Sketch and Paint Along with Robert: Townscapes in Acrylic

Townscapes have been an appealing genre in Western painting for hundreds of years. Working expressively from photos, we’ll explore composition, the dynamics of perspective, dramatic light, colorshapes, expressive brushstrokes and more. Learn to interpret this subject in a vivacious manner befitting the visual excitement and activity of downtowns —  storefronts, signage, shoppers, windows and much more. You may work in any drawing or painting medium, but Robert will be working in acrylics, a medium that can be worked transparently or in thick layering for exciting impasto effects. Learn to use a subject as a springboard of inspiration and for intuitive response in markmaking / brushstrokes. Robert will show and discuss brush and palette / painting knife techniques, compositional ideas, light effects, use of color and more to foster our own creativity. Whether you are a beginner or experienced, you’re bound to be inspired as you learn stylistic concepts and practices.  You may choose to just watch or to sketch and paint along, step-by-step, with very popular instructor, Robert Carsten. Each week we will see examples and focus on a different scene, utilizing diverse approaches and techniques. Reference photos provided via email and Dropbox, where participants can also share zoomclass work or optional homework for written critique. All levels welcome.

Week 1: Impressionist Downtown: Cropping for strong compositions, color-shape painting and depicting detail

Week 2: Impressionist Downtown:  Underpainting techniques, varying brushstrokes for expression and depth.

Week 3: Realistic Downtown: Using color and value to achieve dramatic light effects

Week 4: Expressionist Downtown: contrasting tone, saturation and color temperature

Skills students will gain:
Compositional skills: Overall compositional design, scale, linear and aerial perspectives,
Drawing skills: Expression, building 3-D effects
Color: Optical color mixing and layering of color
Painting: Varting brushstrokes, underpainting, and layering techniques

Suitable for all levels, no experience necessary! Ages 16+
Deadline for registration is 72 hours before the first class. For Zoom links and other important information about this course, please check your student dashboard.

Mondays, October 14, 21,28, and November 4, 2024
1:00-2:00 PM
$126 for four consecutive classes