Susan Whitehouse relishes rendering in oils what we see before us and she loves to teach others to do the same. Her paintings depict a light hearted interpretation of nature. Each is beautifully drawn and truthfully colored. She inspires artists to take the same delight in painting and to do it well.
In these workshops she will teach the fundamentals of oil painting as done in the out of doors. This instruction is suitable for artists of every level as she will guide and critique to the experience level of each participant. The emphasis for all students will include interpreting light and atmosphere, composing from nature, and handling oil paints.
Each day will begin with a demonstration focusing on the setting at hand. Ms. Whitehouse will continue painting as the students paint in this same vacinity so students can observe her development of a painting. Walk-about critiques and coaching continue through the morning as well. After lunch a new setting will be chosen to take advantage of the changing light conditions and the same demonstration/walk-about critique will continue. The day ends with a group discussion. The second day follows the same format in 2 new locations. The third day returns to the first locations for further development. The fourth day returns to the settings of the second day and so on.
Painting locations in the Kennebunkport area will include Cape Porpoise Harbor, boat houses, marshland, and seaside gardens. Painting locations on Matinicus Island will include similar settings.
A suggested materials list will be sent upon registration. As there are limited spaces available in these workshops, full tuition is required at the time of registration. Cancellations will be dealt with on a individual basis.
One day: $75
Two days: $150
Three Days: $225
Four Days: $300
Five Days: $350
Six Days: $400
Seven/Eight Days: $450
Ms. Whitehouse operates her teaching studio following the traditions of the Boston School painters who studied in 19th century Paris.
These traditions teach aspiring artists to see and accurately render the visible world before them.
Within the long term program an orderly progression is followed from charcoal drawings with antique casts to still life, portrait and figure drawing and painting. Verbal and hands-on critiques combine with demonstrations, discussions, and reading source materials. Students follow their own timetables. The studio is open from dawn till dusk daily. Scheduled and spontaneous critiques occur throughout the week. A flexible studio year runs from September through June.
The studio is located in the old textile mill buildings on the Saco River in Biddeford, Maine. Nine foot windows full of north light make a very comfortable professional work space for several students. Common spaces allow for easy sharing of ideas, frustrations, and joys.
Please inquire for more information directly with the studio. A visit is a must!
