plate no. 5431

Grotesque Funeral

Endre Balint, 1963

oilSurrealismsymbolic paintingfiguresabstract shapesmoonfuneralsymbolicnight

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors, creating textures with visible brushstrokes, and simplifying complex forms into abstract shapes. It also encourages exploration of symbolic representation and personal interpretation.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition lightly on the canvas.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background.
step 03
Layer in the darker tones to define the figures and shapes.
step 04
Add the lighter colors and highlights to create depth.
step 05
Use dry brushing to create texture in the background and figures.
step 06
Refine the details of the figures and shapes.
step 07
Add the symbolic elements like the moon and abstract shapes.
step 08
Adjust the colors and values to achieve the desired mood.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna · ivory black

secondary · cadmium red · titanium white · yellow ochre

Mix ultramarine blue and burnt sienna for the dark background. Use white to lighten the colors and create highlights. Mix red and burnt sienna for the reddish figures.

techniques