How do you Prepare for Workshops?

[Linda Brandon]

Pat, I think one of the best things you can do for a workshop in advance is to draw and paint from life, over and over and over again. Importantly, it will boost your confidence, and that means a lot. I meet people in workshops who confess sheepishly that they never or seldom work from life and the performance stress on them is enormous.

Remember that a lot of painters work solely from tracing and rendering photos. I've seen many well-known and successful artists stress out in workshop situtations just because they don't have enough practice with working from life.

I'm looking forward to your review of Marvin's workshop!

[Sharon Knettell]

I had one really well known portrait artist admit that to me at last years portrait convention in Boston. It was a real eye opener. He was scoffing at the artists doing demos. He said that they should teach him how it is really done, shoot, trace and paint. I am not a big fan of this artist. It is all product to him.

I think that is why there is so much similarity in the business.

[Marvin Mattelson]

Sharon, your private message quota is full here on the forum. You have to delete some things if you want replies.

Here's my reply to the one you sent me:

Look out Thomas Kinkade!

Have a healthy, prosperous and Happy New Year!

MM

As for you Patty, take a nice hot and relaxing bubble bath and envision the National Lampoon version of a portrait workshop. Then conjure up what you would consider to be the perfect workshop. Don't dwell on either or your toes will prune up.

The truth is, if you handled my supply list, you're more than prepared.

[Sharon Knettell]

Marvin,

I housecleaned.

[Patricia Joyce]

I was home sick today with the worst head cold. But in spite of itI drew t his AWFUL self portrait that just made me laugh - I got a good likeness of me - ILL ! ! ! And Jack still wants to marry me!! I am really trying to visualize myself in the workshop, National Lampoon, huh, Marvin? OK - I'm more than ready then!!!

You are right Kim about enjoying being away from family obligations. I do leave everything at the door before entering a classroom and I expect the same will happen in Atlanta. I can not wait to observe Marvin.

I keep remembering Steven Sweeney's fabulous quote,

"Just show up and pay attention"

I cannot fall flat on my face, I am already coming in verry verry verry green!!!!! Sometimes this is the best place to be. Originally I was going to be attending as a non participant but all of you convinced me to do the full monty. I have never painted a portrait from life

Well, my bubble bath is almost drawn

and a hot toddy awaits!! We closed on our new townhouse and got the keys today.

Thanks for your input, I enjoyed it and it relaxes me.