plate no. 3434

Human Construction

M. H. Maxy, 1926

oilCubismgenre paintingfigureswomenbasketsclothingarchitecturevillage

some experience helpful

This painting offers a good opportunity to practice simplifying complex forms into geometric shapes and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive image. Students can also learn about creating depth through layering and color temperature.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figures and background.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, focusing on the overall composition.
step 03
Define the shapes of the figures and clothing with darker and lighter values.
step 04
Add details to the faces and hands, using simplified forms.
step 05
Create texture in the clothing and baskets using short, broken brushstrokes.
step 06
Refine the background, adding subtle variations in color and value.
step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of depth.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting.

color palette

primary · red · white · brown · blue

secondary · green · yellow ochre · gray

Mix various shades of skin tones by blending white, yellow ochre, and a touch of red. Create muted greens by mixing blue and yellow with a touch of brown.

techniques

·blocking in
·simplifying forms
·broken brushstrokes
·layering
·color temperature

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details and losing the overall simplicity of the composition.
→Using too many colors and creating a chaotic effect.
→Failing to establish a clear focal point.
→Not paying attention to the relationships between the different shapes and colors.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·Stretched canvas 16x20
·Acrylic or oil paints
·Round brushes (various sizes)
·Flat brushes (various sizes)
·Palette
·Palette knife
·Linseed oil or acrylic medium
·Odorless mineral spirits or water

optional

·easel
·painting medium
·varnish

Use a medium-textured canvas to enhance the visibility of the brushstrokes. Consider using a limited palette of primary colors plus white to simplify the color mixing process.

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