Art Colony workshop last week at Children's Harbor on Lake Martin was one of the best ever! Our talented and energetic instructor, Susan Diehl, was tireless in sharing her knowledge with us of color mixing and still life painting. I can see why she is a valued teacher at the Scottsdale School of Art.
Our first day was spent setting up and lighting our individual still lifes. Next, as a class we evaluated, critiqued, and made needed changes, before proceeding to compose and draw our scenes on canvas with a paint brush.
On day two we painted our underpainting or grisaille,. This is a French term for a monotone painting in a grey or brown neutral color. We started by blocking in shapes concentrating on our values. You can see my still life setup and completed grisaille in the photo above.
Day #3 was about color, painting from dark to light. Lastly we added a few details. See finished painting below. Days four and five were filled with plein air painting and color studies.
On late afternoons we gathered in small groups on porches to catch up on our lives and share new ideas. Some evenings saw early bedtimes. Others were filled with a lovely reception for the artists at Alliant Bank in Alexander City, an art walk where artists could show and sell their work, and a final appreciation and awards event.
It is a joy to have this time of learning and friendship as we move forward on our art journeys. Many thanks to Toni Adams, Sarah Towery Wade, our instructors, and the many board volunteers who give endless hours to produce a seamless workshop. We do appreciate you!
