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 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 are explored and woven into this process entering the middle stages of the painting.

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 starts 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.

Kerry Dunn conducts a three-hour painting demonstration Tuesday, Sept. 25, 7 – 10 p.m. at the Heritage Center, 6110 Blue Stone Road NE,Sandy Springs, GA.

Kerry Dunn was named "one of 25 Artists of Tomorrow” by American Artist magazine. He also earned Certificates of Excellence in the Portrait Society of America’s competitions as well as the society’s Exceptional Merit Award. His work and teaching methods have been featured in American Artist magazine and his art as appeared in numerous exhibitions and private collections.