Students will learn and review the following:

- Short discussion about Impressionism. Examples seascapes by impressionistic painters.

- How to manipulate soft pastels and watercolor on pastel paper to create an impressionistic Seascape Painting.

- How and when to layer color for maximum impact. Some color theory is employed in this technique.

- two techniques on how to create depth with watercolor painted under pastels.

In addition to these techniques the class will learn from each other how each student approached their process to create a successful painting.

Students will walk away with two projects. One in a small size where we practice technique and one painting in 9” x 12”.

Our first project will be created on a small practice paper that your instructor will demonstrate how to layer texturizing agents to turn it into a good surface for pastels for exploration and from there students will employ best practices to create an additional larger painting.

Supplies to bring or buy: small watercolor set, #6 or #8 reound watercolor brush, 9” x 12” sanded paper or board (light color), and any pastels you have. Good papers to choose are Ampersand Pastel Board in any color, Colorfix Sanded Paper and UArt Sanded paper in any grit. All papers and boards are available at the Depo. If you have any pastels or supplies of your own that you would like to bring along to explore alongside the instructors materials, please feel free to do so.

About the Instructor:

Mary Jane Erard is an award-winning artist painting mostly in soft pastel and mixed media with acrylic. Her works are usually rural landscapes of the US and Europe. Mary Jane's artwork is owned by many private collectors and included in several corporate collections. She has exhibited in many group and solo exhibitions since the mid 1990s. Ms. Erard's artwork has been published several times in national magazines and books including Best of American Pastel Painters and Southwest Art magazine. Mary Jane is a juried member of the Pastel Society of America. For over 20 years, Mary Jane has been represented by the Collector's Corner at the Toledo Museum of Art.

In addition to her painting career, Mary Jane is a sought after art educator in Ohio and Michigan. As a working professional artist, Mary Jane offers helpful insight to private students who are looking for both art instruction and helpful career advice in the visual arts.

Cancellation Policy: We will refund 50% for any cancellation made at least eight days before the class. After 8 days, we are unable to provide refunds for any reason, including illness. If you cannot attend after registration, you are welcome to gift your tuition to a friend at no charge. We do not transfer tuition from one class to another.