A wonderful workshop with Randy Blasquez this weekend at the studio.

Randy discussed how she prepares to paint a large format painting.

Using a small plein air study, notan sketches, and source material, she showed us how to get the big simple color value shapes.

It was a really nice weekend of painting large, meeting some new artist friends, and working through the artistic struggle together.  I would never say painting is easy, but the rewards of hanging in there and figuring it out, in an environment that is mutually supportive and instructional, is well worth the uncomfortableness.  

And of course it's always fun to take a lunch break during the workshop and head up the block to Old Soul for something delicious to eat and drink.

Announcing upcoming Michael Siegel Still Life Workshop Sept. 27 - 29

New Class at the studio: Speed studies

Abigail Van Cannon Speed Studies class at the studio every Thursday noon to 4 pm.  Click here to download the flier. 

This coming Thursday, we will work from a model to do speed painting studies.  Great practice!!!

Abigail is a great teacher and spends time with each student to help them build their skills.  This class is what you would find at a  prestigious Art Academy--only it's at my studio, it's open to any artist, and doesn't cost a fortune in tuition.  Come join us!

One year Anniversary at the Studio and Gallery today!

From an empty space, we began the transformation.

Creating a place where artists can learn, develop, and grow in their artistic journey.

Becoming a thriving, special, and vibrant place in Oak Park.

Where artists from all over can come and experience the shared art spirit that binds us together.
Thank you everyone who has been part of the studio and gallery this last year. 
You have helped make this dream become reality.

Make Art.

Be Art. 

Buy Art.

Join the TGIF Art Party: Sizzling Summer Margaritas

Join us for another TGIF Art Party next Friday.  We provide step-by-step instruction, all materials, a refreshing beverage to sip on.  Create your own Sizzling Margarita masterpiece in a spacious studio gallery setting to kick off your weekend..  Perfect for Girls Night Out, Company Parties, Date Night, or whatever your occasion to relax, unwind and unleash your inner Van Gogh.

Click here to visit our website to learn more about the TGIF Art Party and why it's the perfect solution to finding something new and unique to do on Friday evening. 

New Art Class Begins July 18th: Speed Studies--corrected time

Class Title: Speed Studies in Painting

Speed Painting Study by instructor Abigail Van Cannon.

Course Description: Speed Studies is a high energy class designed to help painters build speed, accuracy, mature brush handling, confidence, and decision making. Students will learn to complete the figure, still life, landscape paintings in 20,30, and 60 minute increments throughout the course. Working in either oils or acrylics students will learn important skills that will carry over into their own practices. 

Materials: Students will need to bring at least 4 small canvases to class a day along with paints (full palette), brushes, etc. 

Time: Thursdays 1:00-5:00

            starting July 18th

Cost: $45 per class ($200 - 5 class punch card) you save $25 

We will have a live model every 3rd class - on these days there will be an extra $5 modeling fee per student.

Instructor: Abigail Van Cannon has a MFA from the San Francisco Academy of Art. She is a member of the California Art Club and American Woman Artist and a skilled teacher.  Her positive and insightful approach to helping students has made her a popular teacher at our studio. 

 Instructor website: www.vancannonart.com

No POP UP JULY 5--resumes next week with a long pose

We'll resume regular POP UP Fridays next week with a long pose from 10 am - 1 pm. 
$10
Good coffee, friendly artists, great art energy in a big, spacious studio setting.  Work on one pose for the session, or move around the room for multiple views. 
Make Art!!