Howard Hodgkin: An Abstract Painting Workshop at Barge East

Howard Hodgkin’s paintings are a beautifully harmonious collection of swirls; dots; gesture & vibrant colour that sing from the painted frames in which they hang. Seemingly devoid of any obvious naturalism, Hodgkin nonetheless defines himself as, “A representational painter, but not a painter of appearance. I paint representational pictures of emotional situations.” Working from memory, he would regularly take years to finish a piece; painting and then repainting the wooden boards on which he worked until the image in front of him was a perfect reflection of the experience & feel he wanted to project.

After diving into the visual feast of his back catalogue, and using Hodgkin’s approach as inspiration, you’ll be led through a number of exercises to allow you to process and then represent a special memory or event with paint focusing on colour, mark making and your own artistic impulses.

All necessary materials will be provided, though you are welcome to bring your own paints/surfaces should you prefer. This is a fully tutored class so no previous experience is required.

Please note the class will be taking place in the beautiful rooftop space at Barge East. There will be a tent overhead, but we will be essentially painting outside, so do dress appropriately! We’ll be using acrylic paints, which are water based and wash out of clothing, but I would recommend not getting too dressed up, or to bring an apron/change of clothes if you’re worried about mess.
Unfortunately the venue is up a set of stairs, with no alternative access. Please message me directly if you have any concerns.