plate no. 8662

the Owner of a Small House

Robert Falk, 1912

oilCubismgenre paintinghousefiguretreesskyfoliagewindows

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex forms into geometric shapes and understanding how to use a limited palette to create depth and atmosphere. It also encourages expressive brushwork and capturing light and shadow.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the house, figure, and surrounding foliage, focusing on overall composition.
step 02
Block in the darkest areas of the painting with a dark green or brown mixture, paying attention to the shapes of the shadows.
step 03
Apply the lighter greens and blues to the foliage and sky, blending slightly to create a sense of depth.
step 04
Paint the house using reds and browns, defining the roof and window details.
step 05
Add the figure in the foreground, using dark colors for clothing and lighter tones for the face.
step 06
Refine the shapes and edges of the forms, adding details to the windows and foliage.
step 07
Adjust the values and colors to create a sense of harmony and balance.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to enhance the overall effect.

color palette

primary · dark green · dark brown · blue · red

secondary · yellow · white · black

Mix greens by combining blues and yellows with varying amounts of brown or black to create different shades. Achieve the sky's luminosity by blending blue with white and a touch of yellow.

techniques