Portrait Painting in Oil Using the Zorn Palette

6-week term
Mondays 6pm - 9pm
September 21st - October 26th, 2026

$345

In this portrait painting class, students will learn how to accurately portray the human head in oil paint. We will explore the nuances of capturing likeness, how to work from large forms to small details, how to vignette the portrait, and how to use a faceted approach to give solidity to the head.

Jeff will lead each class with a demo explaining his process, then students will begin exercises. In the first four weeks, students will paint from observation and from photos. In the final two weeks, we will work from live models in a long pose format.

We will begin with a monochrome palette, then proceed to use the Zorn palette during this term. Students are welcome to use additional colors, but a minimal base set of four paints will be required for this class.

Materials:
- Titanium white
- Ivory black
- Yellow ochre
- Cadmium red light
- A palette surface to mix colors on (preferably one in which paint colors can be saved between classes)
- Gamsol solvent in proper storage container (used to dilute paint and clean brushes)
- Various canvas panels ranging between sizes 5" x 7" to 11" x 14

Easels and shop towels will be provided.

Format: Instructor demo (20 to 30 minutes) + painting time with instructor feedback
Level: All levels welcome (some portrait/figure drawing experience helpful)