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Understanding the Figure and Portrait


  • Willow Vermont 369 Dover Road South Newfane, VT, 05351 United States (map)

UPDATE - This workshop will feature two models with a combined 20 years of life-modeling experience! Kiah and Nicholas will be posing solo on different days. They've worked with several galleries, private schools and college art programs throughout Vermont. Image Credits: Joe Navas (Kiah, leftmost photo); Ezra Distler (Nicholas, rightmost photo))

In this three-night residential workshop and retreat, Paul Schulenburg will share his approach to capturing the personality and likeness, and figurative gesture of the model. Each day will start with a talk and demonstration. Methods of working quickly while maintaining accuracy will be discussed, as well as the potential benefits of distortion or exaggeration for the sake of free expression. Students will sharpen their skills in drawing and color mixing, working in the direct “alla prima” method of working wet into wet when working with oils. Pastels, watercolors and acrylics will also be welcome if the student feels more comfortable with any of those mediums.

Registration options:

  • Double occupancy: $1,035 per person. Includes three nights accommodation, studio time, model fees, and instructional program. State room tax is not included and will be added at checkout. Please reserve online at the link below or by calling 802-380-4939.

  • Single occupancy: $1,680 per person. Includes three nights accommodation, studio time, model fees, and instructional program. State room tax is not included and will be added at checkout. Please reserve by calling 802-380-4939.

  • Commuter: $695 per person. Includes studio time, model fees, and instructional program. State tax is not included and will be added at checkout. Please reserve by calling 802-380-4939.

Painting the Portrait

The workshop will teach you how to capture personality and expression in portraits.

The Schedule

Arrival Day: Thursday, June 1

Arrive between 3pm and 5pm. Get settled into your room and gather for a complimentary happy hour in Willow’s art studio at 6pm. Join retreat attendees and teacher in Willow’s many comfortable living spaces.

Workshop Days: Friday and Saturday, June 2-3

Each Day will start at with a light breakfast. You’ll spend the morning in workshop getting instruction and demonstration from Paul, meeting the model, and blocking in your first group paint. Enjoy lunch at midday followed by three hours of painting or drawing from life, with guidance from Paul. Free time for optional late afternoon excursions will follow.

Departure Day: Sunday, June 4

Wake up to coffee followed by a “look back” workshop to examine and review your work. Head home with a renewed focus on painting the figure!

Working from Life

Professional models bring experience creating dynamic poses

Amenities, meals, and area attractions

Willow provides comfortable overnight accommodations in double occupancy rooms. All rooms have two beds and dedicated hall or ensuite baths. We are outfitted with all the comforts of a typical guest house. If you are coming with a friend or family member and wish to share the same room, please let us know when you book.

Willow’s art studio is located on the first floor of the main building. Willow provides six standing and six sitting easels. Model podium, props, and lighting are also provided.

Willow is located in the foothills of the Green Mountains on 5 acres of open space. The property abuts several hundred acres of woods with hiking trails. The property has a large pond, hillside garden, fire pit, and a large south-facing porch for lounging and gathering. More information on amenities and area attractions is offered on our website.

You will have time for optional area excursions in the evenings. On request, we would be happy to organize a group excursion.

An Easy and Effective Approach to the Figure

The workshop will cover fundamentals of gesture, color, form, and composition.

What to Bring

Painting and drawing supplies (easels, model podium, lighting and props are provided)

Shoes: house slippers, studio shoes, outdoor shoes

Swimsuit and beach towel for optional evening swimming

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Living from Your Sacred Self

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June 30

Gay and Bi Men’s Retreat