William Bartlett did a demonstration at the Needham Art Association’s monthly meeting this past Thursday and he captivated his audience with his talent of painting classical realism. William also helped me understand more the differences between the Boston School style of classical realism and the traditional style of classical realism. William studied at the Ingbretson Studio which he describes on his website as being a “Satellite Atelier from the R.H. Ives Gammell Legacy.” Paul Ingbretson runs the only ARC accredited atelier that I know of that teaches the Boston School method. (If you’re looking for an Atelier near you check out the ARC website.)
At the meeting he set up one of our members to do a portrait and began painting. William didn’t start the painting they way I thought he would. He didn’t create an under-painting with burnt umber or do any kind of drawing. He started his painting by adding general color notes. It was very interesting to see that he paints the way the eye focuses on an object; going from out of focus, using fast broad strokes and large blocks of color, to becoming more in focus and adding subtle details. What was impressive to me was he only adds what is needed to make the details appear when the viewer stands 8 feet (or so) away from the painting.
William also didn’t use the traditional sight size approach taught at many other Ateliers. Instead he focused on making correct proportions.
William mentioned he has an interest in opening an Atelier in Needham, MA. So if anyone is interested you can post a comment here or contact William through the email information on his website.
Also, if you looking for a more detailed explanation on the difference between the Boston School style and traditional classical realism. I recommend this website.
