What will you learn

You start this course at the beginning, that is: drawing from observation, using the effects of light and shadow, mixing colors, how to use different types of brushes and paints, and how to construct an engaging composition. You will be introduced to a wealth of possible materials; from pen and ink to charcoal, acrylic paint, oil paint and pastels.

If you ever stand in front of a painting and think ‘I want to be able to do that’ or when you have a hundred pictures on your phone that you ‘should make something out of’, but you have not touched a pencil or brush for years and you don’t know where to start, then this course is for you. And if you sometimes make a nice doodle and you wish to go take them a step further, or you encounter artistic problems you cannot solve by yourself, you’re also very welcome.

Practical

After your try-out class you can buy a 10-classes card. These 10 classes can be followed on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesdays 19.00 – 21.30 or Friday 10.30 – 13.00 and 14.30 -17.00. You book your classes in PaynPlan. The 10-classes card expires in 15 weeks, so there is flexibility for your Holidays or other absences. After 10 classes you can easily buy another 10 classes to learn even more about drawing and painting. Included in the price are all materials except for papers bigger than A3 and canvases. These can be bought at the studio, or you can bring them yourself. Do you have preferences regarding subject matter or materials used? Please let the teacher know so she can adjust your assignments.

The classes for beginners take place at the same hours as the classes for more advanced students, making it very easy and inviting to transition from assignments for beginners to working on your own projects or more advanced assignments. Each student works in their own tempo, on their own project. We can inspire each other.

Teacher

Teacher and artist Rini Brakkee was born in Amsterdam and has been drawing, painting and crafting in all possible materials since childhood. She graduated from the Gerrit Rietveld academy Amsterdam and exhibits her work regularly. After working as a teacher for various clients she started workshop/gallery space Groeten van Marc in 2017.  She would love to share with you the inspiration that you can find in any circumstance, and the utter joy that comes from making your very own artwork. Read about our other teachers on the home page.

Inspiration

Drawing and painting is relaxing for many people, and at the same time an adventure. As Bob Ross said: “You can do anything you want to do. This is your world.” And that’s what makes it so wonderful: once you have practiced the technique a bit you can make whatever you want, you’re the boss inside your painting or drawing. Be surprised and inspired!

Broad overview of the course program (this will be adjusted to each student)

Still life with geometrical shapes (pencil)

Still life with glassware (charcoal/pencil)

Color wheel, dark-light ladder

Still life with fruit (pastel/paint)

(Self) portrait sketching in pencil and painting in oils/acrylics

Line perspective (ink and/or watercolors)

Atmospheric perspective, landscape in acrylic paint

Proportions of the human body

Aspects of a balanced/interesting composition (this will be taught throughout the classes)

Transferring a photo or sketch to canvas or paper

If you have other interests or things you would like to learn, just ask! At Groeten van Marc experiments are encouraged.

Non Dutch speakers are very welcome, we can speak English.