plate no. 0667
Gelb-weiße Kuh vor Häusern
Heinrich Campendonk, 1913
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand how to break down complex subjects into geometric forms and use color to create depth and interest. It also provides practice in layering and blending colors to achieve a desired effect.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic geometric shapes and composition of the houses, cow, and other elements.
- step 02
Block in the main color areas for each shape using thinned paint.
- step 03
Begin layering colors within each shape to create depth and variation.
- step 04
Pay attention to the edges of the shapes and soften or define them as needed.
- step 05
Add details such as windows, architectural features, and the cow's features.
- step 06
Refine the color palette and adjust values to create a cohesive and balanced composition.
- step 07
Add final details and highlights to enhance the overall effect.
- step 08
Let dry and consider a varnish for protection.
color palette
primary · yellow · red · blue · green
secondary · white · black · gray · ochre
Mix various shades of green by combining blue and yellow. Create grays by mixing black and white. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.
techniques
- ·color blocking
- ·layering
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·blending
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the abstract quality.
- →Creating muddy colors by over-mixing.
- →Not paying attention to the overall composition and balance.
- →Making the colors too saturated and not considering the value relationships.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Acrylic or oil paints
- ·Canvas or painting panel
- ·Assorted paint brushes (flat and round)
- ·Palette
- ·Palette knife
- ·Linseed oil or acrylic medium
- ·Rags
- ·Odorless mineral spirits or water
optional
- ·Easel
- ·Apron
- ·Varnish
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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