Abstraction and Simplification in Painting

Tutor: Eugenie Vronskaya | Tuesdays 10am-4pm | 12 weeks

This dynamic course is built on an essential understanding of how to translate three-dimensional space and form into the two-dimensional  ‘flat’ space of paper and canvas. We will explore how to abstract and simplify in order to distil the essence of an expression. We will be learning the visual language of painting. Rooted in observational practice, the course focuses on building your own visual vocabulary and discovering a new form of expression between the seen and the imagined. We will work with still life, the model, organic forms, and in-class formal exercises to develop a deeper understanding of colour, shape, rhythm, texture, line, and composition. Using a variety of materials, we will explore different possibilities of mark-making and application.

The course includes references to both historical and contemporary artists, considering how modernist thinking continues to shape abstraction today. We will also have at least one visit during the course to the National Gallery or another museum. This course is suitable for students with some prior experience, as well as for those willing to push beyond the boundaries of familiar and routine approaches.

Students are required to bring their own materials and should refer to the materials list below before their course starts. (#TU25)