New York Academy of Art

The workshop will explain how to create a useful photo reference; covering topics such as ideal lighting, camera settings, lenses, Photoshop, and printing. During the two day workshop, students will learn through multiple demonstrations, to create color relationships that portray space and volume and create illusion. Emphasis is then placed on paint application and ways of activating the surface. By focusing on deliberate brush strokes and maintaining accurate color relationships, rather than rendering, the application of paint describes the form. We will accentuate the structural volumes of the form over the contour, concentrating on relating all parts of the picture to each other with an organized palette. From there, students will be guided towards deciding what information is useful to look for and what usual pitfalls to avoid when interpreting a photograph. Deciding when and how to invent and experiment is perhaps the most crucial part of the process. Alyssa will demonstrate how to achieve the delicate nuances of flesh and other surfaces through direct painting techniques. Alyssa will explain ways of seeing the picture objectively, how to imply detail without overstating, and what level of finish works best for the particular painting or style. The process to develop connection with a subject will result in a painting that captures the essence of a subject. The painting will achieve the intimacy of the human touch that transcends a smooth photo-realistic image. In addition, you will learn how to find your inspiration and subject, create an intriguing composition, and find your flow state in the studio. There are a variety of results varying from abstraction/improvisation to a more illusionistic representation. All will be discussed and the challenges and rewards of each will be explored. Individual one-on-one critiques are offered on an optional third day to any painter based on a first come, first serve, sign up prior to and during the workshop. The cost for a one-hour critique is $300, and $200 for a half hour.