Capturing the Atmosphere

“Dave is a master of atmosphere and depth in his beautiful landscapes, and I was so happy to find that he’s also an amazing teacher. He prepared a very informative digital presentation which I got so much out of, and he’s generous and articulate while doing a demo, or critiquing our work. I can honestly say I got so much information to apply to my own work after working with him for three days, and of course lots of laughter and fun!”
—Kathy Anderson, OPAM

“Dave Santillanes is adept at teaching to various experience levels at once. Whether just starting out, or a seasoned professional, you’ll learn plenty in one of his classes. I found his insights into creating atmosphere, mixing harmonious greys, and edge work particularly helpful. Dave is charismatic and knowledgeable…you
can’t go wrong studying with him.”
—Jane Hunt, OPA, AIS

“Thanks a million, Dave. As a former professor, I mean what I say regarding your extraordinary teaching ability and slide-shows (which require different, but overlapping skills). You make a lot of difficult concepts accessible”
—David Marsh

“Dave, Your Online Art Lessons are the best I have ever had. Priceless. My artwork has improved dramatically after only one month of studying with you.”
—Greg Baker

PAINTS

Below is a recommended palette for Oil and Acrylic painters. At the very least you’ll want to include a large
tube of each of the primary colors plus White. I highly recommend a tube Gray and Transparent Red Oxide as well. Any professional grade will do.

PRIMARY COLORS

• Titanium White (large tube)
• Ultramarine Blue*
• Alizarin Crimson*
• Cadmium Yellow Medium*
• Cold Gray (Rembrandt)
• Transparent Red Oxide

ADDITIONAL COLORS

• Yellow Ochre
• Cadmium OrangeCadmium Red
• Viridian
• Cerulean (Warm) Blue

PAINT BRUSHES

• Flats or Brights are recommended for the majority of the work.
• Have a good range of sizes: 2,6,8,10,12 but make sure to include your BIG brushes (12 to 16s)!
• Softer synthetic brushes for smoother panels and portrait linens.
• Bristle Brushes for rougher Canvas.
• If in doubt use a mix of both.

PAINTING SUPPORT

• Canvas panels or smooth (oil primed or gessoed) panels are recommended.
• Use whatever you are most comfortable with.
• Estimate using 1 or 2 supports per day (2 day workshop = 2-4 supports)
• Recommended sizes between 9×12 and 12×16.

OTHER MATERIALS

• Landscape Photos
• Palette Knife – (preferably with a long angled edge for mixing paint – sometimes called a painting knife or scraper)
• Paper Towels
• Odorless Turpenoid or Gamsol and brush cleaning container (i.e. coffee can)

Dave Santillanes has been painting outdoors for more than 20 years, learning from his environment to become a nationally recognized landscape painter. His work has received numerous awards including the Grand Prize at the 9th Annual Plein Air Salon Competition and First Place in Landscape at the12th International ARC Salon. His work has also been featured in Plein Air Magazine, Art of the West and Southwest Art magazines. He is currently a member of Cowboy Artists of America and Plein Air Painters of America.