plate no. 4015

Stables

Franz Marc, 1913

oil, canvasCubismanimal paintinghorsesanimalscubismgeometric shapesstablesabstract

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students understand color theory and how to use geometric shapes to represent complex forms. It also encourages experimentation with abstract representation.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the horses and geometric forms.
step 02
Block in the primary colors (red, blue, yellow) in their respective areas, using thin washes.
step 03
Introduce secondary colors (green, orange, purple) to create depth and variation.
step 04
Refine the shapes and edges, adding details and adjusting color values.
step 05
Use darker tones to define shadows and create contrast.
step 06
Add highlights with lighter colors to enhance the sense of form.
step 07
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting.
step 08
Make final adjustments to colors, shapes, and values as needed.

color palette

primary · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · cadmium yellow

secondary · viridian green · orange · purple

Mix greens by combining yellow and blue, oranges by combining red and yellow, and purples by combining red and blue. Adjust the ratios to achieve the desired shades.

techniques