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Yana Beylinson – Collage to Paint: Using Photo References Creatively (Online); Wednesdays, February 11–25, 2026

This class was held in the past and is no longer available for registration. Please view our Online Course Catalog for current class listings.

Dates: Wednesdays, February 11-25, 2026
Time: 10:00 am-noon Pacific Time, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm Eastern Time, 6:00 pm-8:00 pm UK Time
Level: All
Medium: Oil or acrylics & mixed media

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Learn to transform a photo reference—whether it’s one of your own images or an artwork from history—into a fully original work. In this 3-week class, we will explore collage as a powerful tool for jump-starting creativity, simplifying visual information, and unlocking exciting new directions in your work.

You will learn how to break down an image into its essential components and rebuild it through your own artistic voice. While the process is imaginative and playful, we will stay grounded in the core armature that makes strong, compelling art:

  • Composition
  • Value structure
  • Color relationships
  • Shape design

 

Session 1: Selecting, Preparing & Beginning the Collage

Each student will choose a reference image to explore over the three weeks. We’ll discuss how to print and prepare your image, organize your workspace, and analyze your chosen subject for strengths and opportunities.
Yana will demonstrate how to simplify, begin the collage process

Session 2: Developing & Refining the Collage

We’ll begin with a group critique of in-progress work before continuing into the next stage of building your collage. Yana will demonstrate how she develops the piece toward resolution.
This session emphasizes:

  • Loosely interpreting your image and allowing variation
  • Understanding “Done vs. Perfect”—and knowing when to stop
  • Pushing expressive choices in color, shape, and design

Session 3: From Collage to Painting

In the final week, Yana will demonstrate how a completed collage becomes a springboard for a fresh, simplified painting. Students will begin planning and exploring their own painted versions based on their collage. Each student will receive an individual critique with clear direction for continuing independently.

This class is designed for artists who want to become more inventive, expressive, and intentional with their source material—using collage as a bridge toward fresh, dynamic work.

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