Beautiful Mistakes: An Experimental Acrylic Workshop

Some of the most interesting paintings begin when something goes wrong. In this two-evening experimental acrylic workshop, artist Fran Cooper invites students to loosen up, take chances and learn how to respond when a painting does something unexpected. Students will drip paint, scrape it away, cover areas, make awkward marks, add surprising color, layer texture and deliberately disrupt what they have already created. The goal isn’t to make a mess for the sake of making a mess. Students will learn how artists recognize what is working, edit what isn’t and use an accidental mark, color or shape as the beginning of the next decision.

Through demonstrations, guided exercises and individual instruction, students will explore layering, scraping, mark-making, color, texture and composition while creating an original acrylic painting. No experience is necessary—and perfectionists are especially welcome. Leave the eraser at home.

*To register for the course, participants must be 16 years of age or older.