plate no. 4701

Perspectives

Konrad Zuse, 1926

oilExpressionismcityscapecityscapebuildingsgeometric shapeslight raysarchitectureurban

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in geometric abstraction, color mixing, and understanding how light interacts with form. It also encourages experimentation with expressive brushwork and layering.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic geometric shapes and building outlines, focusing on proportions and angles.
step 02
Establish the darkest areas of the background with a dark color mix.
step 03
Block in the main color areas for each building, using simplified color variations.
step 04
Begin layering colors to create depth and dimension within each shape.
step 05
Add the light rays, varying their colors and intensities.
step 06
Refine the edges of the shapes and light rays for clarity.
step 07
Add details such as windows and architectural features.
step 08
Review and adjust the overall balance of colors and values.

color palette

primary · Prussian Blue · Cadmium Yellow · Alizarin Crimson · Emerald Green

secondary · Titanium White · Burnt Sienna · Violet

Mix various shades of green by combining blue and yellow, and create muted tones by adding small amounts of complementary colors (e.g., a touch of red to green). Use white to lighten colors and create pastel shades for the light rays.

techniques