Oil pastels have a soft, buttery feel and are fun to work with. The color effects and textures that can be achieved are stunningly beautiful. Learn to prepare the substrate and under painting, to blend pastels for three-dimensional effects, and to layer with Holbein and Sennelier oil pastels. Scrape away oil pastel to reveal previous layers. Add oil pastel to build up the painting surface and color quality. We'll cover use of line and mark making, color theory as it relates to layering with oil pastels, and composition, negative and positive space, shapes, and the placement of objects. Learn the dialog of self-critique and how to unleash your imagination. Must have some art experience.
 
Location: Mineral Point, Wisconsin
Instructor: Jane Wilcoxson
Cost: $260
Sponsor: Shake Rag Alley Center for the Arts
Website, email, (608) 987-3292

Contrast has always been an effective tool to engage viewers. In this two-day workshop we'll focus on a realistic drawing style using a unique layering technique to produce meticulous detail and color accuracy, then gradually transform to an abstract style. The paper will be dark in color with subject choices emerging in increasing light and color from the dark abstracted background. The technique is easy to learn, easy to do ... just takes time. We'll begin with a sample of colored pencil artists' works, then you'll complete a sampler experimenting with application techniques. You'll then begin an individualized artwork using your chosen subject matter, design and composition, and leave the workshop confident to complete the drawing on your own.
 
Location: Mineral Point, Wisconsin
Instructor: Rhonda Nass
Cost: $208
Sponsor: Shake Rag Alley Center for the Arts
Website, email, (608) 987-3292

Sharpen your colored pencils for workshop fun in historic, picturesque Lake Geneva, Wisconsin- post-summer rush but still during the mild September weather. Kristy Kutch, a supportive, upbeat teacher, is the author of Drawing and Painting with Colored Pencil and The New Colored Pencil; she is also featured in 4 instructional DVDs. Included are many aspects of this medium and its compatible surfaces. Create effects ranging from soft, transparent, and aqueous to dense and dramatic. Harbor Shores Hotel, located on Geneva Lake, offers fantastic student discounts. Guests enjoy rooms featuring mini-fridges and microwaves. (Lodging reservations should be made separately: 888-746-7371. Mention this workshop for discount.) Bring an extra tote bag for samples; plan for this memorable fall workshop!
 
Location: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Instructor: Kristy Kutch
Cost: $295, including a class dinner and light snacks, drinks
Sponsor: Kristy Kutch Colored Pencil Workshops
Website, email, 219-874-4688