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THE STILL LIFE PAINTING – POTTED HISTORY

I want to make the case for the study of Still Life as a foundational study in learning to paint.  Still Life is often seen as dull and boring, however, it is the corner stone of a classical training and is still regarded as important in understand form, light, colour and perspective. 

The master of Still Life, Paul Cezanne was quoted as saying: 

• With an apple I will astonish Paris. (Learn more at The Met Museum, Fifth Avenue, New York)

Still Life with Apples and Pears, ca. 1891-92, Paul Cezanne

• The day is coming when a single carrot, freshly observed will set off a revolution.

And that is exactly what he did. Cezanne is know as the father of modern painting.

While Cezanne brought to painting something  new he also respected the need  for observation and careful study of the world.

He goes on to say,

• Opticas developed in us through study teach us to see.

French impression painter Camille Pissarro reinforces this view.

• Blessed are they who see beautiful things in humble places where other people see nothing.

THIS COURSE IS AN EXCELLENT CENTRE INTO LEARNING TO SEE AND PAINT WHAT YOU SEE. IT WILL TEACH YOU TO SEE DETAIL OF STATIONARY OBJECTS INCLUDING BOTTLES, VASES, JARS AND FRUIT.

As part of this course you will:

• Learn to use and understand the basics of colour.
• Learn to understand the principles of good composition.
• Learn to understand form through the observation of light and shape
• Learn to use the laws of perspective to develop depth
• Learn to set up your own still life in situ, wherever you are painting – studio, verandah, backyard or living room.  
• Produce a beautiful work of art to be admired by all.

We will use  a photograph for the still life exercise which allows me to monitor your progress on line.

I invite you to explore this classical genre to get a foundation.

Still Light by Ellen Michel