In this workshop, students learn how to build a luminous beach landscape step by step, beginning with the essential foundation of simplifying the scene into clear value shapes. We will use a black‑and‑white study to understand composition, contrast, and the placement of major masses before moving into color. Participants explore how warm and cool color families work together to create believable light—soft sands, cool water, and the subtle transitions of a coastal sky.
As the painting develops, students practice layering techniques, refining edges, and adding atmospheric depth. We will explore expressive mark‑making to suggest movement and texture—especially in the foreground grasses, where directional strokes help anchor the scene and create a sense of place. The progression moves from broad shapes to subtle details, giving participants the confidence to build a cohesive, luminous coastal landscape. By the end of the session, each participant leaves with a finished beach landscape and a deeper understanding of how value and temperature create mood and harmony in pastel.
Materials:
Hard and soft pastels (NOT oil pastels)
pencil/ eraser
Sanded pastel paper in a light color (cream or white)
* I will have 9x12 sheets of paper for $3.50 each if you need one. *
Cheap set of watercolors, water dish and old large brush (1 inch) for underpainting
Backing board for paper, clips or tape to attach paper to board
Old towel or washcloth for hands and wiping pastels clean
Simple beach reference photo with sand and dune grasses (I will have some choices) Preferably black and white and a color copy if printed or on your phone so we can turn a color copy to black and white.
Cost for Members: $35.00 Cost for Non-Members: $45.00
Step 1: Register to sign up on the Club’s Team Up calendar: https://teamup.com/ksvnyvdcdyfmo34pv4.
Step 2: To pay for this workshop use one of the following three methods: (Must Note in Comments your Name and the Name of the Workshop!)
PayPal.me/SykesvillePainting (if asked use last 4 digits 7267)
Or
Zelle: cclymer99@gmail.com
Or
Check made payable to The Sykesville Painting Club, P.O. Box 73, Sykesville, MD 21784