plate no. 8857
The study for the City Centre
Fernand Leger, 1927
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand how to simplify complex forms into basic shapes and use color blocking to create a stylized representation of a figure. It also encourages practice in precise line work and controlled blending.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
2
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure and the object she is holding, focusing on the geometric forms.
- step 02
Divide the canvas into the distinct color areas as defined by the composition.
- step 03
Begin painting the background with a light gray, blending smoothly.
- step 04
Fill in the large areas of color, starting with the blue of the dress and the red of the object.
- step 05
Mix and apply the various shades of gray for the skin tones, hair, and lower portion of the figure.
- step 06
Add the white details, such as the necklace and the stripes on the object.
- step 07
Refine the edges of the shapes and the blending of colors to achieve a smooth, graphic look.
- step 08
Add final details like the small black accents and shadows.
color palette
primary · ultramarine blue · cadmium red · titanium white · ivory black
secondary · light yellow · gray
Mix various shades of gray by combining black and white. Achieve the blue by using ultramarine blue and a touch of black for shadows. The skin tone is a mix of white with small amounts of black and yellow.
techniques
- ·color blocking
- ·smooth blending
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·hard-edge painting
- ·value shading
common pitfalls
- →Over-blending the colors, which can muddy the distinct shapes.
- →Inaccurate proportions in the initial sketch.
- →Uneven application of paint, leading to visible brushstrokes.
- →Incorrect color mixing, resulting in colors that are too bright or too dull.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·flat brushes (sizes 4, 8)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil (if using oil paints)
- ·odorless mineral spirits (for cleaning brushes)
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
- ·varnish
Use a smooth canvas for easier blending. Acrylics will dry faster, while oils allow for more blending time.
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