Building Better Paintings Through Stronger Composition and Design
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“All great paintings have one thing in common, a successful composition”
In this workshop, students will learn the essentials of strong design and composition so they can bring their paintings to a higher level.
Through guided exercises, students will practice seeing the picture plane in terms of shapes, value, color, continuation, aerial perspective, and overall design rather than relying only on subject matter. The class will introduce the basic principles of composition in an accessible, practical way, giving students a stronger foundation for creating successful paintings.
Each week, Joyce will provide one photo for students to redesign. The first week will focus on a landscape, the second on a still life, and the final week on a figurative painting.
As a group, students will discuss the changes they made and consider how those choices strengthen or weaken the painting. Students may continue working on their pieces at home if they wish.
- Class dates: Tuesday, March 9, 16 and 23
- This workshop is open to representational artists of all levels, working in the medium of their choice.
Please bring the necessary supplies for the medium of your choice to create a new painting each week.
Note: Oil painters should use pure odorless mineral spirits, such as Gamsol.
Joyce Lawrence
As a native of the Jersey Shore, the back bays, marshes and coastline have been subjects for which Joyce has been most recognized. She also has a love for doing portraits and is often commissioned to paint them.
Joyce Lawrence studied art at Ocean County College, Stockton State College, Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art and Studio Incamminati, PA. She is currently a member of The Oil Painters of America and her local Pine Shores Art Association.
Joyce has taught at various art centers in New Jersey and has won numerous awards and honors for her work. Her paintings have graced the covers of books and magazines and can be found in many public and private collections throughout the US and Europe.