plate no. 0949

Předměstí (Marseille)

Josef Capek, 1912

oilCubismcityscapecityscapebuildingshousesskygeometric shapes

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand simplified forms and how to represent a complex scene with basic shapes and limited color palette. It's a good exercise in abstracting reality and focusing on value and composition.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic geometric shapes of the buildings and sky, focusing on overall composition.
step 02
Establish the horizon line and the general arrangement of the buildings.
step 03
Block in the main color areas: sky, buildings, and foreground, using diluted washes.
step 04
Start adding darker values to define the shadows and forms of the buildings.
step 05
Mix lighter tones to highlight the sunlit areas of the buildings.
step 06
Refine the edges of the shapes to create a more defined and structured look.
step 07
Add final details, such as windows and roof lines, with small brushstrokes.
step 08
Review the painting and make any necessary adjustments to the values and colors.

color palette

primary · raw umber · sky blue · yellow ochre

secondary · burnt sienna · titanium white

Mix raw umber with white for various shades of brown and grey. Use yellow ochre to create warm highlights on the buildings. Mix burnt sienna with raw umber for the foreground.

techniques