plate no. 0919

The Soul of the Soulless City ('New York An Abstraction')

C. R. W. Nevinson, 1920

oilCubismcityscapecityscapebuildingsrailroad tracksurbanarchitectureperspective

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand and practice linear perspective, as well as how to create a sense of depth and atmosphere using color and value. Students will also learn how to simplify complex forms into geometric shapes, a key element of Cubism.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch to establish the basic perspective lines of the railroad tracks and the overall structure of the buildings.
step 02
Block in the major shapes of the buildings using simplified geometric forms.
step 03
Establish the light source and begin to define the shadows and highlights on the buildings and tracks.
step 04
Mix the primary colors for the buildings, focusing on warm browns and yellows, and apply them in broad strokes.
step 05
Add details to the buildings, such as windows and architectural features, using a smaller brush.
step 06
Refine the railroad tracks, paying attention to the perspective and the way the light reflects off the rails.
step 07
Add atmospheric effects, such as the hazy sky and the suggestion of steam or smoke, using soft blending techniques.
step 08
Make final adjustments to the colors and values to create a cohesive and dynamic composition.

color palette

primary · raw umber · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue

Mix raw umber and yellow ochre to create the base color for the buildings. Add titanium white to lighten the color and ultramarine blue to create cooler shadows. Burnt sienna can be used to add warmth to certain areas.

techniques