Workshop | Oil Painting | Individual Facial Features in Colour with Michael Simms

In this one-day workshop, students will learn how to paint human facial features in oils (including an eye, nose, mouth and ear) using just four colours. Michael will provide tips and tricks on how to simplify some of the most seemingly complex areas of the face into basic geometric shapes that make painting digestible and fun. Michael will cover the basic principles of colour theory, how to structure and organise their palette, and how to mix flesh tones suitable for the specific areas of the face they are painting. 

Students will complete a basic colour mixing exercise, before developing a series of small studies throughout the workshop that capture a sense of form and dimension while retaining vibrancy in the colours. Michael will complete a series of demonstrations and guide people step-by-step through his process, while providing individual feedback throughout the sessions.

Topics covered include

• Basics of colour theory: understanding hue, value and chroma
• How to mix a palette of flesh tones
• Keeping your palette organised
• Tips and tricks for rending individual features of the face such as the eyes, nose, mouth
• Tips and tricks on brush work and how to apply paint effectively

Is this class right for me?

This workshop is suitable for students with some basic knowledge of oil painting.  

Materials List

Please bring the following materials to your workshop

• 1 bottle of odourless solvent (Gamsol preferred).
• 1  small bottle of Safflower or Linseed oil (Gamblin 200ml).
• At least 2 empty jars with lids for your solvent.
• A palette knife
• Willow charcoal and kneadable eraser
• Rags and a roll of paper towel
• Palette (40 x 30 white perspex is ideal or a 'disposable palette')
• Brushes: flat brushes, sizes 4, 10, 20 or similar.
• Michael will be demonstrating on Fredrix Canvas pads, 305 x 407mm. Students will need at least two canvases to work on, one for warm up studies and one for their final portrait. Fredreix Canvas pads are ideal, but experienced students can bring in whatever canvas they are comfortable working on with oils. 
• Oil painting colours: titanium white, raw umber, cadmium red, ivory black and yellow ochre.

About studio classes

Our class sizes are small, ensuring you receive the individual tuition you need. We have a maximum of 12 students per class.

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