I was the least familiar with the work of Greg Manchess (ironic since with the exception of Boris Vallejo, he's been out there painting the longest). I suspect it is because he paints in a 'chunkier' oil style, which is the farthest from my own, as well as painting for such a wide variety of markets (from fantasy and children's books to National Geographic). He ended up being my favorite to watch however. The years of experience and intense observation made the choice of strokes look elegant and effortless. More like a dance (as opposed to my frequent painterly struggles). It was awe-inspiring to watch. I don't know if I'll ever paint enough to get to that point, but it is something to aspire to.
Dan Dos Santos did a live portraiture demonstration in under an hour that knocked my socks off. Again, the wealth of previous experience translated into beautiful, efficient choices. I learned tons from him about color temperature and value that has previously only been hinted at in my painting.
Scott Fischer (on the left - with the hat) does *everything*! Traditional, digital, fantasy, scifi, children's books, writes music, sings, etc...! The guy is manic in his energy and his enthusiasm. And wicked talented. I would get kind of tired just listening to all he juggles.
I've always kind of swooned over Donato Giancola's work - but it was great to see to see some of his originals and to watch and hear his thought processes in action.
The best part for me was watching Rebecca Guay's process. She works the closest to the way I do - but way better, so it is very exciting to see. I learned many neat, cool things - from new transferring processes to under painting to oil glazing - which I haven't tried for years, nor in my style.
Many new things to implement!! (The question now is *when*?)...
In some ways it felt a lot like being back in school - being in a studio setting for hours a day with everyone working on their various projects.
There were also a couple of really great lectures a day (complete with giant, projected computer slide shows, or live Wacom Tablet drawing for all to see). I took a ton of notes and have lists of things to now follow up on - on both professional practices and artistic approaches.
We were learning and doing so much (from 9am-11pm+ at night with just a bit of break time for eating) that I think ours heads hurt.
And the instructors! Unbelievable! the quality and experience of these incredible, top-of-their-field artists! Who were also incredibly giving and generous with their time and input. (Donato Giancola and Boris Vallejo shown here).
And also with bringing piles of original art (paintings here by Gregory Manchess) - printed work always pales in comparison to the real thing. To see the colors and textures and brushstrokes up close and personal was incredibly informative as well as absolutely beautiful.
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