plate no. 1101
La Reforma
Joan Miro, 1916
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex forms into geometric shapes and using expressive color to convey mood and atmosphere. Students will also learn to create depth through color and value variations.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the buildings, the palm tree, and the figures, focusing on proportions and placement.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the sky and ground, using thin washes.
- step 03
Add the darker values to define the forms of the buildings and create shadows.
- step 04
Introduce the brighter colors, such as the yellows and oranges, to create highlights and visual interest.
- step 05
Refine the details of the palm tree and the figures, using small brushstrokes.
- step 06
Add the blue outlines to define the shapes and create a sense of depth.
- step 07
Adjust the colors and values as needed to achieve a harmonious composition.
- step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · burnt sienna · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue
secondary · cadmium orange · titanium white · viridian green
Mix burnt sienna and ultramarine blue to create the darker browns and blacks. Use yellow ochre and cadmium orange to create the warm highlights. Mix ultramarine blue and viridian green for the palm tree leaves.
techniques
- ·blocking in
- ·color mixing
- ·expressive brushstrokes
- ·simplification of forms
- ·color outlining
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the expressive quality of the brushstrokes.
- →Using colors straight from the tube without mixing them to create subtle variations.
- →Failing to simplify the forms and creating a cluttered composition.
- →Not paying attention to the value contrasts and creating a flat, uninteresting painting.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas (12x16 inches)
- ·acrylic paints (burnt sienna, yellow ochre, ultramarine blue, cadmium orange, titanium white, viridian green)
- ·assorted brushes (flat and round)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·water container
- ·rags
- ·easel
optional
- ·painting medium (e.g., acrylic glazing medium)
- ·varnish
Use good quality acrylic paints for best results. Consider using a medium to extend the drying time of the acrylics and allow for more blending.
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