plate no. 7151

The Waterfall

Franz Marc, 1912

oil, canvasCubismgenre paintingwaterfallfiguresmountainslandscapebear

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to simplify complex scenes into geometric forms and use color to create mood and depth. Students will also practice applying bold brushstrokes and creating dynamic compositions.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the waterfall, mountains, and figures.
step 02
Block in the main color areas for the mountains, waterfall, and figures using simplified shapes.
step 03
Start adding darker values to define the forms and create contrast, especially in the shadows of the mountains and around the figures.
step 04
Introduce lighter values to highlight the forms and create a sense of depth and dimension.
step 05
Refine the details of the waterfall, adding swirls and movement with lighter blues and whites.
step 06
Add details to the figures, focusing on the contours and the interplay of light and shadow.
step 07
Adjust the colors and values as needed to create a cohesive and expressive painting.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to enhance the overall impact of the painting.

color palette

primary · red · blue · yellow · green

secondary · white · brown · orange

Mix different shades of red by adding brown or black. Create variations of blue by mixing with white or green. Achieve earthy tones by blending yellow, brown, and red.

techniques

·color blocking
·geometric simplification
·bold brushstrokes
·value contrast
·layering

common pitfalls

→Overcomplicating the shapes and losing the simplified geometric forms.
→Not creating enough contrast in values, resulting in a flat and lifeless painting.
→Using muddy colors by overmixing.
→Failing to capture the dynamic movement of the waterfall.