Earth Friendly: Alternatives to Acrylic

Embark on a creative exploration with abstract painter Zoë Cohen, delving into the realm of water-based alternatives to acrylic paint. In this playful workshop, three substitutes—Natural Earth Paints, Gouache, and Casein paints—take center stage, allowing participants to grasp their unique properties. Guided exercises encompass color charts, transparency, and opacity, along with layering techniques using various application tools. Dive into stacking form with line, merging drawing tools with paint, and finding the balance between simplicity and complexity in composition. Join us for a dynamic experience, discovering the diverse possibilities offered by water-based mediums in the hands of a skilled artist.

Born in Chicago in 1961, Cohen was strongly affected by the classic graphic influences of a mid-century urban environment. Everyday exposure to modern architecture, graphic design, photography, painting and sculpture permanently imprinted her mind.

Zoe’s abstract painting springs from her lifelong fascination with mid-century art and design, Abstract Expressionism, The New York School painters and the historic influences which shifted the locus of the international art scene from Nazi occupied Europe to New York following WWII.

Teaching has become an integral part of her art practice.

3-4 + tubes Richelson Casein paint (your choice of color)

3-4+ tubes Gouache paint (choice of color diff from casein recommended)

5-6 + tubes Natural Earth Paint Acrylik paint - 3 primaries + black + white

6 + brushes 1⁄2" up to 2"

Rives BFK paper (2 - 3 sheets 22 x 30 cut into four - 11 x 15 pieces)

3-4 wood panels (primed) 12 x 12 (or similar size rectangular)

1 sketchbook (recommended for color mixing)

1 rubber printmaking brayer

1-2 putty knives

1 water bottle

A variety of drawing tools; pens, pencils, inktense sticks, neo-color crayons, oil pastels, charcoal, graphite etc.

Optional:

Please bring any favorite tools not on the list you think you might miss

Shop towels

Nitrile gloves

Paint spreaders

Newsprint pads

Sumi ink