Grapevine 3-Day Workshop with Bruce Peil February 10, 11, 12

FEBRUARY WORKSHOP FEATURING BRUCE PEIL

           This workshop is about understanding that a painting is made up of interlocking shapes of color and value that are all relative to each other.

            Emphasis will be put on seeing the correct values, painting natural feeling colors with simple shapes, and getting accurate information down first.   The object is to have each piece of color be correct in relation to the one that came before.  An inaccurate start always leads to a failed painting. 

            One problem I see students having is painting too large for their ability to finish before the light changes.   So, if we go on location, each student should be prepared to paint as small as necessary in order to capture the scene before the light changes.

            The first day will be spent in the studio talking about my approach to painting, and doing some preliminary value studies.  The remainder of the workshop, whether we are indoors or outdoors, will be spent doing small quick studies to learn to get an accurate start and to capture that ‘Moment in Time’.      Bring photos to work from when painting indoors.  Demos will be done when necessary, and each student will receive personal attention.  Each time we approach a new subject will be a different situation, and should be treated with a fresh outlook and not a much repeated formula.  In other words, we should paint what we see, not what we think we know.

            Other topics discussed will be composition, contrast, edges, planes,  perspective, and simplifying equipment.  Bring paintings for me to critique if you like.

             If you notice I have listed the paints  I use.  If you like you may bring the colors you are familiar with.  You don’t have to use my palette, but I will be talking about why a simplified palette like mine will work to your advantage.  Also try not to bring a white palette as the extreme contrast when mixing colors on a white surface makes it hard to accurately judge color mixes.  They will appear darker than they really are.

Feel free to call me with any questions about materials for this workshop.

 Also bring;   Odorless paint thinner,  it must have No odor for in the studio.  Several painting panels, from 6 x 8  to 9 x 12 size.  Portable easel,  paper towels or   tissues.  Inexpensive canvas panels or a painting surface of your choice.

For reservations and questions, please call Clay Speer at 405-830-2057.