About the Workshop

This workshop explores humor by looking at our surroundings and everyday objects, translating collected ideas and sketches into abstract paintings. To set the stage, we will begin with a lecture and discussion on contemporary artists working with humor and emotions. The meaning and definition of abstraction, and its use to convey emotion or mood will be investigated. Basic instruction will be given in color theory, use and purpose of sketchbooks, and working with acrylic paint. Students will begin and hopefully complete one small painting influenced by their sketches and ideas.

Designed for participants ages 16 and up. Please bring your own sketchbook and colored pencils. Cost includes the following materials:

• 12" x 12" canvas
• Palette Pad
• Set of 6 brushes
• Color Theory Paint Set

Meet the Artist

Melissa Dorn Richards works between painting and sculpture. She draws from common everyday objects, things often over-looked or passed by, as subject matter and infuses them with humor and expressive color. Dorn Richards is a Milwaukee-based artist, who holds a BFA from the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design. A practicing artist for 20 years, she is represented by Frank Juarez Gallery.

Her work can be found in many corporate collections including Tax-Air, Northwestern Mutual, Mandel Group, West Bend Mutual Insurance Company, Littler Mendelson and Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design.

Select exhibitions include: The Jump Off, Urban Institute for Contemporary Art; Detroit Biennale, Museum of New Art; Wisconsin Artists Biennial, Museum of Wisconsin Art; Preservatif, Stockholm Gallery; Forward 2014, Charles Allis Art Museum; Up, Down!, River Edge Gallery; Moving Mountains, Frank Juarez Gallery; Schematic, UW-Sheboygan; Eight Counties, John Michael Kohler Arts Center; Art Chicago and Aqua Art Miami, Hotcakes Gallery.