Two Women in a Cafe by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner

plate no. 0348

Two Women in a Cafe

Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, 1929

oil, canvasExpressionismgenre paintingfigurescafewomentablehatsinterior

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand color relationships and how to simplify complex forms into basic shapes. It also provides practice in creating a sense of depth through color and value.

technical profile

palette complexity

3

brushwork visibility

4

value contrast

3

compositional simplicity

3

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition of the figures, table, and background.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, focusing on the overall color scheme.
step 03
Refine the shapes of the figures and add details like facial features and clothing.
step 04
Add shadows and highlights to create depth and dimension.
step 05
Define the edges of objects with darker or lighter tones.
step 06
Add the details of the table and cup.
step 07
Adjust colors and values as needed to create a harmonious composition.
step 08
Add final details and highlights.

color palette

primary · Prussian Blue · Cadmium Yellow · Crimson · Titanium White

secondary · Burnt Sienna · Sap Green · Ultramarine Blue

Mix greens by combining yellow and blue. Achieve skin tones by mixing yellow, crimson, and white. Vary the blues by adding white or crimson.

techniques

·Blocking in
·Color mixing
·Simplifying forms
·Impasto
·Layering

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details
→Getting bogged down in realism
→Not simplifying shapes enough
→Using colors straight from the tube without mixing
→Ignoring the overall color harmony

materials

surface · Stretched canvas

required

·Stretched canvas
·Acrylic or oil paints
·Round brushes
·Flat brushes
·Palette
·Palette knife
·Odorless mineral spirits

optional

·Medium gloss
·Retarder
·Easel

Use a limited palette to simplify color mixing. Consider using acrylics for faster drying time.

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