plate no. 5783

Yellow Blockhouse

Istvan Ilosvai Varga, 1934

oilCubismcityscapebuildingsstreetcityscapearchitecturesky

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex forms into geometric shapes and understanding atmospheric perspective through color and value changes. It will also improve their ability to create depth using overlapping shapes and varying brushstrokes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the buildings and the road, focusing on the overall composition and perspective.
step 02
Block in the main color areas for the sky, buildings, and road using thin washes.
step 03
Start building up layers of paint on the buildings, defining the shapes and adding details like windows and roofs.
step 04
Use thicker paint and visible brushstrokes to create texture and depth, especially on the foreground elements.
step 05
Pay attention to the light and shadow patterns, and adjust the values accordingly.
step 06
Add details to the road and surrounding areas, using a variety of brushstrokes to create a sense of depth and texture.
step 07
Refine the edges and shapes of the buildings, and add any final details.
step 08
Let the painting dry completely and then add a final layer of varnish to protect the surface.

color palette

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

secondary · raw umber · cadmium red light

Mix burnt sienna and ultramarine blue to create the darker tones for the shadows and road. Use yellow ochre and titanium white for the lighter areas of the buildings. Add cadmium red light to the burnt sienna to achieve the red building color.

techniques