Observing, Painting, Growing: A Look into Our Summer Gouache Class
At Little Ashcan Studio, the summer session is in full bloom—and so are our students' artworks! With longer class times and a slower pace, our young artists are diving deeper into the details, and this week, their focus has been rooted in nature—literally.
One of our dedicated students spent the week carefully observing and painting a plant with its roots exposed. This wasn’t just any ordinary still life; it was a study in structure, texture, and color using gouache, a medium known for its vibrant opacity and layering potential.
With extra time this session, students were able to truly explore gouache’s versatility—learning how to mix colors precisely, build layers, and bring out both the bold and subtle qualities of natural forms.
The painting process started with sketching from life, closely examining the plant’s leaves, stems, and the intricate root system. From there, students mixed earthy greens, browns, and soft background hues to create compositions that were both scientifically observant and artistically expressive. It was a blend of art and biology—learning how things grow while growing their own skills.
This summer, our studio is buzzing with focus and creativity. The extended class hours have allowed students to spend more time practicing, experimenting, and refining their techniques. Whether they're working on plants, portraits, or imaginative pieces, they're learning to see more carefully and express more confidently.
We can’t wait to see how their work continues to flourish throughout the season.
Stay rooted—and stay inspired!