PART 2 - Acrylic Painting: Reference to Finished Artwork

This live, practical class takes you through the complete acrylic painting workflow, from analysing a reference image to developing and refining a finished artwork. The focus is on understanding the decisions behind each stage rather than simply copying a reference step by step. You will learn how to break down a subject, plan effectively, build the painting systematically and make informed artistic decisions throughout the process.

1. Reference Analysis & Painting Planning

2. Composition, Thumbnail Planning & Visual Structure

3. Drawing, Proportion & Structural Transfer

4. Background, Underpainting & Blocking In

5. Building Form Through Layers

6. Depth, Texture & Surface Treatment

7. Details, Edges, Highlights & Colour Correction

8. Final Refinement, Finishing & Artwork Care

By the end of Part 2, you will understand a repeatable process for developing an acrylic painting from reference to finished artwork. You will be able to analyse and simplify complex subjects, identify important shapes and colour masses, plan compositions, establish accurate structure and values, build form through controlled layers, create depth and texture, manage details and edges, correct colour relationships, and refine the final artwork with greater intention. You will also understand how to evaluate your painting at different stages, identify areas that need correction, strengthen the focal point and know when the artwork is complete. The skills developed throughout the class will provide a practical framework that can be applied independently to different subjects, references and future acrylic paintings.