Even before settling into the drawing portion of this course, we will cover the various styles and aspects of ‘still life’ as an art form. The introduction will include choosing a general theme, the background and surface, and deciding whether to add decorative elements. We’ll also focus on composition, arrangement and set up, colors (subtle hues, bright and bold colors, or unconventional color schemes), lighting options such as chiaroscuro or blinding light, and how to convey mood and evoke emotional reaction from the observer. Additionally, based on your individual set of choices, we will discuss the optimal color of paper on which to draw your still life creation.

Materials: Shetching pencil for ideas and taking notes, a set of colored pencils (wax-based or watercolor pencils), hand-held sharpener, a pocket folder for storing weekly reference sheets.The type and color of drawing paper will depend on each student’s chosen theme, arrangement and skill level with colored pencils.