Robert Masla

Bar Harbor Sunset, oil and alkyd on panel, 12"x17", Robert Masla

#1
July 25th, 26th, 27th -
"Filled with Light –
–An  Introduction to Plein Air Painting "
with artist Robert Masla


Artist Robert Masla invites you to join him in the unique environment of his studio and
grounds in rural Ashfield, MA. This fun weekend retreat of instruction and relaxation
will be exciting as we engage in painting the landscape in "plein air".
We will begin the evening of Friday July 26th from 7 to approximately 9:30pm at the
studio with registration, a discussion about drawing and painting, the healing qualities of
working with nature, and a slide presentation on the various history, methods and
techniques for approaching the landscape.We will also discuss our own personal
motivations for using the landscape as subject.
We will meet Sat. from 8:30 to 9:15am at the main house for coffee or tea and then work
from 9:30am to 1pm. We will break for a simple picnic lunch from 1 to 2:30 -
or you may bring your own, (coolers provided), or there are many fine local
eateries we could recommend). You may also spend this time taking a dip in one of the
brooks, falls, or Ashfield Lake, take a hike in the woods, nap in the hammock, take a
hot tub or sauna ...relax. We will then meet for continued art making from 2:30 to 6:30.
Again, there are many great local eateries we can recommend for dinner.
Sunday mornings schedule is the same as Saturdays.
In the afternoon we will meet at 3:30 for discussion, encouragement and
closure ending at approximately 5:30.


Meditations Mist, oil and alkyd on canvas, 9"x12", Robert Masla

Light (and its’ absence) illuminates and defines all the forms that we see, it fills the sky
in different ways at different times of day, affecting changes in atmosphere and creating
different moods. Infuse composition, form, texture, detail and symbolism with the quality
of light, - it’s color, energy and atmosphere and you have a dynamic painting. We will study the effects of light at different times of day with an emphasis on color and form.
Through rendering the atmosphere of light - in both the sky with its various cloud
transformations along with the modeling of concrete forms, we will strive to
arrive at a unity of composition.


Pond at Dusk - Hadley, oil and alkyd on canvas, 24"x36", Robert Masla

This class will focus on developing the techniques and ability to
paint quickly and accurately, developing a spontaneous yet controlled approach, which
can be useful in many situations. We will be working out doors plein-air as Masla gives
you insight into the art of seeing, teaching you to edit the non essential and simplify
shapes, to lay foundations quickly, accurately, and confidently. Going forward to discern
where and how to emphasize focal points and details and then how to apply paint in a
logical progression, allowing you to understand what you did and why.
We will produce numerous small studies and there will be demonstrations in various
medieums for the group as well as discussion and plenty of individual attention.
Realize that we are not looking to produce a masterpiece here, but learning how to
take notes, the effects of light on form, field studies of color,
value, texture, composition, mood, energy, etc.


Niagra - The American Falls, oil and alkyd on canvas on board, 8"x16", Robert Masla

All levels of students are encouraged to join in this playful, nurturing, and supportive
environment where exploration is encouraged and where there are no mistakes.
Masla will share with you in this exploration of the materials and techniques as well as his
joy and excitement of various approaches to painting the landscape in plein air.
The class will focus on light and color and the creation of form, mood and atmosphere and how that relates to the application of paint. We will explore value and color relationships
as well as forms, edges and the elements of design in the creation of a composition.
Masla will give some group demonstrations / instruction on process but will also work with
individuals to help them uncover their unique and exciting signature or “style”.
Combining techniques (the craft of painting) with emotional response and
visual concept we will give rise to unique individual expression.


Up the Valley, oil and alkyd on panel, 12"x17", Robert Masla

...On Masla’s philosophy of Spiritrealism & Art as the Celebration of Creativity -
“…The goal is for me to act as much (as a participant) as a facilitator and guide in the
creative process, not for people to draw or paint as I do. For me the art process is a
spiritual journey. I experience individuals as sparks of creative energy and awareness,
part of the Whole of the ongoing Creation. As children, before we became "separate"
from the creation around us, we marveled in our explorations and were awed by our
discoveries, naturally participating in creation. This state of consciousness still comes
easily to some, but more often this creative life energy becomes blocked. Being a part
of Creation, we are all by nature creative beings. To express that creativity through
drawing and painting is a joyful process, one of many paths that can reconnect us to our
true self. Art making affords us with an amazing opportunity to re-experience our
original and true nature as pure creative awareness.

Come-Create-Celebrate.
Paint & Draw Your Heart Out!


Blue Canyon, watercolor on canvas, 12"x9", Robert Masla

Registration, Accommodations & Costs:
Limited enrollment, to reserve your space call Bob at : (413) 625-8382.
send a check made out to
Casa De Los Artistas, Inc
Addressed to: Robert Masla Studios
962 Apple Valley Rd.
Ashfield, MA 01330

Dates: #1
July 25th, 26th, 27th
(includes Picnic Lunch Sat. & Sun.)
Workshop cost: - $275. (includes material costs)

Accommodations: There are B& B's and other accommodations in the area, please give
us a call. We also have, free of charge, a few Ideal camping spots on a hill & in the middle
of mowed hay fields (incredible stars at night). For an additional $10. set up fee we can
provide a large tent and air mattress. These are very limited, please reserve early.

Thistle, oil and alkyd on panel, 4"x 6", Robert Masla

Materials And Prerequisites:
Participants should bring painting materials and surfaces of their own preference,
also, bug spray/ sun block/ sun hat, etc., for working out doors.
Drawing materials will be provided.
Please feel free to call and discuss this and any other questions with Bob.
.

Looking into the Falls, oil and alkyd on canvas, 24"x36", Robert Masla

To see more of Bobs work and to learn more about him visit the link below
www.maslafineart.com


Art Workshops/Vacation-Retreats
to find out more contact:
Monica and Bob at (413) 625-8382
www.maslafineart.com
email us : bob@maslafineart.com
or contact Karla and Steven at Boca Divers
011 52 322 228 0713 www.bocadivers.com