Abstract Painting with Acrylic, Texture & Glaze | Kerry Rushton

Step into the studio with abstract artist Kerry Rushton and experience the energy of her playful and explorative approach to creating abstract expressionism art.
 
In this immersive workshop, Kerry will guide you through her distinctive to layering process that she has refined over years of dedicated practice. Known for her ability to “mix it up” and continually evolve, Kerry will share insights that inspire bold experimentation and fresh perspectives.
With her warm, encouraging teaching style, you’ll not only discover new techniques and application, but be given the space to push the boundaries and see what is possible.

What will I learn?

In this lively, hands-on workshop, you’ll work on several pieces at once—layering, experimenting, and watching your artworks evolve throughout the day. You’ll head home not only with your creations, but also with a refreshed sense of play, curiosity, and the confidence to keep exploring.

• Experiment with texture using artist modelling paste, acrylic paint, glaze, crayons, graphite, different tools and sandpaper.
• Bring order to the chaos by learning how to apply composition and value within expressive abstract work.
• Play with colour through focused exercises that help you unlock striking combinations, rich shades, and delicate tints. Kerry will share her approach to harmonising colours to create a sophisticated palette.

Who is this course suitable for?

This workshop welcomes beginners and anyone with some experience, although some understanding of using paints and brushes is essential.

What do I need to bring?

Canvas and Boards:

• Bring between 2 and 4 substrates.
• Either stretched canvas or board (cradle mount, MDF, plywood)
  Min. 30 x 30cm to Max. 60 x 60cm. Please do not bring oversized pieces.
• If bringing boards, MDF or plywood, please prime on both sides prior.

Modelling paste:
Any modelling or texture paste (min 250ml)
Recommend for value - Kmart Modelling paste (500ml) $8.

Acrylic Paints: Mostly I use flow paints (not pouring paints), but you can also use structure paint.   

• Bring a variety of acrylic paint including essentials :  White paint (preferably flow paint or flat house paint).                  
• Structure or flow - black, burnt umber, Transparent Red Oxide and Nickel Azo Gold. (Small amounts)

Other colours could include structure or flow:

• Yellow - Cadmium, Indian, Ochre, Hansa, Lemon, Cadmium Yellow Light
• Blue - Cerulean, Phthalo, Prussian, Ultramarine, Cobalt
• Red - Cadmium, Vermillion, Scarlett, Magenta

Bring along any colours you have at home including house paint sample pots.  

Other Materials:

• Large paint palette. (Recommend a large plastic tray)
• Roll baking paper.
• Sketchbook - any size.
• Clean up cloths or paper towel.

Medium 

• Minimum 250ml of clear painting medium or glaze medium (used for glazing)
• Transparent Gesso - recommend for value, Monte Marte (250ml) Clear Texture Gesso $9.
• OR spray fixative.

Brushes, Sponges and Mark Making Items: 

• Bring an assortment of brushes, small to large, flat to round. (Please see photo example below).
• An assortment of mark making items. (Please see photo example below)
• Water based crayons, oil or water based coloured pencils, soft pastel (not essential - only if you have them)
• Soft graphite pencils or charcoal (not essential - only if you have them)
• Sandpaper - 1 piece of 80 or 120 grit

Other non essential materials:

• Masking tape - anything between 24mm to 48mm
• 550g Calcite (Marble dust). (not essential)
• Stencils if you have them. (Please see photo example below)
• Hairdryer

Bring your lunch and snacks or you can purchase from cafes close by. 

What is provided?

• Easels
• Chairs
• Tables
• Cardboard for practice
• Tea and coffee (please bring your own mug)
• A friendly and supportive environment
• Connection to the Bienarté art community