plate no. 5318

The Road to Calvary

Andre Derain, 1901

oil, canvasExpressionismreligious paintingfigurescrossreligious scenelandscapecrowdhorses

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, composition with many elements, and creating a sense of depth through color and value. It will also improve their understanding of expressionistic brushwork.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main figures and the cross, focusing on proportions and placement.
step 02
Block in the background landscape with broad strokes of color.
step 03
Establish the main color masses for the figures, using a limited palette.
step 04
Refine the shapes and details of the figures, paying attention to their expressions and gestures.
step 05
Add the cross, ensuring its placement and perspective are accurate.
step 06
Develop the background details, including the crowd and the landscape elements.
step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 08
Refine the brushwork, using visible strokes to add texture and energy.

color palette

primary · red ochre · raw umber · yellow ochre

secondary · Prussian blue · titanium white

Mix red ochre and raw umber for the darker skin tones and shadows. Use yellow ochre and white for highlights. Add a touch of Prussian blue to darken the shadows and create a sense of depth.

techniques