In this class learn to create layers of soft pastels to build up a recognizable image or object.  Blocking in values from light to dark and understanding light to hard application on paper.  In the beginning of class, simple still life set ups will be used i.e. two pieces of fruit in a bowl, etc. The light source and an investigation of color ranges that can be applied to any given object will also be explored.  There will be demonstrations of techniques that will help all levels.  Pastels are a wonderful opportunity for those who want to continue to hone their drawing skills with the new dimension of color.  Finally, fixative spraying will be reviewed including how many layers are necessary.  The last two classes will focus on one more complicated still life set up in an effort to create a completed piece of artwork. Material list available upon registration.

Chris Kunze graduated from Rhode Island School of Design with a BFA in Painting/Illustration. He has had a long & successful career in Advertising and Promotion. His illustrations and designs have been used in books, magazines, newspapers, product packaging and logo design.

Chris’ fine art has always remained important throughout his career as a commercial artist.

He has had many solo and group shows in New York City, Westchester County and lower Connecticut, showcasing his oil paintings, watercolors and illustrations. Chris was part of an ongoing show at the Arthur Kalaher Fine Art in Sag Harbor, NY from 2011-2019.  In 2018 he had a solo show of his watercolors at Teatown Lake Reservation.

In 2019 Chris began his participation in Arthouse.NYC’s “Healthcare Heroes Show”.

He has memorialized several healthcare workers who lost their lives during the height of the Covid pandemic. These oil portraits were given to their families and were on view at the

Big Plaza Screen in New York City.

Teaching is a passion that has come to the forefront in the past 15 years for Chris. He has been teaching a plethora of subjects among them drawing, oil painting, watercolors, and more at local Westchester art schools.  He is currently teaching at Scarsdale Adult School.

Chris grew up in Europe and Westchester County.  He currently resides in Salem, Connecticut.

Dates: March 29; April 5, 12, 26; May 3

Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Cost: $160 per person