Color Explosion Workshop with Niki Gulley

"Backyard Aromas" ©2010 by Niki Gulley
12" x 24" pastel

In this pastel I wanted to capture this beautiful lavender field, but so many artists paint lavender that I wanted to put a twist on the subject matter. Rather than recreate the realistic colors as I saw them, I thought it would be fun to see how far I could push my colors. I love the way complimentary colors vibrate when next to each so I chose oranges and yellows for the sky and sand in between the rows since they are opposite of the blues and purples of the lavender on the color wheel. I love the energy and color contrasts of the finished painting!

On Jan. 30th, I'll be teaching an all day workshop at my studio, "Color Explosion," where we'll cover color theory and meaning so that you can use color with confidence. Registration deadline is this Friday, Jan. 22nd, and I have just a few spots left. Let me know if you have any questions or would like to participate in the workshop. For more information, e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com or visit NikiGulley.com.

Autumn Birch pastel

Autumn Birches ©2009 Niki Gulley
pastel 5" x 7"

Visit my website NikiGulley.com

Or e-mail me for more information at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

Painting Workshop in Venice with Niki Gulley

"Window with a View" ©2009 Niki Gulley
pastel 12" x 9" • Venice, Italy

I created this pastel on the final day of our painting / photography workshop in Venice. We had beautiful weather all week and the last day we encountered some drizzle and had to paint under cover. I really liked this particular spot with the balcony overlooking the canal.

I always tell my students to get down the light and any movable objects quickly, and this was no exception! Less than a minute after I finished the gondola, its owner and 2 passengers cast off raindrops and all.

The early deadline for our May workshop in Venice and a $300 savings is quickly approaching. We'd love to have you join us! Visit NikiGulley.com for details.

Niki@NikiGulley.com

Plein Air Painting Workshop in Venice, Italy with Niki Gulley

"Romantic Journey" • Venice, Italy • SOLD
Pastel by Niki Gulley • 10" x 8"

I created this pastel during the workshop my husband and I taught in Venice this May and recently finished a few final details in the studio. We love the city, and there is so much inspiration in Venice between the art, architecture, canals and magical light that it's really hard to narrow down what to paint! On this day, we decided to stick with a classic view of the canals. I like the way light peeks through the narrow passageway and leads your eye from building to building, and the gondola that happened into the scene created the perfect finishing detail.

If interested in more information about our next Venice workshop this coming May, check out nikigulley.com. Sign up by Nov. 14th and save $300 on the cost of the trip!

Niki@NikiGulley.com

Crimson Sky, White Rock Lake

"Crimson Sky," White Rock Lake ©2009 Niki Gulley
25" x 19" pastel

Fresh off the easel! I wanted to create a dramatic piece of White Rock Lake and the Dallas Skyline. Here is one of our rare beautiful sunsets in Dallas. If you'd like more information on this pastel, e-mail me at niki@nikigulley.com or stop by the White Rock Art Festival this weekend to see it person. Visit my website for details and to see more.