[Chris Saper]

Elizabeth Schott had inquired in another thread what workshop newcomers might expect. Workshops are as different as the personalities and philosophies of the instructor, but there are some things that should be expected, both from the student's viewpoint and the instructor's.

First, come to class the first day prepared. That means, come with all the materials on the materials list. It sounds basic, but you would be surprised how often students do not. They then spend wasted hours and energy fighting their materials, and excusing their not learning due to their own choice of supplies.

Second,pay attention. Think how much you are investing in the time and expense to learn from someone who is better than you. (If your teacher does not paint better than you, don't sign up.)That means, don't argue, don't be defensive about your work or your approach.

Third, abandon any idea that the work you do in class will become the showcase piece for your portfolio, or that it will represent the best you can do. (It might end up that way, but assume it won't going in.) At least try everything you are taught, and worry in the following weeks or months what you will adopt as your own, and what doesn't work for you. And expect to get frustrated. For me it's always the Tuesday blues, but I recently saw lots of folk with the Wednesday or Thursday blues. Just keep going.

From your instructor, you should expect direct courteous help. You should expect the instructor/monitor keep an on-time schedule, especially when working from a live model. You should expect that the students will get all get their fair share of instruction at the easel. Some instructors will teach by marking right on your canvas; some will not. Let them know if you feel strongly about this point; I always ask first if someone would rather I not touch their work.

You'll find that some teachers are organized with a program, some are less so. Some are warm and fuzzy, some are more formal. If you're open to it, you can learn anyway. Not all instructor demonstrations are done with the speed and showmanship that painters like Michael del Priore or Harley Brown bring to bear. Some can talk and paint at the same time, and some talk when they're not painting (or maybe it's paint when they're not talking). Be flexible and expect to work like a dog. That means DOG!