plate no. 9180
Nuit sur la Lagune
Charles Lapicque, 1955
some experience helpful
This painting is great for practicing color mixing and simplification of forms. Students will learn to capture the essence of a scene using bold colors and expressive brushstrokes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 7 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition lightly on the canvas.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background.
- step 03
Define the shapes of the figures and structures with bold brushstrokes.
- step 04
Add details to the lights and decorations.
- step 05
Refine the colors and values to create depth and interest.
- step 06
Add final touches and highlights.
- step 07
Let it dry and add another layer if needed.
color palette
primary · red · purple · pink · green
secondary · blue · white · black
Mix pinks by adding white to red and purple. Create greens by mixing blue and yellow. Use black sparingly to darken colors.
techniques
- ·blocking in
- ·impasto
- ·color mixing
- ·expressive brushwork
- ·layering
common pitfalls
- →over-blending colors
- →getting bogged down in details
- →not simplifying shapes
- →using too much black
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·assorted brushes (flat and round)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil (if using oils)
- ·rags
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
- ·painting knife
Use a limited palette to encourage color mixing. Consider using a textured canvas for added interest.
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