In this class participants practice gradating color from dark to light. Everyone paints together from a provided landscape photo reference. Demos are performed periodically throughout the class, and individual as well as group instruction is given. Participants learn dry brushing technique using a mop brush and flat bristle brush.  Knowing how to mask a horizon line will be taught to establish perspective.  A scrunching technique is taught to block in areas of the canvas. A palette knife technique will also be demoed to carve out areas as well as to blend. The palette knife allows painters to glide and skip areas down the sides and slopes of the mountain areas to give a realistic illusion in one fell swoop. Layering colors will be key in this landscape as will learning which areas to highlight as participants continue the painting process to completion.  All levels welcome. For those with previous experience with the acrylic medium, instructor will work with participants at their own level so continuing your journey into the use of the acrylic medium will be addressed.  Material list available upon registration.

Amy Valiante’s love for art started at a young age as an art major at the Walnut Hill School of the performing arts. From there a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration was obtained at Syracuse University. Her paintings consist of landscapes, cityscapes, seascapes, animals and still-life subjects. She enjoys inviting the viewer to see the wonder of a scene or subject.

Every piece has brought Amy comfort in knowing she will bring the viewer serenity. Painting with acrylics on a smooth canvas allows the artist to paint with illustratively realistic brush strokes. She uses delicate glazes to create depth and luminosity in her work.

Her work has been selected to be on display at the Monastery Gallery in West Hartford CT and she also exhibits at the Aqua Turf Convention Center Shows in Southington CT, and the Elephant Trunk Shows in New Milford CT. Valiant’s work is currently exhibited at Spectrum Gallery in Centerbrook, Connecticut.

Dates:  Sats. Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26; Nov. 2.  With a makeup, if necessary, Nov. 9

Time:  1:00-3:00

Cost:  $160