Painting the Abstract Impressionist Landscape

Abstract Impressionism describes a way of painting that combines Impressionism’s concerns for light and atmosphere with Abstract Expressionism’s reliance on feeling and gesture. In this workshop, participants will examine artists who exemplify this Abstract Impressionist approach and note qualities of their paintings they would like to incorporate in their own work. Participants will then make several plein air studies using charcoal, pastel and acrylic paint from the gorgeous Sitka Center landscape immediately in proximity to the studio. Based on these studies, participants will each create two larger, finished paintings in the studio.

Ken Marunowski’s approach to teaching is based on amiable interaction and learning-by-doing, and supplemented by engaging presentations. For several years, Marunowski taught professional writing at the university level. Presently, Ken teaches painting and drawing classes in Bend and guides families, coworkers and friends in collaboratively creating their own large-format abstract painting.

Mixed-media or Watercolor sketchbook (140lb.), 11"x14" or larger for on-site studies

Larger mixed-media sketchbook for studio studies (18"x24")

Palette or palette paper

Preferred drawing mediums (pencils, colored pencils, erasers, and basic pastel set recommended)

Acrylic paint (basic set of preferred colors, some opaque, some transparent)

Notebook or journal

Favorite brushes, palette knives, brayers, and other mark-making tools

Camera (phone)

22"x30" watercolor paper (2 pieces, 140lb.) for studio paintings

Charcoal

Some acrylic paint to supplement students’ supply