NO CLASS JAN. 20

The purpose of this class is to learn the process of painting the head from a live model and learn the visual principles of each stage of development.

An image is built on a series of relationships. The first relationships discussed are proportion or "tilts and distances," which is key to getting a likeness. The focus is on accuracy, working from larger to smaller and endeavoring to work up the drawing as a unified whole. Next students use value and tone relationships as flat shapes to separate light and shadow and to establish the basic framework of the painting, also called the "block-in." Paintings are more tonal in the beginning and the color range is broadened as the painting progresses. This further establishes the framework of the "whole."

The painting is then developed using this same set of visual tools as students work in smaller areas relating back to the framework. Color theory is addressed along with a basic strategy of how to apply it. Edges, rendering light on form, paint handling, basic anatomy and how to finish are also discussed throughout the class. The poses get longer, starting with a one-night pose and ending with a four-night pose.

Kerry Dunn received a 2013 Portrait Society of America Best in Show. His works have been exhibited in numerous group exhibitions and hang in numerous collections.