plate no. 7756

In the Canteen

Josef Herman, 1954

oilExpressionismgenre paintingfiguresinteriortablecupdoorwaycanteen

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand simplified form representation and practice layering colors to create depth and mood. It will also encourage expressive brushwork and the use of a limited palette.

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 composition lightly on the canvas, focusing on proportions and placement of figures and objects.
step 02
Block in the main color areas using thinned paint, establishing the overall value structure.
step 03
Start with the background and work forward, layering colors to create depth and atmosphere.
step 04
Define the figures with bolder brushstrokes, paying attention to the planes of the face and body.
step 05
Add details like the cup, saucer, and the doorway figure, refining shapes and values.
step 06
Introduce highlights and shadows to enhance the form and create a sense of light.
step 07
Adjust the overall color harmony and make any necessary corrections.
step 08
Add final details and refine edges to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · raw umber · titanium white · ultramarine blue

secondary · cadmium red light · yellow ochre

Mix various shades of brown and grey by combining raw umber, ultramarine blue, and titanium white. Use cadmium red light to create the scarf and add warmth to skin tones. Mix yellow ochre with white for highlights.

techniques