In nature, light reveals color. In painting, color reveals light. Learning to understand lighting phenomena gives us more freedom in choosing how we paint what we see, rather than having to look to nature for every decision. We are concerned with realism and abstraction. How can we make imperfect paintings that are intriguing and compelling? Still life and portraiture both provide a reason to set up figure/ground challenges so we can paint to learn. In this class you can choose to paint either one. Paintings start and end with an idea, and the process can take many different forms. The brush is loaded with accumulated knowledge. In this workshop, you’ll be presented with approaches that will change your thinking and invite you to see differently. Start with what you do know, and expand your skills and your comfort zone. Plan on some serious learning in a lighthearted atmosphere! www.aimeeerickson.com

SKILL LEVEL: Appropriate for all levels; true beginners are advised to familiarize themselves with tools and materials before class starts.

CLASS SCHEDULE

Day 1: Morning: Canvas tone explained. Demo/color exercise (sketchbook or small panel)

Afternoon:  FBI Witness Protection exercise (on toned canvas) AM: no model.

PM: model or still life

Day 2: Morning: Demo: Flat Shadows approach

Afternoon:  Students paint, roving instruction

AM: model

PM: model, still life

Day 3: Morning: Demo: Light, Color, and Paint

Afternoon: Students paint, roving instruction

AM: model

PM: model, still life

Day 4: Morning: Students paint

Afternoon: Review student work. All questions addressed.

AM: model or still life

PM: none