plate no. 4005

Panel 10. Totem Poles - The Epic of American Civilization

Jose Clemente Orozco, 1934

oilMuralismhistory paintingtotem polesfigurescultural artifactshistorybirds

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex forms into basic shapes and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive image. It also encourages exploration of expressive brushwork to define form and texture.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and placement of the totem poles and figures.
step 02
Block in the background areas with the dark blue and green hues.
step 03
Apply a base layer of red-brown to the totem poles, establishing the overall value.
step 04
Add highlights and shadows to the totem poles using lighter and darker shades of red and brown.
step 05
Introduce the yellow and blue accents to define details and add visual interest.
step 06
Refine the shapes and details of the figures, paying attention to the contours and forms.
step 07
Use visible brushstrokes to create texture and movement within the painting.
step 08
Add final touches and adjustments to balance the composition and color harmony.

color palette

primary · red-brown · dark blue · yellow

secondary · green · light blue

Mix various shades of red-brown by combining red, brown, and a touch of blue or black. Create lighter tones by adding yellow or white. Achieve the dark blue by mixing blue with a touch of black or brown.

techniques