Drawing and Painting Portraits THURSDAY MORNING begins 9.26

• Teacher: Ruthie V.
• Materials Fee: (Model fee included in price)
• Course Length: 8 sessions
• Class Days: Thursday, starting September 26th. Previously listed for the 19th
• Time: 11:00 pm – 2:00 pm

This course explores the art of portrait drawing and painting, focusing on capturing the essence and energy of the human face. Students will work with both live models and modified photographs, learning to create believable and expressive portraits that convey a sense of life and humanity. The course emphasizes key techniques such as manipulating value, color, contrast, and edges to create volume and atmosphere. While realism is not the primary goal, achieving a sense of believability and life in the portraits is emphasized. Along with learning to paint heads, faces, and figures, artists will be further challenged to develop their portraits in narrative and expressive environments.

We will examine and be inspired by work from artists like Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Liu Xiaodong, Njideka Akunyili Crosby, and more.

In addition to studio work, artists will have access to a class Padlet for ongoing discussions, sharing inspirations, and receiving feedback. Homework will be assigned to build on ideas, but is flexible for those with time constraints. This course aims to foster a supportive and creative environment for a diversity of students and styles.

Prerequisites: Beginning Drawing (or studio equivalent) if drawing. Beginning Painting (or studio equivalent) if painting.

Materials:

• Vine Charcoal
• Multimedia Paper
• Canvas or Gessoed Panels (8)
  Choose sizes you are interested in trying. If smaller than 16×20, be prepared to paint multiples
• Long-Handled Brushes in a variety of sizes
  • Filbert Brushes: For an organic look.
  • Flat Brushes: For a contemporary abstract look.
• Paint: Oil or acrylic, depending on your preference.
  • Colors: bring colors you are interested in working with. Pure pigments encouraged. New colors may be suggested to you.

• Odorless Mineral Spirits (OMS)
• Medium 

Recommended Upgrades:

• Metal Palette Knife
• (Blue) Masterson Sta-wet Palette Seal
• Glass Palette Insert (wax paper also available)
• Brush: Robert Simmons Signet Filbert #8 if you enjoy paint texture and organic edges