Van Gogh-Inspired Painting - Hucknall Library - Adult Learning

Immerse yourself in the world of Vincent van Gogh in this hands-on, one-day workshop. This is your opportunity to explore and master the techniques of one of history’s most celebrated artists. Over the course of a single, engaging session, you’ll discover Van Gogh’s unique style—characterised by bold colours, dynamic brushstrokes, and expressive compositions. You’ll learn how to recreate the energy and emotion of Van Gogh’s iconic paintings, from his swirling brushstrokes to his vibrant colour choices.

With step-by-step guidance, you’ll experiment with his techniques to paint a piece inspired by his style, whether it’s a landscape or still life.

Course Content:

- Introduction to Van Gogh’s Style: You’ll begin by learning about the key characteristics of Van Gogh’s paintings, such as his use of vibrant colours, thick brushstrokes, and dynamic compositions.

- Colour Theory & Palette Choices: You’ll explore Van Gogh’s colour palette and how he used complementary and contrasting colours to create depth and movement. Through a hands-on exercise, you’ll mix colours to match the striking vibrancy found in his works, experimenting with both warm and cool tones to evoke different moods.

- Brushstroke Techniques: Van Gogh’s energetic, thick brushstrokes are a hallmark of his style. You’ll learn how to replicate these brushstrokes using acrylics, focusing on how to create texture and rhythm in your work.

- Creating Dynamic Compositions: You’ll be guided through the process of composing your own painting, choosing from a range of still life or landscape subjects inspired by Van Gogh’s work.

- Painting Your Own Van Gogh-Inspired Piece: Using the techniques you’ve learned, you’ll create a piece inspired by Van Gogh’s style.

Throughout the workshop, your tutor will offer individual feedback and tips, ensuring you gain the skills and confidence to express your creativity through your painting. By the end of the session, you’ll have a completed Van Gogh-inspired artwork to take home and showcase, along with new knowledge of his techniques that you can apply to your future paintings.

What you will need to bring to the course:

Acrylic paper/sketch pad,

A4 canvas

white gesso

a range of synthetic paint brushes

acrylic paint (student grade)

- Red (Magenta, Cadmium Red)

- Yellow (Lemon and Cadmiun Yellow),

- Blue (Ultramarine, and Cerulean),

- Titanium White

Suggested reading:

1) Painting Methods of the Impressionists by Bernard Dunstan

2) Painting the Impressionist Landscape: Lessons in Interpreting Light and Color by Lois Griffel