COST: $25 /  Minimum 15; Maximum of 30 / All ability levels

Join Professor Althea Neustaedter, an experienced art teacher from Southern Utah University, for a session focused on painting the majestic birds of Escalante, Utah. Participants of all skill levels will explore color theory and painting techniques to create stunning artworks featuring iconic bird species such as eagles, falcons, ravens and more.

Under Professor Neustaedter’s guidance, you’ll learn to use watercolor or acrylic to capture the unique characteristics of these birds in their natural habitats. The workshop covers color mixing, composition, and medium-specific techniques. All materials and references are provided.

Art Assignment:

1. Select a bird species found in Escalante and study its appearance, behavior, and habitat. Choose from one of the bird references provided or bring your own.

2. Sketch the bird, emphasizing proportions, posture, and striking features. Guidance and technical drawing and instructions will be provided. Tricks for capturing accurate drawing for those who need assistance ( it is not necessary to be an expert drawer).

3. Compose a painting that showcases the bird and its environment.
4. Apply color theory and painting techniques to create a lifelike representation.

Professor Neustaedter will provide personalized feedback and support throughout the workshop, ensuring that you have the tools to create a remarkable work of art celebrating Escalante’s birds.

Watercolor paints and Paper and Acrylic/oil Paint and paint brushes and Canvas /Canvas paper and many images of birds will be provided to work from. You have the option of bringing your own supplies.

Hands on Art Registration

Althea Neustaedter was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. She lived in Escalante, Utah for 10 years, where she created an art department at the high school, enriching the small town with her passion for the arts. Currently, Althea works as an art professor at Southern Utah University (SUU), teaching painting and drawing classes. She has a rich educational background in the arts, holding a BA in Illustration from the California College of the Arts and Crafts, an MFA from the San Francisco Art University, and studied landscape painting and Art History at the Art Academy in Florence, Italy. Presently, while teaching as a professor she is also pursuing her doctorate at the Institute for Doctoral Studies in the Visual Arts (IDSVA), focusing on art philosophy and exploring historical mysteries through art. An existential thinker, speaker, and art advocate, she conducts workshops, delivers talks, judges competitions, and works tirelessly to promote art awareness in schools and communities.

You can see more of her work at https://www.altheaartactivism.com/.