Ovanes Berberian Workshop in Carmel Overview 2011

Let Them Eat Cake by Randy Blasquez  $800.

I got back last week from my third workshop with Ovanes in about eleven months. I should be painting pretty well by now right? Well, the truth is, I'm a slow learner. What I mean is that I've discovered it takes hard concentrated work to get anywhere in the business of being an artist. I'm not talking about the business side of things, I'm talking about just picking up new information, processing it, and integrating it into your paintings. Every time I learn something new, it takes a long time to go through that process. If I don't have time to do the work, or if I don't get to it I will end up losing it. So if I'm going to spend all this money and time learning from Ovanes, I'd better get to work! More practice, more practice, more practice.

Speaking of practice, I've been doing just that for about six months now, working on a new series of still life florals. It has been difficult, but at the same time rewarding. I've been discouraged, confused, unfocused, excited, and tired! But I'm glad for the opportunity to push myself to this degree. Maybe someday you will see these paintings. Ha! Most of them will be going in the trash. Hopefully, with continued study and practice, I will have a few successes to show.

Back to the workshop. Ovanes has a beautiful cottage home/studio in the Carmel by the Sea area. Quaint little neighborhood, beautiful garden. He held his workshop right there in the garden. There were about 14 of us set up to paint plein air still lifes. The first day he did what he usually does, and that is a lecture and do a quick demonstration of what he wants us to accomplish (attempt).

 Then he sends us out to spend the whole afternoon in the garden. (His workshop in Carmel last year was at the beach). The days started out cloudy, and in a couple of hours the sun came out. This made problems for me because I failed to understand that when the sun comes out, you move to another canvas. Ugh! So I ended up chasing the sun/shadows to the point of confusion.

What was very good for me was that I have come to love this new technique that he has taught me this year. He uses a gum turpentine/damar varnish/linseed oil combination medium that you use to brush in very clean transparent washes. I am finally getting the idea of this and loving it. 

In the next post I will give you the process. I am teaching it in my intermediate classes in downtown Sacramento as well.

In the mean time, here are some photos from the workshop.

 Ovanes's assistant, Susan, is teaching the students how to set up their palettes...

 My palette in the foreground.....Chris next door.

 Renee under her umbrella.....

 Chris hard at work......

 Connie looking good.....painting apples.

 Renee and her paper towels.....