plate no. 3853
Strong Dream
Paul Klee, 1929
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors, creating texture with brushstrokes, and simplifying complex forms into abstract shapes. It also encourages experimentation with color relationships and symbolic representation.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition: the figure's position, the moon, and the sun.
- step 02
Apply a dark brown/black wash as a base layer for the background, leaving space for the moon and sun.
- step 03
Add darker and lighter shades of brown to the background to create texture and depth using visible brushstrokes.
- step 04
Paint the moon with a flat yellow color, and the sun with a flat red color.
- step 05
Outline the figure with dark lines, defining its shape and details.
- step 06
Fill in the figure with various colors and patterns, using a dry brush technique for texture.
- step 07
Add details to the figure's face and clothing using fine lines and small brushstrokes.
- step 08
Refine the overall composition and add any final touches to balance the colors and textures.
color palette
primary · black · brown · yellow · red
secondary · blue · white · orange
Achieve the dark background by mixing black and brown. Create variations in the background by adding small amounts of white or yellow to the brown.
techniques
- ·dry brushing
- ·layering
- ·scumbling
- ·outlining
- ·color blocking
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the background and losing the sense of depth.
- →Making the figure too detailed and losing the abstract quality.
- →Using too many colors and creating a muddy effect.
- →Not allowing layers to dry properly, leading to colors mixing unintentionally.
materials
surface · watercolor paper 140lb
required
- ·watercolor paper
- ·gouache paints
- ·watercolor paints
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·water container
- ·paper towels
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·masking fluid
- ·ruler
Using high-quality watercolor paper will help prevent buckling and allow for better blending of colors.
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