A Virtual Feast

Collage by Nancy Gruskin

One silver lining in the pandemic is the proliferation of online painting demonstrations, talks and workshops. Though it's not as good as being together in person, these virtual sessions are often affordable, and provide opportunities to learn from artists with whom we might not otherwise connect. 

Collage by Nancy Gruskin

For example, I just "attended" a collage demonstration by Nancy Gruskin. Nancy lives in Boston, and was scheduled to hold a collage workshop in Nashville last week. Because the workshop had to be cancelled, Nancy did an online demo. I've been rather curious about collage work lately. But not curious enough to pay hundreds of dollars and travel hundreds of miles to attend a three day workshop! This online demo was a chance to dip my toe into the process, without making a big investment of time or money.  So glad I did it--Nancy gave us much to explore!

Most talks and demos last only an hour or ninety minutes.  They offer a glimpse into the artist's process. The programs are designed for practicing painters. But they are great for non-painters who are art lovers, who want to learn more about how art is made.

Self portrait by Maggie Siner

Nancy's demo was sponsored by Warehouse 521. I have also participated in their demos by Maggie Siner.  Maggie is a wonderful painter and instructor, and it's a joy to watch her apply paint to the canvas.  I have a high degree of confidence in Warehouse 521, and the quality of the instructors they sponsor.

Painting by Maggie Siner

The online demos and talks are usually recorded, so if you are registered for the program, you can participate "live", if your schedule permits. You are also given a link to watch anytime during the following two weeks. A big plus! You don't have to be present at the time of the live session, and you can watch at your convenience, as many times as you'd like. Another advantage of watching the recording:  you can pause the presentation whenever you wish, whether to take notes or to take a break!

Some studios are offering full blown workshops online--a number of sessions scheduled over several days or weeks.  I haven't ventured into this depth of online instruction, but I'm curious about it.  Black Pond Studio is one I follow, which has some wonderful instructors offering online workshops. Perhaps a list of my favorite venues would be a subject for a future post...