plate no. 4327
In All Simplicity
Françoise Gilot, 1997
study guide
est. 6 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and lines of the composition lightly on the canvas.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of red background with a flat brush.
- step 03
Paint the white/beige horizontal lines, ensuring they are straight and evenly spaced.
- step 04
Add the circular shapes, starting with the larger one and then the smaller red circles inside.
- step 05
Paint the green shapes, using slightly different shades to create subtle variations.
- step 06
Add the blue details on the top shape and vertical line.
- step 07
Refine the edges of the shapes and lines to create crisp boundaries.
- step 08
Let dry and add a varnish if desired.
color palette
primary · red · white · green · blue
secondary · beige · light green · light blue
Mix white with small amounts of red, green, and blue to achieve the lighter shades. Use a touch of blue to cool down the red background.
techniques
- ·color blocking
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·flat brush application
- ·line work
- ·negative space
common pitfalls
- →Uneven color application in the background.
- →Inaccurate proportions of the shapes.
- →Muddying the colors by over-mixing.
- →Not achieving straight lines.
- →Ignoring the negative space around the shapes.
materials
surface · Stretched canvas
required
- ·Acrylic or oil paints (red, white, green, blue)
- ·Canvas or painting panel
- ·Flat brushes (various sizes)
- ·Palette
- ·Ruler
- ·Pencil
optional
- ·Palette knife
- ·Medium (for oil paints)
- ·Varnish
Use good quality paints for better color saturation and longevity. A smooth canvas surface will help with achieving clean lines.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
