Painting: acrylic techniques and mediums
Course Code: VH055
Choose a start date
Duration: 4 sessions (over 4 weeks)
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What is the course about?
Ideal for the beginner but also useful for the intermediate painter who wishes to develop painting skills, which explore the potential of acrylic paint media. During the course we will explore the properties of the medium, not just as a non-toxic equivalent to oil paint, but as a fast-drying paint with its own character, capable of multi-layered techniques, which can be adapted to a variety of supports. From the early experiments by the Mexican Muralists, its subsequent adoption by New York School colour-field painters, to the gallery works of today and its surprising adoption as a medium of choice in a variety of global cultures. We will take inspiration from key approaches, inspired by 4 chosen moments in time and place and use of accompanying glaze and gel media where relevant.
What will we cover?
- Methods of application. Brushes and other tools.
- Impasto and glazing
- Working with varying drying times
- Use of mediums to modify the flow of paint
- Controlling and experimenting with brushstroke.
- Increasing the vocabulary of your paint handling.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Recognise greater creative potential in acrylic painting.
- Use a variety of associated mediums to achieve the desired flow of paint.
- explore and combine a variety of paint handling techniques.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
Ideal for the beginner, no previous painting experience is necessary, and the improver.
You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions to support demonstrations, hand-outs and for
health and safety information, and will be invited to take part in group discussion.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
- Tutor demonstration
- Practical activity
- One to one guidance
- Group discussion.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Basic materials will be provided but you are welcome to bring any extra or special materials.
Students who have their own set of brushes are recommended to bring them.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
A wide variety of painting classes are available at City Lit for further progression, including the Hands On Art History courses which offer specialised painting classes inspired by moments in Art History.
Chris has taught at City Lit for over 25 years and is a former co-ordinator of the CityLit Fine Art Course , stepping down to concentrate on his painting practice and to teach more on the short course programme. He studied painting at Central St Martins and the Royal College of Art and has post graduate qualifications in art history and a teaching qualification from the Institute of Education and from University of Surrey. He has understaken fellowships, residencies and travelling scholarships in Chicago, Paris, Moscow Region and West of England and has an established art practice which encompasses, drawing, painting, projection and small scale model, making. Instagram c.hough89
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.