A Different App

 A Different Approach

Here we are, still doing our part to keep ourselves and others safe. This means even the normally isolated artists are even more so. Live models, workshops, gallery openings... a thing of the past as we knew them. However, all is not lost. There are creative people keeping the creativity alive. I’ll tell you about two that I’ve experienced. 

The Virtual Figure

https://www.thevirtualfigure.com/

The Virtual Figure on ZOOM is hosted by a couple of artist and models in U.K. Each session, they have notable artist such as Henrik Uldalen, Yulia Bas, Agnes Grochulska (to name a few) begin with a demo using the model. Afterwards (and during) you can ask questions of the artist about techniques and career. Then it’s your turn! Models are positioned and you have several ‘short’ poses to paint from. At the same time, if you utilize the “pin” function on ZOOM, you can also watch the Guest Artist paint at the same time! It is a great learning opportunity and an opportunity to paint from life. 

Negatives: It’s really not completely fair to list any negatives but in the age of transparency.... The poses are short. But that’s the point. There are several poses, but the idea is to quickly capture the figure and hone your drawing\painting  skills. It forces you to see quickly and improve your accuracy. I’m a slower painter, but I still give it a thumbs up. 

Below are some of my results from the sessions. 

Tea Time With Teresa. 

The second ZOOM session I’ve enjoyed is hosted by Teresa Oaxaca. This is in the fashion of artists hang outs from the former days. The pose is longer (just one pose bordering on 4 hours). The model is usually in some sort of costume. During breaks, the Audio is opened up so the participants can  ask questions and  chat with one another or Teresa or the model. It’s a lot less formal and the discussions range  from what one is drinking to debunking art theories. It’s a very open & comfortable spot to sip, discuss, and paint. It’s a blast. The longer pose really allows you to take your time and paint in a more relaxed manner. 

Negatives: Again... why? But I will say in this session, the host does not demo. However... this is really a positive in a way. Would I like to see Teresa paint? Of course!!! This is about the participating artists. This is about you and your art. At the end (for a bit more money) Teresa will give you a critique. And these are not ego stroking critiques. These are true, down to earth, constructive  critiques. You won’t leave in tears, but amazed at her knowledgeable, spot on observations. 

Below is a piece from our last session. Because of the time, it made me break out my oils again.

Both sessions are affordable and PayPal friendly. 

So this is a different approach to the Camaraderie of The Artist Pow Wows of the past, but it works for me. Let me know what’s keeping you afloat. 

-r