Artist Short Biography
I am an artist, a figurative expressionist and a teacher. My passion for expression drives my work, as I believe that art has the power to communicate emotions, experiences, and stories in a unique and powerful way. Through my figurative art, I aim to evoke a visceral response and connect viewers to the raw beauty and essence of being alive.
I take great pleasure in being able to share my passion for the arts with like-minded individuals — I convey my passion and knowledge of the arts with others extremely well, fine tuning methods and techniques to unlock
and enhance each individual’s skill level. I hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts from National Arts School Sydney, and
an Advanced Diploma from Newcastle Art School. I was also Winner of the John Olsen Prize for life drawing. I have had many years of experience in teaching art — I started at Sydney Art Space from 2016, currently I teach at Hudson Street Hum, Leda Gallery Newcastle, and Newcastle Art School (Hunter St).
Workshop information
Using a live model, this masterclass will cover some essentials of life drawing. Suitable for beginner and intermediate drawers. The content of this masterclass may include foreshortening hands and feet, contrast with Carravagio (not really good for anyone with poor sight/night sight), measuring utilising negative space and basic anatomy for the artist.
Note
Attendees need to advise at least a week before the class what life drawing elements they would like to cover, so that course material can be prepared.
Watercolour Impressions
2 day workshop with Chan Dissanyake
1 & 2 June 2024
Forster Gallery, 34 Lake Street, Forster
Price: Members $240 – non-Members $280
Enquiries and bookings: classesandworkshops@forstergallery.org or phone 0401 761 812
Artist Short Biography
Chan Dissanayake is a multi-award winning watercolour artist living in Canberra ACT. Over the last 25 years his passion has turned to watercolour, a medium that thrives in spontaneous response and free expression.
His mastery is manifested by the vast subject matter that he tackles from rural landscapes, urban city scapes to coastal seascapes. In 2017, Chan received the ultimate accolade for an Australian watercolourist when he was elected to the elite Australian Watercolour Institute.
Known for his innovative approach to teaching and generosity in sharing his knowledge, Chan has gained a considerable reputation as an outstanding tutor. He conducts workshops throughout the country and leads international painting tours for Travelrite International. Currently, he teaches watercolour at the ANU (Australian National University). He has contributed many articles to leading art publications including International Artist, Australian Artist and Artists Palette. His quick and direct approach to watercolour has earned him much success and respects both nationally and internationally.
Workshop information
This 2 Day workshop will suit students who have been exposed to the medium of watercolour and want to extend their knowledge to the next level. It will specifically concentrate on how to inject and capture the mood of the subject. The truly magical qualities of watercolour can best be demonstrated in portraying atmospheric effects. A variety of subjects will be tackled, producing two paintings a day from start to finish; each painting will be chosen to demonstrate a certain technique or a key learning point. There will be lots of useful discussions as well as tips on how to avoid potential pitfalls.
Website: http://www.chandissan.com
Email: artist@chandissan.com
chan.dissanayake.artist @chandissanayake