with Jackie Lakely
This is a class that introduces the same concepts in different ways for each session and is for all levels of skill and experience. Emphasis is put on process over product, and we will almost always work in multiples in order to try different applications of each week’s lesson. We will be building solid compositions, understanding value, choosing a color palette (with some basic color theory), creating depth with layers of different media, and learning the importance of experimentation and play to surprise yourself with new avenues for self-expression. The techniques covered will be layering drawing/mark making with painting, collaging with varied materials, creating textures both literally and visually, methods of image transfer, incorporating inks, and printing/stamping/using stencils (and creating our own). We will work with still life arrangements and your imagination to create narrative work, as well as intuitive world-building based on combining materials as you go.
This class is great for anyone wanting to try different ways of combining different media, be introduced to new ways of creative expression, gain an understanding of the fundamentals of how various media mix well together (and what to avoid), and embrace experimenting in your art making. Please find a basic supply list to bring to each class, and the instructor will bring all supplemental supplies and materials each week.
This class is designed to be repeated.
Friday, 10am -12pm
Instructor: Jackie Lakely
Registration and Fees
Become a member of the Oak Park Art League and save on class registration.
Members: $175.00; after 9/7/2025: $195.00
Non-Members: $195.00; after 9/7/2025: $215.00
Advance registration required.
Registration Code of Conduct Policy
MATERIAL LIST
Paper that is strong enough to handle multiple layers of water-based paints, inks, collage and drawing - recommend printmaking paper or bristol board at least 11x14” up to 18 x 24” in single sheets or a more economical pad
Canson, Strathmore and Blick are popular brands
Drawing supplies - pencils, pens, eraser, sharpener, and any other drawing tools you want to bring (pastels, oil pastels, markers, paint pens, etc.)
Paints - acrylic paints in whatever colors you like, plus black and white. A set of Liquitex Basics that includes the primary colors is always a good place to start. If you want to add a few greens, magenta/purple/pink, a bright or deep red, umber, sienna and lemon or hansa yellow, those are all really nice to have for variety. I do not recommend craft paint, as it almost always has white mixed in already, so you will not get good glazes or pure pigment. Good brands include Liquitex, Blick, Amsterdam (not expensive) and Golden (expensive).
Liquid Medium - VERY IMPORTANT! We use this for thinning paint, glue, creating glazes, for image transfer, and sealing paper. A bottle of Liquitex Matte, Satin or Gloss medium, or Golden GAC 100, or even Mod Podge will work.
Brushes - Langnickel makes perfect and very inexpensive brushes great for mixed media. Blick and Michaels sell sets for under $10, and I recommend a flat and round set. Also a couple of large flat brushes in 2” and 4”
Spreader of some kind - Catalyst is a good brand, but a used credit card will also work
Scissors, and an Xacto knife if you plan to do precision cutting
Container for water, and a spray bottle is handy to have at your table
Optional - apron/paint shirt, any supplies you want to try out, personal collage papers, stencils, stamps, and any other tools you think will be useful
* BRING YOUR OWN PAPER TOWELS! *