Abstract Workshops Available
Discover more of your unique artistic voice
Adventures in Abstraction in Pastel
This is an exercise driven workshop covering the essential elements of effective design, and the different types of abstraction in the full range from representational to non-objective art. Abstract painting in pastel is a completely different experience than with other media. This class will challenge you to understand and progress in making good abstract art, setting you free to enjoy the process. Two, three, or four day options are available.
Adventures in Abstraction in Acrylic/Collage
These are hands-on, technique driven workshops. They emphasize layering and composition, and can include the use of hand-made acrylic papers (made in class) with some mixed-media and printmaking involved. Two, three, or four day options are available. A further option is to do these classes in black and white.
The Abstracted Landscape in Plein Air
Loosen up your plein air painting and learn to see the landscape more abstractly (any media). One to five day options available.
Painting Meditations
Painting through guided meditations, you’ll learn to trust the unfolding process and have effective conversations both within your head and with the painting in front of you. In order to paint with your own authentic voice, refining these conversations is essential. These mediations can be done in any media in a full day workshop, or added as a short exercise to any other workshop.
Workshops available for adults and/or teens.
For all ability levels from beginner to professional.
Contact me to book a workshop
Upcoming Workshops
Manchester Art Association has scheduled two a one day Abstract Art workshops for all mediums, one in April, and one in May 2024
Creative Art Camp in Maine has scheduled a week long Painted Paper Collage class for Christian Science church members, last week of August, 2024.
Pastel Society of Maine has scheduled a three day workshop in Saco, Maine of Unusual Surfaces and Techniques in Pastel. Dates to Follow
A Plein Air Workshop may run in 2025 in the Pyrenees in Spain. I need three to sign up and pay to secure a date. Price including one week lodging, breakfast and dinner daily, two cooking classes, guided hikes, and my workshop is $1700. I’d love to spend some time painting in the mountains with you. If you are interested, help me secure this opportunity! This place comes well recommended by repeat visitors. Check out the accommodations here.
Want to offer a program to help people understand abstract art?
I offer a Powerpoint talk explaining 300 slides of original art, available via Zoom, for art groups:
Abstraction: From Realism through Non-Objective Art.
Photos and Workshop Reviews
“Polly was awesome! I’d love to take another one of her classes. This workshop went above and beyond my expectations. It was a great combination of lecture, production, and discussion.”
Rossella Pulit
“This workshop will stay with me forever. I have a new understanding. I wish it was longer.”
Laura Kinlock
“I give this workshop an A+. I loved being pushed out of my comfort zone. I feel empowered.”
Sue Bosworth
“I started abstract painting a year ago and Polly has me even more motivated to continue on the abstract path. What I enjoyed most was Polly’s enthusiasm and painting knowledge as well as meeting fellow artists. I’d love to take another one of her workshops.”
Lin Gotta
“I so enjoyed my time in your workshop. You were clear in your instruction, extremely well prepared and showed just the right amount of leadership strength. You empowered our freedom. As I continue to explore and investigate abstraction and figure out how to find my own voice, I will keep your exercises whispering in my mind.”
Laurel
“Your workshop was terrific for my art and soul. The critiques were wonderful. Polly has a great way of making people feel comfortable when discussing the art work pros and cons. I really enjoyed this class and it came at an important time for me in my life.”
Kate Henderson
“Very good workshop revisiting fundamentals as well as looking at abstract techniques. Polly provided good feedback and gave positive reinforcement, inspiring creativity in painting.”
“Excellent! Everything about this workshop surpassed my expectations. It was very freeing! Polly was wonderful, the right balance of working hard and staying focused with no fear.”
“Thank you again for the wonderful workshop you gave this weekend. I just want you to know that I think you are a fabulous teacher! Your presentations were very organized and interesting. You kept us focused and motivated, while providing a safe, warm, and encouraging environment for exploration. I feel energized and look forward to developing abstraction in my work. I would love to attend your other workshops.”
Sharon Kehmna
Jump-start and revolutionize your whole art practice!
You’ll work hard and have fun doing it.
Contact me here with any questions about attending or hosting a workshop.
I look forward to working with you.
