A student's two cents worth
 

It is very difficult for me to verbalize my experience of Marvin's workshop. This being my first portrait painting from life, Marvin's approach gave me clear direction, every step of the way. I had quoted David Lloyd George a week before the workshop, "Don't be afraid to take a big step if one is indicated. You can't cross a chasm in two small jumps". Well, this truly was a chasm crossing experience for me from drawing to painting. I strongly recommend Marvin's workshop for students ready to move from drawing to painting (even when you don't know you are ready ;) ) JIMMIE, IT's YOUR TURN!

Marvin's palette is easy to understand, every step makes perfect sense. Watching Marvin paint from beginning to end had me transfixed. Truthfully, he had 100% rapt attention from every artist. I stand in awe, Maavin!!! And feel eternally grateful for your generosity.

Here is my humble approach at the first, monochromatic stage. (BTW, Val's portrait is amazing, I was fortunate to have the easel next to her, to watch her's develop - thanks for the support, Val!!)

Patricia,

Stunning! What a LEAP!. Aren't you glad we all nagged you to death!

Nice going Patricia, that looks really good!

I'm Laughing, Sharon! Yes, I am soo glad you nagged. Because I would NOT have attended had it not been for the encouragement here on the forum from all of you.

And then, after making the decision and sending my money in, I came so close to cancelling when the builders finally closed on our townhouse a few days before the workshop. But Marvin gave good council, "I think that what you learn in the workshop will have profound influence on the work you want to produce..."

And then, when I decided to ignore the moving mess, the total chaos of my life, Marvin replied,"You may have learned more making this choice then most people will ever learn about portrait painting. In making the choice to attend you have demonstrated the greatest attribute needed to be a successful and accomplished artist. There will be many times you will feel thwarted by either your mental attitude or by seeming insurmountable circumstances. Your own willingness to surrender at those times is your lifeline in those instances."

So, enough about my experience. I happen to know there are one or two "lurkers" here who also attended Maavelous Maavin's workshop. They produced some great paintings too! Come out come out wherever you are... ;)

Thanks Val for your generous account of the week's goings on. Congrats on the commission. Go you! You said to me on the last day, you felt this was your best portrait ever. Not for long, babycakes! I also want to clarify to people that this painting was painted in just three days. Imagine if you actually got to finish it.

Patty, you did so well. I was so excited to see your progress each time I came over to your easel. I'm just sorry you had to leave one day early, but I understand you had a lot going on with your moving into a new space. I'm glad you chose to come in spite of all of that. Life is way too short to put one's passion on hold and I'm thrilled you chose to take the leap. Your lay-in was really great as well and I hope you post it. People would be amazed to see what you did in one day with color. No one in the workshop could believe that this was just your first portrait painted from life. I'm extremely proud of you.

We also had another forum participant there as well. Laurel the Lurker. She did a truly awesome job and I hope she registers to participate here on the forum, as she promised she would. Eh?

It always amazes me how I manage to attract the most wonderful people to take my classes and workshops. I guess it's a case of opposites attracting? We had an incredible group of people for this workshop and I had so much fun leading them through the morass. We were also blessed to have two terriffic models to inspire us, Moria and Leah. BTW, Leah signed up to take my next workshop in Atlanta. The week flew by and I'm already counting the days 'til Durham.

Pat from the looks of that underpainting, Valerie was just as lucky to be by you! WOW, it is wonderful!

Yeah, we are holding you to this! ;)

He is a great teacher isn't he!

Patty, good going! I love it too. I was so busy getting mine going I didn't get to really appreciate your painting in the class. Way to go! And Elizabeth is sooo right, I was just as honored to be next to you. Beautiful job, it matches your beautiful personality and smile.

Thanks Marvin, you're tops.

Where are you LTL? (Laurel the lurker)

Back to the easel!

Val

Thanks, Marvin and Val! And thanks, Elizabeth! Wow.

Val and Pat,

Your excitement and enthusiasm radiates through my monitor. It makes me want to paint.

Congratulations to both of you for what I think are fantastic portraits from life. They look great!!

Your positive workshop experience with Marvin does not come as a surprise to me, it only confirms what I have been trying to share since I experienced the "WOW" of it all for myself.

Oh Marvin, July ABSOLUTELY CAN NOT COME FAST ENOUGH FOR ME!!!!

beautiful!!
 

This is another gorgeous portrait - - - and I'm thoroughly interested in learning Marvin's technique.

Marvin -- do you make housecalls?
<g> Maybe someday if I can find someone who can handle babysitting six kids I'll make it to the class....

I'm attempting a portrait TODAY with this technique as discussed here on the forums (I know that's a poor substitute), but I don't know the palette. I am guessing.
Is it shared anywhere other than Marvin's class?


cheryl