Painting the Figure from Photographs
Workshop | Available
Although painting a person in watercolor may seem daunting, it is every bit as approachable as creating a still life or landscape. Ted Nuttall will demonstrate the techniques and instill the confidence to enjoy painting people. Ted will discuss the benefits of photographic reference, as well as how to interpret a photo in order to give life and energy to the subject. In Ted’s daily demonstrations and presentations, he will share his personal approach to painting. Plus, he will introduce the work of other artists with the objective of inspiring enriched seeing and thinking skills. What’s more, significant time is allowed for one-on-one instruction. In an atmosphere that’s both creative and supportive, Ted encourages in each participant a renewed enthusiasm for his or her art – regardless of their skill level. www.tednuttall.com
Ted Nuttall
A graduate of Colorado Institute of Art, Ted Nuttall is a figurative artist whose painting expression was born out of his observation of people. Ted is a signature member of the American Watercolor Society, National Watercolor Society, Watercolor West, Western Federation of Watercolor Societies, and enjoys Master Status with the Transparent Watercolor Society of America
Ted’s paintings continue to win awards in juried exhibitions throughout the country. And his work has been featured in numerous national and international art publications. Most recently, he was a featured artist in both the 2014 Russian publication "Masters of Watercolor" and in the 2013 French publication “Pratique Des Arts”. Ted was the featured cover artist for the February 2014 issue of Watercolor Artist magazine. Ted’s work has been published in North Light Books', Splash 8 and Splash 10, and his painting "Whispering Smith" appeared on the cover of Splash 12.
Artist’s Statement
For as long as I can remember, I have been a fascinated spectator of human behavior – the quintessential people watcher. I naturally seek the unique character in everyone I encounter. Often, as I observe someone in his or her everyday environment, I am rewarded with a moment when a gesture or expression combine with the play of light and shadow.
A contemplative smile, hands cradling a book or carefully tying a shoe, a shadow cast by a pair of wire-rimmed glasses – and there occurs a pivotal instant when a story appears.
My paintings are an attempt to compose and thoughtfully record the nuances that transfixed these moments, these stories, in my mind.
Matisse expresses the notion superbly:
“I do not literally paint that table, but the emotion it produces upon me.”