plate no. 7756
The Red Hat
Joseph Stella, 1924
suitable for beginners
Recreating this painting will help students practice simplifying complex forms into basic shapes and using a limited color palette to create a harmonious composition. It also allows for exploration of color relationships and creating depth through color variations.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes: the figure, cow, hills, and horizon line.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color: sky, hills, ground, and the main colors of the figure and cow.
- step 03
Refine the shapes of the figure and cow, adding details like the hat, clothing, and horns.
- step 04
Add subtle variations in color within each area to create depth and interest.
- step 05
Define the edges of the shapes with slightly darker or lighter tones.
- step 06
Add any final details, such as highlights or shadows.
- step 07
Evaluate the overall composition and make any necessary adjustments.
- step 08
Allow to dry and varnish if desired.
color palette
primary · yellow · green · red · white
secondary · blue · purple · orange · brown
Mix greens by blending yellow and blue. Achieve the purple hills by mixing red and blue. Vary the white of the cow with touches of yellow and gray.
techniques
- ·color blocking
- ·simplified forms
- ·limited palette
- ·layering
- ·color mixing
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the shapes and details.
- →Using too many colors.
- →Not creating enough contrast between the different areas.
- →Making the colors too saturated.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes
- ·flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
- ·rags
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Acrylics are faster drying, while oils allow for more blending.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
