plate no. 3743

Odysseus and Calypso

Max Beckmann, 1943

oil, canvasExpressionismmythological paintingfiguresmythologyinteriorcatsnake

some experience helpful

This painting offers practice in depicting figures with simplified forms and expressive brushstrokes. Students can learn to create depth and form using color temperature and value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a rough sketch of the composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and key elements.
step 02
Block in the main color areas with thin washes, establishing the overall color scheme.
step 03
Develop the skin tones, using a limited palette of warm and cool colors to create form.
step 04
Define the figures' features and details with bold brushstrokes.
step 05
Add the background elements, such as the snake and cat, using simplified shapes and colors.
step 06
Refine the details and add highlights and shadows to create depth.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and contrast to achieve the desired effect.
step 08
Add final details and touch-ups to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · ultramarine blue

secondary · titanium white · cadmium red light · viridian green

Mix skin tones using yellow ochre, burnt umber, and a touch of cadmium red light. Use ultramarine blue and burnt umber to create dark shadows and background tones.

techniques

·blocking in
·dry brush
·color mixing
·simplification of form
·expressive brushwork

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details and losing the expressive quality of the brushstrokes.
→Creating muddy colors by overmixing.
→Failing to establish a strong value structure.
→Not simplifying the forms enough, resulting in a cluttered composition.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas
·oil paints (yellow ochre, burnt umber, ultramarine blue, titanium white, cadmium red light, viridian green)
·palette
·palette knife
·linseed oil
·turpentine
·assorted brushes (flat and round)
·rags