Classes and Workshops

For this course, we will be looking at ways to organise your composition, and how to mix both observed/neutral colours, as well as how to mix and use more expressive colour palettes. I will provide demonstrations using the human figure as my subject, and cover a side by side comparison of a more traditional approach with a contemporary approach. The first will use a neutral underpainting, and the second a more colourful ground on which to overlay a figure in imaginative colours. We will also explore using different brushes to create textures and movement in your painting, and building up layers as you paint. You can follow along with the photograph I am working from (photo TBD), for the opportunity to build skills and practice painting the figure.

If you would like to bring your own reference photo of a figure, or to explore a different subject, you are welcome to. The demonstrations provided will help you with composition, colour mixing, and brushwork. Additionally, you will receive one-to-one feedback throughout the sessions as you paint.

If you do plan to bring your own photo, please remember that using one with as high resolution as possible, and that has good lighting (not over or under exposed) is highly recommended. I am happy to help you with this before the course if you would like to check your image.

Materials kit – full range of 12, 37ml paint tubes: burnt sienna, burnt umber, raw umber, cobalt blue, ultramarine blue, alizarin crimson, cadmium yellow hue, pthalo green, vermillion, titanium white, cadmium red hue, yellow ochre, sansodor (250ml), linseed oil (75ml), liquin (75ml), 12” x 16” canvas board, brush set, palette knife, and palette.

Free parking is available at the village hall, and tea/refreshments and biscuits will also be provided.

Have fun in this approachable workshop for any level to learn the basics, or improve your portrait painting skills. We will go over blocking in proportions, building up lights and darks, color mixing, and capturing details all through a relaxed and expressive approach. You will finish the four-session course with a painting of your own, and new knowledge in working with oil paint. During the class there will be demonstrations at different stages, as well as plenty of one-to-one feedback and help as you work.

Materials list provided, or the option to buy a starter materials kit using the Zorn color palette when you book your place. A free guide to mixing colors and basic terms and definitions about portrait painting to help you on your way as an artist will also be sent to you when you book your place. A selection of photographs to work from is also available, please choose which one you would like prior to the start of the course. You may also work from your own photograph, but it should have a good light source and not be over/under exposed. Please get in touch if you would like recommendations on what to avoid when choosing a reference photograph, or for any other enquiries.

Starter materials kit includes: 37 ml Ivory black, 37 ml titanium white, 37 ml yellow ochre, 37 ml cadmium red, odorless mineral spirit, 12 x 16″ canvas board, selection of 6 flat and round brushes in various sizes, acrylic palette, palette knife.

Free parking is available at the village hall, and tea/refreshments and biscuits will also be provided.