plate no. 9941

The Hat Shop

August Macke, 1913

oilExpressionismgenre paintingfigurehatsshopbuildingumbrellawindow

some experience helpful

This painting provides a great opportunity to practice simplifying complex scenes into geometric shapes and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive image. Students can learn to capture light and shadow with bold brushstrokes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the figure and the hat shop window.
step 02
Block in the main color areas: the background building, the figure's clothing, the umbrella, and the shop window.
step 03
Refine the shapes and add details to the figure, such as the hat and gloves.
step 04
Paint the hats in the shop window, paying attention to their shapes and colors.
step 05
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 06
Define the architectural details of the building with distinct brushstrokes.
step 07
Adjust the colors and values to create a harmonious composition.
step 08
Add final details and refine the edges of the shapes.

color palette

primary · red · yellow · blue · white

secondary · brown · gray · orange

Mix various shades of gray by combining blue, yellow, red, and white. Achieve the red hues by mixing red with small amounts of yellow or brown. Create the orange for the umbrella by mixing red and yellow.

techniques

·blocking in
·geometric abstraction
·color mixing
·broken color
·impasto

common pitfalls

→Overcomplicating the shapes and details.
→Using too many colors and losing the overall harmony.
→Not paying attention to the light and shadow.
→Blending colors too much and losing the texture.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·Stretched canvas (12x16 inches)
·Acrylic or oil paints (red, yellow, blue, white, brown)
·Assorted brushes (flat and round)
·Palette
·Palette knife
·Linseed oil (if using oil paints)
·Odorless mineral spirits (for cleaning brushes)
·Rags

optional

·Medium gloss
·Easel
·Apron

Use a canvas with a medium texture to enhance the brushstrokes. Acrylics are beginner-friendly, while oils offer richer colors and blending capabilities.

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