Intro to Acrylic Painting

If you could say it in words there would be no reason to paint. - Edward Hopper. Whether we fully agree with Mr. Hopper or not, the realization that art can communicate what words often cannot is rarely questioned. Color, shape, and composition (placement, balance etc) are the rudimentary elements of visual art. However, what is often left off of this list is Context which accompanies art whether intentioned or not. This studio art class will focus on the use of acrylic painting techniques and elements of form, composition and color using still life, photographs and memory to create a minimum of 8 paintings: 4 in-class and 4 outside of class. Our goal is not to make "pretty pictures", but to learn to analyze, question and interpret what we see through painting. Class projects will stress the rendering of physical objects and figures, as well as introduce strategies for imbuing your paintings with meaning and insight. Students are required to work during and outside of class time while also maintaining a 40-page sketchbook. In addition, students will give a presentation to the class on an artist whose paintings they admire and why. While some limited supplies will be provided, students must also purchase and bring their own arts supplies, such as acrylic paints, canvases or wood panels, brushes, rags, and plastic cups for water and mixing. A materials list will be emailed to registered students no later than a week before the beginning of class.