plate no. 5059
Urban Landscape
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students understand cubist principles of fragmentation and multiple perspectives, as well as how to create depth and form using geometric shapes and color variations. Students will also learn to simplify complex scenes into basic shapes.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic geometric shapes of the buildings and trees, focusing on the overall composition.
- step 02
Divide the canvas into distinct planes and sections, mirroring the fragmented style.
- step 03
Block in the main colors for each section, starting with the darker values.
- step 04
Gradually build up the colors, adding highlights and shadows to create depth and form within each shape.
- step 05
Mix and apply secondary colors to add subtle variations and interest to the buildings and sky.
- step 06
Refine the edges of the shapes, using both hard and soft lines to define the forms.
- step 07
Add details such as windows, doors, and architectural elements using smaller brushes.
- step 08
Review the overall composition and make any necessary adjustments to balance the colors and shapes.
color palette
primary · Prussian Blue · Yellow Ochre · Burnt Sienna · Titanium White
secondary · Viridian Green · Cadmium Red · Ultramarine Blue
Mix blues and whites for the sky and lighter building facades. Use yellow ochre and burnt sienna for warmer tones in the buildings and trees. Mix greens from blues and yellows for foliage hints.
techniques
- ·Geometric abstraction
- ·Color blocking
- ·Layering
- ·Hard and soft edges
- ·Cubist fragmentation
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the initial sketch and getting lost in details.
- →Using colors that are too saturated and not blending them effectively.
- →Failing to create a sense of depth and perspective.
- →Not simplifying the forms enough and making the painting look too realistic.
materials
surface · Stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas (16x20 inches)
- ·Acrylic or oil paints
- ·Round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·Flat brushes (sizes 4, 8)
- ·Palette
- ·Palette knife
- ·Odorless mineral spirits or water (depending on paint type)
- ·Rags
optional
- ·Medium (for oil paints)
- ·Easel
- ·Varnish
Use a medium-textured canvas to allow for better paint adhesion. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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