plate no. 0309
Pierrot Playing Guitar
Juan Gris, 1923
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand how to break down complex forms into geometric shapes and use color to define planes. It also provides practice in creating a cohesive composition with fragmented elements.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition of the figure and guitar.
- step 02
Divide the figure and guitar into geometric planes, simplifying the forms.
- step 03
Block in the main color areas for each plane, starting with the background.
- step 04
Mix and apply the various shades of blue, yellow, and red, focusing on color relationships.
- step 05
Add details to the guitar, such as the strings and soundhole.
- step 06
Refine the edges of the planes and adjust the values to create depth.
- step 07
Add the darker outlines to define the shapes further.
- step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the three-dimensionality.
color palette
primary · cerulean blue · yellow ochre · cadmium red
secondary · titanium white · burnt umber
Mix blues with white for lighter shades; use yellow ochre and burnt umber to create earth tones. Mix red and yellow to achieve the guitar's color.
techniques
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·planar analysis
- ·color blocking
- ·dry brushing
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the shapes; losing the overall composition; muddying the colors; neglecting value contrast; not simplifying enough
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic paints
- ·#4 round brush
- ·#8 flat brush
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·water container
optional
- ·retarder medium
- ·varnish
Use a medium-grain canvas for better texture. Acrylics are recommended for their quick drying time.
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