
plate no. 3629
Carlos Botelho, 1958
Recreating this painting will help students practice simplification of form and explore color relationships to create depth and interest. Students will also learn to create texture with visible brushstrokes.
technical profile
approach — 8 steps
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition of the buildings, focusing on proportions and placement.
Block in the large areas of color with thin washes, starting with the background sky and then the dominant red tones.
Add the secondary colors (blues, greens, browns) to define the individual buildings and architectural elements.
Build up layers of paint to create texture and variation in the color fields.
Use thicker paint and bolder brushstrokes to add details like windows and architectural accents.
Refine the edges of the shapes and adjust the color balance to achieve the desired effect.
Add final details and highlights to enhance the sense of depth and form.
Let dry and add a varnish coat.
color palette
primary · red · blue · green · brown
secondary · white · black · yellow
Mix various shades of red by adding small amounts of brown, black, or white. Create greens by mixing blue and yellow, and adjust the hue with small amounts of red or brown. Achieve darker tones by mixing complementary colors.
techniques
common pitfalls
surface · stretched canvas
required
optional
Use good quality paints for better color saturation and longevity. A medium can help with blending and drying time.
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