Have fun learning how the simple fundamentals of artistic composition will make you a better painter. Explore the basics of scene selection and design; the easy-to-understand principles of visual perspective; massing and building of form; scale; light and shadow; near and far; capturing and developing atmospheric distance; the elements of line, shape, texture, repetition, rhythm, and weight; the importance of color and balance as compositional elements.
The class will start with a slide lecture on the history of artistic composition from the ancient Egyptians to today’s David Hockney, with stops along the way to discuss Giotto, the Renaissance, the golden ratio, Hieronymus Bosch, JMW Turner, Degas, Kandinsky, and abstract expressionism.
We will discuss how the eye/brain composes what it sees and how the environment and culture influence the result. There will be frequent demonstrations by the instructor. Each student will get individual attention to help them progress at their own pace.
Part of the course will be inside and outside, so wear comfortable clothes that you do not mind getting paint-stained and bring sunscreen. Bring a sack lunch each day and plenty of water.
Skill Level
Beginner to Early Intermediate
Objective
Skill Development, Fun
Outcome
Improved Technique, Joy
Hank Feeley is an author, painter, and sculptor whose work was awarded at the Dennos Museum’s 2022 NWMI exhibition. He graduated from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and Harvard Business School. He has been a Visiting Artist at SAIC, an Artist in Residence at Oxbow, and taught at Roosevelt University and the Dennos Museum. Hank teaches at the Vero Beach Museum of Art, the Gifford Youth Achievement Center, and the Glen Arbor Arts Center. His work is held in public and private collections nationally and internationally. He is represented in Chicago by Aron Packer Projects and, in New York, by First Street Gallery.
