plate no. 7083

Untitled

August Macke, 1913

oil, canvasExpressionismstill lifeflowersvasestill lifewindowinterior

some experience helpful

This painting offers a good opportunity to practice simplifying complex forms into geometric shapes and using color to define planes and create depth. Students can also learn to capture the essence of a subject without precise detail.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

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