Stacy Phillips: Beyond Likeness: Mixed-Media Portraiture

In this innovative art class, we will delve into various prompts and exercises designed to push the boundaries of how we perceive and portray the human face. Unlike traditional portrait drawing classes, "Beyond Likeness" focuses on deconstructing the face and reconstructing it through layers of mixed media, collage, drawing, and painting. Our goal is not to capture the likeness of a particular face but to express the essence and emotions behind the face.

Key Highlights:

• Exploration and Experimentation: This class encourages you to step out of your comfort zone and challenge your preconceived notions of facial representation. We will explore various techniques and approaches to create unique and expressive portraits.

• Mixed Media Mastery: You will learn to work with mixed media in acrylic, incorporating collage, drawing, and painting to build layers of depth and complexity in your artwork.

• Point of Departure: We will use photographic references as a starting point, but our aim is not to replicate them precisely. Instead, we'll use them as inspiration to create imaginative and innovative portraits.

• Multiple Creations: You will have the opportunity to work on both paper and cradled panels, allowing you to experiment and create multiple pieces. This process encourages creative exploration and discovery.

• Layered Imagery: The course emphasizes the importance of building your artwork through layers, allowing you to evolve and refine your creations progressively.

• Creative Conversation: Throughout the class, there will be ample time for discussion, critique, and the exchange

of ideas with your fellow artists. Sharing insights and feedback is an integral part of the creative process.

• Playful Mindset: The class encourages a playful and open-minded approach to art. We believe that action and experimentation are the keys to pushing your artistic boundaries and discovering fresh perspectives on portraiture.

Our class mindset is all about play, exploration, and the discovery of reimagining the face. Together, we'll step out of our comfort zones, leave behind our critical minds, and let action guide us forward.

Join us in this exciting artistic adventure as we break free from conventional notions of likeness and delve into the boundless possibilities of mixed-media portraiture. Let's surprise ourselves and find inspiration in the process of reimagining the portrait.

BIO

Stacy Phillips is an experienced mixed media artist based in Salt Lake City, renowned for her vibrant creations and love of exploring materials. As the dedicated Working Artist for Golden Paints in Utah, Stacy brings a wealth of expertise to her workshop participants. A key contributor to an international online art program, she serves as a valuable coach, inspiring fellow artists on their creative journeys. Since 2017, Stacy has been a transformative force in the realm of art education, opening up possibilities through materials, concepts and conversation for her students. Represented by Coda Gallery in Palm Desert and Trove Gallery, Park City for over two decades, Stacy's influence extends far beyond her studio. A testament to her impact, one student fondly recalls, "You are a great teacher, and your class in 2019 has truly changed my practice, opening up new avenues for self-expression." - Jan Hoffman