A Guided Outdoor Painting Workshop

Workshop Description

This two-session plein air workshop invites participants to explore the urban landscape around Vancouver’s historic Sun Tower through guided painting sessions. Working with gouache — a versatile, opaque water-based medium ideal for layering and quick drying — or the opaque paint medium of their choice (oils or acrylics), participants will develop their skills in composition, color mixing, and working from observation on location. Designed for both beginners and experienced artists, this workshop offers supportive instruction, focused practice, and the opportunity to respond creatively to the unique textures and atmosphere of the downtown core. One week will be more focused on making composition decisions, and the other on matching colours. We will practice making and using view-finders to plan a compelling composition. Participants will learn how to go from small sketch to bigger painting, mix accurate colours using a limited palette, and adapt to changing light outdoors. Participants who already have a painting set-up appropriate for outdoors are invited to bring that. For participants who do not have their own materials, gouache paint and all materials necessary for working with gouache will be provided. Materials provided: For people not bringing own materials, gouache paint is provided We have a limited number of easels, boards, and brushes Plastic palettes and spray bottles Toned paper and watercolour paper Binder clips Paper towels Masking tape About the instructors: Lee Iskander (they/them) is an educator and education researcher who recently completed their PhD in Curriculum Studies at the University of British Columbia. In addition to their scholarly work, Lee maintains an artistic practice as a painter. They particularly enjoy painting en plein air or from live models. Lee's paintings employ vibrant colours and emphasize the effects of light on an object or scene. https://www.leeiskander.com/ Pierre is a visual artist and educator based in Vancouver who works primarily in gouache, coloured pencils, and mixed media. His practice is rooted in observation, with a focus on plein air and figure work. As an educator, he enjoys helping others get started with drawing and painting, and supports them as they build skills and find their own approach through practice. Public Transport and Parking Train- Chinatown Skytrain Station Bus - Served by the numbers 5, 17, 19, 22, 257 Parking - Limited off-street parking Our entrance is wheelchair accessible.