plate no. 6985

Planting potatoes

Natalia Goncharova, 1909

oilExpressionismgenre paintingfiguresfieldtreeslandscapelaborsky

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using color to define form and create a sense of depth. It also encourages exploration of expressive brushwork and non-realistic color choices.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main figures and landscape elements, focusing on their relative sizes and positions.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color for the sky, ground, and background foliage.
step 03
Define the figures with simplified shapes and colors, paying attention to the highlights and shadows.
step 04
Add details to the trees and other landscape elements, using bold brushstrokes.
step 05
Refine the colors and values of the figures, adding subtle variations to create depth.
step 06
Add details to the faces and clothing, using small brushstrokes.
step 07
Review the overall composition and make any necessary adjustments.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of depth and form.

color palette

primary · ochre · ultramarine blue · titanium white · burnt sienna

secondary · cadmium red · sap green · ivory black

Mix ochre and burnt sienna for the ground. Use ultramarine blue and white for the sky, adding a touch of ochre for warmth. Mix greens from blue, yellow and black. Use white, blue and a touch of red for the white clothing.

techniques