Color Theory in Acrylics: Unlocking the Power of Color-Rachel Gering
Time: 10:15 am – 12:15 pm
Registration Deadline: May 1st
Class Date(s): May 8, 15, 22, 29 (4 Thursdays)
Cost: Non-member: $200 | Member: $180
Minimum to Run: 3 students
Maximum: 8 students
Age: Adults (18+)
Explore the science and artistry behind color in this four-session acrylic painting course. Whether you’re an experienced painter or just starting out, understanding color theory will elevate your work to new levels. We’ll dive into the true color wheel, harmonious color schemes, complementary color mixing, and how to create depth and mood through color relationships. You’ll leave with a series of exercises, color studies, and a final piece that demonstrates your newfound understanding of color.
Materials List
Brushes
Bring at least three brushes in different sizes:
Detail Brush: For fine lines and precision.
Medium Brush: For blending and general painting.
Large Brush: For broad coverage and backgrounds.
(Recommended types: Round, Flat, and Filbert brushes.)
Palette
Palette or Palette Paper
Disposable paper plates also work fine.
Paints
Cadmium Yellow Hue (Medium)
Cadmium Red Hue (Medium)
Alizarin Crimson
Ultramarine Blue
Phthalo Blue
Titanium White
Mars Black
Surfaces
Color Mixing Exercises: Mixed media or acrylic paper (at least 9×12”)
Final Project: One 9×12” or 11×14” canvas panel
(Canvas panels are recommended; stretched canvases are not required.)
About Me
Rachel Gering is a professional landscape painter based in Portland, OR, specializing in glow-in-the-dark acrylic landscapes, as well as oil, watercolor, and pastel works. She graduated summa cum laude with a BFA in Painting and Drawing from Willamette University | PNCA in 2022. Her work explores the intersection of travel, memory, and the natural world, often reflecting her own journey of healing after a traumatic brain injury.
Rachel teaches part-time at One River School of Art and Design and shares her passion for art education on her YouTube channel, where she provides free tutorials for artists of all levels. She placed 3rd in the Blue Koi Gallery National Landscape Competition in 2024 and continues to exhibit her work locally and nationally.
Learn more at www.rachelgeringart.com.
