Students are introduced to fundamental portrait painting concepts based on the Studio Incamminati curriculum.

Through a series of exercises, students learn principles and direct painting methods necessary to paint a portrait from life.

Exercises begin with a dynamic approach to grasping the gesture of the head with paint, and teaches students to see and build from simple to complex. Studies will progress from monochromatic “grisaille” painting to value and color study. Concepts covered include construction of the head with simple planes, anatomical landmarks, value relationships, and modeling form with values.

Color study exercises explore basic color theory and the effect of light on form and include both full color and limited-palette exercises. Paint handling, edges, and the stages of developing a portrait are explored in this direct, alla prima approach.

Daily instructor demonstrations and discussions clearly explain an approach to study influenced by the teachings of Nelson Shanks.

An extended pose over the last two days offers students the option to develop a longer portrait.

The instructor, joined by Studio Incamminati artists, will give an evening demonstration.

Studio Incamminati graduate and Instructor Natalie Italiano has won numerous awards for her portraits and still life painting, including a Certificate of Excellence from the Portrait Society of America in the International Portrait Competition, an Honorable Mention from the Connecticut Society of Portrait Artists, a finalist in International Artist’s Magazine Still Life Competition, and a finalist in still life in Artist’s Magazine annual competition. She received Signature Status from the Portrait Society of America honoring her d Natalie studied privately under Nelson Shanks, at Studio Incamminati, and at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. She also holds a teaching certificate from Moore College of Art and a BA in Psychology from Rowan University.