Have you ever wondered how to Loosen-Up your painting style? Paint with more Freedom? Be more Spontaneous? Be more Expressive? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then my Bigger, Faster, Fresher, Looser Abstract Painting Workshop is for you! I will also teach you the design fundamentals of shape, value, color, edges and center of interest. Here is some of what we’ll cover: • How to loosen up and paint spontaneously with no pre-planning • How to use big brushes and lots of juicy paint • How to paint from your heart, not your head • How to create fresh beautiful color without making “mud” • Art business information • And much more!
 
Location: Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Instructor: David M. Kessler
Cost: $395
Sponsor: David M. Kessler Fine Art
Website, email, 336-418-3038

Award Winning Artist Workshops was created for artists with a desire to study with the highest caliber instructors. Join California artist Randall Sexton at the McDowell Arts Center for a 4-Day workshop in "Expressive Brushwork." Brushwork is your other “Voice”…Your Signature... It is recognizable whether you know it or not. Think of painting as if weaving a tapestry…overlapping the negative shapes with positive shapes (and visa versa) to create the edges of shapes….and to define the shapes in the process.
 
Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
Instructor: Randall Sexton, www.rcsexton.com
Cost: $575
Website, email, 1-877-860-3500

In this workshop students will prepare their supports using a variety of materials (cement, plaster, collaged papers) as ground layers for painting and drawing. Then using pigment sticks, carbon, charcoal, paint (oil or acrylic), a variety of mediums with the student’s choice of oil based media or water base, (cold wax, alkyds, solvents for oil, or water based mediums for acrylic – oil pigment sticks may be used with oil painting or as a top layer on acrylics). All levels are welcome.
 
Location: Cullowhee, North Carolina
Instructor: Sara Post
Cost: $700 + $50 lab fee
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

Take your painting to a higher level of commitment and meaningfulness with Lisa Pressman’s Master Class. Lisa is known for her intuitive and conceptual abstract paintings – always with a subconscious narrative that reveals itself along the way. She has a unique gift of working with her students and helping them to discover underlying themes or emotions in their work. Her workshops are often transformative, as she helps her students excavate what is “really going on” in their work. Our focus will be on content, inspirations and moving out of your comfort zone. We will be revisiting the fundamentals of design along with “freeing up” exercises, group collaborations, power points and demos that show new ways to approach your paintings.
 
Location: Cullowhee, North Carolina
Instructor: Lisa Pressman
Cost: $900 + $95 lab fee
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

Whether you have a story to tell or want to dig deeper into your own artistic motivations, we will look at how the pieces of our histories come together to influence how we work and what we create. Using fabric and paper, we will make our own collage materials to embed into encaustic. Techniques will include many fabric, paper and encaustic processes such as gestural mark-making, batik, sun printing, image transfer, staining and stenciling. Topics of discussion and slide presentations will include working with modules and in a series, layering and depth, transparency and opacity, repetition and pattern, display and finishing options. Emphasis will be placed on cultivating your own visual language. All levels welcome.
 
Location: Cullowhee, North Carolina
Instructor: Susan Stover
Cost: $800 + $50 lab fee
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

Based upon Jim’s successful approach Process; Purpose; Passion this workshop explores the versatility and limitless possibilities of combining oil paint with cold wax medium. Unlike encaustic, cold wax is used at room temperature to both extend the paint and serve as a medium. Learn how to combine these media successfully, as well as incorporate pigment sticks, powdered pigments, and more to create rich textures and resonant fields of color. Beginning with technical demonstrations and hands-on exercises, you will gain a basic understanding of the properties and handling of the medium. Once comfortable with the basics, you will look at form and content, such as deliberate and accidental mark making, starting points, and working in a series.
 
