Introduction Observational Painting (PAI-0005)

Fall 2026 · PAI 0005 · Tufts University · 4 credits · Undergraduate

Development and articulation of a skilled and inventive approach to painting in preparation for intermediate and advanced level work. Basic skills in observational painting and how observation can build ecological and environmental knowledge as content for artwork. Ecology, along with traditional examinations of still life and self-portraiture as the subject matter for developing skills in value, color, and pictorial space. Exploration of dynamics of composition and investigation of the many painterly properties of oil paint through the lens of New Materialism and Vibrant Matter. Slide presentations, demos, discussions and visits to the MFA to extend painting abilities and knowledge of historical, ecological, and contemporary art based on observation. Recommendation: Any course in drawing.

Course codes: PAI-0005, PAI 0005, PAI0005, PAI-5, PAI 5, PAI5

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