Farley Lewis Workshop Sets the Stage for Excelsior Springs Plein Air Event

Vibrant colors and enchanting scenes are part of artist Farley Lewis' style (photo courtesy farleylewis.com).

Artists and art enthusiasts will gather in the historic heart of Excelsior Springs for a captivating plein air painting event on June 8, 2024. This immersive art experience invites painters of all skill levels to capture the town’s unique charm, from its historic mineral water springs to the architectural beauty of its century-old buildings under the open sky.

The plein air (French for “outdoor”) event is designed to allow artists to engage directly with the environment, allowing the natural light and surrounding atmosphere to influence their work. The event will showcase Excelsior Springs’s picturesque landscapes and architectural heritage, providing a vibrant palette for artists to explore.

Organizer, Denice Belcher said she’s looking forward to a day filled with creativity and community spirit as participants set up their easels throughout the town to interpret its scenic views and historical landmarks in their own styles. The event is an opportunity for artists to create and visitors to watch art come to life before their eyes.

The day before the plein air event, renowned artist Farley Lewis will be conducting a comprehensive plein air painting workshop at the Solana Event Center. Located at 120 East Broadway Ave, this workshop offers a unique opportunity for artists to hone their skills in capturing landscapes filled with light, atmosphere, and poetic beauty.

Farley Lewis, known for his fun, creative, and easily understandable teaching methods, focuses on helping artists find and create solid compositions, express ideas through values, and tell stories with color and varied edges. His approach is designed to encourage artists to be more bold and expressive, with an emphasis on plein air painting techniques, although most of his workshops are held indoors for comfort.

The workshop, titled “Painting Poetic Landscapes,” is ideal for artists looking to explore Farley’s entire process. It covers developing compelling compositions, using values effectively, keeping colors fresh, and achieving bold brushwork, among other key skills. Additionally, a special segment on “Painting Light & Atmosphere” will teach participants how to infuse their landscapes with convincing light by mastering color temperature, values, and the principles of painting distance.

Set to run from 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., the workshop is priced at $175.00, including lunch, with space limited to ensure personalized instruction and ample one-on-one guidance from Farley Lewis himself. Participants will start the day with a brief instructional session and demonstration, followed by hands-on painting time to apply what they’ve learned.

Artists interested in participating in this enriching workshop are encouraged to contact Farley Lewis directly at (471) 773-1175 or via email at farleylewis@gmail.com to reserve their spot. This workshop not only serves as a perfect precursor to the following day’s plein air event but also offers a rare chance to learn from one of the most encouraging and skilled landscape painters in the field.

Details on registration, specific locations within Excelsior Springs designated for painting, and additional activities planned for the day will be announced as the Saturday event approaches. Organizers are working closely with local businesses and historical societies to ensure a memorable experience that celebrates the arts and Excelsior Springs’s rich history.

Stay tuned for more details on this exciting artistic endeavor that promises to highlight the beauty of Excelsior Springs in an inspiring and interactive way.

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