Learning from Homer & Sargent (online class)
This intensive workshop takes a deep dive into the lives and paintings of Winslow Homer and John Singer Sargent–with a special focus on their watercolors, which are considered among the finest in art history. For both artists, their work on paper was their most experimental and most influential painting.
We’ll look at the composition, color, technique, and social context of these two painters’ rich legacy and then apply these lessons to our own painting with challenging and inspiring exercises.
Session 1: In our first session examines the long and changing path of Homer’s development as a painter and his ever-evolving watercolor technique. Through slide talks, demonstrations, and exercises, the class will explore Homer’s use of value drawing, opaque and transparent pigments, and his deep interest in color theory.
Session 2: We’ll explore both Sargent’s figure and landscape paintings, and then focus on his dazzling watercolors. Using slides and exercises, we’ll analyze his virtuoso drawing ability and brush technique, unusual compositions, and strong value designs.
Students will be given exercises to complete independently during the days between sessions that will help them apply lessons from these masters to their own painting.
Level: Beginner to advanced Mediums: Watercolor, gouache, acrylic