Sea and sky are inseparable elements in a successful sea picture. The treatment of the sky should never be an afterthought because the character of the sky will always be echoed in the water.  For example, the glowing light of sunset or moonscape can be shown shimmering upon the sea. A veil of fog and mist can be shown uniting sea and sky. And in terms of composition the character of clouds may be subtly related to wave patterns.

Gary invites you to join him at The Clearing where he will share his many techniques for painting the varied moods of the sea. There are demonstrations of technique followed by ample time for guided practice. The atmosphere of the class is friendly and relaxed, with everyone working at their own pace. 

You may bring inspiring photos to work from, or you may choose to follow along with a guided tutorial which Gary offers. Either way Gary will be there to guide you toward achieving your unique vision of the deep. Gary will contact students prior to class.

Gary Hanks has been painting all of his adult life, and watercolor has always been his medium of choice. Gary has advanced university degrees in studio art, art education and art history. Believing that the artist must know his subject well, Gary has travelled to distant and remote locations to make on-site observations, including mountain hiking adventures in England, Scotland, France, Germany and the United States. Believing that to move forward, the artist must know what has been done in the past, he has studied art history, medieval architecture and the history of painting on-location in England and many European countries. Gary’s paintings are always a composite of things he has observed and things he has imagined. Focusing great attention on the play of light on his subjects, he strives to achieve a mystical effect in his paintings. To achieve his unusual effects, Gary has worked hard experimenting in order to develop his unique painting techniques, which critics usually agree set his work apart from the ordinary. Gary lives in Appleton, Wisconsin.

Level: Intermediate