Painting the Italian Sky
July 3rd – July 17th, 2017
Kathleen Speranza, 2014, Cloud over Civita Castellana
“The sky is the ‘source of light’ in nature and governs everything”. John Constable 1821
The unique geography and climate of Civita Castellana create an ideal environment for a painter’s study of the sky. Magnificent cloud formations float above the surrounding gorges creating an ever-changing play of light, color and form. Monte Soratte in the distance and the warm Italian light on the landscape give exquisite context to this daily drama.
This painting class is designed for all levels of experience. Beginners will learn a logical procedure for the translation of observations into pictorial form. The basic language of painting as it pertains to the subject of the sky will be introduced. Advanced painters will have a great opportunity to hone their skills through the challenges presented by the subject matter. Detailed discussions related to color, atmospheric perspective, edges, paint quality and light will provide support for these explorations. This is a course that will be relevant for any subsequent landscape work. The following skills and concepts will be covered :
- Preparation of small scale panels for outdoor painting
- The effective use of colored grounds
- Layering of paint through direct and indirect methods
- The combined use of brushes, rags and palette knife
- Introduction of a basic neutral grey scale
- Limited palettes for specific color relationships
- The effective use of composition though drawing
The final goal will be the creation of a group of related studies, small in scale and highly specific in form and color. These may become finished works or be used as studies for the creation of subsequent paintings. I fell in love with the skies over Civita Castellana while on a residency in 2014. I am excited to share that passion with a serious group of fellow artists in 2017!
Please feel free to e-mail me Kathysperanza@gmail.com
Click here to download materials list
Tuition & Fees for 2 week Affiliate Workshops