Closing Your Eyes to See: Abstraction Through the Unconscious with Matthew Bielen

September 1 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Friday, September 1, 10am-4pm

1 session | $140 for members $150 for non-members

As artists, we strive for perfection, but once we accept that it’s unattainable, we begin making art about ourselves.

It’s important when creating to not overthink, but rather to just start; becoming a conduit to allow you, your work, and your inspiration to become one.

With original collage works from the PAAM Collection present in the studio, this workshop takes an experimental approach to still life, asking you to take a second and third look at what both your eyes and mind see, and ask, “Why?”

Using charcoal, collage, and mixed media, students will be encouraged to find their own voice, using free association and improvisation, while pushing the boundaries of how a still life setup is perceived and described.

Together, we’ll aim to observe, break down, and deconstruct seemingly insignificant objects, gearing them toward our own interests and narratives. We’ll take a look into the works of well-known artists and hold informal critiques meant to build self-assurance. We each have a story to tell and we can begin through our art.

ABOUT THE TEACHING ARTIST

Matthew Bielen is a Massachusetts artist, represented by Four Eleven Gallery in Provincetown. Bielen’s abstract work is inspired by New England’s natural and Maritime history and explores the reciprocal relationship between humans and nature.

Website: www.matthewbielen.com, Instagram: @matthewbielenartist, Facebook: Matthew Bielen Art

Images: Matthew Bielen, Washed Ashore in Wareham, 2023, acrylic on canvas, 12 x 12 in.