Introduction to Figure Painting (tuition-free)

As an introduction to the fundamentals of painting the figure, this class encourages careful and deliberate study of value and color in flesh painting. You will explore limited palette and develop skills for simplifying complex forms. Working from the model you will begin with small color/value sketches in oil.

Special Notes

This is an in-person class which will take place onsite at Fleisher. Please review our COVID-19 community safety policies for current guidelines.

What you will learn:

  • Surface preparation

  • Under painting

  • Application of paint

  • Composition

Required supplies:

  • Oil Paints:

    Do not buy “Winton” brand. Do not buy colors with the word “hue”. Recommended: Utrecht, Gamblin, Windsor Newton, Rembrandt.

    • Titanium White
    • Lemon Yellow or Hansa Yellow
    • Cadmium Yellow Medium
    • Yellow Ochre
    • Cadmium Red Light
    • Alizarin Crimson
    • Cerulean Blue
    • Ultramarine Blue
    • Viridian Green
    • Burnt Sienna
    • Raw Umber

  • Brushes: A variety of flat and round brushes in different sizes, small and large, bristle and soft brushes. Filberts, flats, rounds (shape of brush).

  • Palette Knives: Trowel type with bent handle, metal, 1 or 2

  • Palette: Wooden or Glass/Plexiglass. Rectangular shape. Disposable paper palettes are not good.

  • Painting Medium:
    • Odorless Turpenoid or Gamsol
    • Linseed Oil

  • Painting Surfaces: Can be canvas, or canvas board, canvas paper or gessoed paper as long as its compatible with oil paint.

  • Sketchbook (8.5 by 11 in, or 9×12 in or bigger)

  • Pencil, eraser

  • 2 glass or metal jars for turpenoid

  • Paper towels or rags