We will lean on both intention and intuition to build layered abstract mixed media works through painting, drawing, collage, ink, and more. Participants will explore texture and color theory and learn how to build surfaces gradually, while also letting intuition and materials guide the process. Over the course of this 4-week class, students will have the opportunity to work on multiple pieces and return to them over consecutive classes.

In this class, you’ll learn:

• How to work in layers
• How to use color theory and select a color palette for a work
• How to use mixed media to add texture and interest to a painting
• How to take inspiration from images and life to create abstract work
  

Sharon Dowell is a painter with a focus on public art, consulting, and community engagement. Her commissions include large scale mural and transit projects nationwide. Sharon received an MA in Arts Administration from Winthrop University, a BFA from UNC Charlotte, and an Entrepreneurship Certificate from Cornell. She has served as a UNC Charlotte Adjunct Professor and Rowe Galleries Coordinator and as Director of Center of the Earth Gallery. A 2014 TedX Charlotte speaker, she regularly lectures, curates, and art consults, most recently creating new programs for the McColl Center for Visual Art and UNCC. She travels internationally for artist residencies, she has received multiple arts grants, and her work is in corporate collections nationwide.

PREREQUISITES

None! All levels welcome!

SUPPLIES

All art materials are provided.

PARKING AND ARRIVAL

Arts+ Uptown Studios (601 E. 5th St): Parking can be accessed via the lot on 5th St. (which is a one-way street) just past the front entrance of the building. The lot can also be accessed on N. Alexander St. The arm for the parking lot will raise as you enter. Parking is free and you do not need a code to enter or exit. If the lot is full, parking can be found on the surrounding streets at meters.

When you enter the building, please sign in at the front desk using the iPads and enter ArtsPlus (Arts+) as the organization you are visiting. Take the elevator to the 2nd floor and make an immediate left.

When you leave, please sign out at the front on the iPads. If you are parked in the parking lot, simply go to the gate and press the green exit button.