plate no. 4874

Proyecto Fachada Delta (#2)

Xul Solar, 1954

oilSurrealismcityscapebuildingswaterarchitectureskyflagscityscape

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in linear perspective, color blocking, and creating reflections in water. It also encourages exploration of architectural forms and geometric patterns.

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 placement of the buildings, focusing on perspective.
step 02
Outline the main architectural elements with a fine pen or brush, paying attention to the geometric details.
step 03
Block in the primary colors (yellow, green, red) in the designated areas of the buildings.
step 04
Mix and apply the secondary colors (blues and browns) for details and shadows.
step 05
Create the water reflections by mirroring the building colors and shapes with a slightly blurred effect.
step 06
Add the sky with a light wash of blue and subtle cloud-like shapes.
step 07
Paint the flags and other small details with precision.
step 08
Outline the border with a thin red line.

color palette

primary · yellow · green · red

secondary · light blue · brown

Achieve the muted tones by mixing primary colors with white or a touch of brown. The water reflections can be created by diluting the building colors with water and adding a touch of blue.

techniques