Use soft pastels to paint expressive portraits of summer flowers, emphasizing their color, shape, and essence rather than botanical details. Over the course of this two-day pastel workshop, the class will work both outdoors and indoors, with the plethora of late-blooming summer flowers from the Arboretum’s grounds as the subject matter. Students will enjoy demonstrations from the instructor along with one-on-one guidance as they work to develop their pastel portraits.
Some drawing experience and familiarity with soft pastels will be helpful.
This program meets in person at the Arboretum.
Instructor: Laverne Bohlin, nature artist
Age: 16 and older
Course number: A620
Laverne Bohlin, nature artist
Laverne Bohlin’s introduction to the pastel medium began as a portrait artist at a large Midwest amusement park. Furthering her studies in fine art, she received a BFA from the University of Michigan. Using pastels and oils, she paints colorful landscapes in a contemporary impressionist style. Bohlin has taught at the College of DuPage, The Morton Arboretum, and The Peninsula School of Art. Since retiring from the design field, she spends her time painting, teaching, and gardening.
What to Know
This class will take place outdoors, weather permitting, with some classroom time.
Students should plan to bring a set of soft pastels, a sketchbook, pastel paper, and other small supplies. A detailed supply list will be provided upon registration.
Bring a portable easel or a portable chair to sit on when we are outside. We will draw while outdoors. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.
Bring a hat, water, sunscreen, and insect repellent, and wear comfortable shoes.
Program Schedule
Friday, August 4, 2023, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Saturday, August 5, 2023, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Thornhill Education Center
