Intro to Figurative Painting with the Zorn Palette

This single-session workshop offers a hands-on introduction to painting the human figure using the Zorn palette—a limited set of just four colors (white, black, red, yellow) that creates a cohesive and expressive range of skin tones. Working in oil, participants will explore how to block in the figure, mix skin tones, and paint light and shadow.

We’ll dive straight into paint, working alla prima (wet into wet) from the start. This approach encourages direct observation and helps simplify form, value, and color. We’ll work from a photo reference. This is a great opportunity to bring a photo of pet or loved one to work from!

This class is a great fit for artists who are comfortable with basic drawing concepts and are ready to try portrait painting in a supportive, focused environment. All ages welcome (14+), no academic background required*.

Workshop Goals:

• Make figure painting approachable through limited materials
• Build confidence in mixing and applying color to represent the figure
• Offer an inclusive and supportive space for creative learning

This class is a great fit for artists who are comfortable with basic drawing concepts and are ready to try portrait painting in a supportive, focused environment.

**drawing experience recommended

Participants are encouraged to bring their own materials. All supplies can be provided for in-class use for a $20 materials fee (materials are not taken home).

Materials List – Zorn Pallet

• 8 x 10 canvas, paper canvas, or similar prepared panel
• Pallet of your choosing (paper, wood, plastic. Please avoid traveling with glass)
• Pallet Knife (highly suggested but not required)
• Assorted paint brushes to your preference (Instructor will use a small assortment of flats and some rounds, in a combo of hog hair & synthetic soft bristle)

• Oil paint (Gamblin is a good quality, affordable option)
• Titanium white
• Yellow Ochre
• Cadmium Red Medium
• Ivory or Lamp black
• Paint medium, such as Gamblin Solvent Free Gel
• Odorless Paint thinner, such as Gamsol or Odorless Mineral Spirits

Materials Fee: $20

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