plate no. 8107

Grungasse in Murnau

Wassily Kandinsky, 1909

oil, cardboardExpressionismcityscapebuildingshousesstreetskytreescityscape

some experience helpful

This painting helps students practice simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using expressive brushstrokes to convey form and texture. It also encourages experimentation with color to create mood and atmosphere.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 7 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the buildings and street, focusing on composition.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color for the sky, buildings, and ground, using thin washes.
step 03
Add darker values to define shadows and create depth.
step 04
Introduce secondary colors to create visual interest and variation within the larger color blocks.
step 05
Use thicker paint and visible brushstrokes to add texture and detail to the buildings and foliage.
step 06
Refine the edges of shapes and add small details to enhance the overall impression.
step 07
Step back and assess the painting, making adjustments as needed to balance the composition and color harmony.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna

secondary · viridian green · cadmium red · violet

Mix greens by combining blue and yellow. Vary the intensity of colors by adding white or complementary colors to create muted tones. Achieve the warm ground color by mixing burnt sienna with yellow ochre and a touch of red.

techniques