plate no. 9672
Panel 5. The Coming of Quetzalcoatl - The Epic of American Civilization
Jose Clemente Orozco, 1934
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, composition, and creating a sense of depth using value and color. It also provides practice in simplifying complex forms and working with a limited color palette.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 7 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the pyramid structure.
- step 02
Establish the main value ranges using a limited palette of earth tones and blues.
- step 03
Block in the large shapes of the figures and architectural elements with simplified colors.
- step 04
Develop the details of the figures, paying attention to anatomy and expression.
- step 05
Refine the lighting and shadows to create depth and volume.
- step 06
Add details to the background elements, such as the lightning and other figures.
- step 07
Adjust the overall color harmony and value contrast to create a cohesive image.
color palette
primary · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue · titanium white
secondary · yellow ochre · raw umber
Mix various shades of brown and blue to create the muted tones. Use white to lighten the colors and create highlights.
techniques
- ·blocking in
- ·value studies
- ·limited palette
- ·figure drawing
- ·atmospheric perspective
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the color palette
- →Getting lost in details too early
- →Ignoring the overall composition
- →Incorrect proportions of figures
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes
- ·flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil (if using oil paints)
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·retarder
- ·easel
Use a medium-sized canvas to allow for sufficient detail. Acrylics are easier to clean up, but oils allow for more blending time.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