Location: Cullowhee, North Carolina
Instructor: James Scherbarth
Cost: $675 + $65 lab fee
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

This printmaking class is designed to explore each individual artist’s personal vision using the processes that will be presented during the class. The class is for artists with no printmaking experience to advanced printmakers. The emphasis will be on found materials and using found surfaces to develop print imagery that reflects each artist’s vision. Materials such as cardboard, recycled wood, and plastics will be used and incorporated into making printing plates. The class will also cover encaustic collagraph, carborundum printing, some silkscreen, chine colle, and drypoint and investigate how these processes can be used with found materials. The class uses non-toxic materials and multi-color printmaking will be covered. Students need only to bring pencils, pens, and erasers.
 
Location: Cullowhee, North Carolina
Instructor: Jeff Hirst
Cost: $775 + $125 lab fee
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

This workshop will focus on throwing and hand building techniques that emphasize the raw earthy characteristics of clay while maintaining a sense of elegance in form. By utilizing the potters wheel, slab construction, and drape molds, students will use textures to give sophisticated pottery vessels a guttural feel. In finding a balance between grace and brute, students will create work that has depth while maintaining beauty.
 
Location: Cullowhee, North Carolina
Instructor: Scott McClellan
Cost: $675 + $75 lab fee
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

Using a wide of variety of materials and numerous exercises Walker’s aim for the week will be to help you explore and investigate possibilities of making interesting and diverse drawings. “We will work both from observation, and from imagination employing a range of strategies and devices to expand our approach to drawing. We will look at creating research notebooks/sketchbooks throughout the week.” Drawings from various artists both contemporary and historical will also be referenced. A week of focus and exploration with drawing will bring about surprising results – the possibilities are endless!
 
Location: Cullowhee, North Carolina
Instructor: Hazel Walker
Cost: $675 + $50 lab fee
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

How do we select places to paint? How do we compose and adjust relationships in the landscape to fit our ideas of an invented reality? We will begin drawing from direct observation, composing quick sketches to simplify the landscape. We will discuss perspective, scale shifts, light source, value and space – all integral concepts to composing a compelling drawing. Paintings will be made later in the day, working from the same location. The light will change but the overall composition will remain. The personal approach of each student will infuse paintings that are invented and abstracted representations of the landscape. Classroom discussions will focus on other landscape painters who use a variety of ideas around color and abstraction in their work.
 
Location: Cullowhee, North Carolina
Instructor: Celia Reisman
Cost: $675 + $50 lab fee
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

This course will explore observational painting as a meditative and investigative practice that is more about process than product. Through individual still life setups, we will seek truth in the observed world while questioning how the physical construction of a painting might invoke the deeper nature of our perceptions. This course will use the subject of still life as an opportunity to question and expand the formal elements of our painting practice. Each student will begin by composing their own still life set-up that will evolve throughout the course. We will discuss and practice elements of composition, mark-making, and our ability to render light and form in a controlled environment.
 
Location: Cullowhee, North Carolina
Instructor: Jeremy Durling
Cost: $675 + $55 lab fee
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

This workshop will cover a wide range of techniques in making handmade paper, from learning to beat fiber in a Hollander beater, pigmenting pulps, sheet formation on moulds and deckles, as well as experimenting with pulp painting and pulp transfer methods. We will also make paper that have dried plants, flowers and other fibers and inclusions added into sheets for stationary, or a variety of artmaking applications. Students will work with cotton, abaca and sisal fibers to experience a range of qualities in handmade paper, which can ultimately be used for printmaking, drawing, book arts, or other purposes in the studio. All levels welcomed!
 
Location: Cullowhee, North Carolina
Instructor: Georgia Deal
Cost: $675 + $45 lab fee
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

During this workshop we will spend four intensive days of both pot making and exploring mark making to build a painterly surface on our forms. Using the rich history of earthenware covered in white slip as a blank canvas, we will journey through layering underglaze washes with personal marks to build a painterly surface. Focusing primarily on drinking vessels, we will explore color theory, composition and the use of sgraffito lines to define the foreground colors. We will move quickly with a purpose to make pots that will be energized and ready for bold color!
 
