plate no. 0215

Painting

Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, 1917

oilCubismstill lifegeometric shapesstill lifecubismabstractnumbersmusical instrument

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students understand color relationships in abstract compositions and practice precise line work and geometric form creation. It will also develop skills in layering and creating depth through color and shape.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition using a pencil.
step 02
Divide the canvas into the major geometric areas.
step 03
Begin blocking in the large areas of color, starting with the darkest values.
step 04
Gradually build up the colors, layering and blending where necessary.
step 05
Pay close attention to the edges of the shapes, ensuring they are crisp and clean.
step 06
Add the details, such as the numbers and smaller geometric forms.
step 07
Refine the colors and values, making adjustments as needed.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · red · yellow · blue · black

secondary · green · orange · purple · brown

Mix secondary colors by combining primary colors. Use white to lighten colors and black to darken them. Experiment with layering colors to achieve subtle variations.

techniques