Mastering Light & Shadow w/ Keeley Rae

Description

ABOUT THE WORKSHOP: Participate in a centuries-old tradition of classical realism and discover how controlling value can transform two-dimensional artwork into striking, realistic forms. Led by National Gallery of Art copyist Keeley Rae, this hands-on workshop breaks down the foundational principles of light, contrast, shadow, and edge control so you can paint or draw with dramatic depth and realism. Through step-by-step live demonstrations and guided practical exercises, you will explore how various lighting conditions shape perception and create convincing volume. Whether you work in charcoal, graphite, or oil paint, you will gain practical strategies for analyzing value relationships, organizing lights and darks, and applying essential visual principles that elevate all of your future drawings and paintings. ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR: Keeley Rae is an accomplished portrait and figurative artist in the Washington, D.C. area and an official copyist at the National Gallery of Art. She began her career at 17 painting private murals near Portland, Oregon, before earning her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Brigham Young University–Idaho. Then, she served as a studio assistant to artist J. Kirk Richards. Today, Keeley teaches classical realism drawing and painting across top art institutions in the DMV area and actively exhibits her work in local galleries. Known for her clear, structured instruction and deep appreciation for classical techniques, Keeley empowers artists of all skill levels to master the fundamentals of light, form, and composition. WORKSHOP DATE: Saturday | Oct. 31st | 11:00am - 2:00pm | All levels welcome! SUPPLY LIST: -18x24 newsprint -Sketchbook -Two sheets of medium toned Charcoal paper or Canson paper -Vine charcoal -Charcoal pencils Generals brand 2b,4b,6b, -Easers: kneaded and pink -Pencil sharper (I like AFMAT Long Point sharpers)