plate no. 9974

Maria Verkündigung

Heinrich Campendonk, 1919

oilExpressionismsymbolic paintingfiguresanimalsstarssymbolicnarrative

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering transparent washes and simplifying complex forms into basic shapes. It also encourages experimentation with color and expressive mark-making.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main shapes and figures, focusing on proportions and composition.
step 02
Apply a light wash of background color, allowing it to blend and create a soft, atmospheric effect.
step 03
Begin layering in the colors of the figures and animals, starting with the lightest tones and gradually building up to the darker areas.
step 04
Pay attention to the color relationships between the different elements, and adjust the colors as needed to create a harmonious composition.
step 05
Add details such as the facial features, patterns on the clothing, and the stars.
step 06
Use dry brush techniques to add texture and interest to the painting.
step 07
Glaze with thin washes to unify the colors and create depth.
step 08
Add final details and adjust values as needed.

color palette

primary · red · blue · brown · green

secondary · yellow · white · black

Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors and adding white to soften the intensity. Use transparent glazes to layer colors and create depth.

techniques