plate no. 4003

Stillleben mit Fisch

Heinrich Campendonk, 1916

oilCubismstill lifestill lifefishflowersvaseplanttable

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand color relationships and how to simplify complex forms into geometric shapes. Students will also practice creating depth through overlapping shapes and varying brushstrokes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the main objects (fish, vase, plant).
step 02
Block in the large areas of color using simplified shapes, ignoring details at this stage.
step 03
Begin to refine the shapes and add subtle variations in color within each area.
step 04
Introduce darker values to create shadows and depth, paying attention to the light source.
step 05
Add details such as the fish's eye, flower details, and patterns on the vase.
step 06
Use thicker paint and bolder brushstrokes to add texture and visual interest.
step 07
Refine edges and adjust color relationships to create a cohesive composition.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · red · green · blue · pink

secondary · yellow · purple · brown

Mix greens by combining blues and yellows, and create pinks by mixing red and white. Use complementary colors (red/green, blue/orange) to create visual interest and contrast.

techniques

·color blocking
·broken color
·geometric abstraction
·impasto
·scumbling

common pitfalls

→Overcomplicating the shapes too early
→Using colors straight from the tube without mixing
→Ignoring the overall composition and focusing too much on details
→Creating muddy colors by over-blending

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas
·acrylic or oil paints
·round brushes
·flat brushes
·palette
·palette knife
·linseed oil or acrylic medium

optional

·easel
·painting apron
·rags
·turpentine or mineral spirits (for oil paints)

Use a medium-sized canvas (e.g., 16x20 inches) to allow for sufficient detail. Acrylics are faster drying and easier to clean, while oils offer richer colors and blending capabilities.

tips & new artworks in your inbox

no spam — unsubscribe anytime.

or to save artworks, chat, and track progress

chat about this artwork

in this vein