Jacqueline Sullivan- Finding Our Muse

In this workshop we explore the idea that the “Muse finds you working”. Working in a series of small abstract paintings on paper, we will work quickly at the beginning of class, cranking out small series of paintings. Using acrylic paints, collage, and drawing media, we will work in multiples based on specific guidelines and examples. The speed of working will force us into working intuitively without putting two much thought into the work. Each series will develop from a given theme or technique that the instructor will present before the series is started. These small paintings will be used as sketches for larger works.

To some, working quickly and intuitively can be intimidating. But working this way, without the pressure of producing a finished work you can often free up the creative muse and break-throughs will happen. Working in a series gives your art-practice focus and momentum; rather than face the blank canvas with too many possibilities to choose from, the parameters of a series create clarity of a starting point. Get un-stuck by working in multiples.

As the day progresses, you will work more independently, in a larger format and develop your choice of the small sketches into larger finished works.

Bio – 2020

Artist Jacqueline Sullivan expresses her creativity through mixed-media, acrylic, and calligraphic paintings and books. Her works are unique expressions of adventure and discovery, each piece experimenting with texture, layers, color, unusual materials, calligraphic marks, and words. In addition to technical precision, personal artistic development is intrinsic to her practice. She earns her living as an artist educator as well as maintaining an active studio practice to develop personal work.

In her 30 years of teaching, Jacqueline has developed and presented many classes. She is a certified GOLDEN Artist Educator, making her a specialist on acrylic products and techniques. She is a member of the education teams for Marabu Creative, Ampersand and Silver Brush. Her workshops are multi-disciplined and given online as well as at top art retreats and for art, book arts, fiber and calligraphy guilds and conferences in the US, Canada and Europe.

Jacqueline’s work has appeared in many publications, including Astarte’s Mega-Zine, Cloth Paper Scissors, Pages, and Somerset Studio, as well as many calligraphic journals. Her work has been published in Acrylic Works 4: Captivating Color the Best of Acrylics. And Acrylic Works 6: Creative Energy, the Best of Acrylics both published by Northlight books. Her bestselling DVD, Acrylics: Textures, Layers, and Metallics, is published by Creative Catalyst Productions.

Jacqueline has a degree in graphic design, working for many years as a publication, marketing, and advertising designer. She is the recipient of top national awards for the fashion publications that she designed.