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The Portrait Society's 2006 Portrait Academies

The Academy of Art University
San Francisco, California
with Michael Shane Neal
October 13-14, 2006


By Amanda McCaughey-Apostol

On October 13, over 100 people gathered in Bradley Hall at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, California to watch a painting demonstration by renowned artist, Michael Shane Neal. Much of the audience was comprised of AAU students who were able to attend the evening's event on scholarship.

Throughout the demonstration, Neal shared a plethora of advice on color, tone, and composition. He advised that it is important to stay free and loose in the early stages of the painting, and identify a focal point from which the painting can develop.

For Neal, painting is about constantly correcting mistakes, and sometimes the artist is forced to sacrifice something that is good to make it even better. He encouraged the artists to copy paintings out of books or at museums, especially in the early stages of training. By continually painting, an artist will begin to learn how to handle mistakes and understand their subject more thoroughly.

It was evident, as the discussion continued, that Neal's life has been greatly impacted by his relationship with his mentor, Everett Raymond Kinstler. He told the audience about his first encounter with Kinstler, and the impact that his encouragement and guidance has had on Neal's development as an artist. Thus, it is no surprise that Neal took this opportunity to impress upon his audience some of the lessons he has learned from his mentor, such as ensuring the transitions between light, medium, and dark values are smooth. Likewise, Neal advocated moving beyond painting exactly what one sees. He shared how Kinstler has encouraged him to edit down the details while still capturing the essence of the subject. Painting is not just a mechanical exercise, but it has an important emotional component as well.

While the audience was captivated by Neal, they were also pleased to find him approachable and willing to dispense advice on the more mundane business aspects of working as an artist. He stressed the importance of hard work, dedication, and a willingness to sell yourself and your work. The students especially seemed to appreciate Neal's candor.

On Saturday, thirty-five individuals returned to Bradley Hall for a day-long workshop. Neal took time to speak with each person, offering guidance and detailed instruction. The day culminated with many of the Portrait Society members in attendance joining Neal and his family for dinner to converse and reflect on the weekend's events.

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The Portrait Society of America is a not-for-profit organization directed by a governing board of artists dedicated to
fostering and enhancing the practice, aesthetics and applications of traditional, fine art portraiture.
Membership is open to all individuals with an interest in the art of the portrait.

Christine Egnoski · Executive Director
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