plate no. 7030
Le bal Musette
Georges Valmier, 1927
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand color relationships in abstract compositions and practice painting flat planes of color with clean edges. It also encourages simplification of 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 shapes and composition onto the canvas, focusing on proportions and placement.
- step 02
Divide the canvas into the main color zones, blocking in the large areas of color.
- step 03
Begin refining the shapes and edges of each color block, paying attention to the relationships between them.
- step 04
Mix the specific colors needed for each area, adjusting the values and hues as necessary.
- step 05
Apply the paint in smooth, even layers, avoiding visible brushstrokes where possible.
- step 06
Add details such as the outlines of the figures and any subtle shading.
- step 07
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting, making any necessary adjustments.
- step 08
Allow the painting to dry completely and apply a varnish for protection and longevity.
color palette
primary · pink · blue · green · brown
secondary · red · tan · gray
Mix shades of pink by adding white to red. Achieve the blues by mixing ultramarine with white. Create the browns by mixing red, yellow, and blue.
techniques
- ·flat color application
- ·hard-edge painting
- ·color blocking
- ·geometric abstraction
common pitfalls
- →uneven color application
- →muddy colors
- →inaccurate proportions
- →overworking the painting
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic paints (pink, blue, green, red, brown, tan, gray, white)
- ·assorted flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·water container
- ·paper towels
- ·pencil
- ·ruler
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·easel
- ·masking tape
Use good quality acrylic paints for best results. Consider using masking tape to achieve very sharp edges.
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