plate no. 7184
Shanghai Cafe Dancers
Yamamura Toyonari, 1924
some experience helpful
This painting is great for practicing color layering and creating patterns. Students will also learn to simplify complex scenes into basic shapes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
1
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 10 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of figures and the table.
- step 02
Outline the main elements: figures, table, background arches, and chairs.
- step 03
Begin layering in the base colors for each area, starting with the background and table.
- step 04
Add the patterns on the clothing, simplifying the designs into basic shapes and colors.
- step 05
Layer in shadows and highlights to create depth and form.
- step 06
Refine the details of the faces and hands.
- step 07
Add the final touches, such as the details on the hats and the glasses on the table.
- step 08
Review and adjust colors and values as needed.
color palette
primary · light blue · red · yellow
secondary · black · orange · green
Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors and adding white. Use thin washes of color to build up layers.
techniques
- ·color layering
- ·pattern creation
- ·simplification
- ·thin washes
- ·color mixing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early
- →Using colors that are too saturated
- →Not simplifying the patterns enough
- →Ignoring the underlying shapes
materials
surface · watercolor paper 140lb
required
- ·watercolor paints
- ·watercolor paper 140lb
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·pencil
- ·eraser
- ·palette
- ·water container
optional
- ·masking fluid
- ·ruler
- ·color chart
Use high-quality watercolor paper to allow for layering and blending. Consider using a light box to transfer the initial sketch.
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