plate no. 8154
The Casino
Raoul Dufy, 1906
some experience helpful
This painting is great for practicing expressive brushstrokes and capturing a scene's overall impression rather than precise details. Students can learn to simplify complex subjects into basic shapes and colors.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
5
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the building, flags, and figures.
- step 02
Block in the sky with a thin layer of blue, allowing some canvas to show through.
- step 03
Apply the main color of the building (yellow) with visible brushstrokes, varying the tone slightly.
- step 04
Add darker tones to define the shadows and architectural details.
- step 05
Block in the figures with simplified shapes and colors, focusing on capturing their movement.
- step 06
Add details like flags, umbrellas, and decorations with quick, expressive strokes.
- step 07
Refine the composition by adjusting colors and values as needed.
- step 08
Add final touches and highlights to create a sense of depth and vibrancy.
color palette
primary · yellow · blue · red · green
secondary · orange · brown · white
Mix various shades of yellow by adding small amounts of white, orange, or brown. Create muted greens by mixing blue and yellow with a touch of brown.
techniques
- ·broken color
- ·alla prima
- ·expressive brushwork
- ·color mixing
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the spontaneity of the painting.
- →Creating muddy colors by over-mixing.
- →Not varying the brushstrokes enough.
- →Failing to capture the overall impression of the scene.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints (yellow, blue, red, green, white, brown)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·assorted brushes (flat and round)
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine or odorless mineral spirits
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
- ·rags
Use a medium-textured canvas to enhance the brushstrokes. Consider using a limited palette to simplify color mixing.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
related guides
