Oil painting was most definitely the chosen art medium cherished by master artists of years gone by. The buttery consistency, velvety feel and smooth application of oils are what artists of all times sincerely adore. If you have been less eager to indulge or try your hand at oil painting because of the use and smell of harsh turps, then prepare to be delightfully enlightened. As a long-time lover of classic oils, Jo also happily embraces water mixable oil paints. These do not require hazardous solvents such as turps or mineral spirits. They have the same superbly beautiful buttery feel and visual effects as original oils and are perfect for artists with allergies and sensitive noses. Brushes simply clean up with soapy water. Jo has designed this class in an easy format especially for those totally new to oils and water mixables. Class topics will include colour mixing, brushwork skills, how to use wonderful additive mediums to orchestrate your paint texture and structure, expressive techniques and applications, building your understanding of oil painting guidelines, and absolute oodles more. It is all about savouring our presence in the modern moment, yet creating like an old-time master, with the use of wonderful water mixable oils. No concession.

Classes are organised into 4 terms each year, with speciality workshops running throughout the year.

Explore our exciting range of courses below

Agenda

* Colour Mixing
* Brushwork Skills
* Application Techniques
* Water Mixable Oil Painting Guidelines
* Additive Mediums (products and effects)
* Composition Designs
* Tradition versus Modern
* Master Artists in Review
* Your Expression... Your Masterpiece!

Tutor Profile/Personal Introduction:
I‘m sure I must have been born with a pencil in my hand. I was told I could draw before I could walk or talk! My desire to draw, paint and design instinctively grew as I did. I followed my passion and formally studied Fine Arts, Commercial Art, Illustration, and Graphic Design. Happy days being a free spirited, quaintly eccentric art student! My progression into creative make-up came about with a love for make-up itself, my freaky fascination for Horror/Sci-Fi movies and admiration for the Theatre. My artistic learning continued; I studied Professional Make-up. With art tools in one hand and make-up tools in the other, I focused on freelance Illustration and Design, and Creative Make-up for Weddings, Fashion Shows, and Theatre Productions. Communication, mind and behaviour always had me captivated, and becoming a proud mum inspired me to hit the books again. I went on to study Psychology.

Teaching entered my world initially designing and conducting psych-infused art programs. Teaching took hold of my heart and I was pleasantly steered into tutoring college classes to share my knowledge and much loved skills. My studio structured classes are all about learning new skills and techniques, and also about the important process of discovering and developing individual abilities with freedom and guidance. I value and place emphasis on my class environment being relaxed and comfortable to make learning thoroughly enjoyable. All classes are composed to be super easy to follow and understand. Participants of all ages present their creative and expressive uniqueness, and are always friendly and enthusiastic. They even (kindly) laugh at my bad jokes! For me, teaching is a true pleasure. Jo.

*Course/Workshop Enquiries: Reach Jo via MCC or by email at: retroraspberrystudios@hotmail.com (emails answered promptly)

Materials

Please bring, (but do not purchase until the course has been cnfirmed to run):
* Water Mixable Oil Colours (just be sure that you have picked up WATER MIXABLE OIL COLOURS). Most art suppliers will carry these paints as well as the additive mediums required in this materials list. Eckersley‘s Art & Craft stores are great. Lots of products with very helpful staff. Also, Discount Art N Craft Warehouse (online store) for cheap prices.

You can choose any brand; however, Jo recommends: Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oils. These are reasonably priced, superb quality paints. Please purchase the following colours (or similar) in 37ml tubes:
1) Titanium White
2) Lemon Yellow
3) Cadmium Red Hue
4) Cerulean Blue Hue
5) French Ultramarine
6) Ivory Black

Special Note: You may of course purchase additional colours if desired. If you want to keep cost to a minimum, the colours listed above are all you need to start with.

* Canvas Boards. BRING AT LEAST 4. Size approx. 30x40cm or 40x50cm or similar (any type - these can be found in art supply stores, thrifty bargain shops etc.
* A variety of Brushes. No need to buy lots! A few round and flat soft synthetic brushes in various sizes will do nicely.
* A good size Paint Palette or 2, or a few medium ones - room for lots of mixing (these may be traditional flat oil paint palettes, a disposable palette pad or even plain white plates are great to use).
* A 2B Lead pencil, eraser and sharpener.
* A small Sketch Pad (A4 size is fine).
* Some Palette Knives (these often come in a small pack of different shapes).
* Additive Medium # 1: A small bottle of Linseed Oil.
* Additive Medium # 2: A small bottle of Water Mixable Oil Thinner.
* Additive Medium # 3: A small container or tube of Impasto Medium.
* Three (3) cups or jars for water.
* Some liquid soap for cleaning (dish washing liquid works well).
* A small hand towel or two.
* Some kitchen paper towel.
* An apron if desired.

Included as part of Jo‘s Courses/Workshops, participants will receive::
*Essential notes and information/picture sheets to keep for future use.
*Photo references and creative items used for in-class activities (where needed).
*PA drawing/painting easel used during class (where needed).
*Individual one-on-one guidance and constructive feedback throughout class.
*And, help is not over when class is over! Jo will be available for further help or assistance at any time after course/workshop is completed. Contact details will be available to participants at their discretion.

Comments from previous students of this class

I loved the course and aim to do more future art with this tutor CVB