We welcome back Martha Holmes into the studio, for what will be a captivating insight into how she approaches the subject of ‘still life’, which has recently become one of her main painting focuses.

After spending some time in Studio 9 at Porthmeor Studios last Summer, Martha Holmes was inspired to create a new collection of paintings which used ‘still life’ as a central theme.  Jugs of flowers, open books, vessels and other day to day items in the studio space started to inform the colour, composition and forms for her paintings.

In this two-part webinar series we will dive deeper into Martha’s methods for extracting the shapes and colours of a still life set up, learning how to compose and paint a successful oil painting.  Throughout this series we will discuss the boundaries between abstraction and representation, working from still life set-ups photographed in the studio as well as from life where possible.

Session 1: Watch Now (this is a recording of a live broadcast, 1.5hrs)

The process of abstracting a ‘still life’ within an interior space will be explored through sketching and mark making, working on paper in both pencil and oil.  There will be a rich focus on the importance of colour and how to form a selected palette for your still life painting, alongside determining the role that shape and form play in the overall spatial dynamic of the painting.

Session 2: Watch Now (this is a recording of a live broadcast, 1.5hrs)

We will be drawing on the techniques used in the first session to form a larger, more considered painting, whilst referencing the works by several St. Ives artists such as Winifred Nicholson and other painters who explore still life such as William Scott and Vanessa Bell.

For those familiar with Martha’s style of painting or who may have completed one of her previous webinars, this series will use similar materials, mediums and techniques but with a new subject matter and focus.  This is a stand-alone webinar, however Martha’s previous landscape orientated sessions would be a great companion course to take to deepen your understanding of abstraction and working in oils.

How does an online session work?

We record the sessions so you can watch on demand, as often as you like, for up to 90 days after purchase. This way you can pause a scene, rewind and finish your painting. You can watch on a PC, laptop or tablet and if you have chromecast or miracast you could even cast to your SmartTV from your phone.

You will be invited to join our Facebook Alumni group so you can share your discoveries with fellow students from around the world. You can also share your work live with others on social media using the #schoolofpainting and tagging us @stives painting