Class 1: We’ll start with a step-by-step painting process so we can reinforce and practice fundamental techniques. We’ll be taking a closer look at brushstrokes, composition, and breaking down an image into smaller elements. This first class is going to shake of the dust and get everyone used to the medium again, while introducing the more cerebral tasks that come with painting from reference. Class 2: We’ll move on with a formal look at depth in painting. We’ll explore both light and perspective in order to create the illusion of space on a flat surface. In this activity we will use complementary colors for light and shadows and different saturations for background and formal objects. We’ll be placing these objects in space using “One Point” and “Two Point” perspectives, these two paintings will be a fun exercise in painting from imagination. Class 3: For the third class, we’ll take an informal look at gestural painting. After all, impressionism is not strictly for the 19th century! In this lesson we’ll use similar techniques to the old masters to open up the world of painting. We’ll introduce “thumbnail sketches” to practice quick, loose paintings that really let you play with the medium. Class 4: Here we’ll apply everything we learned in a still life painting. We’ll use traditional warm up and composition techniques, and over the course of the lesson each student will receive personalized critique and feedback. This is the most self-guided of all the classes and is the chance to really lean into your personal style!