Still Life, As a Way to Compose with Iona Ellsworth

This one day, introductory workshop will focus on using the still life genre as a means of learning to compose artistically. We will think about how to create cohesive yet dynamic arrangements while exploring narrative threads. We will discuss common “types” of compositions and investigate their possible combinations and variations, as well as covering the meaning behind concepts like distribution, interchange, and rhythm, among others. The first hour of the class will be spent analyzing what makes a strong composition. We will deconstruct a few masterworks and go over different flexible conventions and frameworks. The remainder of the morning will be dedicated to creating several small poster studies of different compositions using a variety of objects. I encourage students to try out many different arrangements, focusing on creating unity with line, tone and color. After lunch, I will help students select one, strong composition and they will have the remainder of the afternoon to begin their painting. The goal is not necessarily to finish the painting, but to learn how to scale a poster study up and to keep the “whole” working together, even as they render objects individually. Students should have some experience and familiarity with drawing and painting in oil. Required Supplies Canvas paper pad or sketchbook, at least 11 x 14 These are for creating small poster studies. Use canvas paper if you’d like to make your poster studies in paint, and a sketchbook if you prefer to draw. Canson has a good line of canvas paper pads. 8 x 10 canvas, panel, or loose linen/canvas sheet for your final composition Whatever surface you are comfortable with. I like the centurion brand for both rigid panels and loose linen sheets. A combination of bristle and soft natural hair brushes Bring what you usually use and are comfortable with. I recommend having at least one smaller stiff brush that holds a decent point for drawing. Oil paint I recommend a somewhat limited palette of: ivory black, ultramarine blue, burnt sienna, alizarin crimson or quinacridone red, cadmium red medium, yellow ochre, cadmium yellow light and titanium or lead white. Any brand is ok, however I recommend investing in artist’s grade. Palette cups with gamsol and linseed oil Palette Whatever you are comfortable using. I use a handheld wooden palette from @traditional.palette.co. I recommend a glass or wooden palette with plenty of mixing room over disposable paper palettes. 2H, H and HB pencils, kneaded eraser, pen eraser, pencil sharpener or knife and sandpaper Ruler or t-square for measuring out a 4:5 aspect ratio for your poster studies Paper towels (I like viva or blue shop towels) Blue tape Objects to paint Objects of different size, color, shape, material, texture and classification. Since this is only a one day workshop, try to keep your objects simple but interesting. If you have a narrative in mind, try to bring one or two objects that support that narrative. Some ideas include: fruit, vegetables, bread, kitchen utensils, books, paper items, etc. Avoid overly complex items, or items made of glass. Consider bringing different color cloths to experiment with your background colors. Mahl stick (optional) Gloves (optional)