plate no. 3211
Mirmande jaune
André Lhote, 1956
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand the principles of cubism and how to break down complex scenes into geometric shapes. It also provides practice in color mixing and applying paint in distinct, visible brushstrokes.
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 main shapes and lines of the composition, focusing on the geometric forms.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background and working towards the foreground.
- step 03
Mix the specific shades of yellow, green, gray, and brown needed for each area.
- step 04
Apply paint with visible brushstrokes, following the direction of the shapes.
- step 05
Add details to the buildings and trees, using darker and lighter shades to create depth.
- step 06
Refine the edges of the shapes to create a sense of separation and definition.
- step 07
Add the small details and patterns within the larger shapes.
- step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · sap green · titanium white
secondary · burnt umber · gray · orange
Mix greens by combining yellow and blue, and use white to lighten colors. Create grays by mixing black and white with a touch of brown or blue.
techniques
- ·blocking
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·visible brushstrokes
- ·color layering
- ·edge control
common pitfalls
- →Over-blending colors, losing the distinct shapes.
- →Not paying attention to the direction of the brushstrokes.
- →Getting the proportions of the geometric shapes wrong.
- →Using colors straight from the tube without mixing.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes (#4, #8)
- ·flat brushes (#6, #10)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil (if using oil paints)
optional
- ·easel
- ·medium gloss
- ·rags
Use a medium-textured canvas to enhance the visibility of the brushstrokes. Acrylics are faster drying and easier to clean, while oils offer richer colors and blending capabilities.
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