plate no. 7454

San Danza

Xul Solar, 1925

oilSurrealismsymbolic paintingfiguressymbolsgeometric shapesflagsnakeabstract landscape

some experience helpful

This painting helps students practice simplifying figures into basic shapes and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive composition. It also encourages exploration of symbolic representation and personal expression.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main figures and geometric shapes, focusing on their relative positions and sizes.
step 02
Block in the background with a thin wash of the dominant beige/tan color.
step 03
Paint the figures using flat colors: black, brown, and red. Define the edges clearly.
step 04
Add details like the gold anklets and neck rings, and the symbols on the flag.
step 05
Paint the snake and the geometric shapes around the figures.
step 06
Introduce subtle color variations in the background using light washes of blue and red.
step 07
Add the small 'x' marks in the background.
step 08
Refine the edges and add any final details.

color palette

primary · beige · black · red · brown

secondary · blue · gold · green

Achieve the beige background by mixing white with a touch of brown and yellow. The brown can be created by mixing red, yellow, and black. Use thin washes to create subtle color variations.

techniques

·flat color application
·layering
·dry brushing
·color mixing
·simplification of form

common pitfalls

→Overcomplicating the shapes of the figures.
→Using too many colors and losing the cohesive feel.
→Making the background too busy.
→Not paying attention to the relative sizes and positions of the elements.

materials

surface · watercolor paper 140lb

required

·watercolor paper
·watercolor paints
·round brushes (small and medium)
·palette
·water container
·pencil

optional

·masking fluid
·ruler
·palette knife

Using a slightly textured paper can enhance the dry brush effect. Experiment with different brands of watercolor paints to find your preferred opacity and pigment load.

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