Class Dates: July 5 – August 9, 2025
For all levels. Class content as explained by Steve: “This six-week portrait-painting course explors how cinematic techniques such as cropping, close-up framing, dramatic lighting and color-grading shape our emotional response to a portrait. Rooted in the expressive language of Impressionism, the course emphasizes loose, fluid brushwork to capture atmosphere, character and mood.” See current class info on Instagram @steveforsterpaints.
Weeks 1 – 3 were spent painting one portrait. Initially the setting out the drawing and starting to get some colours down. Week 2 continuing with the portrait. Week 3 working on the hair and background, adding movement and texture.
Portrait progress photos. Painting based on an original photo reference supplied by Steve Forster
Steve was generous with his time and expertise, and offers amazing feedback (either on the class portrait, or something else you are working on). The critique includes Steve drawing on screen digitally to show you clearly the eras of imprevement. for me this was to make the contrast on each piece stronger, adding highlights, working on form and adding texture. The final image above shows how the form and texture built over the weeks.
This is the first class of Steve’s I’ve taken and would definitely recommend his classes if you’re interested in improving your portraiture skills.
Find out more about Steve’s work on his website.