.

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oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →
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