I know that whenever I’m deciding about whether to take an online class or not, I really love it when the teacher shares a sneak peek into the lesson format and the teacher’s style. So this week I’m sharing with you a free sample lesson from Abstractify so you can get a feel for what it will be like.
Even if you’re not planning to take the course, it’s a fun exercise to try. 🙂
The video below comes from the second week, which is all about loosening up and finding our own way in our approach to the figure. The website I found the reference image on is here.
I think as artists we all have ‘go to’ ways that we make marks, and while that can be excellent for helping our work be recognisable, it can also be limiting and cause the work to lose that spontaneity and expressiveness we so love. So it’s good to put our experimenting hats on, push at those limits and find new ways to approach our painting.
So, enjoy the video, and if you decide to try out this exercise, I’d love to see!
If you’d like to learn more about Abstractify…
>>CLICK HERE<<
Here’s a painting done by student Jo after she watched the sample lesson.
“…that was quite an experience. Really loved sticking to three colours (though my mid and dark perhaps too close this time round). Nonetheless really felt good to move freely and squint at my reference image lol. Can’t wait for Abstractify to start!”
Isn’t it gorgeous! I’m always fascinated to see how something I create is interpreted and experienced by others. If you have a go at this lesson please do share the results with me and I’ll add them to this post!
It’s so good to hear your voice.
Gxx
🙂 Thanks Galia.
Well…that helped me decide to sign up for the class 🙂
Really looking forward to it!
Kim that’s wonderful, I’m so pleased! Welcome aboard. 🙂
Really enjoyed the sample video, i’ve been wanting to try some abstract figures lately. Where do you find your images to paint?
Hi Ann! Welcome. I like this site for life drawing images online: http://artists.pixelovely.com/practice-tools/figure-drawing/. There are others but this is my favourite so far. Hope that helps!
Oooh, Tara! This really gets me craving for more.
I’ve seriously start saving money to join!
Thanks!
Great Sofia! So glad you enjoyed it! 🙂
what is the cost in US dollars?
Approximately $176. 🙂
Wow, I really love what you created from the figure photo. It looked like so much fun to be free and create whatever just felt right. I look forward to trying this on my own. I would love to take your Abstractify course. Your direction could really help me find my way. Thank you so much for sharing that…
So glad Jeanine! Abstractify runs again in April – it’d be lovely to have you join us. You can find out more here: http://www.taraleaver.com/abstractify.
Right after I first replied to y our offer, I jumped on the bandwagon. But I had to leave the country suddenly, and will not return until mid-june.I have been saving your mail with the expectation of getting back to it.when I got home. My question is: can I join your course in Mid-June? I understand I will not be eligible for the early-bird discount, but can I join even thought the course has been underway for a considerable time? i.e., can you manage an ‘out-of-step” participant?
Another way I found to detach is turn your image upside down, then you paint just shades and values
Yes! Turning it upside down helps in so many ways! I don’t think I’ve done it just for painting values – great idea!
los que solo hablemos español.estamos perdidos….
que pena !!!!!
felicitaciones….
I loved the sample lesson and signed up on the wait list for the course. In the sample, you said you would attach a link find the figures…I can’t seem to find the link. Would you please send it to me?
Ah yes, the link has changed; the site has been renamed but seems to have the same content. Check it out here: https://line-of-action.com/practice-tools/figure-drawing/.
Oh, Tara, I would’ve been ever so proud of the figure you painted. Eager to try! Will try also with watercolors!
Yes! Go for it! 🙂
I am very curious to follow your teachings
So excited to start implementing your artistic tips.????
Yay!
I really enjoyed all your suggestions. I am new to this, my love is abstract. I would like to watch your video but it requires a password, would you be able to pass it on to me. Thanks
It’s lightanddark {above the video :)}.
Tara —- Yes,, this video is super persuasive! I just finished your Loosen Up Course, and while it definitely changed my work (made it more fun and improved my composition), I am now eager to get myself Abstractified. Here I come!
Yay! 🙂
I couldn’t see the link to the website for the life model. Can you help?
Here you go: https://line-of-action.com/practice-tools/figure-drawing/ 🙂
Could I please watch a video of you painting. I can’t seem to find anyone that has a video of them painting from beginning and end with you making changes and your techniques. I would so appreciate if there was a video that I could watch.
Thank you
Hi Caroline – there are a few videos dotted around that show start to finish. Here are some links:
https://taraleaver.com/2016/09/process-of-a-painting-from-start-to-finish-after-the-flood/
https://taraleaver.com/2017/01/free-painting-video-lesson-abstractified-painting/
https://taraleaver.com/2018/06/loosen-up-free-sample-lesson/
https://taraleaver.com/2014/03/video-mini-how-to-paint-an-imaginary-landscape/
https://taraleaver.com/2015/08/video-mini-drawing-for-instant-gratification/
If I had watched your video Tara, before I signed up for a different course with another tutor, I’m sure my decision would have been to sign up for yours..not to worry, maybe in the future….????
Ah, well you’re welcome any time! Registration will be open for all courses throughout this year. 🙂 Enjoy your course!
While I won’t be joining the course- I always enjoy your wise words and intimate discussions. It was wonderful to hear your voice. Here’s to all the artists in your class; may it be all you desired! Looking forward to seeing your work!
Thank you for the kind words Tirzah!