Beginning Drawing: The Still Life with Diane Reitz (Mondays)

Students will work from a still life arrangement to observe and practice key elements of drawing, including form, mass, light, shadow, and reflected light. The direction of light and the placement of objects within the still life will be emphasized throughout the course. Each session will include a discussion of drawing materials, covering their practical applications, variations in use, and differences in quality. Individual corrections will be made directly onto tracing paper placed over each student’s still life drawing, allowing them to take the overlay home for further study and revision. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of regular practice to strengthen visual perception and understanding of light and form.

Diane Reitz has been painting and drawing since childhood. Her mother was a teacher and artist who traveled to Santa Fe and Taos in the early 1930’s and studied with Alexandre Hogue.  Diane studied art through High School and traveled to Baltimore, Maryland in the 1980’s to study with Hans and Anne Schuler at Schuler Fine Art School where she learned the techniques of the Old Masters.  Later, she earned a fine art degree with a specialty in illustration.  She eventually moved to New Mexico where she has continued to learn and teach others at her studio, Harwood Art Center, UNM, PAAKO, Cedar Crest and community centers.  Diane believes everyone can learn to draw and paint and it can be fun and healthy for all.  Diane’s works are in the homes of New Mexico and in homes throughout the United States.