The Abstract Landscape

Painters consider the ways in which to magnify space and depth in their paintings through various prompts and new ways of thinking about the steps of building a painting. The class embarks on the creation of dioramas as a first step, then moves to painting directly from models to be able to envision the three-dimensional into two dimensions while examining color, contrast, figure/ground, and many more formal elements that contribute to the creation of deep space. Content is also emphasized as a paramount concern as students examine their intentions and merge form and meaning.

This exploratory workshop open to students of all levels introduces a variety of techniques for combining painting and collage to create rich and dynamic imagery. We delve into color, composition and surface texture using a multitude of materials resulting in layered, mixed media works. Experimentation is emphasized as we discover additive and subtractive methods, transfers, stencils, masking, dripping techniques, and various ways to adhere materials. We source elements like photographic materials, paint, fabrics and papers to combine. Students leave with new skills as well as a series of mixed media paintings.

In this acrylic painting workshop, the mysterious and powerful realm of abstraction—and how it can be used as a visual tool when merged with representationalism—becomes accessible. We delve into the basic visual elements of abstraction through the exploration of pattern, color, composition, and fragmentation. Advanced students are encouraged to experiment with surface texture and alternative painting materials as well, and to incorporate representational elements such as photographs and figurative painting. These dynamic combinations result in bold and exciting images that use abstraction as a device to interrupt reality and present it in unique and surprising ways.