In session 1 of this 4-part series, you'll learn to capture the vibrant colors and varied textures of a still life with fruit. Explore the elements of light and shadow, and how their interplay creates the illusion of depth and form, building a sense of realism in your work. Mollica will guide attendees through a variety of key elements, including how to identify and depict direct light, highlights, midtones, core shadows, cast shadows, and reflected light. Starting with loose sketches to establish the composition, participants will then build up layers of acrylic paint to bring the fruit to life on the canvas. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned painter, this workshop will deepen your observational skills and strengthen your ability to translate the three-dimensional world onto the two-dimensional surface.

In session 2 of this 4-part series, you'll elevate your painting skills with a floral still life. Through guided exercises, you'll learn to create luminous paintings, with more drama and expression, by simplifying values and distinguishing light from shadow. Mollica will demonstrate her approach for rendering highlights, midtones and shadows to develop form and dimension. You'll also learn how to use directional lighting to create dramatic contrasts  and paint cast shadows for added depth. These lessons will further your understanding of how to simplify complex shapes and limit values down to their essential core, so you can create radiant florals. Suitable for all levels.

In session 3 of this 4-part series, you'll explore the interplay of light and shadow on form, while painting a classic still life arrangement. Through hands-on exercises, you'll practice the art of simplification to accurately depict highlights, midtones and shaded areas to achieve a heightened sense of dimension. With Mollica's guided instruction, you'll explore how to use variations of white to paint the pitcher and the various colors of the reflected objects on its shiny surface. Learn to graduate values from dark to light for added depth and drama. By simplifying your approach and focusing on structure and form, rather than superficial detail, you'll transform your still life paintings into eye-catching works of art. All levels welcome.

In session 4 of this 4-part series, you'll dive into a color-forward still life setup to explore how value—and that captivating interplay of light and shadow—impact color expression. With Mollica's step-by-step guidance, you'll advance your ability to identify and simplify key tonal values—highlights, midtones, and shadows—that bring dimensional presence to your subjects. You'll also learn techniques that emphasize depth by depicting the changes in color and value, according to their distance from the light source. Hone the skills that will elevate your paintings from a mere replication to a creative statement. Whether you're a beginner or experienced painter, this course will unlock new levels of expression in your artistic practice—not only in still life, but any painting subject.