Portraiture:Oil Painting with Helene Balzarini
Adult Classes - online | Available
This 5-week Workshop will explore the components of painting the portrait in Oil. This class is
for participants with prior experience working with Oils.
We will be working with a live model (clothed).
Time permitting, there will also be an option for a second portrait, working from photo
reference (different model), which the instructor will supply.
Topics will include block-in, value, color mixing, composition, form ie, light and shadow, mood,
likeness, landmarks, personal expression, etc. I look forward to sharing examples of the many
ways artists have approached portraiture.
I believe painting a portrait creates a special connection between the model and the artist.
Through observation and with each unique interpretation, we look to go beyond the physical to
capture the intrinsic nature of the model. The way in which the artist portrays this also reveals
the nature of the painter. I look forward to exploring this fascinating exchange with you.
OIL PAINTING SUPPLY LIST:
Sketch Pad and HB Pencil/Charcoal for quick thumbnails.
Wooden OR Disposable grey palettes.
Palette knives for mixing.
Stretched Canvas 16x20, 18x24. Or size of their choice.
Odorless Turpenoid.
Small bottle of Linseed Oil.
FILBERT brushes - variety of sizes. (not Bristle)
2 Small Jars with lids.
Paper towels.
Rubber gloves. (optional)
Studio Soap/Brush Cleaner/Murphy’s Oil Soap.
SUGGESTED PAINTS: (any brand, but NOT student grade)
Titanium White,
**Flake White (or Flake White Replacement) **WARNING: Flake White contains lead.
Handle with care if you choose to use it.
Ivory Black
Alizarin Crimson, Cadmium Red, Venetian Red
Ultramarine Blue, King’s Blue, Cerulean Blue
Cadmium Yellow, Naples Yellow, Hansa Yellow
Sap Green, Viridian, Cinnabar Light, Terre Vert (optional)
Yellow Ochre
Raw Sienna
Burnt Sienna
Raw Umber
Burnt Umber
Magenta or Manganese Violet
Transparent Yellow Oxide, Transparent Red Oxide
Helene Balzarini
After a satisfying career in Advertising, I have returned to my first love of drawing, painting and all things Art. While working, I studied for many years with various Artists at the Art Students League of NY. Drawing with Sherry Camhy and Costa Vavagiakis, painting with Sharon Sprung and Marshall Jones, I continue to learn and evolve as an Artist outside the League.
I have participated in group shows, won awards and have several of my pieces in private collections. Whether painting a portrait, still life or structure, my goal is to establish a connection, however subtle or distinct, between myself, my work, and the viewer.
I believe making Art is a journey. It’s not about arriving. It’s about the joy of doing as we explore, express and exchange. I am thrilled to share what I have learned and to collaborate with those who are excited to come along.