A mixed media class in drawing, painting, color, and having fun experimenting with materials. All levels welcome.
Week 1: Starting with Black and White
Using black Sumi ink full strength and diluted on printmaking paper you will use the biggest brush you have to create a strong statement. You can do a few quick gesture paintings and leave them in black and white or use my clear gesso to create a tooth to incorporate pastel. I will do an animal demo. Consider bringing animal references. Action is good. (I’ll provide ink and paper if you don’t have any)
Week 2: Quickies
We will start with small 5 minute gesture studies then proceed to 10-15 minute studies. The goal is loosening up and using confident color. Think of creating rhythm and expressive strokes. Make a mark and try to leave it. Vary the pressure on your stick. Bring in uncomplicated pre-select a few color palates to save time. Any medium you like or want to try.
Week 3: Make your colors POP
We will work on black Uart or canvas. You can tone Uart even darker with a few dark pastels and alcohol. Bring in reference that is mostly dark with a little light. Even “dull” colors look brilliant against the black.
Week 4: Color temperature
Let’s do underpaintings that reverse your color temperatures. Where you have a cool area, make it warm but match the value and visa versa. The color choices are up to you. Push it if you dare.
Week 5: Colors You LOVE
Start with a palate that excites you. Create it yourself or bring in art/photo/fabric/object with colors that resonate. If you are a fast painter, bring in 2 or 3. Also bring in photo references of subjects that are different from your inspiration palate. The point is to come up with more creative color choices and not to use local/true-life color.
Week 6: Bring In Your Duds/Unfinished Masterpieces
Anything goes today. No fear when working on something you have put aside. Start with a fresh vision and push it.
Note: If it is a beautiful day and not too hot, we may paint outdoors. Individual choice.
MATERIALS: (I use Dick Blick online)
- Uart sanded paper. 9x12 pad.
- 12 x 18 sheets optional if you want to work bigger
- Vine or willow Charcoal Stick
- 2 sheets of black foam care, a support for your paper
- White or black artist’s tape
- 1” flat watercolor brush, cheap
Soft Pastels:
- Bring whatever you have. If you are new to pastels consider Unison Half Sticks, Set of 63
- Hard Pastels: Prismacolor NuPastel Color Stick Set - Assorted Colors, Set of 24 (no oil pastels please)
- Paper Towel, Viva is best
- 70% Isopropyl Alcohol (drug store)
- Wet wipes
- YOUR OWN PHOTO REFERENCE. ON IPAD OR COLOR AND BLACK AND WHITE 8X10 PRINTS IF POSSIBLE.
- Open Mind
