plate no. 3443

VERMEULEN STREET, PRETORIA

Gerard Sekoto, 1946

oilExpressionismgenre paintingstreet scenefiguresbuildingscarscityscapeshops

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes and capturing light and shadow with expressive brushstrokes. It also provides practice in representing figures in a stylized manner.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of buildings, figures, and cars.
step 02
Block in the main color areas for the buildings, street, and sky using thin washes.
step 03
Add darker tones to define shadows and create depth, paying attention to the light source.
step 04
Develop the figures with simplified shapes and colors, focusing on their posture and interaction.
step 05
Add details to the buildings, such as windows, signs, and architectural features.
step 06
Refine the brushwork, using visible strokes to add texture and energy to the painting.
step 07
Add highlights to create a sense of light and atmosphere.
step 08
Review and adjust the overall composition and color balance.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · ultramarine blue · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · raw sienna · ivory black

Mix various shades of gray and brown by combining ultramarine blue, burnt umber, and white. Use yellow ochre and raw sienna to create warm highlights.

techniques