plate no. 1581

Untitled

Conrad Marca-Relli, 1945

oilSurrealismcityscapearchitecturefigurecityscapegeometric shapesbuildingsstreet lamp

some experience helpful

This painting provides an opportunity to practice blocking in shapes and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive composition. Students can also explore creating depth through simplified perspective and value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 7 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic grid layout and the placement of the main shapes (buildings, figure, table).
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background squares.
step 03
Add the architectural details to the buildings, focusing on the arches and windows.
step 04
Paint the figure, simplifying the form and using a limited color palette.
step 05
Add the table and the wagon, paying attention to the perspective.
step 06
Refine the details, such as the street lamp and the lines in the yellow square.
step 07
Adjust the values and colors as needed to create a sense of depth and harmony.

color palette

primary · yellow · brown · black · blue

secondary · green · white · grey

Mix various shades of brown by combining burnt umber, yellow ochre, and a touch of black. Create the green by mixing yellow and blue. Adjust values by adding white or black to the primary colors.

techniques