Abstract Acrylic Painting with Texture & Glaze | Kerry Rushton

Step into the studio with abstract artist Kerry Rushton and experience the energy of her playful and explorative approach to creating abstract expressionism.

In this 1 Day jam packed workshop, Kerry will guide you through her distinctive layering process that she has refined over years of dedicated practice. Known for her ability to “mix it up” and continually evolve, Kerry will share insights that inspire bold experimentation and fresh perspectives.

With her warm, encouraging teaching style, you’ll not only discover new techniques and application, but be given the space to push the boundaries and see what is possible.

What will I learn?

In this lively, hands-on workshop, you’ll work on several pieces at once—applying layers and watching your artworks evolve throughout the day. You’ll head home not only with your organic creations, but also with a refreshed sense of play, curiosity, and the confidence to keep exploring.

• Experiment with texture using artist modelling paste, different tools and sandpaper.
• Bring order to the chaos by learning how to apply composition and value within expressive
• abstract work.
• Working with a limited palette, you can stay focused on value and form, yet still create unique
• rich and luscious colours.
• Learn how to synergise the colours of your surface using a warm glaze.

Who is this course suitable for?

This workshop welcomes beginners and anyone with some experience, although some understanding of using paints and brushes is essential.

What do I need to bring?

Canvas and Boards:

• Bring between 2 and 3 substrates.
• 30 x 30cm OR 60 x 60cm (approx.)
• Board: Choose from - cradle mounted board, Min. 6mm MDF cut-to-size, Min. 7mm Plywood cut-to-size
• Prime boards on one side using one coat of gesso prior (if possible).
• Please do not bring oversized pieces.

Modelling paste:
Modelling paste (min 250ml) 
Recommend for value - Kmart Modelling paste (500ml) $8.50 OR Monte Marte Modelling paste (500ml) $16.95.

Acrylic Paints: Mostly I use flow paints (not pouring paints), but you can also use structure paint and bring a mixing medium such as Pouring Medium or Clear Painting Medium or Gloss medium.

• Titanium White
• Carbon or Lamp Black
• Medium Yellow such as Cadmium Yellow
• Magenta
• Bright red such as Cadmium Red Light, Naphthol Red, Pyrrol Red (You can bring either Magenta or Red or both).

Other Materials:

• Large paint palette. (Recommend a large plastic tray)
• Large cloth to sit on the tray
• Roll baking paper or tracing paper to sit on the tray.
• (If you have a palette you like to use - bring that).
• Sketchbook - any size.
• Clean up cloths or paper towel.

Medium 

• Minimum 250ml of clear painting medium or glaze medium (used for glazing)

Brushes, Sponges and Mark Making Items: 

• Bring an assortment of brushes, small to large, flat to round. (Please see photo example below).
• An assortment of mark making items. (Please see photo example below)
• Sandpaper - 1 piece of 120 grit
• Water based crayons (optional)
• Oil or water based coloured pencils (optional)
• Soft graphite pencils or charcoal (optional)

Bring your lunch and snacks or you can purchase from cafes close by. 

What is provided?

• Easels
• Chairs
• Tables
• Cardboard for practice
• Tea and coffee (please bring your own mug)
• A friendly and supportive environment
• Connection to the Bienarté art community