plate no. 6234

I lampi

Luigi Russolo, 1910

oilDivisionismcityscapecityscapenightlightningbuildingsskyindustrial

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and atmosphere, and using visible brushstrokes to convey texture and movement. It also encourages experimentation with color mixing to achieve the unique hues of the night sky and lightning.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, including the horizon line, building shapes, and the general placement of the lightning.
step 02
Lay in a base layer of dark blue and purple for the sky, using loose, visible strokes.
step 03
Add layers of darker blues and purples to define the cloud shapes, varying the pressure to create depth.
step 04
Introduce hints of red and pink into the clouds to create a sense of drama and atmospheric perspective.
step 05
Carefully apply the yellow and white for the lightning, using short, broken strokes to capture its erratic nature.
step 06
Paint the buildings and industrial structures in dark, muted tones, suggesting their silhouettes against the night sky.
step 07
Add the streetlights using small dabs of yellow and orange, reflecting them in the water below.
step 08
Refine the details and add final touches to enhance the overall mood and atmosphere.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · purple · white

secondary · yellow · red · pink

Mix blues and purples to create the base for the sky. Add small amounts of red or pink to create variations in the clouds. Mix white with yellow to create the lightning.

techniques