plate no. 9836

Leisure on red background

Fernand Leger, 1949

oilNaïve Art (Primitivism)genre paintingfiguresbicyclesbeachfamilyleisureplants

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex forms and using bold outlines to define shapes. It also encourages experimentation with color and composition in a non-realistic style.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and placement of the figures and bicycles, focusing on the overall composition.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the red background.
step 03
Define the figures with simplified shapes and bold outlines.
step 04
Add details to the bicycles, such as spokes and handlebars.
step 05
Introduce secondary colors to create depth and interest.
step 06
Refine the outlines and add highlights and shadows to create form.
step 07
Paint the foreground details, including the sand, water, and plants.
step 08
Add final touches and adjust colors as needed to match the original painting.

color palette

primary · red · yellow · blue · white

secondary · orange · purple · green · brown

Mix various shades of red by adding white or a touch of blue. Create orange by mixing red and yellow. Achieve purple by mixing red and blue. Green can be made by mixing blue and yellow.

techniques