plate no. 6667

Storm Brewing

Lyonel Feininger, 1939

oilCubismlandscapelandscapeskywaterfiguresgeometric shapesabstract

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to simplify complex scenes into geometric forms and use a limited palette to create a cohesive mood. It also provides practice in layering colors and creating texture with visible brushstrokes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic geometric shapes and lines of the composition, paying attention to the horizon line and the placement of the main elements.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the sky and then moving to the water and land.
step 03
Layer different shades of yellow and orange in the sky to create depth and a sense of atmosphere.
step 04
Mix greens and blues for the water, blending them to create a smooth transition.
step 05
Add the darker shapes of the buildings and figures, using black and dark gray.
step 06
Use a dry brush technique to add texture to the land and sky.
step 07
Add final details and highlights to the figures and buildings.
step 08
Let dry and add a varnish

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · raw umber · titanium white

secondary · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue · black

Mix yellow ochre and white for the sky. Add a touch of burnt sienna for warmer tones. Use raw umber and ultramarine blue to create the green for the water. Black is used sparingly for the darkest shapes.

techniques