Color Theory and Portraiture Through the Mudhead Tradition with Aaron Thompson

This two-part workshop begins in the PAAM painting studio with a crash course (or refresher!) in color theory. After honing our skills, we will begin working from a model, venturing outside on the third day to practice Charles Hawthorne’s color spot technique.

Day 1: Emphasis will be on capturing the immediate impact of light on basic forms using simple clear shapes, to better understand color's attributes. With a single set of complementary colors, students will develop a more complex understanding of color space by focusing on value, temperature, and hue. Once the ability to express light on a form is developed, we will discuss a variety of palette strategies to help carry these concepts into your future paintings.

Days 2 & 3: Working from a live model, the portrait will be the departure point for a discussion of simplification and abstraction within pictorial space, with an emphasis on Charles Hawthorne’s mudheads. Through reducing the visible to its simplest terms, we will attempt to develop accuracy through layering shape into proportional constructions of the head. Our goal will be to develop our awareness of figure-ground integration, unity, light, and depth through formal relationships within painting. Referencing historical and contemporary portraiture, and working from a model will also be included. Some painting experience required; oil paint is the medium. Pricing includes model fee.

View materials list here.

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Cancellation within 14 days of a workshop start date results in the full loss of tuition. Workshops may be canceled by PAAM up to one day in advance due to under-enrollment. In this case, tuition will be refunded in full.

The Museum School is not responsible for losses incurred due to housing, travel or other arrangements.

All participants are expected to arrive on time and to cultivate an attitude of mutual respect towards others. PAAM is committed to providing all participants with meaningful and productive educational experiences. As a result, PAAM reserves the right to refuse admission to any workshop, or to deny further participation to anyone who may adversely affect the quality of the educational experience. Anyone denied access to the remainder of a session, at the sole discretion of PAAM, will not be granted a refund.

No pets are allowed in our studios.