Description
In this unique workshop, learn how to make electrifying plein air oil paintings intertwined with symbols and dream narratives. Create delicates and perfects atmospheres and chiaroscuros in the magical outdoors scenes of the Sitka trails. This will be a masterful, prolific and fun workshop that will guide the artist to create beautiful dreamlike paintings. In this workshop Almanza will bring wooden panels prepared and ready to paint to teach step by step his unique process of how to do landscapes using thin and transparent layers that will increase the depth and vibrancy of your painting.
Will do short hikes around the Sitka campus looking for breathtaking compositions of trees mixed with the magic of this special place. Join me on these unique adventures enjoying the quiet nature of the morning while maintaining the fun and free spirit of the plein air painting. This way of painting Almanza has perfected through a long and extensive career as a plein air painter, professional artist and instructor.
About the Instructor
His work pulls us into his dreamworld of
memory, myth and loss through figurative works focused on the people, places and
stories that shaped the artist, in his hometown in the Cuban countryside, in Havana and
now in Portland. His stories take place in the natural world where figures are intertwined
with water, plants, animals and light. The omnipresent river of Almanza’s childhood
connects his subjects to their ancestors, to the spiritual world, and to those who are yet
to come. Each painting invites us in, to search for meaning and truth. Almanza received
his B.A. in printmaking from the Institute of Superior Arts in Havana, Cuba.
In 2024, Almanza presented a solo exhibition titled “Gente de Rio” (River Folk) at
Froelick Gallery in Portland, OR, which explored themes of solidarity, rest and
community.
The large-scale, luminous portraits capture Almanza’s deep dedication and pride for the
people and place that have shaped him and the resilience and beauty that can be found
in everyday life. This exhibition is currently on show at Portland Center Stage, through
August 2025. Recent honors include a documentary feature of his work on OPB Oregon
Art Beat as well as a Volunteer award for his volunteer work at Friendly House NW and
served as a panelist and jurist for RACC and Sitka Center for Arts and Ecology.
Learn More
www.orlandoalmanza.com
Materials List
You will need to bring:
2 Brushes- Utrecht Manglon Synthetic Brush-Round, # 16, Long Handle
1 Brush – Da Vinci Top Acryl Synthetic Brush – Round, Long Handle, # 6
Bring a plein air easel that can hold a 12″ x 12″ panel
Plein air painting gear
Oil painting solvent
Paper towels
Provided by instructors:
Instructor will bring wooden panels already prepared and ready to paint. His own oil painting and gear as well extra supplies like oil painting and hard bristle brushes to share with students