plate no. 8821

Sail: In Two Movements

Charles Demuth, 1919

oilPrecisionismmarinaboatssailswatergeometric shapessky

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand geometric abstraction and how to simplify complex forms into basic shapes. It also provides practice in color mixing and creating a sense of depth through value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic geometric shapes and lines defining the boats, sails, and water.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color using diluted washes, starting with the lightest tones.
step 03
Gradually build up the darker values in the sails and water, defining the shapes more clearly.
step 04
Mix and apply the subtle pink and yellow hues in the sky and sails.
step 05
Add the dark lines representing the masts and other structural elements.
step 06
Refine the edges of the shapes and adjust the values to create depth and contrast.
step 07
Add any final details or highlights.
step 08
Allow to dry completely.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · alizarin crimson · burnt umber

Mix blues and whites for the sky and water. Use yellow ochre and white for the sails. Add alizarin crimson to blue for the purplish shadows. Burnt umber can be used for the masts and darker areas.

techniques