In traditional, strongly representational painting, these rules and devices are strongly attached to the subject matter but in abstraction, though they remain apparent, they drift free of the subject. Abstraction does not mean that anything goes, in fact, if anything, it is more complicated because you need to make decisions about how to employ these formal principles of design without the aid of realism.
In abstraction subject and narrative take a back seat and these elements of design (colour, tone, pattern shape etc) play a more dominant role. In this workshop we will work with ,lots of different source material and undertake a selection of exercises that place an emphasis on shape and contrast. On day one you will be exploring landscape in the form of sketches and notes. You will also work through two exercises that allow you to explore the simplification of objects out of context using a simple folded sketchbook and elements of collage.
Throughout the two days we have together we will also explore how using a bright and saturated palette can create exciting paintings with a strong sense of place, even as identifiable scenery is removed.
Title: The Abstract Landscape (Two-Day Workshop, Spring 2025)
Tutor: Rachel Cronin
Time: 10:30am – 4pm
Workshop Length: 2 Days
Dates: Friday 21st & Saturday 22nd February 25
Price: £120
We recommend booking at least two weeks prior to the start date so we can be sure that the class has enough students to go ahead!
Age recommendation for adult courses is 19+.
All adult courses are created in partnership with Abingdon and Witney College and co-funded by the Education and Skills Funding Agency. As we are in receipt of government funding, students will be asked to complete an enrolment form and evaluation diary for monitoring purposes. For more information, please contact the Creative Learning Officer at laura.walker@themillartscentre.co.uk.
This course takes place in the Art Studio. Please note that regrettably this room is not accessible to wheelchair users due to necessary fire evacuation regulations.
