My first workshop at the symposium was Improvising with Line and Color with Orling Dominguez and Inma Serrano. In Parque Colon we looked for stories to tell in a sketch as opposed to just drawing what is in front of you. They encouraged us to add text to our sketches. I picked the snack cart as the pigeons were always near it, waiting.
Later that evening, I "peeled onion layers" with Miguel Herranz and Swasky. We practiced small sketches focusing on foreground or background compositional elements. Practicing this can make the sketch or painting more interesting to look at. If you've ever wondered why a sketch/drawing lacks focus, its worth trying these techniques.
Early the next day I went to the market for Mercado Merengue with Melanie Reim and Nathalie Ramirez. We sketched the figures, colors, patterns that were all around us.
That evening was Straight to Colors with Eduardo Bajzek working with markers. We applied them in a painterly way simulating the under painting technique that some painters use before applying colors. After building tones with grey or light marker, you can add the darker colors.
My last workshop was the Decisive Moment with Veronica Lawlor and Jonathan Schmidt on El Conde Street. We spent and hour thumb nailing gathering pictures and ideas until one pops out and interests you more-the decisive moment. I loved the large tree which the dogs napped under in the heat.
I had a great time there in Santo Domingo, the instructors were great I learned a lot that I can use going forward.
Thanks Orling for all your hard work, till next year!
