plate no. 1514
Lulli
Louis Marcoussis, 1919
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand how to break down complex objects into geometric shapes and use color to create depth and form within a cubist composition. It will also develop skills in layering and creating texture with visible brushstrokes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition of the objects, focusing on geometric forms.
- step 02
Divide the canvas into distinct planes and sections as seen in the original.
- step 03
Block in the main colors for each section, starting with the largest areas.
- step 04
Add layers of color to build depth and variation within each plane.
- step 05
Use visible brushstrokes to create texture and visual interest.
- step 06
Define the edges of shapes with darker or contrasting colors.
- step 07
Add details like the guitar strings, musical notes, and bottle label.
- step 08
Create the frame using varying shades of brown and visible brushstrokes to mimic wood grain.
color palette
primary · cerulean blue · ochre · burnt sienna · ivory black
secondary · sap green · cadmium yellow · titanium white
Mix various shades of blue by adding white or black to cerulean blue. Achieve warm browns by mixing burnt sienna with ochre and a touch of black. Create muted greens by mixing sap green with ochre or burnt sienna.
techniques
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·broken color
- ·visible brushstrokes
- ·layering
- ·color blocking
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the initial sketch with too many details.
- →Blending colors too much, losing the distinct planes.
- →Using colors that are too saturated, lacking the muted tones.
- →Ignoring the texture created by visible brushstrokes.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes (#2, #6)
- ·flat brushes (#4, #8)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil (if using oil paints)
- ·mineral spirits (for cleanup)
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
- ·varnish
Using a textured canvas can enhance the effect of visible brushstrokes. Acrylics are more beginner-friendly due to their faster drying time.
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