plate no. 1913
The Large Tug boat
Fernand Leger, 1923
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand how to break down complex scenes into simplified geometric shapes and use color to create depth and visual interest. It also provides practice in creating clean lines and flat areas of color.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 7 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the main geometric shapes and their placement on the canvas.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background and largest shapes.
- step 03
Refine the shapes and edges, paying attention to the relationships between them.
- step 04
Add details such as the windows, lines, and small geometric elements.
- step 05
Mix and apply the various shades of gray for the sky and water.
- step 06
Add the final touches and clean up any stray marks.
- step 07
Let it dry and add a varnish if desired.
color palette
primary · yellow · black · white · red
secondary · blue · green · purple · gray
Mix various shades of gray by combining black and white. Achieve the red by mixing crimson and a touch of yellow. The green can be created by mixing blue and yellow.
techniques
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·flat color application
- ·hard-edge painting
- ·color blocking
- ·linear perspective
common pitfalls
- →Inaccurate proportions of shapes
- →Uneven color application
- →Muddy color mixing
- →Overcomplicating the details
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic paints
- ·flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·water container
- ·pencil
- ·ruler
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·masking tape
- ·easel
Use good quality acrylic paints for better color saturation and longevity. A medium-grit canvas will provide a good surface for the paint to adhere to.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
