plate no. 5285
Pillars of salt
Natalia Goncharova, 1908
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying forms into geometric shapes and understanding how to use color to create depth and mood. It also encourages experimentation with expressive brushwork.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 10 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and placement of the figures and background elements.
- step 02
Block in the main areas of color using simplified geometric shapes.
- step 03
Begin to refine the shapes of the figures, paying attention to the angles and planes.
- step 04
Add darker values to define the shadows and create contrast.
- step 05
Introduce lighter values to highlight the forms and create a sense of depth.
- step 06
Define the background with angular strokes of color.
- step 07
Refine the details of the figures' faces and hands.
- step 08
Add final touches and adjust colors as needed.
color palette
primary · cerulean blue · burnt sienna · titanium white
secondary · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre
Mix various shades of blue and white for the figures. Achieve the reddish-brown ground by mixing burnt sienna with red and a touch of blue. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.
techniques
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·planar analysis
- ·color blocking
- ·expressive brushwork
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the shapes.
- →Using too many colors.
- →Not establishing a clear value structure.
- →Losing the angularity of the forms.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas 16x20
- ·Acrylic or oil paints
- ·#4 flat brush
- ·#8 flat brush
- ·Palette
- ·Palette knife
- ·Odorless mineral spirits (if using oils)
- ·Linseed oil (if using oils)
optional
- ·easel
- ·medium gloss
- ·retarder medium
Use a medium-grain canvas for better texture. Acrylics will dry faster, while oils allow for more blending time.
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