Would you like to learn tools, tips and techniques for working with pastels?
Are you interested in seeing how Helen composes and creates vibrant pastel drawings?
Join Helen Dannelly for this introduction to pastel landscapes.
During four 90 minute sessions,
Helen demonstrates:
- taking an image from sketch to fully fledged composition
- creating value scales to check your lights and darks
- using complementary colors to create subtle hues and bright contrasts
- how to work en plein air as well as from photographs
Helen’s formal training in the fundamentals of painting and composition inform her demos and give you tools to assess color, saturation and value.
This class is chock full of valuable tools for you to utilize in your work and enable you to see more clearly. I love sharing these techniques with students. Pastel drawing is something I've been doing for years and I love sharing my best tips with students.
~Helen Dannelly
This course is for you if you:
- Would like to learn basic pastel techniques
- Are an adventurous beginner, skilled artist, or anywhere in between
- Want to expand your creativity while honing your critical thinking skills
Helen has a knack for guiding you in amplifying your ideas. Her method of teaching involves showing the potential of what you can do with the various materials and then letting you loose to see what is possible.
As an instructor, Helen draws upon her formal art training to add richness and depth to the classroom experience, incorporating fundamentals of composition, color, and form.
FAQ:
Q: Do I need drawing experience?
A: No, this is a class for individuals both new to pastels or drawing as well as those who have dabbled in the medium previously but would like some guidance to prompt them along. And for those with some experience, you will learn additional techniques to expand your practice.
Q: I can't view the class immediately. How long will I have access?
A: You may view the class for 60 days after you register for the course.
Q: I have more questions. How do I reach you?
A: You can email me at [email protected]
Helen Dannelly draws on over 30 years of professional experience in helping you realize your artistic goals. Helen’s teaching is informed by a unique combination of training that she utilizes in guiding you conceptually and technically. She received a BA in Women’s Studies from the University of California, Santa Cruz. She studied painting at San Francisco State University (working with Bay Area photorealists) and sculpture at the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis.
Moving easily between drawing, painting, and sculpture, Helen has developed unconventional ways of mixing mediums that create emotionally evocative pieces. Helen’s work focuses on metamorphosis both personally, in natural phenomena, and of the materials. Her organic sculptures are inspired by the natural world, a nod to sea life and plants. Complex surfaces and engaging forms invite viewers to explore the impact of climate change--a metamorphosis of decline.
Helen is attentive to the importance of art fundamentals weaving them into her classes. She recognizes that these components (color theory, elements of composition, and drawing/ mark-making) are skills that need to be continually developed and refined in order for students to leverage them effectively in their work. This mastery results in students creating more sophisticated work and understanding why it is more successful.
Helen Dannelly is also:
- A Golden Artist Educator
- A Silver Brush Educator
- R&F trained Advanced Encaustic Instructor
Testimonials
“I just read the comments on my [work] and want to thank you for what you added. I am happy to have your expanded opinions. Very helpful and so encouraging. You made my day.”
~ Linda S. ~
"I wanted you to know I love the course and am very appreciative of the teaching and support. Then so many ways to contact you, get feedback, etc. Thank you. I am getting more comfortable with Beginner's mind."
~ Adelaide S.
"Helen shared her knowledge and time to support each student individually as we experimented with these materials.
She challenged us to think in new ways and gave generously of her support when we had questions or
encountered problems in our work.”
~ Laureen W. ~
Other Courses offered by Helen Dannelly:
Classes are updated throughout the year so be sure to stay updated with Catalyst Art Lab.