plate no. 6276

Kispiax Village

Emily Carr, 1929

oilCubismlandscapetotem polesvillagebuildingstreeslandscapesky

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand simplified forms and color blocking to represent a complex scene. It also provides practice in creating depth through overlapping shapes and varying color temperatures.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 7 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the totem poles, buildings, and landscape, focusing on their relative positions.
step 02
Block in the main color areas for the sky, ground, buildings, and totem poles with simplified shapes.
step 03
Develop the color variations within each area, using darker and lighter tones to suggest form and shadow.
step 04
Add details to the totem poles, simplifying the carved figures into geometric shapes.
step 05
Refine the edges of the shapes to create a sense of depth and overlapping.
step 06
Add highlights and shadows to enhance the three-dimensionality of the forms.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and contrast to achieve a cohesive composition.

color palette

primary · dark blue · brown · ochre · green

secondary · red · white · grey

Mix browns with blues and reds to create variations in the totem poles and buildings. Use white to lighten colors for highlights and create a sense of atmospheric perspective.

techniques