Light and, in particular, sunlight explains the visual world to us. Learn to see what it is doing and learn how to paint it. You will be thrilled with how your paintings come to life.

 

1. Light bleaches out color.

2. The stronger the sunlight, the more true color is driven down into the shadows.

3. A shadow is darkest and coolest on the edge against the sunlit plane. It becomes lighter and warmer as it moves away.

4. Cast shadows bring out the sunlight.

 

Crow Valley Summer

We use this understanding to create passages or linkage of the light shapes which make the painting appear looser and more open. We learn how to create color-filled darks that are based on what is happening in nature. We learn how a given color is moderated and practice changing colors as we wet blend.

Although this is an indoor class we will be doing some of our research outside, assuming there is sunlight. There will be plenty of back-up photos and painting examples.

 

In thinking of possible subjects, look for bright sunlight. Preferably use your own photos. Close-ups of flowers, people, boats in strong sunlight as well as buildings, trees make good subjects. We need sunlight and shadow. You can even photograph a closeup of an arrangement of fruits or vegetables. I will have some flowers, fruits and vegetables at the Hobby House.

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Equipment

You may bring photographs of sunny subjects you may like to paint and I will help you with using them to plan your painting(s).   You may also, or instead, bring fruits, vegetables or flowers that we can view in the sunshine.  I will also have photos for use, fruit, veggies and flowers.

Palette and Brushes: Bring your regular palette, brushes – including #10 or #12 pointed (I prefer white synthetic sable) and a 1″ flat brush ( I prefer one made of Taklon™). See equipment for my pigments, etc.

Paper: I strongly urge you to bring Arches bright white cold press paper. Fabriano is also okay … 1 half sheet, 2 or more 1/4 sheets. You may also bring some backs of paintings or small pieces for some experiments.

You will need

  •  2 1 qt water containers (yogurt?)
  • roll of TP
  • #2 pencil and some softer ones or other shading tools
  • camera

And your lunch plus any snacks you would like.  Coffee and tea will be available.