About
About Bryan Jernigan and His Classes, Workshops and Demonstrations
In my pastel and acrylic paintings, I want there to be an interplay between what is visible on the surface and the layers underneath. They are created from inward and outward experiences of nature. Based on both observation and memory, my paintings connect the reality of what is seen to the realm of what is felt. Color is the root of all my paintings. Invented color schemes, interlocking organic forms, and decisive brushwork characterize my work. It comes from a place deep inside. I hope it will touch a place deep inside the viewer. It’s the expression of feelings, mysteries and things unspoken.
When I'm not creating work, I like to foster creation in others by doing demonstrations, teaching workshops and classes. If your group is looking for a demonstrator, feel free to contact me at bkjartist@gmail.com. I do two different demonstrations - one on creating looser, more impressionistic landscapes, and the other in a form of abstraction called "expressive drawing and painting." Each demonstration runs about one hour.
I also teach abstract painting classes for the Art League of Alexandria (VA). You can learn more about my upcoming classes by visiting here.
I am happy to come to your group to run workshops as well. I offer a number of them, but generally focus on these:
"The Power of Pastels" - I demonstrate from beginning to end, and share the secrets of the pastel medium. From choosing papers, to learning about the basics of value, composition and application, a new world of artistic possibilities will open up for you. I show you how to produce loosely expressive, traditional, works on a small scale, but with techniques that can be translated into larger pieces. For beginners and experienced pastelists alike, attendees learn what tools to use, get real guidance on skies, water and trees, explore framing options, and discover application tips and tricks to take your art to the next level. If you are looking for a balance between control and expressiveness, color confidence and greater mastery, this is the workshop for you! Even non-pastelists will learn valuable skills that can be used to paint in other mediums.
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"Loosen Up Your Landscapes" - this day-long workshop allows you to paint more loosely and freely, focusing on how to blend representational landscapes with abstracted ones. Students watch me develop a landscape and then apply the principles to a landscape of their own choosing. The workshop features illustrated lecture, demo painting, paint mixing guidance, easel-side instruction, exercises and a group critique.
"The Freedom of Letting Go" - this two-day workshop is usually conducted over a weekend (Saturday and Sunday). Day One focuses on non-represenational abstraction. Students will explore expressive drawing and painting using mark-making tools and a layering process with paint. I encourage students to tap into that "pure place" where judgment falls away and they break through their artistic inhibitions that have held them back. Day Two is about representation. Applying principles learned from the day before, students learn how to loosen up their representatioanl pieces. I share with attendees my unique color-creation system and underpainting techniques and so they can apply them to their own works.
If you're interested in talking more about the teaching opportunities I can provide as BKJ Designs or to check date availabilty, please feel free to email me at bkjartist@gmail.com. I look forward to help you take your creativity to the next level!
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A few kind words about my teaching...
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Always the master artist and teacher, Bryan creates a positive, inclusive and friendly environment. He has a passion for teaching art and genuinely cares for the progress of students. I highly recommend taking his art classes and especially, join his art trips both in the USA and abroad - they are fantastic!
- Loida Velilla, PhD, Student​
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"A highly accomplished and thoroughly creative abstract artist."
- Falls Church Arts
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"I decided to take this workshop because I thoroughly enjoyed Bryan’s classes, and I knew that learning from him in a new setting would be both inspiring and enriching. Beyond the technical growth and artistic output, what truly made this workshop unforgettable were the connections I formed. I came away with not only a portfolio filled with pieces I’m proud of, but also a group of new friends who share my passion for art. The sense of camaraderie and support among the participants added so much depth to the experience. I returned home feeling inspired, energized, and grateful for the time spent learning, creating, and connecting in such a magical place."
- Dicxon Vergaray, Student
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"I learn something new at every workshop!"
- Beth Anne Marrow, Student
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"His last workshop was sold out and received rave reviews from all the attendees."
- Vienna Art Society
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Bryan is an amazing instructor with his ability to break down the landscape process, share how to best capture the essence of the landscape, and provide meaningful feedback to our work. His positivity, creativity, and ability made the trip so worthwhile, and even though I prefer studio work…I would do it again with Bryan!
—Beth R., Student
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​I found Bryan Jernigan's teachings to be insightful and transformative. Within seven days of Bryan's instruction, I came home with artwork that I'm proud of, and a mental tool kit of how to utilize these new skills to enrich my profession as a painter. Also, I'd like to add, Bryan is fun to hang out with and I'm so lucky to be able to call him a friend. I would highly recommend everyone, of any skill level, to participate in his classes. I'm very much looking forward to the next opportunity I have to do so.
- Rachael Bright, Student
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