plate no. 2475
La Strada
Renato Guttuso, 1956
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure painting, composition with multiple subjects, and using color to create depth and atmosphere. It also provides practice in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and forms.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the bus.
- step 02
Block in the main colors for each area, using simplified shapes and forms.
- step 03
Refine the shapes and forms of the figures, adding details to the faces and clothing.
- step 04
Add details to the bus and the background, using a variety of brushstrokes to create texture and interest.
- step 05
Adjust the values and colors to create depth and atmosphere.
- step 06
Add highlights and shadows to create form and dimension.
- step 07
Refine the details and add any final touches.
- step 08
Allow to dry and varnish.
color palette
primary · yellow · red · green · blue
secondary · brown · white · black · grey
Mix various shades of skin tones using red, yellow, brown, and white. Create depth by mixing darker values of each color with black or brown.
techniques
- ·blocking in
- ·color mixing
- ·figure drawing
- ·layering
- ·broken color
common pitfalls
- →Getting bogged down in details too early
- →Not simplifying the shapes and forms
- →Using colors that are too bright or saturated
- →Ignoring the values and creating a flat image
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·assorted brushes
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil or acrylic medium
- ·mineral spirits or water
optional
- ·painting easel
- ·rags
- ·apron
- ·reference photos
Use a medium-sized canvas to allow for sufficient detail. Acrylics will dry faster, while oils allow for more blending.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
