plate no. 0960

Hat in Hand, Hat on Head

Max Ernst, 1919

oil, panelExpressionismgenre paintingfigurestreesbuildingsflowersskygarden

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and texture, as well as simplifying complex forms into basic shapes. It also encourages experimentation with color relationships and expressive brushwork.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition lightly on the canvas.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color with thin washes.
step 03
Begin layering colors to build up depth and form, starting with darker values.
step 04
Define the figures and buildings with more precise brushstrokes.
step 05
Add details to the trees and foliage, varying the brushstrokes for texture.
step 06
Paint the sky and background elements, blending colors smoothly.
step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create contrast and dimension.
step 08
Refine the details and adjust the colors as needed to match the original painting.

color palette

primary · Prussian Blue · Burnt Sienna · Yellow Ochre

secondary · Cadmium Red · Viridian Green · Titanium White

Mix Prussian Blue and Burnt Sienna to create dark greens and browns. Use Yellow Ochre and Titanium White for highlights. Add small amounts of Cadmium Red to warm up the browns and greens.

techniques