plate no. 9810
La Toilette
Alberto Magnelli, 1917
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand geometric abstraction and color blocking. It also provides practice in simplifying complex forms into basic shapes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
2
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic geometric shapes that define the figures and background.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background.
- step 03
Refine the shapes of the figures, paying attention to the angles and proportions.
- step 04
Mix the specific colors for the dress, skin tones, and architectural elements.
- step 05
Apply the colors, keeping the edges clean and sharp.
- step 06
Add subtle shading to create depth and volume.
- step 07
Refine the details, such as the collar and hair.
- step 08
Review and adjust colors and shapes as needed.
color palette
primary · blue · red · white · green
secondary · black · yellow · pink · grey
Mix blues with white for lighter shades of the dress. Use red and white for the pink background. Mix black and blue for the darker side of the dress.
techniques
- ·color blocking
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·hard-edge painting
- ·flat color application
- ·simplification of form
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the shapes.
- →Blending colors too much.
- →Not achieving clean edges.
- →Incorrect proportions of the figures.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic paints
- ·flat brushes (various sizes)
- ·palette
- ·water
- ·pencil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·ruler
- ·masking tape
Use good quality acrylic paints for better color saturation. A smooth canvas surface will help achieve clean edges.
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