March 21 - 22, 2026
Unlocking Composition: w/Mark Vander Vinne
Wayne Art Center
413 Maplewood Ave Wayne, PA 19087
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About this event
Description
Unlocking Composition:Turning Theory into Powerful PaintingsMarch 21-2210:00 am 4:00 pmUnlocking Composition is a two-day immersive workshop that helps artists create stronger, more visually engaging paintings by putting theory into practice. Working from their own photos, participants will learn to break down complex scenes into simplified shapes and values. They’ll learn how to make and use focal areas that guide the viewer’s eye. On the second day, we’ll delve into understanding balance and unity to create harmony in a painting. Through lectures, demonstrations, and one-on-one- instruction, artists will learn the tools Mark uses to analyze and design a painting. By the end, artists will have practical tools and strategies to approach composition confidently and apply key principles to their own work, helping their paintings feel more cohesive and engaging.
Student Level: Open to all levels. Note: this workshop is not for absolute beginners who have never picked up a brush before.
Medium: Oil is primary but open to all mediums, so long as the student has prior experience with that medium.
What are the main selling points?
Students will learn how to: • break down and simplify a scene• break up the canvas into shapes and values to create powerful compositions• create and use focal areas to lead the viewer’s eye around their painting• create harmony through unity of shape and color
What is the primary benefit or benefits that the attendee will receive from taking the class or workshop? Students will learn to apply composition principles to their work and create impactful paintings.
Students are expected to bring their own supplies. A supply list will be provided.
Teaching Style: Mark has a deep passion for learning and also sharing the knowledge he has gained. He is a friendly and energetic teacher who specializes at conveying complex theories into simple, understandable terms. His workshops are immersive yet fun and engaging, covering lots of ideas for students of all levels. He uses a triple-layered approach, so his students fully grasp the concepts being presented. This includes explaining the concept and showing how master artists have used it, demonstrating the concept to show his approach and decision-making, and one-on-one instruction with the students so they can see how to apply it to their own work.
Instructor
Mark Vander Vinne
Event reminder
March 21 - 22, 2026Saturday, SundayAdd to calendar
Co-Ed
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