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Tel. (718) 937-1300
Academic Painting
The Russian painting tradition is unique. In America, the Russian realist painters are often referred to as Impressionists. It is true that, the discoveries of the French Impressionists have influenced Russian painting in the late nineteenth century. However, while studying the effects of light on color through building color relationships, the Russians always adhered to highly accurate drawing. As a result, the Russian tradition combines the focus on color, but without destroying the form, and is often referred to as a more painterly school. The Russian school also emphasizes the harmonious design of painting, what is known as composition. Details are emphasized only to the extent as they contribute to the general composition. Students work primarily in the Ala Prima technique, Instruction in glazing techniques is also available.
Level 1
Students begin by painting still-life arrangements, from which they progress to portrait and figure. Still-life is a perfect genre in which to understand color, value, perspective and composition. A beautifully arranged still life with harmonious colors and interesting objects can tell a great story. Bridgeview instructors are known for setting up the most inspiring still-lifes in the tradition of the old masters. Typical first level assignments may include:
A series of still life paintings introducing a variety of materials, such as drapery, glass, metal, classical casts.
Grisaille (monochromatic) technique of painting.
Still Life with Interior. Objects are placed on several planes within a room.
Still Life with anatomical casts including a human scull, a torso, and other similar objects.
While continuing painting still-lifes, students proceed to a series of portrait assignments, including three-quarter, frontal and profile views of the model with different backgrounds and color designs. The direction of light varies from one assignment to the other, including left, right, front and back lighting.
Level 2
Students continue working on portrait and figure studies. Assignments may include portrait with arms in simple and complex movements, a painting of a dressed figure inside of interior, a painting of two figures, a portrait with a still-life.
Level 3
At this level students continue painting two or more figure compositions, dressed and nude, with simple or complex backgrounds. However, the majority of time is dedicated to painting the nude figure from life.