plate no. 8622

Panel 17. Gods of the Modern World - The Epic of American Civilization

Jose Clemente Orozco, 1934

frescoMuralismsymbolic paintingskeletonsgraduation gownsbooksfirefiguresacademia

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, foreshortening, and creating a sense of depth through layering and value contrast. Students will also learn to mix a range of cool and warm grays.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the overall arrangement of the scene.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background and the main figures.
step 03
Develop the values and forms of the skeletons and figures, paying close attention to the light and shadow.
step 04
Add details to the faces and clothing of the figures, as well as the books and other objects in the scene.
step 05
Refine the background and add any final details to complete the painting.
step 06
Glaze the painting to unify the colors and create a sense of depth.
step 07
Add highlights to the skeletons and figures to create a sense of drama.
step 08
Varnish the painting to protect it from dust and moisture.

color palette

primary · cadmium red · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre

Mix various shades of gray by combining black and white, and add small amounts of red, blue, or yellow to create warm or cool tones. Achieve the fiery background by layering reds and oranges.

techniques