Painting the Portrait in Charcoal using Both Dry and Wet Alla Prima Techniques

Painting the Portrait in Charcoal using Both Dry and Wet Alla Prima Techniques

Workshop | Available

All Levels
3/30/2026-4/2/2026
9:00 AM-4:00 PM MST (Arizona) on Mon Tue Wed Th
$850.00
$65.00

Painting the Portrait in Charcoal using Both Dry and Wet Alla Prima Techniques

Workshop | Available

Michelle will guide students with demonstrations and one on one personalized instruction on painting the portrait in Charcoal using brushes, powdered charcoal, condensed charcoal, and a variety of tools and techniques. Over the first two days, students will complete a portrait using the dry charcoal technique, focusing on tonal values, edge variety, and structure. In the second two-day pose, Michelle will introduce the use of water to create intentional, painterly brushwork. This approach allows for a more fluid, expressive finish while maintaining accuracy and conveying emotional depth through brushwork akin to techniques used in Alla Prima portrait painting. During the course of this four-day comprehensive hands-on class, students will glean an in depth understanding of value orchestration as well as the process of observing and implementing edges rhythmically to create a dynamic composition. Michelle’s process emphasizes the importance of understanding edges to convey mood and presence—transforming a portrait from a mere likeness into a compelling, emotive work of art. Whether you're new to charcoal or looking to deepen your understanding of painterly portraiture, this workshop offers a rich opportunity to explore the full potential of this timeless medium. www.dunawayfineart.com 

Dunaway, Michelle
Michelle Dunaway

Michelle Dunaway is an Internationally known American artist who’s paintings are revered for their bold brushwork yet sensitive portrayal of emotions that capture the human experience. Her artwork has been featured in numerous publications including International Artist, Fine Art Connoisseur, American Artist, Southwest Art, Art of the West, and American Art Collector along with inclusion in several art books. Michelle’s work has received many awards and honors including: The Award of Exceptional Merit at the Portrait Society of America’s International Portrait Competition in 2010 for her painting ‘Katie and Jenni-The Daughters of Jane Seymour’, a Certificate of Excellence from the Portrait Society of America in 2014, finalist in the 2012/13 Art Renewal Salon Competition as well as being invited to be the featured artist at the 2014 California Art Club Gold Medal Exhibition. Michelle receives invitations to teach, lecture, and give painting demonstrations at various schools and events internationally. She exhibits in galleries nationwide and her paintings are in private collections throughout the US and Europe.