JUMPSTART PAINTING ESSENTIALS
A still life course focused on color, light, and paint --
for painters at any stage.
Taught by Lucy Barber -- painter and educator
For painters seeking
clarity and confidence.
Whether you’re beginning or returning to the essentials of painting, this course strengthens your grasp of color, light, composition, and paint handling.
For painters who:
-
Want a strong foundation
-
Are returning to core principles
-
Want to see more accurately
-
Are ready to replace hesitation with process
What You Gain
-
Clear understanding of color, value, form, and composition
-
Intentional paint handling techniques
-
Practical material guidance
-
Direct color mixing instruction
-
24 structured video lessons
-
Private community with instructor feedback
-
Designed to be practiced and revisited over time.
Includes 24 instructional videos, presented clearly
and at a pace designed for learning and revisiting.
Course Structure
Introductions:
Materials, tools, supports, and setting up a workspace that supports focused, effective painting.
Units 1-3: Value and Structure
The contrasts of light and dark; working in monochrome to understand light and shadow on form, compositional structure, and space.
Units 4-5: Expanding Color Understanding
Introducing limited color palettes, saturation, and color mixing to strengthen control and intention.
Units 6-7: Full Color Painting
Developing a full palette, understanding edges, light, and shadow, and applying color with confidence.
Putting it All Together:
Guided painting projects that integrate color, value, composition, and material handling.
Includes 24 instructional video lessons,
designed to be watched, practiced, and revisited over time.
What's Included
-
24 instructional video lessons
Clear, focused demonstrations designed to explain concepts step by step and support long-term understanding. -
Printable reference materials
Downloadable PDFs and photographic references you can return to as you work through the course. -
Community of painters
Access to an online private community where students share work, ask questions, and learn from one another. -
Instructor checks in with online community to answer specific questions from students and to provide feedback.
Testimonials
note to self: revert testimonials to original not these overedited ones
Nora — Painter
“Lucy has a rare ability to shift how I see. She creates an atmosphere of curiosity and focus that leads to real growth. Her observations have changed the way I approach my work.”
Timothy — Workshop Student
“Lucy communicates complex aesthetic principles with clarity and precision. She not only teaches technique, but helps painters uncover their own artistic language.”
Barbara — Beginner Painter
“As a beginner, I appreciate the clear, step-by-step instruction. The course has given me the knowledge and confidence to pursue painting seriously.”
What You’ll Walk Away With
-
A repeatable framework for beginning and resolving paintings
-
Confident decisions in color, value, and composition
-
A dependable process you can return to
-
Greater control of paint and materials
-
Stronger fundamentals that support your individual voice
Q&A
Is this beginner-friendly and for experienced painters?
-
Yes. The lessons are clear and methodical, designed for beginners while offering depth for experienced painters.
Is the course suitable for experienced painters?
What materials do I need?
-
A detailed supply list is emailed to you immediately after registration.
How long do I have access?
-
You have ongoing access for as long as the course remains available on Lucy’s website. There is currently no expiration date.
Is feedback guaranteed?
-
Lucy checks in every 7–10 days inside the private community and provides written or recorded feedback to students who post work along with specific questions.
Is this course for oil only?
-
The course is developed for oil painting, but acrylic painters may follow along using the same color palette and tools. Acrylic users should already be familiar with their materials and drying properties.