Do you have moments of complete frustration with your work? We all do. In this course Melinda will help you to embrace those moments and learn to work with the idea of Chaos and ‘The Uglies’ in your paintings in order to achieve rich work with history and lasting interest. Are you looking for more personal expression? We will look at setting Creative and Conceptual Intentions in order to create meaningful, individual work. We will focus on the importance of contrast in our work by looking at the Elements of Design which will give you concrete ideas in abstraction. These Elements, mixed with several approaches to Figurative Abstraction will spark your creativity and give you lots to work on going forward.
 
Location: Glastonbury, Connecticut
Instructor: Melinda Cootsona
Cost: $975+
Sponsor: Artists Rising Creativity Retreats
Website, email, 860-633-7374

Fresh, beautiful flowers in the studio will be the inspiration for the beginning of this dynamic workshop — progressing to the head and figure. Through a series of quick and fun drawing and painting exercises, students will develop a more loose and natural approach, giving all an opportunity to be more spontaneous and expressive in their paintings. In our approach to the head and figure, we will learn to express translucent flesh tones, while focusing on the gesture of the person. Painting children will also be covered. We will work primarily from photos (you can work from mine — ones I will demo, plus extra that may interest you). Please feel free to bring your own photos also — ones that inspire you!
 
Location: Glastonbury, Connecticut
Instructor: Janet Rogers
Cost: $1144 + Materials fee
Sponsor: Artists Rising Creativity Retreats
Website, email, 860-633-7374

Step into the captivating realm of soft pastels, where each stroke ignites an enchanting play of light and shadow, transforming the mundane into the magical. In this immersive workshop, led by the skilled and inspiring Ivy Newport, you'll explore the luminous, ethereal qualities of soft pastels, PanPastel, and pastel pencils. Begin your journey with hands-on exercises that celebrate the unique textures and effects only achievable with pastels. Under Ivy's expert guidance, delve into the art of mark-making and layering to construct stunning vistas and soulful portraits with radiant skin tones. Discover innovative techniques, such as crafting mesmerizing underpaintings with isopropyl alcohol, enhancing the depth and vibrancy of your artwork.
 
Location: Glastonbury, Connecticut
Instructor: Ivy Newport
Cost: $1144 + Materials fee
Sponsor: Artists Rising Creativity Retreats
Website, email, 860-633-7374