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home·artworks·Sitges – Iglesia Roja
Sitges – Iglesia Roja by Carlos Nadal

plate no. 3210

Sitges – Iglesia Roja

Carlos Nadal, 1981

oilFauvismcityscapecityscapechurchbuildingsskyfigurestrees
some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using bold, expressive brushstrokes to convey texture and form. It also encourages experimentation with color and value to create a dynamic composition.

technical profile

palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the buildings, church, and landscape, focusing on proportions and placement.

  2. step 02

    Block in the main color areas: red for the church, blues and greens for the sky and landscape, and muted tones for the buildings.

  3. step 03

    Add darker values to create shadows and define the forms of the buildings and landscape.

  4. step 04

    Introduce lighter values to highlight areas and create a sense of depth.

  5. step 05

    Use bold brushstrokes to add texture and detail to the buildings, trees, and sky.

  6. step 06

    Refine the details of the figures in the foreground, paying attention to their proportions and placement.

  7. step 07

    Add final touches and highlights to enhance the overall composition and create visual interest.

  8. step 08

    Step back and assess the painting, making any necessary adjustments to color, value, or composition.

color palette

primary · red · blue · green · black

secondary · yellow · white · brown

Mix various shades of red by adding black or white. Achieve the blues and greens by mixing primary colors and adjusting with white for lighter tones. Muted tones for buildings can be achieved by mixing complementary colors.

techniques

  • ·expressive brushstrokes
  • ·color blocking
  • ·layering
  • ·simplification
  • ·scumbling

common pitfalls

  • →Overworking the details
  • →Failing to simplify the scene
  • →Using muddy colors
  • →Ignoring value contrast

materials

surface · Stretched canvas

required

  • ·Acrylic or oil paints
  • ·Canvas or painting panel
  • ·Assorted brushes (flat and round)
  • ·Palette
  • ·Palette knife
  • ·Water or solvent for cleaning brushes
  • ·Easel

optional

  • ·Medium for blending
  • ·Varnish
  • ·Rags or paper towels

Using a limited palette can help to create a more cohesive and harmonious painting. Experiment with different brushstrokes to achieve a variety of textures.

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related guides

oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →
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