plate no. 5922
Market in Algiers
August Macke, 1914
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using color to define form and space. It also encourages experimentation with layering transparent washes to achieve depth and vibrancy.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the buildings and figures, focusing on their relative sizes and positions.
- step 02
Begin with a light wash of blue for the sky, varying the intensity to create depth.
- step 03
Apply washes of yellow, orange, and red to the buildings, allowing the colors to blend and bleed into each other.
- step 04
Use darker washes of brown and black to define shadows and create contrast.
- step 05
Add details to the figures, such as clothing and head coverings, using bold strokes of color.
- step 06
Paint the awning with alternating stripes of green and yellow.
- step 07
Refine the edges of the shapes and add any final details.
- step 08
Allow the painting to dry completely.
color palette
primary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · cadmium red
secondary · sap green · burnt umber · ivory black
Mix different shades of blue for the sky by adding water or a touch of black. Create warm browns by mixing burnt umber with red and yellow. Achieve lighter tones by diluting the paint with water.
techniques
- ·flat wash
- ·wet-on-wet blending
- ·dry brush
- ·layering
- ·color mixing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the painting and losing the freshness of the watercolor.
- →Using too much water and causing the colors to run uncontrollably.
- →Not allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next.
- →Being too literal and not simplifying the shapes and colors.
materials
surface · watercolor paper 140lb
required
- ·watercolor paints
- ·watercolor paper 140lb
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·flat brush
- ·water container
- ·palette
- ·masking tape
- ·pencil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·spray bottle
- ·kneaded eraser
Use high-quality watercolor paints for the best results. Experiment with different types of watercolor paper to find one that suits your style.
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