plate no. 5240

Windmill

Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, 1910

oilCubismlandscapelandscapemountainsbuildingskyhillspath

some experience helpful

This painting provides a good opportunity to practice simplifying complex landscapes into basic shapes and using a limited color palette to create depth. Students can learn to create a sense of distance through color and value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 6 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the mountains, hills, and building, focusing on their relative sizes and positions.
step 02
Block in the sky with a light blue, gradually darkening towards the horizon.
step 03
Paint the distant mountains with darker blues and greens, using less detail.
step 04
Add the mid-ground hills with a mix of greens, browns, and yellows, varying the tones to create depth.
step 05
Paint the path using light yellows and browns, suggesting its winding form.
step 06
Add the building with a light yellow or white, and a small orange roof.
step 07
Refine the shapes and colors, adding subtle variations and details to create interest.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to enhance the overall composition.

color palette

primary · Prussian blue · Sap green · Yellow ochre · Titanium white

secondary · Burnt umber · Cadmium yellow light · Orange

Mix greens by combining blue and yellow, and create variations by adding white or brown. Achieve the mountain colors by mixing blue with a touch of brown or green.

techniques