Location: Cullowhee, North Carolina
Instructor: Sara Truman
Cost: $600 + $65 lab fee
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

With an emphasis on mixed-media, this workshop is specially created to address the interests of artists working in fiber and fiber related techniques such as quilting, weaving and surface design. The basics of working in encaustic will be covered and expanded. Lorraine will demonstrate encaustic application techniques that can be used to enhance or create; structure, texture, color mixing, layers, surface manipulation, and the creation of pattern using stencils, candy molds and tjaps. Working two or three dimensionally, participants will be encouraged to develop a personal vocabulary and explore their individual interests. By combining the infinite possibilities of encaustic in combination with fiber structures, surfaces and stitch, each student’s interest can be explored.
 
Location: Cullowhee, North Carolina
Instructor: Lorraine Glessner
Cost: $650 + $65 lab fee
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

In this workshop, we will weave the figure into the fabric of the painting. We will use color to structure space and establish atmosphere, both interior and exterior. Into this light condition we will integrate the Figure. We will work with the model in-doors with windows, and out-doors in a nearby garden. Our processes will combine drawing and painting from direct observation, and working in the studio from our studies done from life. We will create specific light with color, painting to painting, and within one work. We will ask, what happens when exterior and interior light meet? On what part of the painting do we wish to focus?
 
Location: Cullowhee, North Carolina
Instructor: Louise Bourne
Cost: $600 + $95 lab fee (includes model fee)
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

This workshop explores using photographs, scanned art and direct gravure to create intaglio (etched) polymer plates for printmaking. Two different methods will be used to produce the etched fine-grain aquatint to achieve a full photographic-quality tonal range. Both the two-exposure method and a relatively new process called direct-to-plate will be covered in the workshop. We will learn intaglio printing techniques such as inking and wiping and learn to print on both European and Asian papers. Printing techniques such as chine colle will also be covered. The plates are etched in water and thus represent one of the most non-toxic intaglio printing techniques being used today. Where possible, we will be using water-soluble inks as well. No prior printmaking experience required.
 
Location: Cullowhee, North Carolina
Instructor: Clay Harmon
Cost: $650 + $135 lab fee (includes all materials)
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

Have you ever wondered how to Loosen-Up your painting style? Paint with more Freedom? Be more Spontaneous? Be more Expressive? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then my Bigger, Faster, Fresher, Looser Abstract Painting Workshop is for you! I will also teach you the design fundamentals of shape, value, color, edges and center of interest. Here is some of what we’ll cover: • How to loosen up and paint spontaneously with no pre-planning • How to use big brushes and lots of juicy paint • How to paint from your heart, not your head • How to create fresh beautiful color without making “mud” • Art business information • And much more!
 
Location: Greensboro, North Carolina
Instructor: David M. Kessler
Sponsor: Art Alliance of Greensboro
Website, email, 336-373-2725

Have you ever wondered how to Loosen-Up your painting style? Paint with more Freedom? Be more Spontaneous? Be more Expressive? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then my Bigger, Faster, Fresher, Looser Abstract Painting Workshop is for you! I will also teach you the design fundamentals of shape, value, color, edges and center of interest. Here is some of what we’ll cover: • How to loosen up and paint spontaneously with no pre-planning • How to use big brushes and lots of juicy paint • How to paint from your heart, not your head • How to create fresh beautiful color without making “mud” • Art business information • And much more!
 
Location: Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Instructor: David M. Kessler
Cost: $395
Sponsor: David M. Kessler Fine Art
Website, email, 336-418-3038

In this course students will reinterpret nature’s deep imagery and essence employing matter from nature itself, within a limited palette. Paint, ink and home-made gesso will be made from inorganic and organic sources including pine soot, shells and earth minerals. Metallic leafing and alchemic oxidation techniques will be introduced for warmth and depth. These arcane processes have been employed for thousands of years on cave walls, scrolls and aboriginal works. A variety of painting and collage techniques will be covered. We will work on Eastern and Western papers as well as wood panels. Asian paper sizing, backing and mounting techniques will be covered. This meaningful, process-driven, ecological work truly nurtures the heart and spirit. All skill levels are welcome.
 
