Course description

In this course you will learn how to sketch outside "en plein air" as the impressionists did. We will look at ways of simplifying what you see into simpler shapes that the viewer can understand and recreate in their minds. This skill is really important in all types of painting as we move from trying to capture detail towards giving an impression of the bigger picture. We will be looking at some masters of this activity and analyse how they achieved their harmonious renditions of their local area as well as venturing out to tackle subject matter in the garden and beyond. I will be demonstrating the steps you can take to break down a view into simple components that concentrate on contrast of tone and value rather than manual dexterity. For complete beginners I recommend using acrylics as your painting medium and you can find a list of recommended equipment on the PAINTING MATERIALS tab.