plate no. 7153

Hafenstadt

Gustave Buchet, 1955

oilCubismcityscapebuildingsboatswatercityscapeharborsky

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using a limited palette to create a cohesive color scheme. It also encourages experimentation with visible brushstrokes to add texture and visual interest.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the buildings, boats, and water, focusing on their relative sizes and positions.
step 02
Establish the horizon line and the overall composition.
step 03
Block in the main color areas with thin washes, starting with the sky and water.
step 04
Gradually build up the colors in the buildings and boats, using thicker paint and visible brushstrokes.
step 05
Mix and apply the colors for the highlights and shadows, paying attention to the light source.
step 06
Add details such as windows, doors, and boat features, using a smaller brush.
step 07
Refine the edges and shapes of the objects, adjusting the colors and values as needed.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · titanium white · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue

secondary · yellow ochre · raw umber

Mix white with small amounts of burnt sienna and yellow ochre to create the various shades of the buildings. Use ultramarine blue and burnt sienna to create dark browns and blacks for the boats and shadows. Add white to the blue for the sky and water.

techniques