June 6-7, 2026

For this workshop, participants will bring their figure drawings/ studies to use as reference for this experimental approach to contemporary figure work. Possibilities for expression will include collage as well as multiple mixed media.The structure of the workshop will begin, initially with warm up exercises that delve into moods , atmosphere ,and symbols. It is my hope that each person will leave the workshop with at least one finished work on paper,  canvas or panel.

Are you an artist who loves working with the figure?  I am fascinated by the prospect of visual storytelling with the figure as the main protagonist. I invite continuing and advanced artists who are passionate about working with the figure in a way that expresses intuitive and personal vision. We do dream  in galaxies!  This is a workshop devoted to expressing feelings about our humanity, its current predicaments and joys, through figure images derived from your drawings and photos.  It  strives to enrich & expand your personal practice with a combination of exercises, discussions and very focused time to paint your subjective vision.

Marin Museum of Contemporary Art ( MOCA)
1210 Fifth Avenue, San Rafael, CA,94901
Register: https://www.marinmoca.org
Tuition: $300 (members 15% discount)

MATERIALS LIST:

YOU BRING:

Paints and other media: Your collection of acrylic and/ or watercolor paints, colored inks, collage papers, colored pencil, oil pastels, graphite tools

Soft Chalk Pastels ( optional): Your collection of soft pastels, preferably Schminke, Sennelier or Great
American Artworks (the richer and softer pigment load make for a more vibrant result) and 1 set of Rembrandts for foundation work.

Brushes: Your collection of all manner of marking tools

Papers:Surfaces

2 sheets full size ( 22″x30″) gesso primed 140 lb or 300 lb watercolor paper ( both sides)
2 12″x12″ cradled panels, primed with 2 coats gesso ( panels can be larger)
10 sheets hardware grade320 -400 grit wet/dry sand paper (8″x10″ black or lavender) for warm up exercises
Brushes: an assortment of inexpensive hog bristle brushes that can withstand sanded papers, acrylic paint and painting with rubbing alcohol on a roughened surface ( hardware store brushes are fine)

Additional materials:

Acrylic gel medium for gluing collage papers
1 pint Liquitex Clear Gesso ( has pumice, for layered priming- only this brand)
1 pint 70 %isopropyl rubbing alcohol
Trigger sprayer with variable spray ( 8 oz.- best on Amazon)
2 ” or wider masking tape, bull dog clips, blending stumps, Q tips
Surgical, protective gloves
Utility knife
Drawing Board to fit size of paper ( I use 1/2″ foam core or white corrugated plastic- no weight)
Some sort of portfolio for storing work
Fixative: Use Spectrafix or my own mix:
1 part fat free milk ( non-fat)
1 part 70%isopropyl rubbing alcohol/ combine in a sterile sprayer with a fine mist ( Amazon)

INSTRUCTOR BRINGS: Graphite powder, dry pigments, additional tools and mediums