plate no. 8540
Red Ocean Blue
Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, 1915
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand how to break down complex forms into simple shapes and experiment with color relationships in an abstract context. It also encourages exploration of expressive brushwork and texture.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the face and geometric elements using a pencil.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color with thin washes, starting with the lightest tones.
- step 03
Gradually build up the darker values, paying attention to the contrast between shapes.
- step 04
Add texture and detail using visible brushstrokes and varying the pressure on the brush.
- step 05
Define the edges of shapes with darker outlines or contrasting colors.
- step 06
Refine the color palette by layering and glazing to achieve desired hues.
- step 07
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the composition.
- step 08
Make final adjustments to values, colors, and details as needed.
color palette
primary · orange · yellow · black · white
secondary · green · red · blue
Mix various shades of orange by combining red and yellow with white or black. Achieve the darker blues by mixing black with a touch of blue.
techniques
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·color blocking
- ·expressive brushwork
- ·layering
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the shapes
- →Creating muddy colors by overmixing
- →Ignoring the importance of value contrast
- →Losing the overall composition in details
materials
surface · Stretched canvas
required
- ·Acrylic paints
- ·Canvas or heavy paper
- ·Assorted brushes (flat and round)
- ·Palette
- ·Water for cleaning brushes
- ·Pencil
optional
- ·Palette knife
- ·Ruler
- ·Medium for acrylics
Use good quality acrylic paints for better color saturation and longevity. Consider using a medium to extend the drying time of the acrylics.
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