Seeing Differently: From Representation to Abstraction
Adult | Registration opens 11/18/2026 8:00 PM EDT
See your subject in a new way as you transform a familiar image into an abstract painting. Through guided exercises, explore simplification, shape, color, cropping, and composition while moving from representation toward personal interpretation. Experiment with acrylic paint, let go of literal details, and discover the expressive possibilities hidden within what you see. This class has a required materials list.
1–2 canvas panels or stretched canvases, approximately 11" × 14" or 12" × 16"
Acrylic paints in a variety of colors
White and black acrylic paint
Variety of paintbrushes, including small, medium, and larger brushes
Water container for cleaning brushes
Paper towels or rags
Palette or disposable palette
One printed photograph or image to use as inspiration
Clothes that can get messy
Optional:
Palette knife
Sponge
Small spray bottle for water Additional canvas for experimentation
Note: Students are responsible for bringing their own materials. Acrylic paint is recommended because it dries quickly and allows for layering and revising.
Shilo Ratner
SHILO RAYNER holds an MFA from Academy of Art University, San Francisco, California and a BA Design, Curry College, Milton, Massachusetts. Shilo is represented by Bryant Street Gallery, Palo Alto, CA and MIKA Gallery, Tel Aviv, Israel. Her paintings have been exhibited from coast to coast and included in numerous publications. She has taught both on the west and east coast. Please visit her website: https://shiloratner.com/