plate no. 2126

Parisian rooftops

Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghikas, 1952

oilCubismcityscapecityscaperooftopsbuildingsgeometricurban

some experience helpful

This painting offers a great opportunity to practice geometric abstraction and color blocking. Students will learn to simplify complex forms into basic shapes and use a limited palette to create a cohesive composition.

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 outlines of the buildings, focusing on their geometric forms.
step 02
Divide the composition into distinct color areas based on the original painting.
step 03
Mix the primary and secondary colors, paying attention to the subtle variations in tone.
step 04
Apply the base colors to each section, using flat, even brushstrokes.
step 05
Add shadows and highlights to create depth and dimension, focusing on the edges of the geometric shapes.
step 06
Refine the outlines and edges of the buildings with darker tones to define the forms.
step 07
Add details like windows and architectural elements with a fine brush.
step 08
Review the overall composition and make any necessary adjustments to color and value.

color palette

primary · ochre · grey · light blue · brown

secondary · pink · green · black · purple

Achieve the various shades of brown by mixing burnt umber with yellow ochre and white. Create the muted blues and greens by mixing primary colors with grey.

techniques