IMPRESSION : the first and immediate effect of an experience or perception upon the mind; sensation. A strong effect produced on the intellect, feelings, and conscience. DESIGN : to form or conceive in the mind; to intend for a definite purpose.

We will inevitably be chasing the light and seeing beyond what is there, always looking for more. No matter what we are faced with, it all comes down to design. Utilizing and building on what nature gives us but not being a slave to it. It is all about the design and our interpretation.

During this 5 day workshop, we will be spending the first 2-3 days out on location (weather permitting) followed by the final 2 days back at the MISA Studio. We will be working to simplify our shapes, really push to explore our use of temperatures and color along with controlling our values as well as our edges. Composition and design underly all of these along with our drawing which will be our foundation. The first 2 or 3 days we will be producing some smaller plein air paintings (color notes) focusing on gathering information to utilize back in the studio. With the use of the camera as well as our color notes we will design and produce a more thought out painting back at the Studio during the final 2 days. Given the extra studio time, we will be able to assess our initial statements in a way we usually are not able to do in plein air alone.

All in all we will look to make our paintings fresh, vibrant, and full of light and color. Not being a slave to what is there but knowing how to interpret the impression of it .

Individualized critique, at the students easel, will form the basis for instruction, as well as various oil painting demonstrations. Students may work in the painting medium of their preference, be it oil, watercolor, pastel, or acrylic. A very modest, suggested supply list, will be available.