Learning to See for Drawing, Painting & Sculpture
Observational Workshop with Neil Rizos

There is a very good reason classical training in representational art begins with drawing - and it is not because drawing is inherently valuable as an ability or as a product. The real value in classical training is this understanding: Accurate drawing arises from correct visual analysis. There can be no accurate drawing (or painting or sculpture) if one has not learned and consistently applied a method of visual analysis, providing the specific information needed to render an object accurately. Importantly, this method of analysis can be effectively taught and learned. It is the deepest meaning of the vague and often misunderstood term, ‘Seeing’, in the context of creating Art. Seeing, (intelligent, purposeful observation) is a learned skill, not a talent. This is the premise of the Observational Workshop.

The workshop itself, consists of learning a proven method of visual analysis and using it to observe 2D images and 3D objects, which we will then draw, accurately. The multi-day workshop reveals the power of this same method when applied to the element of color. It is important to remember, as with any skill, that one’s ability and eventual mastery, comes from regular, disciplined practice of the fundamentals.

Presented as one, two or three day workshops
Contact for availability

I regard Painting, Drawing, Sculpting & Printmaking as different languages,
each with unique expressive and creative possibilities.