plate no. 5197

The Troubadour

Rufino Tamayo, 1945

oilCubismgenre paintingfigureguitarmusichatinteriorgeometric shapes

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand geometric abstraction and how to simplify complex forms into basic shapes. It also provides practice in color blocking and creating a sense of depth using color and line.

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 figures and objects, focusing on proportions and placement.
step 02
Divide the composition into distinct color areas, mapping out where each color will go.
step 03
Begin filling in the largest color areas with flat, even tones.
step 04
Mix and apply the secondary colors, paying attention to how they interact with the primary colors.
step 05
Add details such as the facial features, guitar strings, and patterns on the wall.
step 06
Refine the edges of the shapes and adjust the colors as needed.
step 07
Add any final details or highlights.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting.

color palette

primary · red · blue · yellow · gray

secondary · green · purple · black · white

Achieve the various shades of gray by mixing black and white. Create the teal green by mixing blue and yellow with a touch of white. The skin tones are achieved by mixing red, yellow, and a touch of blue.

techniques