Clifton Forge School of the Arts

Tuition: $30 for single class or $125 for all 5 The Basics Sessions

Ages: 13 to Adult

These introductory classes are designed to provide a comprehensive overview of effective painting techniques across five sessions. Each class will cover topics such as composition, color theory, color mixing, brushstrokes and care, as well as specific features of landscapes (trees, mountains, sky, and water), still life (fruit, tables, lighting, fabric, and shading), and portrait elements (faces and simple body shapes).

You can enroll in all five classes or choose the ones that interest you most!

It is recommended that you bring your own acrylic paint, brushes, and acrylic or canvas paper--however, there will be select amount of paints, brushes, and paper provided by the instructor, if needed. If you plan to attend 3 or more classes you will need an acrylic or canvas paper pad.

The Basics of Painting 5: Portraits

In the final class, we will focus on the proportions of the human face. We will explore mixing flesh tones, as well as light and dark tones, and practice painting facial expressions. While there will be some drawing, the primary emphasis will be on painting. Your instructor will also share some shortcuts for creating a simple figure, such as one sitting on a bench, which you can incorporate into a landscape painting.

The face and body can be a bit challenging, but your instructor will be here to guide you. Being ready to learn and observe will be your most valuable asset in this class. Please don't let the challenge of this class turn you away--every artist has to start somewhere and your instructor will guide you through every step of this process!