plate no. 1447

The Merengue

Vela Zanetti, 1955

oilMuralismgenre paintingfiguresmusiciansinstrumentshatsfolkloreperformance

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in representing figures in dynamic poses and understanding how to use geometric shapes to create form. It will also improve their ability to mix and apply a limited color palette effectively.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a rough sketch outlining the positions and proportions of the figures and instruments.
step 02
Divide the figures and background into geometric shapes to simplify the forms.
step 03
Block in the main color areas using thin washes, focusing on the overall value structure.
step 04
Begin building up layers of color, gradually refining the shapes and adding details.
step 05
Pay attention to the light and shadow patterns to create depth and volume.
step 06
Use visible brushstrokes to add texture and energy to the painting.
step 07
Mix colors on the palette to achieve subtle variations in tone.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · viridian green

Mix burnt umber and yellow ochre to create warm browns and tans. Use white to lighten these colors and create highlights. Add small amounts of red or green to adjust the color temperature.

techniques