Robin Wellner
Tuesday, June 11, Wednesday, June 12, and Thursday, June 13, 2024 | 9:00-4:00 (Each Day)
Three Day workshop in BRAHM’s Wilson Education Center
Cost: $349 BRAHM members; $399 general public
Alla Prima Portraits using the Zorn Palette) with Robin Wellner)
Three-day intensive workshop painting from life using Anders Zorn’s limited palette. Painting from the live model, using White, Yellow Ochre, Cadmium Red Medium and Ivory Black. Each morning begins with instruction and a demo. After lunch, all students have the opportunity to paint the model with lots of one-on-one instruction and gentle critiquing. We will focus on color, values, specifics on facial features, painting shapes rather than lines, and measuring for an accurate likeness.
The workshop is designed with lots of handouts for reference during and later. All students are asked to prepare a color chart as homework before they come to the workshop. The result is that they become acquainted with the limited palette before we begin. Students will be sent a YouTube video that takes them through preparing a color chart step-by-step.
“I honestly think that this class, for me, was truly perfect. Frustrating, but honestly what I needed—to be pushed and challenged and to learn more every session. I loved it!" - Kate T.
“You run your class efficiently and warmly. I’m sure every participant felt encouraged. Loved all your handouts. I will certainly recommend this workshop to other artists.” - Karen C.
Materials List:
4-6 canvases or panels (at least 11in x 14in). Please pretone them with a neutral gray
gesso: that would be about a 5 or 6 on the gray value scale. I usually just mix
some black acrylic into my gesso until it's the tone I need.
One (1) 16inx20in board or panel prepared with a neutral gray for your Color Chart for your
homework before the workshop. See my YouTube Video: youtube.com/watch?v=u8mCWxsJWZ8
Brushes. I use predominantly bristle brushes, but if you're comfortable with
others, please bring them. (2) 9 or 10’s, (2) 6-7, (2) 2,3,4's and a smaller detail
brush. I use filberts or flats. I really prefer the longer filberts or flats rather than
the shorts. I also prefer the longer handles. I'd like you to stand back from your
canvas. Bring any others that you are comfortable with.
Palette. Since we're working on a neutral gray, it's ideal that you work on a palette
with the same value. There are gray paper palettes, or you may tone your palette.
Oil Paints: Titanium White, Ivory Black, Cad Red Medium or Light, Yellow Ochre(if
you purchase Winsor Newton make sure it is Yellow Ochre Pale). You may also
include some Ultramarine Blue for the occasion that a model might wear
something with a lot of blue in it. The Ivory Black that Anders Zorn used back in
his time was a much bluer black, so it’s a bit harder to duplicate some of
those blue tones.
Odorless Mineral Spirits: Gamsol
Your favorite medium if your paint’s too thick — I like Galkyd Gel
Paper Towels
Palette Knife
Handheld mirror
View Catcher (Dick Blick has them)
Camera if you'd like to take pictures to work on them later.
$5 cash to tip the model if you take photos.
Artist Statement:
I am an avid painter—of people, landscapes, and the occasional still life. My fascination with painting faces has led to some national awards and inclusion in national shows with the American Women Artists, Oil Painters of America, and Richeson 75 Figure and Portrait International Show. I paint with some fellow artists from life on a weekly basis in Charlotte, NC, where my husband and I live. My training evolved from Fine Arts in college to numerous workshops with renowned artists such as Dawn Whitelaw, Robert Liberace, Rich Nelson, Chris Saper, and numerous others. I happily show my landscape paintings at Blowing Rock Frameworks and Gallery.
In addition to my keen interest in painting, I love to teach. There is nothing more satisfying than seeing the lights go on for a student when they “get it” in a workshop. The workshops I teach include a Zorn Palette Portrait Workshop, Palette Knife Workshop, and Plein Air using the Knife.
Learn more about Robin at Artwork - Robin Wellner, Artist
Please Note: Limited seating is available. An 80% refund will be issued if the participant cancels two weeks prior to the event. For cancellations made less than two weeks prior to the event, BRAHM will issue a refund IF the museum is able to fill the vacated spot.
Robin Wellner