plate no. 0477

Wines, Liquors

Maurice de Vlaminck, 1910

oilCubismcityscapebuildingscityscapechurchskystorefrontroofs

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to simplify complex scenes into geometric shapes and use color to create depth and form. It also provides practice in rendering light and shadow with bold brushstrokes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the buildings, focusing on their geometric forms and angles.
step 02
Block in the main color areas for the sky, buildings, and roofs using thin washes.
step 03
Start building up the darker values, defining the shadows and architectural details.
step 04
Mix and apply the colors for the roofs, paying attention to the color variations and highlights.
step 05
Add details to the storefront, including the lettering and window awnings.
step 06
Refine the shapes and edges of the buildings, using thicker paint and bolder brushstrokes.
step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 08
Review and adjust the overall composition, ensuring a balance of color and value.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna · yellow ochre

secondary · ivory black · titanium white · cadmium red

Mix shades of blue and white for the sky. Use burnt sienna and cadmium red for the roofs. Yellow ochre mixed with white and a touch of burnt sienna creates the building colors.

techniques