plate no. 6636

Night-time landscape near Unterengstringen

Max Gubler, 1955

oilExpressionismlandscapelandscapecityscapeskytreesbuildingsmountains

some experience helpful

This painting offers practice in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using expressive brushstrokes to convey texture and atmosphere. Students will develop skills in color mixing and creating a sense of depth through layering.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the horizon line and major shapes.
step 02
Block in the sky with light blues and purples, blending softly.
step 03
Establish the distant mountains with darker blues and purples.
step 04
Paint the cityscape with simplified shapes and colors, indicating rooftops and buildings.
step 05
Add the foreground elements, such as trees and foliage, using bolder brushstrokes.
step 06
Mix and apply the colors for the fields, varying the hues and values to create depth.
step 07
Add the orange sun with soft edges.
step 08
Refine details and adjust colors as needed to achieve the desired effect.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · burnt sienna · sap green · purple

Mix blues and whites for the sky, adding touches of purple. Use yellow ochre and burnt sienna for the fields, mixing with greens and blues. Create muted tones by mixing complementary colors.

techniques