plate no. 2034

Noční Město

František Hudeček, 1944

cardboardExpressionismcityscapecityscapenightbuildingsstreetlightstreesstreet

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to depict a night scene using a limited palette and expressive brushstrokes. It also provides practice in creating depth and atmosphere through color and value variations.

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 perspective of the street.
step 02
Block in the large shapes of the buildings and trees with dark blues and greens.
step 03
Add the streetlights and windows with yellows and oranges, creating highlights.
step 04
Define the street and sidewalks with varying shades of blue and gray, using directional brushstrokes.
step 05
Add details to the buildings and trees, using thicker paint and visible brushstrokes.
step 06
Introduce subtle color variations to create depth and atmosphere.
step 07
Refine the highlights and shadows to enhance the contrast and create a sense of light.
step 08
Add final details such as the tram lines and any figures.

color palette

primary · Prussian blue · Yellow ochre · Titanium white

secondary · Cadmium red · Burnt umber

Mix blues and yellows to create greens for the trees. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights. Add small amounts of red or umber to darken and create shadows.

techniques