Brush to Palette Knife

Lessons in Abstracting Reality
A four week oil painting class instructed by Judy Mackey & Pam Markham

Mondays 1:00pm-3:00pm
September 14-October 05, 2026

Loosen up and paint with “abandon”, in this class designed for artists who are interested in developing their skills and approach in oil painting. Break away from painting every detail and learn to use big brushes and palette knives as tools for interpreting a realistic reference in an abstracted style. During this 4 week course, instructors will demonstrate and guide students in techniques to develop a painting in a freeing style using landscapes and florals as references.

This class is for artists with oil painting experience, ages 18+

Supply List:

6 panels or canvases. No bigger than 16 x 20. Best if the supports are toned with a wash of red or burnt sienna.

Oil Paints

Minimum colors: titanium white, ultramarine blue, cad yellow medium or light, cad red medium or light. Students may bring additional colors of their choice. Paint brand is student choice but Gamblin, Richeson, Art Spectrum, Winsor & Newton Winton, Utrecht, etc are recommended.

Palette knife

Square tipped and teardrop shaped

Here is a link to some knives that we like: https://www.dickblick.com/items/richeson-offset-economy-painting-knife-no-897-2-78-x-58/

https://www.dickblick.com/items/richeson-offset-economy-painting-knife-no-896-2-38-x-12/

Brushes

From 1/4 inch and up. Prefer flats. Favorite sizes are 8 & 10.

Reference photos

Printed photos or photos on digital devices. Imagery can include simple landscape, building or floral arrangements. Instructors may offer more suggestions after 1st class.

Additional Supplies

Paper towels, Gamsol for cleaning brushes, Baby wipes.