plate no. 1380

Stadtbild

Franz Sedlacek, 1929

oilExpressionismgenre paintingbuildingsfigurestownnighthorsetrees

some experience helpful

This painting helps students practice creating a sense of depth using value and atmospheric perspective, as well as rendering simplified forms with subtle color variations.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the buildings, mountain, and figures, focusing on composition.
step 02
Establish the dark background and sky with a thin wash of dark brown and black.
step 03
Block in the main areas of light on the buildings and figures with lighter tones of yellow and white.
step 04
Add details to the buildings, such as windows and architectural features, using darker shades of brown and red.
step 05
Refine the shapes and values of the figures, paying attention to their gestures and interactions.
step 06
Paint the trees, using a mix of greens and browns to create texture and depth.
step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create form and dimension.
step 08
Glaze with thin layers of color to unify the painting and enhance the atmosphere.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · ivory black · sap green

Mix yellow ochre and white for the buildings; burnt umber and black for the dark areas; and red and white for the window details. Use thin glazes of burnt umber to create depth and shadow.

techniques