The purpose of this workshop is to study the building stages of creating a portrait painting from life. By following a basic process, we more closely examine each stage and its correlating visual principles.

Students will start with a grisaille in order to capture the gesture and use Bargue drawing type thinking to study the proportions of the head. Then flesh tones are added to develop a fuller value range and begin building the illusion of light on form. Color studies using a basic abstract color theory and an understanding of the color of the light source will be explored and then woven into this process as we enter the middle stages of the painting.

Finally, the second half of the week will be devoted to a long pose where students will practice building their painting in preparation for the ‘final pass’ or ‘finish pass’ which will also be explored. All stages will be demonstrated by the instructor along with individual attention at each student’s easel. In addition we will study the use of edges, focal points, the concept of larger to smaller relationships, planar thinking, anatomical landmarks and paint handling.

The class will start with shorter head studies progressing toward a 2½ day portrait painting at the end of the week. Students leave with a greater understanding of the cohesive painting process and the ability to integrate the exercises into that process. This moves them closer to painting a more complete portrait.

Painting Demonstration Studio Incamminati alumni and Instructor Kerry Dunn conducts a three-hour demonstration Tuesday, April 10, 6–9 p.m. at the Greensburg Garden and Civic Center. The demo is free for workshop participants and $5 for the general public.