Instructor: Harrison Halaska

This class will begin with a selection of slides of paintings throughout art history  meant to invoke specific psychological reactions. You'll continue with a discussion of the tools and methods used to invoke these responses. Finally, based on prompts (for example: "tranquil", "shocking", or "confused") you'll try to re-create those feelings by bringing in objects and creating your own self-directed still lifes. Weekly critiques will happen before working on your own pieces, helping you become more comfortable discussing artwork. 

While the Instructor will be discussing oil paintings, and painting in oils, this class is open to any medium! Acrylic, charcoal, pastel, watercolor, etc. The focus of this class is learning how the elements and principles of design can be used to conjure specific feelings in the viewer, and to try that yourself through still lifes. Some painting or drawing experience suggested.

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Harrison Halaska received his Masters of Fine Arts from the Laguna College of Art and Design in 2018. His focus has been painting still lifes, landscapes, and portraits from life. He is engaged by the uncovering and discovery of his environment through painting. His paintings have been in various exhibitions, including shows at George Billis Gallery, Huntington Library, Laguna Museum of Art, and the 2018 XL Catlin Art Prize exhibition. He has also taught at the California School of the Arts San Gabriel Valley high school for two years. Harrison is excited to begin making paintings of his girlfriend, dog, and the beautiful New England landscape. harrisonhalaska.com