plate no. 3319
Road near Estaque
Georges Braque, 1908
some experience helpful
This painting is a great exercise in simplifying complex forms into geometric shapes and understanding how to use color to define planes and create depth. Students will learn to observe and abstract natural forms.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the main shapes and lines of the composition, focusing on the geometric forms.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color with thin washes, starting with the lightest values.
- step 03
Gradually build up the color in layers, adding darker values to define the shadows and forms.
- step 04
Use short, deliberate brushstrokes to create texture and variation within each color area.
- step 05
Pay attention to the edges of the shapes, softening or hardening them as needed to create depth.
- step 06
Refine the details of the trees and road, adding subtle variations in color and value.
- step 07
Add final highlights to enhance the sense of light and form.
- step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting, making any necessary adjustments.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · sap green · ultramarine blue
secondary · burnt umber · titanium white
Mix greens by combining yellow ochre and ultramarine blue. Vary the proportions to create different shades. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights. Burnt umber can be used to darken colors and create shadows.
techniques
- ·broken color
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·planar analysis
- ·scumbling
- ·color layering
common pitfalls
- →Overblending colors, which can flatten the forms.
- →Getting lost in details and losing the overall geometric structure.
- →Not paying attention to the subtle variations in color and value.
- →Making the composition too symmetrical or static.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas (12x16 inches)
- ·Oil paints: yellow ochre, sap green, ultramarine blue, burnt umber, titanium white
- ·Palette
- ·Assorted flat brushes (sizes #2, #4, #6)
- ·Odorless mineral spirits
- ·Linseed oil
- ·Palette knife
optional
- ·Painting medium (e.g., Liquin)
- ·Easel
- ·Apron
Use good quality oil paints for best results. Pre-toned canvas with a thin wash of burnt umber can be helpful.
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