plate no. 4707

the Sun, Crimea

Robert Falk, 1916

oilCubismlandscapelandscapetreesskymoonbuildingsmountains

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into geometric shapes and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive and expressive landscape. It also encourages experimentation with visible brushstrokes to add texture and visual interest.

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 landscape: mountains, buildings, trees, and the moon.
step 02
Block in the sky with broad strokes of diluted blues, purples, and whites.
step 03
Establish the mountain range using browns, oranges, and hints of green.
step 04
Define the buildings and fields with simplified geometric shapes and blocks of color.
step 05
Paint the trees as vertical blocks of dark green, varying the shades to create depth.
step 06
Add the moon with a pale yellow-white circle and a thin crescent shape.
step 07
Refine the details with visible brushstrokes, emphasizing the texture and form of each element.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to enhance the overall composition.

color palette

primary · Prussian Blue · Burnt Sienna · Titanium White · Sap Green

secondary · Yellow Ochre · Alizarin Crimson

Mix greens by combining Prussian Blue and Yellow Ochre. Achieve muted browns by blending Burnt Sienna with Prussian Blue and a touch of white. Use white to lighten and soften colors for the sky and highlights.

techniques