plate no. 6766

Murga Cadiz

Jose Gutierrez Solana, 1935

oil, canvasExpressionismgenre paintingfiguresstreetbuildingsmusiciansparademasks

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in depicting figures in motion and creating a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in capturing a somber mood using a limited color palette.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and buildings.
step 02
Establish the horizon line and the perspective of the street.
step 03
Block in the main shapes with thin washes of color, starting with the background.
step 04
Gradually build up the values, focusing on the light and shadow patterns.
step 05
Add details to the figures, such as the masks and instruments.
step 06
Refine the brushwork, using visible strokes to create texture and movement.
step 07
Pay attention to the edges of the forms, softening them in some areas to create atmospheric perspective.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the contrast and create a sense of depth.

color palette

primary · raw umber · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · burnt sienna

Mix various shades of gray and brown by combining raw umber, ivory black, and titanium white. Use yellow ochre and burnt sienna sparingly to add warmth to certain areas.

techniques