Location: Canton, North Carolina
Instructor: Judith Kruger
Cost: $1,975 includes tuition, lodging & meals; Materials fee: $165
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

By using unconventional materials (rags, sticks, scrapers) as well as brushes we are given the opportunity to loosen our grips on what we think painting should be. Gestural movement, mark making, shape and color will all be explored and how we create a composition. This is not limited to just abstraction. Landscape- abstract landscape- how we approach a portrait all will be considered. We will however use our imaginations as a reference point. Relying on memory of place or emotions to be our guide. Content will be explored and encouraged as an intuitive and organic process. We will still our minds through morning meditations that are focused on connecting to your inner muse.
 
Location: Canton, North Carolina
Instructor: Lauren Mantecón
Cost: $1,975 includes tuition, lodging & meals; Materials fee: $25
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

In this 4 1/2 – day workshop we will be creating a modular (4 over 4) panel installation. Each panel should work on their own and be integral to the installation as well. We will establish a limited color palette with both our collage papers and paint. This parameter allows us to fully focus on our design, mark making and balance skills, as well as allowing a manageable interplay between our panels.
 
Location: Canton, North Carolina
Instructor: Michael Schemchuk
Cost: $1,975 includes tuition, lodging & meals; Materials fee: $65
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

Join us on this 5-day photographic journey to explore techniques and strategies that sharpen your vision and enrich your photographic skills. Capture the beauty of the natural landscape of the Lake Logan mountain retreat center and engage in deep personal renewal with a fresh sense of inspiration and confidence, experimenting with new techniques to build strong and evocative imagery. Included during the retreat are morning mindfulness sessions, nature walks, yoga sessions, massage by appointment, a nighttime fire circle, and personal space for reflection and communing with nature. Lake Logan has everything necessary to support a rich and nourishing week that combines time for your creative work, solitude, and connectivity with nature and other artists and writers.
 
Location: Canton, North Carolina
Instructor: Barbara Tyroler
Cost: $1,975 includes tuition, lodging & meals; Materials fee: $25
Sponsor: Cullowhee ARTS
Website, email, 828.342.6913

Have you ever wondered how to Loosen-Up your painting style? Paint with more Freedom? Be more Spontaneous? Be more Expressive? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then my Bigger, Faster, Fresher, Looser Abstract Painting Workshop is for you! I will also teach you the design fundamentals of shape, value, color, edges and center of interest. Here is some of what we’ll cover: • How to loosen up and paint spontaneously with no pre-planning • How to use big brushes and lots of juicy paint • How to paint from your heart, not your head • How to create fresh beautiful color without making “mud” • Art business information • And much more!
 
Location: Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Instructor: David M. Kessler
Cost: $395
Sponsor: David M. Kessler Fine Art
Website, email, 336-418-3038

Have you ever wondered how to Loosen-Up your painting style? Paint with more Freedom? Be more Spontaneous? Be more Expressive? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then my Bigger, Faster, Fresher, Looser Abstract Painting Workshop is for you! I will also teach you the design fundamentals of shape, value, color, edges and center of interest. Here is some of what we’ll cover: • How to loosen up and paint spontaneously with no pre-planning • How to use big brushes and lots of juicy paint • How to paint from your heart, not your head • How to create fresh beautiful color without making “mud” • Art business information • And much more!
 
Location: Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Instructor: David M. Kessler
Sponsor: David M. Kessler Fine Art
Website, email, 336-418-3038

Have you ever wondered how to Loosen-Up your painting style? Paint with more Freedom? Be more Spontaneous? Be more Expressive? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then my Bigger, Faster, Fresher, Looser Abstract Painting Workshop is for you! I will also teach you the design fundamentals of shape, value, color, edges and center of interest. Here is some of what we’ll cover: • How to loosen up and paint spontaneously with no pre-planning • How to use big brushes and lots of juicy paint • How to paint from your heart, not your head • How to create fresh beautiful color without making “mud” • Art business information • And much more!
 
Location: Raleigh, North Carolina
Instructor: David M. Kessler
Sponsor: Art of the Carolinas
Website, email