In this all day class, we will practice personal expression with paint through a mix of studio time, plein air observation, memory, and autobiographical influences. We will also practice the basics of drawing and composition, explore effects of color, the power of multiple grays, and unusual points of view. Starting with warm up exercises we'll end the week with at least two developed works – one from nature and one from our personal reflections and interpretations. Along the way we'll learn how to express what we are seeing and thinking about in the most direct and honest way possible.

Cut the frills, see the big shapes and subtle transitions. Taking an idea and working it several different ways in a series helps bring a unique view to the surface. Painting is a life long process and we will joyfully enter into the celebration. Group feedback, discussion, personal growth, and satisfaction will be important. Students of all levels are welcome, and attention to individual needs will be the norm.

Meet your Instructor

Paul Trowbridge

Paul Trowbridge works and lives in Sedgwick, Maine where he takes inspiration for his painting from the landscape of the coastal area. He currently shows at Turtle Gallery and the Blue Hill Bay Gallery, and the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston; he has also shown at the Handworks Gallery, Isalos Gallery, and The Deer Isle Artist Association, Blue Hill, Brooksville, and Ellsworth Libraries among others.

Since attending Principia College and the Boston Museum School in the 1970’s he studied at the U. of Maine at Orono, and received an MFA in painting from the University of Memphis. He has taught at The University of Memphis, The Woodenboat School, and privately in the Deer Isle and Blue Hill areas.

He works in watercolor and oil in “plein air” as well as in his studio. On site he observes nature and works to capture the scene with free-flowing brush work, color, and unique perspective. This is an exercise in observation and sensitivity to qualities seen and felt. In the studio he works from resources to create a more personal interpretation of the landscape specializing in fishermen and the coastal surroundings. He works in a series, pushing ideas one step at a time which develop into unique images. A takeoff on a takeoff cannot be done by anyone else.

You may see his work and blogs and newsletters about his artistic viewpoint on his website: paultrowbridgeart.com