On the first day, through demonstration, ideas are presented about how the techniques of Matisse influenced the compositions, colour contrasts and layering techniques used by Richard Diebenkorn. You will then search and analyse both artists work to see if you can find similar links to decide how much you think knowledge of Matisse’s technique and colour theory played their part consciously or intuitively in Diebenkorn’s creative process. On day 2 morning session you will search for compositions using a still life or people in the studio as the starting point. Will, trying to articulate the space and design of Matisse and Diebenkorn, help you with your own compositions? On Day 3 the focus will be on creating small scale colour studies constructing layers of gesture paintings working with both your own intuitive feel for colour and any ideas identified during the first day’s analysis. On day 4, using the small studies of day two as a starting point you will attempt a larger scale semi abstract painting.