Yesterday, we wrapped up a month of Wednesday afternoons spent with paint on our brushes and our hands, learning new things. Local artist Susan Haglund’s Ex-Factor Abstract workshop was really fun – we painted on a black canvas, played with different textures and techniques – and one week, she challenged us to get a bigger canvas than we’re comfortable with. That was my favourite part. I learned how to use a palette knife, how to layer & use composition, but most importantly – there are no rights and wrongs when it comes to doing art. You just start!

(photo courtesy Peachland Community Arts Council’s website)

It was mostly experienced painters (some even sell their work!) and I just joined because I’ve always wanted to learn to paint.

Definitely some talent in this room!

..another classmate’s painting I really like.

..And here’s my big canvas, maybe it’s done, maybe it’s a work in progress. We’ll see what happens!