This workshop is for those 18 years or older.
This workshop introduces the foundational concepts and practical process of painting landscapes from photographic references. Led by longtime Collective member Carol Story, participants will learn how to simplify complex scenes into strong, compelling compositions. Through demonstrations and guided instruction, the class will explore essential elements such as composition, value structure, color relationships, and material selection, with an emphasis on creating depth, atmosphere, and clarity in your work.
While instruction will focus on oil painting techniques, artists who are comfortable working in acrylic will also benefit from these core principles. Ample time will be provided for both learning and hands-on application, allowing participants to develop their own paintings with individualized guidance. Whether you are looking to strengthen your fundamentals or refine your approach to landscape painting, this workshop offers a supportive and engaging environment to grow your skills.
Carol Story is a longtime member of the Artists Collective | Spartanburg, known for her thoughtful approach to painting and her ability to translate complex natural scenes into clear, engaging compositions. With years of experience working in oils, she brings both technical skill and a deep appreciation for landscape to her teaching. Carol is especially passionate about helping artists build confidence through strong fundamentals, offering practical guidance in a supportive and encouraging environment.
SUPPLY LIST
Palette: Palette box, glass surface or palette paper
Painting surface: two or three 9 x 12 or 11 x 14 panels or stretched canvases. I use Centurion linen panels or Ampersand Gessobord, but use what you feel most comfortable with.
Brushes: an assortment of sizes which you prefer, especially a couple of short flats and one detail brush
Palette knife: at least one elongated diamond shape knife; a window scraper or putty knife is nice for cleaning your hard-surface palate.
Paints: the following or what you have that’s close. I use Gamblin or Charvin, but less expensive ones are fine if you are just starting out. Suggested:
- titanium white
- cadmium yellow light
- permanent alizarin crimson
- French ultramarine
- phthalo green (smallest tube)
- yellow ochre
- burnt Sienna
- Portland gray medium is optional
Sketchbook: for value studies and taking notes. I use a small, 6 x 8 spiral one.
Set of pencils for sketching and value drawings
Medium: Gamsol odorless solvent…no turpentine or medium with an odor.
Solvent can or jar
Masking tape, paper towels, a grocery plastic bag for trash, apron
Reference photos either printed out or on an iPad if you have particular subjects you want to paint. Some photos will be furnished.