Drawing Generations Together

It is exciting to see someone’s talent bloom in any season of life.  For many, it is not until the years of retirement that the schedule allows some time to address a life long yearning to study art.  My grandmother, for example, did not take up painting until she was in her eighties (she lived toContinue reading “Drawing Generations Together”

Painting Difficult Subjects

Some subjects freak people out.  When faced with trying to draw or paint someone’s likeness or a panoramic view or a complicated (or seemingly complicated) object the “I can’t do this” thoughts can fog our brains.  This is when we need to take a step back and literally forget what it is we are tryingContinue reading “Painting Difficult Subjects”

From the Glorious Rhythm of Life

Observation is a key ingredient in creating art that reflects the beauty of our natural world.  It is often easier to work from photographs and masterful artists have done so for a long time.  But hands down, the most visual information is available to us from life itself.  The nuances of light, the vibrancy of color,Continue reading “From the Glorious Rhythm of Life”

Beauty and Excellence in the Arts

“Art is our human response to whatever we see as beautiful.” – Luci Shaw in For the Beauty of the Church As human beings we are drawn to beauty, we are attracted to excellence.  The Arts – music, dance, drama, poetry (and other literary arts), visual arts (drawing, painting, digital, sculpture, to name a few)  film, and architecture,Continue reading “Beauty and Excellence in the Arts”

Art and Facebook

A new facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/PennyFregeauArt .  This is an updated page that has a gallery (photo) section, events and classes, links to blogs, social media and art-for-purchase sites.  It also lists a blog for the nurture and care of creative souls.  I believe everyone has creativity, for we are all made in God’s image.  Thank youContinue reading “Art and Facebook”

I Am Still Learning!

  On the last evening of my last Drawing Class we talked about having the attitude of a life-long learner.  Yes, with each day I am still learning in so many areas!  Having the attitude of a learner takes a lot of the pressure off those of us who can be too hard on ourselves andContinue reading “I Am Still Learning!”

Colored Pencil Drawing Class

A Colored Pencil Drawing Class taught by Artist Penny Fregeau  is scheduled to start at the Fortuna Fabric & Crafts store on Tuesday nights from 6:30-8:30 PM starting April 16th.  The class will run for six weeks ending on May 28th. All skill levels are welcome.  The cost of the class is $100 plus materials, whichContinue reading “Colored Pencil Drawing Class”

An Education in the Arts Impacts the Culture

With the economic pressures we have experienced nationally the past few years and the constant rhetoric regarding budget cuts we often hear about art programs being cut in our educational systems.  Art and music are not seen as important as the math and sciences, for example.  I believe this mindset is short-sighted for some substantial reasons. Continue reading “An Education in the Arts Impacts the Culture”

Teaching Art – Part of the New Adventure

Last night students had the choice of either drawing the poseable figure, the fresh-cut flowers, or using the grid technique to enlarge their own personal photograph reference shot into an outlines sketch size suitable for drawing.  I greatly enjoy seeing their progress and hearing of their artistic discoveries.  The feedback they offer encourages me and gives meContinue reading “Teaching Art – Part of the New Adventure”

Acrylic Painting Class Through Fortuna Park & Rec.

Beginning Monday Morning, March 11th at 9 AM, a new Acrylic Painting Class is offered through the Fortuna, California Parks and Recreation Department.  This class is open to all skill levels.  The cost for the entire six weeks (2.5 hours per session) is $165 plus materials.  For more information contact the Fortuna Parks and Rec. at (707)725-6648.Continue reading “Acrylic Painting Class Through Fortuna Park & Rec.”