I was thrilled to attend a five-day Experimental Watermedia workshop with
Karen Rosasco a few weeks ago. Karen is a super teacher, knowledgeable and encouraging.
 |
| table set up and ready to start. |
 |
| work in progress. |
Karen's focus is on design which resonates with me, having come from a background of graphic design and calligraphy. Design is an integral component of a successful piece of art. Bringing opposing forces together to create balance and interest... putting the pieces of the puzzle together.
 |
| hand-carved stamps from Softoleum, used for patterning. |
We were challenged to observe carefully - to see abstract painting possibilities everywhere we looked.
 |
| unaltered shot of a slate countertop in a restaurant bathroom. |
We did lots of layering which brings such a sense of depth to each work. She had us work on sheets of paper, which is new to me. I like it! I am used to working on canvas or board - now I can use those supports to mount the finished work.
 |
| layers of paint, stamps and my new favourite - alcohol. rubbing, that is! |
I came away with three finished pieces. Two are now mounted on gallery canvas, signed, named and wired for hanging. The third is mounted and waiting for final touches.
 |
| work set out for final critique. |
I learned many things, including new ways of approaching my work and different ways to set up my work space. My current Muse Journal is full of notes and a larger sketchbook contains fodder for future work. I have sheets and sheets of pieces on paper in various stages of completion, inspiration to keep me motivated and effective tools to resolve my paintings. If you ever get a chance to take Karen Rosasco's Experimental Watermedia workshop, do it!
