April 24 - 25, 2027  |  9am - 3pm Daily

Tuition: $200

MMAM Member + Student Tuition:  $190

Workshop registration closes on April 19, 2027

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About the workshop

Join MMAM exhibiting artist Barbara McIlrath for a two-day workshop exploring the art of still life painting. Participants will learn the fundamentals of composing a still life, beginning with diagrammatic drawing and simplifying objects into basic shapes before transferring their drawings to a painting panel. Through guided instruction, Barbara will demonstrate how to observe light and shadow, establish value relationships, and create a painted value study. Participants will then use a limited palette of six colors to develop their own still life paintings.

Throughout the workshop, Barbara will demonstrate each stage of the process and share examples of inspiring still life paintings from art history. Participants will also explore a variety of painting tools and materials, including palette knives, different brush shapes, and painting surfaces such as canvas, linen, and paper.

This workshop is open to painters of all experience levels, from beginners to advanced artists. Some prior experience and a willingness to experiment and expand your drawing and painting skills are encouraged.

Barbara McIlrath is a MMAM exhibiting artist. Her exhibition, Barbara McIlrath: LandSkyWater, was on view September 19, 2026, through January 3, 2027.

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Support comes from

MMAM acknowledges sustaining support from generous contributions from foundations, corporations, individuals, members and volunteers, including ongoing support from our Board of Directors and AmericInn by Wyndham.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts & cultural heritage fund.

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Upcoming MMAM Workshops