plate no. 0709

Oriental Architecture

Paul Klee, 1929

watercolor, paperCubismcityscapearchitecturebuildingscityscapegeometric shapesabstract

suitable for beginners

Recreating this painting helps students understand color mixing, layering watercolor washes, and creating geometric compositions. It also encourages experimentation with color relationships and abstract representation.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 6 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic geometric shapes of the buildings and the horizon line.
step 02
Apply a light wash of yellow to the foreground area.
step 03
Mix a pale green wash and apply it to the background sky area.
step 04
Begin filling in the geometric shapes with various watercolor washes, starting with the lightest colors.
step 05
Gradually layer darker washes to create depth and shadow within the shapes.
step 06
Use a slightly drier brush to add subtle texture and variations within the washes.
step 07
Add small details and accents with darker colors, such as the red on the building.
step 08
Allow each layer to dry before applying the next to prevent muddying.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · sap green · burnt sienna

secondary · red · gray · raw umber

Achieve the various shades by diluting the primary colors with water. Mix yellow ochre and burnt sienna for warmer tones, and sap green with a touch of raw umber for cooler tones. Use red sparingly for accents.

techniques