ABSTRACT PAINTING UNLEASHED - BOLD MARKS AND BRAVE LAYERS with Jodi Ohl, NOV 6th and 7th 2026
ABSTRACT PAINTING UNLEASHED - BOLD MARKS AND BRAVE LAYERS with Jodi Ohl, NOV 6th and 7th 2026
Friday, November 6th and Saturday, November 7th, 10am-5 pm both days
$455 - Required materials listed below
If you're drawn to abstract art with strong visual impact but struggle to create paintings that feel cohesive rather than chaotic, this workshop is designed for you.
During this two-day immersive studio experience, you'll learn the process Jodi uses to build dynamic abstract paintings filled with movement, contrast, texture, and personality. Through a series of guided exercises, demonstrations, and hands-on experimentation, you'll develop original shapes, marks, and visual language that feel authentic to your own work. Together, we'll explore:
Creating strong compositions without relying on rigid formulas
Building layers that add depth, history, and interest
Using bold color, graphic elements, and contrast with intention
Developing confident mark-making that energizes a painting
Knowing when to push a piece further—and when to stop
This workshop is about learning how to make stronger decisions, trust your instincts, and discover new possibilities within your own creative process.
One of the greatest advantages of working in person is the opportunity to create alongside other artists. You'll gain fresh perspectives, learn through shared experiences, and leave with new ideas that often emerge only when artists gather together.
→ Artists can expect to complete one to two mid-sized abstract paintings incorporating texture, collage, and layered acrylic techniques. Each day begins with focused warm-up exercises and demonstrations that provide practical tools you can continue using long after the workshop ends.
This workshop is open to makers of all levels with some experience working in acrylics. If you would like to create bold, contemporary abstract art that tells your story, jump in and join us for Abstract Painting Unleashed!
This class seats 10 students. For any questions regarding our cancellation or transfer policy, please refer to the link in our navigation bar. For those flying we recommend flight insurance and booking accommodation ahead of time.
Jodi Ohl is a contemporary artist, author, and instructor celebrated for her vibrant abstract and whimsical mixed-media creations. Based in Aberdeen, NC, Jodi works from her home studio and travels extensively to lead workshops and retreats, inspiring students to embrace creativity and explore the possibilities of abstract art. Her work has been showcased in galleries, exhibitions, and publications and is sought after by collectors worldwide. Jodi’s first book, Abstracts in Acrylic and Ink, is a best-seller, and she is currently developing a follow-up book. Follow her on social media
SUPPLY LIST
These are items that will be used in the class. You do not need to buy the exact item, especially if you already own something similar and would prefer to use your own tools. Jodi will also have additional supplies for class use.
Brushes and Mark-making tools
Assorted brushes, in different size, including both flat and round brushes made for acrylics. Here’s a couple of styles but feel free to bring your favorites:
Catalyst Wedge, Jodi recommends the #6.
Optional: Silicone ‘Brush’ Tools/Color Shapers.
Fineline Applicator (optional) you fill these with fluid acrylic paint or for faster line work you can fill with ¾ fluid paint and ¼ high flow medium or water.
Neo Color II Crayons and or Stabilo woodies are great mark making tools to have as well.
Paint
Jodi suggests students work with Golden Fluid Paint for most of the colors in the fluid paint consistency. Liquitex Basics is another good option or Nova Paint. Soft body paint will work as well if you have those. Jodi prefers soft body paint for certain colors such as white, yellow ochre, cream/beige. Bring colors you like working with for your palette but you should also have white, carbon black, payne’s gray, and one brown such as Van Dyke Brown, Burnt Umber or Raw Umber. Jodi usually has yellow ochre in her palette as well.
If you are unsure of what colors to bring, you can begin with a warm and cool version of the primary colors and a couple of saturated colors that are hard to mix such as a turquoise or magenta.
Cool Primaries: Magenta, Phthalo Blue (green shade), Hansa Yellow Light
Warm Primaries: Cad Red, Ultramarine Blue, Cad Yellow Med
Mediums
Small bottles of Glazing Medium (Satin) and Matte Medium (fluid, not gel).
Surfaces
(2)12x12 cradled wood panel (these are affordable and lightweight)
(1) 16x16 or similar midsize. Blick brand is good
You can bring other surfaces if you paint fast or like to experiment. Please pre-gesso all of your surfaces ahead of time with either white or mid-tone grey gesso (add black paint to white gesso). PLEASE no canvas boards!
Optional: Journal
An art journal or bound mixed media pad if you’d like to practice ideas or use to create backgrounds with excess paint. A small notebook for note taking and idea generating may also be useful.