Paris, France

Alex Hillkurtz

Alex Hillkurtz was born in England and grew up in California, where he established himself as a successful illustrator and storyboard artist in Hollywood, collaborating with many of the film industry’s leading directors and cinematographers. Currently living in Paris, Alex has turned his focus to a career as a watercolor artist, and uses the language of cinema to inform his images. His works have been exhibited in solo and group shows in Europe and the United States, and he conducts regular workshops and masterclasses on watercolor painting and sketching. Alex is a Signature Member of the National Watercolor Society (USA), an associate member of the California Watercolor Association, as well as a member of French Plein Air Painters, and USK Paris.

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Workshop Language: English (and a little French)



Translating Light

In this workshop we’ll paint the beautiful architecture of Neuchâtel using ink and watercolor. I’ll teach you my approach to translate light and emotion onto our page. We’ll concentrate on how light and shadows reveal the forms and volume of buildings. I’ll show you how to loosen up your sketches, simplify details to leave something for the viewer’s imagination, and use expressive colors to enhance the brilliance of your sketches.

Key skills:
  • How to translate the mood of a subject, and the emotions you feel into your sketchbook. This workshop will be a combination of brief demonstrations where I clearly explain my thought process, and guided sketching where everyone has a chance to play.
Materials
  • Watercolor paper or sketchbook
  • Pencil
  • Ink pen/fineliner (waterproof, or fountain pen with waterproof ink)
  • Watercolors
  • Brushes
  • Paper towel, Eraser, water bottle, Water container (plastic cup), etc.