Untitled by August Macke

plate no. 7083

Untitled

August Macke, 1913

oil, canvasExpressionismstill lifeflowersvasestill lifewindowinterior

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 7 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the vase, flowers, and background elements, focusing on proportions and composition.
step 02
Block in the main color areas for the background, table, vase, and flower mass.
step 03
Start defining the individual flowers with their respective colors and shapes, using simplified brushstrokes.
step 04
Add highlights and shadows to the vase and flowers to create form and dimension.
step 05
Refine the background shapes and colors, paying attention to the interplay of light and shadow.
step 06
Add details to the flowers, such as petal variations and stem placements.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and contrast to achieve a harmonious composition.

color palette

primary · red · yellow · green · blue

secondary · white · brown · pink · orange

Mix various shades of red, yellow, and green to create the flower colors. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights. Browns and blues are used to create shadows and depth.

techniques

·blocking in
·simplified brushstrokes
·color layering
·geometric abstraction
·scumbling

common pitfalls

→Getting bogged down in detail too early.
→Over-blending the colors.
→Losing the overall composition by focusing on individual elements.
→Not simplifying the forms enough.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·Stretched canvas (16x20 inches)
·Oil paints (red, yellow, green, blue, white, brown)
·Assorted brushes (flat and round)
·Palette
·Palette knife
·Odorless mineral spirits
·Linseed oil
·Rags

optional

·Medium gloss
·Easel
·Apron

Use a limited palette to simplify color mixing. Consider using a medium to thin the paint for smoother application.

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