It’s no news that virtual meetings and online galleries have become the new norm. And with that, I have been astounded by online learning, such as Moma’s myriad of classes with a treasure chest of resources. But a vehicle that would never have come to mind is painting classes.
Isn’t the physical experience so primordial to learning to paint? Well, I was proven wrong. Once lockdown set in, some teachers and schools were nimble in making the switch, and I signed onto the adventure. What I found out is that not only did it prod instructors out of their comfort zone, to dispense their classes in novel and interesting ways, but it also made me more attentive. Without the social aspect, there are fewer distractions, and I actually soak up a bit more.
Study of Zorn’s Cigarette Girl
Of course I will relish the day that we can join together again. But classes with Michael Downs in Calgary have especially energized me. The funny part is that we have never physically met and were introduced by a dear friend! His investment is tremendous, from organizing 4 short sessions a week, with diverse paint-alongs, critiques, and talks. All of a sudden, I’m not laboring forever on pieces that become overworked and boring, but speeding up and moving on. They’re certainly not masterpieces, but what’s more important is that the process makes me happy. I sure hope that he continues online once distancing passes.
The pictures you see come out of that process. Michael introduced me to Zorn’s limited palette of 4 colors, with a quick value-driven block in. From that, I practiced on my own with the resultant Lina, a political figure here in Houston.
Forward!
Here’s more on Michael:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Art-School/Michael-J-Downs-Open-Studio-2057790144435948/
#michaeljdowns. #portrait #portraitpainting #portraits