Dharma Art: Introduction to Painting with Gouache
In the upcoming Dharma Art classes, our main focus will be on teaching students how to utilize gouache for creating sacred images.
While gouache is not traditionally used in this art form, it serves as an introductory medium for Western students who are new to thangka painting.
Throughout the course, we will explore various techniques such as color mixing, dry shading, and wet blending.
Participants will have the chance to develop their painting skills through practice and learn how to draw and paint landscape elements, as well as auspicious symbols.
Additionally, they will be able to paint a Buddha face that they have previously drawn.
Individuals who are unfamiliar with dharma art are encouraged to participate, as long as they approach it with an open and adaptable mindset, demonstrate patience and perseverance, and show a strong commitment to practicing this aspect of Tibetan Buddhist teachings.
The classes will run each Saturday morning from 10am to 1pm throughout the first half of the year.
There will be some formal instruction as well as an opportunity to continue your painting practice at your own pace throughout this time.
There will be some Saturdays when the classes are not on, so please check the VI Teaching Calendar.
Andy Weber, an experienced instructor, has created several Practice Books that offer a comprehensive introduction to drawing and painting supplies and methods.
If you are unfamiliar with Dharma Art and do not own any of his books, it is strongly suggested that you acquire the book on the Eight Auspicious Symbols, as we will be referring to it in these instructions and incorporating some of the illustrations.
This book is available for purchase on his website in both ebook and hard copy versions.
Since 2016, Margaret McIntyre has been studying under Andy Weber and Paul Smith.
Her main interests lie in Dharma Art and promoting active involvement in this significant traditional Tibetan Buddhist practice.
Margaret has successfully created multiple traditional thangkas and has also organized a drawing class centered around Shakyamuni Buddha.
