Single Sitting Alla Prima Oil Sketch

In this 4-session workshop we will learn to paint a still life in a single sitting. Working entirely from life from a still life setup, we will practice drawing, massing in values and applying color. We will then explore modeling the forms, applying highlights and refining. Through demonstrations and practice, students will gain further inspiration to complete paintings faster with simplification and less fussiness.

About the instructor: 

Paul Abeleira is a graduate of Western’s Visual Arts program. He continues his own studies in still life and portraiture in workshops  in New York, Wisconsin and Arizona, and has instructed artists in many facets of visual arts. Paul has taught at TAP for over 10 years and has received positive responses from his students who characterize him as a sensitive coach with a broad range of skills and knowledge. He is committed to making the learning experience worthwhile.

Wednesday afternoons from 1pm-4pm

September 23, 30, October 7, and 14, 2026

Instructor: Paul Abeleira

Location: Good Foundation North Studio

$180 + materials

Maximum of 10 students

Materials

(Please note that these materials are only a recommended guide. Similar variations are acceptable.)

CANVAS

• 4 canvases, 8”x10” – 11”x14”—can be stretched, canvas board or primed panel

TRADITIONAL OIL COLORS (water mixable oils also accepted)

• Titanium White

• Cadmium Yellow Medium

• Yellow Ochre

• Cadmium red light

• Alizarin Crimson or Permanent Rose

• Thalo or Viridian Green

• Thalo or Ultramarine Blue

• Raw or Burnt Umber

• Burnt Sienna

• Ivory Black

BRUSHES

• 2 - #4 natural hog hair bristle filbert brushes

• 2 - #2 natural hog hair bristle filbert brushes

• 1 - #4 synthetic soft hair flat brush (square, for blending)

OTHER ESSENTIALS

• Wooden handheld palette (do not purchase a white palette; it must be mid tone wood)

• Odorless Solvent - Mineral Spirits, Taltine or Gamsol are a few popular choices

• Jar or Brush Washer for solvent

• Linseed oil

• Paper towels or rags

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NOTE – Best, most economical place to purchase art materials is Bijan’s Art Studio