plate no. 4977

Lago Monti

Xul Solar, 1921

oilExpressionismlandscapemountainsbuildingswaterskylandscapefantasy

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will develop skills in layering colors to create depth and texture, as well as simplifying complex forms into basic shapes. Students will also learn to create a sense of atmosphere and perspective using color and value.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 6 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the mountains and buildings, paying attention to the overall composition.
step 02
Apply a light wash of yellow and green to the sky area.
step 03
Paint the distant mountains with a light blue-violet wash, allowing the white of the paper to show through for highlights.
step 04
Begin building up the darker mountains in the foreground with layers of gray, brown, and green, using short, visible brushstrokes.
step 05
Add details to the buildings, using a fine brush to create small windows and architectural features.
step 06
Paint the water with horizontal strokes of blue and gray, reflecting the colors of the sky and mountains.
step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 08
Refine details and adjust colors as needed to match the original painting.