Sunday, July 27, 2014

Landscape Painting at Central Park New York

Dipway Arch, Central Park, New York, Oil on Canvas, 16x20
This summer, I've been going to Central Park in the mornings to paint landscapes. The experience has been rewarding. I've gotten to know Central Park well and my painting has improved a lot.

Central Park has a lot of beautiful bridges. This one is located on the south side of the park, called Dipway Arch. I painted this one on a cloudy day so it was challenging for me. On sunny days, I can easily paint the lights and shadows, but on cloudy days, there is little contrast and more color range between the lights and darks.

Saturday, July 26, 2014

Portrait Painting Summer Class at NYAA

Portrait Study, Oil on Canvas, 16x20
This summer I'm taking a portrait painting class on Saturdays. The instructor is Robert Armetta. He's teaching the methods of the old masters: lots of layers of glazes that are painted on the canvas over time to get a glowing effect. Here's my recent painting from class. This was a 9 hour session. Next week we have a new model. I'm looking forward to starting a new piece.

Figure Painting Summer Class at NYAA

Figure Study, Oil on Canvas, 18x36
This summer I'm taking a figure painting class at NYAA with instructor Robert Armetta. It's been a great experience. Robert taught the painting methods of the old masters: Velasquez, Rembrandt, Caravaggio, Vermeer, Veronese, Titian, etc. This method, called Indirect Painting, is new for me. Lots of glazing, painting wet on wet, and lots of patience because we often used small brushes and paint for 6hrs a day for 6 days!  I'm starting to really like this technique. It gives the flesh tones a unique glow. Next week we start a new piece, I'm looking forward to it.