Explore Hetch Hetchy's majestic views, thundering waterfalls and fields of wildflowers in this unique plein air painting workshop by an accomplished artist and expert naturalist. Working on location, you'll discover relationships of plein air techniques/materials, composition, color, value, brushwork, aesthetics, and reference photography with implications for studio work. From beginner to professional, you'll view Hetch Hetchy with a fresh perspective and deeper understanding as you learn about its geology, flora, fauna, atmosphere and light relating to painting. Translate these elements through your brush and create more life-like and interpretive works of art. Includes demonstrations in oils, instruction and critique. James will accommodate other painting mediums. Recommended materials list provided. Includes evening programs/meeting, full day nature walk, and two full days of painting workshop in the field. 

You'll need your own materials including: Pochade/easel or sketchbox, paints, medium, brushes, paper towels, camera etc. Detailed materials list and info provided to registrants.                                                                                                                                                                                               

Spectacular views unfold as we walk through wildflowers to dramatic waterfalls while exploring aspects of composition, perspective, depth of field, motion, color, lighting, and natural history of your subject. We will discuss the techniques of wide angle photography, macro, and telephoto to isolate and simplify a subject. All the best landscape and nature photographers produce consistently great images because they not only know the technical and aesthetic aspects of their medium, but they also know their subject. Likewise, class participants will discover the elements of Hetch Hetchy that make it special from its geology, to the flora and fauna, and history. You'll apply your newfound technical knowledge coupled with your personal emotion/vision to create meaningful interpretations of Hetch Hetchy. 4 hours, and up to 3.5 miles easy walking. This course will enhance the Hetch Hetchy Plein Air workshop taught the same week.

Explore the beautiful ecology of a vast Giant Sequoia forest in fall splendor.  Working among vast stands of towering Sequoias, you'll discover relationships of composition, color, value, brushwork, aesthetics, and reference photography with implications for studio work.  Learn the materials and techniques for traveling light and working quickly outdoors.  From beginner to professional, you'll view Sequoia forests with a fresh perspective and deeper understanding as you learn about not just capturing the visual appearance, but also the ecology of the magnificent trees. Translate these elements through your brush and create more life-like, emotional and interpretive works of art. Includes demonstrations in oils, instruction and critique. Oils highly recommended,  but will accommodate other painting mediums.  Recommended materials list provided to registrants.  Registration through Sequoia Field Institute at the Sequoia Natural History Association.  www.sequoiahistory.org