Creating Visual Separation of Foreground and Background

Recently I was painting pleine air near my home in Tomahawk, Wisconsin and had to deal with a common painting challenge--separating foreground from background. The values were very similar and the background was quite busy, but the temperatures varied. This temperature difference was the key to the solution. I "pushed" that difference (cooled down) while simplifying the background and VOILA, the foreground popped! A simple solution to a common problem.

Good luck with your painting experiences.
David

We Need Children's Picture Books!

Looking for books!  The CVA "library" is in need of children's picture books for use in a variety of kid's art classes.  We love to involve story time to round-out lesson plans.  We also love literature connecting with art.  Even older kids use book art for inspiration.  If you'd like to donate your gently used picture books, contact the CVA 715-842-4545 or cvaeducation@gmail.com

Pre-K Butterfly Fun

Today a Pre-K class from John Marshall Elementary (along with their teacher and aides) fluttered on in to the CVA School of Art to enjoy a colorful collage project tailored just right.  Led by CVA instructor Nancy Laliberte, 18 pairs of little hands busily tore, snipped and glued their own designs onto prepared paper stock.  An introductory book reading and tour of the Loft Gallery added to the inspiration.  Skills learned involved color, balance, contrast and much more.  No two butterflies were alike!  Contact cvaeducation@gmail.com to book your own art experience.

Kids Kids Kids in the Gallery!

Today, the CVA had the pleasure of hosting a wonderful group of third graders (and their teacher with attendant Moms!) from Statford WI.  With only one hour to spare in their busy day, they toured the CVA's main gallery to review the current exhibit Lost & Found.  Led by Valerie Berkely, CVA Curriculum Director, the kids were put to task!  Already well-versed in the ideas of using materials both recycled and repurposed, the kids used their powers of close observation to "find" specific items that were "lost" within the artwork on view.  Competition aside, the kids vied for the highest counts.  How many keys did they see?  How many dogs?  How many books?  How many blocks?  You get the picture!  Notebooks in hand, the kids tallied their results while discussing the various symbols and meanings presented in the artworks displayed.  Everyone enjoyed finding a new outlook on art.  Stop by this exhibit for yourself....you might be surprised at what you find!

Upcoming Pastel Workshops

Do you love pastel art as much as we do? Have you ever wanted to create your very own pastel painting? Are you a beginner? Well then, we have the workshops for you! Kay Brathol-Hostvet is scheduled to teach two separate all day workshops here at the CVA on May 21 and 22. Call 715-842-4545 to register. And know that ALL SUPPLIES are provided, courtesy of the CVA.

 

Currently at the CVA School of Art

OPEN STUDIO – PAINTING – ALL MEDIA

Tuesdays or Wednesdays, thru May 31

3 - 6pm or 6-9pm

class fee: $30 / each session

No need to pre-register.  Pay at the CVA Gift Shop cashier.  Bring work in progress for gentle critique and guidance.  All experience levels welcome.  Professional instructor well versed in acrylic, oil and watercolor.  Work on value studies, color harmonies, transparent layers.  Wet paintings may be conveniently stored in classroom between sessions.  Instructor Valerie Berkely http://www.berkelydesign.com/