plate no. 0573

Mai-Abend in Stockholm

Gabriele Munter, 1916

oilExpressionismgenre paintingcityscapefiguresbuildingsstreetdogarchitecture

some experience helpful

This painting offers practice in simplifying complex scenes and using color to create depth and atmosphere. Students will learn to capture the essence of figures and architecture with expressive brushstrokes.

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 composition, focusing on the archway and the placement of figures.
step 02
Block in the main colors of the buildings, street, and sky, using thin washes.
step 03
Add the darker values to define the shadows and create depth.
step 04
Develop the textures of the buildings and the street with visible brushstrokes.
step 05
Paint the figures, simplifying their forms and focusing on their silhouettes.
step 06
Add details like the dog and the architectural elements.
step 07
Refine the colors and values, adjusting the overall balance of the painting.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to enhance the sense of light and atmosphere.

color palette

primary · purple · yellow ochre · gray · red

secondary · green · white · black

Mix purples from red and blue, and use white to create lighter tints. Achieve grays by mixing black and white, and adjust with small amounts of other colors for warmth or coolness.

techniques