Sam Barlow offers nine different art classes, ranging from drawing to ceramics, all taught by Mrs. Gibson. Painting 1 is one of the classes that’s offered and is the first of three painting classes that artists at Sam Barlow can take. This class serves as an important stepping stone for those looking to improve their art skills since, in this class, students begin with the very basics of painting. They learn essential skills crucial for any painter, such as how to hold and wash a brush properly, how to mix colors together, and how to blend paint effectively.
The primary goal of Painting 1 is to set up a solid foundation in painting techniques, which serves as the foundation for students who wish to progress to Painting 2 and Painting 3. In Painting 2, students will build on the skills they acquired in Painting 1, focusing on reflections and watercolor techniques. By the time they reach Painting 3, they’ll apply those foundational skills to create nightscapes and experiment with imitating the styles of other artists. This foundational learning process emphasizes not only the technical aspects of painting but also encourages students to explore their creativity and develop their unique personal styles. Throughout the course, students engage in a variety of exercises designed to enhance their painting abilities.
Last semester, the class demonstrated impressive growth in their fundamental abilities, which was highlighted in a final project that required them to paint a landscape. Prior to tackling this assignment, students engaged in smaller exercises on mini canvases. These introductory practices not only allowed them to experiment with different techniques but also helped build their confidence as they prepared for the more significant project ahead.
As students worked hard on their landscape paintings, different teachers frequently walked into the classroom and were amazed to see the growth displayed by these students, often forgetting that they were in just a beginner painting class. The development of the students throughout the course was incredible. They progressed from having only a basic understanding of painting techniques to being able to create stunning pieces of art confidently. Their dedication to practice and their willingness to learn were evident in the quality of their work, resulting in landscapes that anyone would be proud to hang on their walls. You can admire some of the students’ landscape paintings displayed in the school’s hallways alongside artwork from other classes. The landscapes they’ve created showcase a stunning variety, from rugged mountains to lush, vibrant fields.
