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Creating Movement with Figure Ground Relationship: Charcoal Drawing Analysis using Michelangelo, Sistine Chapel Ceiling, Libyan Sybil
Understand art like never before! Learn the figure-ground relationship & see how artists create drama & movement.
2 min read

Painting Analysis of Sargent v. Sorolla: Seductive and Blatant with Color and Value
Exploring the contrasting styles of Sargent & Sorolla! We analyze their use of light, value, & color with each artist.
3 min read

Oil Painting Color Vibrancy: Why Did the Old Masters Use the Grisaille Painting Technique?
Learn about Grisaille painting! Discover how this technique, using shades of gray as a base, impacts color vibrancy and creates stunning art
2 min read


Leonardo daVinci & Aerial Perspective with Sfumato, Softening Edges by Getting Darker Farther Away
Aerial Perspective: Learn from Leonardo da Vinci's groundbreaking techniques to soften edges by getting darker farther away.
1 min read


Understanding How To Use The Color Wheel - You Might Be Using the Color Wheel Wrong!
Discover how to create stunning color schemes that evoke emotions and convey messages through value, temperature, and color psychology.
4 min read

The Story Behind 'A Man of Prayer,' my Smithsonian Portrait of President Jimmy Carter
Using Art Mapping and the technique of the Old Masters to tell the story of an American Hero and the 39th President of the United States.
10 min read

Lazy Painting Techniques: Get Back to Work Without Leaving Your Spot
The reducing lens, a useful and "lazy" resource for painting - step back without moving & prioritize perspective.
1 min read

Simplifying Charcoal: My Favorite Brands and Why
I've simplified my charcoal experience by choosing top brands Winsor Newton's Vine & Marie's Willow for charcoal - here's why!
2 min read

Micron Pens: A Watercolor Artist's Favorite Tool, Pen & Ink
We love Micron pens! They're archival, waterproof & perfect for layering over watercolor. My favorite is size 5 for detail & bold lines.
1 min read


Painting Technique: Humanism with Donatello & Mary Magdalene with Giotto's & Darker Farther Away
Donatello's "Mary Magdalene" embodies early Renaissance humanism, expressing emotion through texture & expressive mark-making.
2 min read
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