Joan Mitchell - An Abstract Painting Workshop at Barge East

Joan Mitchell was an abstract expressionist whose prolific career spanned more than four decades. She worked in a variety of mediums—including oil on canvas, pastel on paper, and lithographic printing—and is widely recognized as one of the most significant artists of the post-war era. Her large-scale works were primarily inspired by remembered landscapes and the natural world, and were made with colourful, lyrical brushstrokes; that whilst seemingly improvised and applied with great energy, were slowly and deliberately built. Further, as a synesthete, she played music and read poetry in her studio, often using sound as a source for radiant and evocative colour too.

In this workshop, we’ll look into the development of her unique visual language and philosophy, before we make our own vibrant and gestural pieces using her inspirations and approaches as a guide. You could use a specific memory of a place/landscape; a piece of music or prose; or choose to take your inspiration from the beautiful garden space/surroundings at Barge East; sketching & photographing in the evening light, before translating & enlarging your preparatory work into your final composition(s).

A ll necessary drawing/painting materials will be provided, though you are welcome to bring your own paints/surfaces should you prefer. We will be our using phones/tablets for the photographs, so please make sure you have plenty of charge, or bring a charger with you! This is a fully tutored class so no previous experience is required.

P lease note the class will be taking place in the beautiful garden/rooftop space at Barge East. There will be a tent overhead, but we will be essentially working & painting outside, so do dress appropriately! We'll be using acrylic paints, which are water based and wash out of clothing, but I would recommend not getting too dressed up, or to bring an apron/change of clothes if you're worried about mess.

U nfortunately the rooftop bar is up a set of stairs, with no alternative access. Please message me directly if you have any concerns.

Please arrive in good time to set up your painting station, and to ensure we can start the class promptly.

Joan Mitchell, 'La Grande Vallée 0'

1983

Joan Mitchell, 'La Grande Vallée XIV (For a Little While)'

1983