plate no. 7307

Red Sun

Niki de Sainte Phalle, 1990

oilNaïve Art (Primitivism)landscapejunglefoliagefiguresanimalssunlandscape

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using bold outlines to define forms. It also encourages experimentation with color and pattern within a defined structure.

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 of the composition, focusing on the placement of the figures, animals, and major plant groupings.
step 02
Outline the major shapes with a dark marker or thin brush, defining the edges of each element.
step 03
Begin filling in the larger areas of color, starting with the background and working forward.
step 04
Mix the specific colors needed for each element, referring to the original painting for guidance.
step 05
Add details and patterns to the figures and animals, using a variety of colors and shapes.
step 06
Define the edges of the leaves and plants with darker outlines to create depth and dimension.
step 07
Add the red sun in the upper part of the canvas.
step 08
Review the painting and make any necessary adjustments to color, line, or composition.

color palette

primary · green · blue · red · yellow

secondary · brown · orange · white · black

Mix greens by combining blues and yellows. Achieve lighter shades by adding white, and darker shades by adding black or a touch of brown. Experiment with layering colors to create depth and variation.

techniques