Interpretation Of Sound: 80s
Adult Classes | Available
This class requires focus and listening skills to hear that distinctive 80s sound with songs from Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, Whitney Houston, INXS, Depeche Mode, George Michael, Annie Lennox, Michael Jackson, and many more. We’ll explore how to take these vibrational sounds and translate them into colors, shapes, and texture. The point of this class is to create at least one abstract painting. Each week, I will do demos as we listen to different musicians while building upon what we have learned. My teaching style is to encourage engagement between students and instructor. I want students to succeed on their artistic journey by gaining insight and knowledge. I provide demos, inspiration, and active involvement in my student’s expression while offering guidance and direction.
Songs like Nancy Sinatra’s “These Boots are made for Walkin’,” Heart’s “Crazy on You,” Billie Holliday’s “Strange Fruit,” Etta James’ “I’d Rather go Blind,” Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep,” Lady Gaga’s “Shallow,” Sia’s “Unstoppable,” Edith Piaf’s “Non, Je ne Regrette Rein,” and Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors.”
***For the first class, bring only one 20” x 20” canvas, and one 11” x 14” canvas***
Two 20” x 20” canvases
One pack of six 11” x 14” canvases
Keep in mind, you may need more canvases depending on how you work.
I highly recommend using Golden acrylic paints (high flow, fluids or heavy body or a combination). This brand has a high pigment load, and a diverse array of colors to choose from; they also have iridescent and interference colors, which can really enhance a piece, especially one that is so highly interpretative to sound and emotions.
Colors are your choice but begin by choosing a few colors and purchase more white paint than other colors. After the first class, you can decide on other colors you might need. You may also use other brands of your choice but I recommend Golden, or Amsterdam, Holbein, Daler & Rowney, Winsor & Newton, Grumbacher, and many more (this is not an extensive list, just suggestions).
Paintbrushes- a variety of angular, round tip, flat, mop and filbert
Palette knives
Plastic cup or container for water
Palmolive soap
Paper towels or cloth for wiping and cleaning brushes & materials
You may use sponges or other materials you want to experiment with to create texture.
You can purchase supplies at: Michaels, Jerry’s Artarama (online), Dick Blick (online), Jackson’s (online), Holbein Artist Materials (online), and many other retailers.
Any questions? Please contact me directly: otis.christine@gmail.com
Christine Otis
Christine Otis is a freelance artist, writer and teacher. She is a graduate of the Art Institute of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania. She is constantly tinkering with ideas, searching for ways to express and communicate an image or narrative. She encourages and inspires others to pursue their creative outlets. A true creative at heart, she is often heard saying, “I cannot not create.” Visit her site at www.christineotis.com