From Classical Portraits to Pop Culture

Instructor: Kai Lun Qu
Date: Tuesday, May 5th-Friday May 8th
Time: 10am-4pm
Cost: $650
Experience Level: Intermediate-Advanced

Discover the versatility of portraiture with nationally known artist Kai Lun Qu in Classical Portraits to Pop-Culture. For centuries, fine art portraiture has continually pushed the boundaries of representational art, and this four-day workshop bridges the gap between classical tradition and contemporary expression.  

Artists will explore the techniques of classical alla prima (all at once) portrait painting, while examining how these skills can be translated into bold, pop-culture imagery. Kai will demonstrate his methods of executing a portrait with precision and accuracy –without sacrificing bold, vibrant color, and expressive brushwork.  

Students will begin by working from a photo reference to focus on composition and likeness, then spend the two days painting from a live model. On the final day Kai will walk students though creating a striking pop-culture portrait of their own. The workshop emphasizes the process and techniques needed to strengthen your portrait work.  

Students will be working in oil paint during this workshop. 

Post expires on Friday May 1st, 2026