plate no. 4684
Nature Morte au Chinois
André Lhote, 1930
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand the simplification of forms into geometric shapes and how to use a limited palette to create a cohesive composition. It also provides practice in applying bold, visible brushstrokes to define shapes and create texture.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition of the still life, focusing on the geometric forms.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color using simplified shapes, paying attention to the overall color scheme.
- step 03
Refine the shapes and edges of the objects, adding more detail to the geometric forms.
- step 04
Mix and apply the secondary colors to create depth and interest.
- step 05
Add the outlines to the face and other objects.
- step 06
Adjust the values and colors to create contrast and balance.
- step 07
Add final details and highlights to enhance the geometric forms.
- step 08
Allow the painting to dry completely.
color palette
primary · dark green · ochre · red · brown
secondary · light green · pink · blue · yellow
Mix greens by combining blues and yellows, and create variations by adding white or brown. Ochre can be lightened with white or darkened with brown to create different values.
techniques
- ·blocking in
- ·geometric simplification
- ·visible brushstrokes
- ·color mixing
- ·outlining
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the shapes and losing the geometric simplicity.
- →Using too many colors and creating a chaotic composition.
- →Not paying attention to the value relationships and creating a flat image.
- →Making the outlines too thick or uneven.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas
- ·Acrylic or oil paints (dark green, ochre, red, brown, light green, pink, blue, yellow, white)
- ·Assorted brushes (flat and round)
- ·Palette
- ·Palette knife
- ·Linseed oil or acrylic medium
- ·Rags
- ·Easel
optional
- ·Retarder medium
- ·Varnish
Use a medium-textured canvas to enhance the brushstrokes. Acrylics will dry faster, while oils allow for more blending time.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
