Our warm-up lesson is all about play and exploration. We will begin by choosing a small selection of colours. We will experiment mixing different combinations adding the colours directly to the canvas. Next we’ll play with our tools. We’ll ask questions such as: What marks can be made with each? Are there unconventional ways to use the tools to create new and interesting marks or textures? When we reach the end of part one we will have a big, beautiful mess on the canvas. Not to worry though! In part 2 of the warm-up we’ll add some new layers and create a beautiful finished piece.

In Lesson 1 we will paint 6 small canvas boards simultaneously using the colour mixes and marks we discovered in the Warmup to create quick small abstracts. Painting multiple pieces at once might sound intimidating but it’s really fun! The goal is to gain confidence in mark making and to see how simplicity is sometimes key to creating abstracts with impact. When finished these small pieces can be easily popped into frames and hung together or alone!

In Lesson 2 I will take you through my process step by step as I create an abstract painting on canvas. Throughout the lesson, I will share my thoughts on composition, values mark making and more!

In Lesson 3 we will once again paint an abstract from start to finish. Throughout the lesson I will share my favourite tips and techniques with a focus on using texture and values rather than colour to create a visually interesting piece.

Want to make your paintings extra special?  In this bonus lesson I will share tips for taking your work to the next level. Fun easy ways to tackle things like adding metallic elements, varnishing, painting the edges. I will use the paintings from earlier projects for demonstration.