The freedom of expression. This is the powerful, yet simple truth we explore as artists when we put paint to canvas. In this workshop, you will learn to develop a strong composition, loosen your brushwork, how and when to load up your brush with paint and use value to develop dramatic juxtapositions of shadow and light.

In my own artistic journey, flowers have represented freedom. This course was developed to share how painting flowers comes without boundaries! Artists are allowed to paint in all shapes and sizes and infinite amount of colors. Paint them with a bit of whimsy, exaggerate the lean of the stems or add a fallen bloom resting beside the vase (a little something I commonly add into my floral pieces).

I want you to feel absolute creative freedom as I guide you towards painting loosely and with unbounding joy. You will leave with two beautiful expressive floral paitings!

Course will focus on:
? Developing strong composition
? The art of the painted sketch
? Mapping your color choices
? Working dark to light when layering color
? Making the background an integral part of your design
? Understanding the cause and effect relationship with subject and background.
? Using shadow and light to understand the importance of value in your art.
? Keeping loose and staying loose!!

Students will need the following supplies for class:
? Two 16x20 canvases
? P rinceton Catalyst wedge No.6 (or similar)
? Palette or Palette Pad or STA-WET Palette
? Acrylic Paints and/or Oil Paints. Please bring any and all colors that you want to work with. I personally like to mix heavy body and fluid acrylics when I paint for texture and contrast. I also like to work in a mix of warms, cools and neutrals like Titan Buff, Raw Umber and White.
? Gesso. I actually use gesso as my white paint.
? Acrylic Glazing Liquid or Open Medium. I use this for extended workability.
? Paintbrushes. Bring your favorites. I suggest a couple of flats and rounds in different sizes, but I also like to paint with my fingers too.
? P rinceton Catalyst Mini blade M-02 or Palette Knife
? Spray Bottle * For oil painters I suggest oil medium.
? Brush Bucket. To clean your brushes. * For oil painters you will need Gamsol or other cleaner.
? Paper Towels
? Baby Wipes
? Images as Inspiration. A sampling of images as reference to work from.
? Apron or Paint Clothes. I like to get messy :)
? Tabletop Easel