January 6th-27th, 2027 | Wednesdays 10am-12pm
$150 (Materials not included) I $285 (All-inclusive)
Arroyo Charcoal & Pastels
What to Expect
This 4-week course focuses on a new approach to Charcoal Drawing and Pastel painting. This class is best suited to artists who have a basic understanding of drawing with charcoal and pastels, but are hoping to gain greater insight into technical considerations, color theory, and art history. In this course we will focus specifically on the pastel work of Edgar Degas, Mary Cassatt, and Odilon Redon.
It should be noted, that this course has been intentionally designed to condense the timeframe in which participants will be painting in the landscape. Each 2-hour session will consist of discussion and painting time. Participants are encouraged to bring multiple surfaces to work on, complete hand drawn sketches, and continue painting at home throughout the week.
***Please note that this is NOT a step-by-step, introductory painting course, but questions are greatly appreciated and always encouraged.
Private lessons are available for those seeking introductory/beginner painting classes.
***Due to environmental considerations, we will not be using solvents and participants will be responsible for cleaning their supplies off-site.
***We will be painting En Plein Air, in the High Desert Wilderness. Participants must be able to stand, sit, walk/hike for the duration of the class, as well as, carry all materials and supplies to and from the painting locations. If you are unable to attend classes due to the aforementioned requirements, please contact us to discuss private painting lessons.
1st SessionCapturing the Spirit
We will meet at the Cowboy Shack Trailhead in the Galisteo Basin Preserve for a brief introduction to the instructor and other participants, before walking to the painting location.
Arrival/Introduction5:00-5:15 pm
Drawing/PaintingWalk to Painting Location5:15-5:30 pm
Discussion on the importance of Line Quality, Value, and Composition.5:30-6:00 pm
5:45-6:30 pm
Return to Cowboy Shack6:30-6:45 pm
Closing/Q&A6:45-7:00pm
2nd SessionThe Art of Understanding
In this session we will discuss the charcoal drawings and pastel paintings of Edgar Degas, Mary Cassatt, and Odilon Redon. We’ll also explore how the observations of their subjects, and their subsequent contemplation of those subjects, influenced his artistic expression.
Arrival/Introduction5:00-5:15 pm
Painting Walk to Painting Location5:15-5:30 pm
Discussion on a limited color palette, warms and cool colors, and the importance of scale.5:30-6:00 pm
5:45-6:30 pm
Return to Cowboy Shack6:30-6:45 pm
Closing/Q&A6:45-7:00pm
3rd SessionColor Theory
In this session we will discuss color theory and how the application of various color pigments can impact the overall aesthetic of our paintings.
Arrival/Introduction5:00-5:15 pm
Painting Walk to Painting Location5:15-5:30 pm
Discussion on Color Theory, the impact of warm and cool colors, and the application of water and brush.5:30-6:00 pm
5:45-6:30 pm
Return to Cowboy Shack6:30-6:45 pm
Closing/Q&A6:45-7:00pm
Final SessionArtist Development
In this final session, participants will meet individually with the instructor to discuss how to better shape their unique artistic vision, and develop a sustainable painting practice around the commitments of their daily lives.
Arrival/Introduction5:00-5:15 pm
Painting/DrawingWalk to Painting Location5:15-5:30 pm
5:30-6:30 pm
Individual meetings regarding artistic development.Return to Cowboy Shack6:30-6:45 pm
Closing/Q&A6:45-7:00pm
FAQs
Do I need to bring my own Art supplies and materials?
1
Yes, each participant is responsible for purchasing and bringing their own art supplies and materials to class. Please refer to the “Recommended Supplies/Materials List” for the class you are attending. Please note that we take a minimalist approach to our supply list, as it allows participants to focus on what is most essential—the act of painting itself. If you have any additional questions regarding Art materials/supplies, please contact us via email.
I have never painted before, should I attend one of your classes?
2
Our classes are typically not intended for first-time painters. Private lessons are available for those who are interested in beginner/introductory painting instruction.
What is the High Desert Classroom
3
We will be meeting and painting in the Galisteo Basin Preserve, a High Desert landscape consisting of 12,000 acres. It is a desert wilderness, home to snakes, coyotes, birds, cacti, juniper trees, piñon pines, and other wild plants. It is often very hot, and at times, windy—but this place is also a great teacher.
I have a physical, and/or medical condition that would prevent me from attending your class in the High Desert. What can I do?
4
The High Desert Classroom does require the ability to walk, hike, stand, sit, and carry your supplies to and from the painting location. The landscape is often hot and the terrain can be challenging. If you are not able to attend in a safe way, please contact us and we can schedule private lessons, using the same curriculum, or customize lessons to meet your needs in a more suitable environment.
I have attended other painting workshops, what is different about this one?
5
Aside from painting in the wilderness, what makes this painting class different, is that we are not teaching you to paint like someone else—we are guiding you to your own artistic vision. Questions are always welcome and strongly encouraged, but there is very little, step-by-step instruction. This class has been carefully curated in a very specific way to breakdown the barriers to the creative process, and provide a wellspring of artistic understanding to its participants.
How many paintings will I paint?
6
Well, that depends. Some participants choose to work on multiple pieces over the course of the class, while others may only complete one painting. Some artists discover a new understanding of what a finished painting is.
Are participants given homework assignments?
7
Aside from painting in the wilderness, what makes this painting class different, is that we are not teaching you to paint like someone else—we are guiding you to your own artistic vision. Questions are always welcome and strongly encouraged, but there is very little, step-by-step instruction. This class has been carefully curated in a very specific way to breakdown the barriers to the creative process, and provide a wellspring of artistic understanding to its participants.