color & composition ​for artists

​When you look at a painting and say, ‘Oh, I love that painting,’ there are many factors that contribute to that reaction. You love it because it’s a well-structured abstract painting that features good use of color, shape, texture, size, line, space and value.

Each new mark not only represents an element of design but also influences the entire dynamic of your painting. Implementing the elements of design enable an artist to guide the viewer successfully and help him understand what’s happening within an abstract painting.

Through a combination of guided instruction, hands-on exercises, and personal exploration, students will learn how to express ideas and emotions using non-representational forms. Each session focuses on a key area of art—ranging from balance and rhythm to color relationships and intuitive mark-making.

Design and composition does not lead to rules, guidelines, or formulas. Design and composition is a "lens" through which to view your work.

What You’ll Learn:

• foundational elements of composition: line, shape, space, variety, emphasis, contrast, and balance
• to use color theory to evoke emotion and energy
• to develop rhythm and movement in your work
• how to edit your art and develop a critical eye
• strategies for navigating the many stages artists encounter throughout the creative process of making a painting—without overworking their piece

Students will walk away with many developed sketches and studies, but also a finished painting.
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This is a studio class and students will be using their supplies on the first week.​
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Supply List for Students to Bring on Week 1:

• Painting artist supplies and brushes
• Canvases (no size requirement)
• Mixed Media paper pad (9x12, 98lb or heavier paper)
• Artist Tape
• Drawing pencils or charcoal sticks
• Personal sketchbook
• Color Wheel
• Quality paper towels, like Blue Shop Towels or Viva

WED AM Class Info:

• ​Next session: July 9 - August 13 (no class on August 6)
• Instructor: Scott Allen
• TUE AM, 10:30am-1:30pm
• Cost is $199 (5 classes)
• Max 10 students 
• For all skill levels
• Age level: adult (18 & up)​

Artists who have taken this class a few times may want to investigate our WED AM Special Studies featuring various topics and instructors.

​Parking Info

register online

​​​​Class Cancellation & Refund Policies

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About the instructor

Scott Allen

Scott is a San Diego artist and represented through Ashton Gallery. His artistic process doesn’t stop with the last brush stroke. It continues to be enhanced through the eyes of the viewer, engaging their thoughts and emotions. Often a second or third look at one of his paintings reveals a new dimension not previously detected. It might be a brushstroke or how the eye sweeps across the canvas. Viewers are invited to be the judge.
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Website

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS CLASS...

• those who want to stop overworking their art
• those who want a better understanding of composition

• those who want to take their color skills to the next level 
• those who want to learn how to edit their artwork

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"Great abstract class! I am in my second one and plan to take more. Nice studio, convenient location, and a Great place to meet interesting people with similar interests.  excellent lessons and on-going follow up advice from the instructors."

~Steve S.

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