plate no. 1955

Pantokratoros

Spyros Papaloukas, 1924

oilExpressionismcityscapebuildingscityscapearchitectureskylandscape

some experience helpful

This painting is a good exercise in simplifying complex forms into basic shapes and understanding how light affects color. Students will learn to create depth using color temperature and value.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the buildings and the overall composition, focusing on proportions.
step 02
Block in the main color areas with thin washes, separating light and shadow.
step 03
Start building up layers of color, focusing on the warm and cool tones.
step 04
Define the edges of the buildings and architectural details with slightly darker values.
step 05
Add highlights to create a sense of depth and form.
step 06
Refine the details and adjust the colors as needed.
step 07
Add texture with visible brushstrokes.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · titanium white · ultramarine blue

secondary · burnt sienna · violet · sap green

Mix various shades of yellow ochre with white for the sunlit areas. Use ultramarine blue and burnt sienna to create the darker shadows and the bridge. Add violet to the shadows for a cooler effect.

techniques