plate no. 0836

New York Waterfront

Stuart Davis, 1938

oilCubismcityscapecityscapebuildingsgeometric shapesabstracturban

suitable for beginners

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into geometric forms and understanding color relationships in abstract compositions. It also encourages precision in applying flat colors within defined shapes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and their placement on the canvas, focusing on proportions and relationships.
step 02
Divide the canvas into the main color areas: background, buildings, and foreground elements.
step 03
Begin by painting the background with a thin, even coat of the beige color.
step 04
Block in the larger shapes with their respective colors (red, blue, black, white).
step 05
Carefully fill in the smaller details and stripes, ensuring clean edges.
step 06
Refine the outlines of the shapes to create sharp, defined edges.
step 07
Add any final touches or corrections to ensure color accuracy and shape definition.
step 08
Allow the painting to dry completely.

color palette

primary · red · blue · black · white

secondary · beige

The beige background can be achieved by mixing white with a touch of yellow ochre and burnt umber. Ensure the colors are mixed thoroughly to avoid streaks.

techniques