Painting from the live model was a cornerstone of historical art training and remains a powerful way to develop the skills of observation, drawing, color, and painting. In a world saturated with photography, learning to paint directly from life offers an opportunity to slow down, look closely, and build a portrait through sustained observation. In this three-day workshop, Aidan will guide students through the development of an oil portrait from the live model, beginning with head structure, linear drawing, and comparative measuring techniques before transferring the drawing to canvas. From there, students will work through the portrait piece by piece, learning to mix color, distinguish light and shadow masses, compress values, and build a painting directly without an underpainting. As the portrait develops, students will explore light logic, false accents, simultaneous contrast, and the different approaches required when painting hair and skin. Particular attention will be given to connecting one area of the painting to the next while maintaining a unified sense of light, color, and form. The workshop will also cover the use and handling of oil painting materials throughout the process. Each day will begin with a lecture and demonstration, followed by focused studio time. Aidan will provide in-depth, one-on-one feedback as students develop their paintings, offering individualized guidance throughout each stage of the process.
