FUN WITH YUPO WORKSHOP
This workshop is for anyone interested in exploring the unique characteristics of YUPO. YUPO is a smooth inorganic (plastic) surface that accepts paint in a very different way than paper. Because the paint sits on the surface instead of being absorbed, it flows, mixes and can give a very fluid abstract “liquid” look to washes that can be very appealing (and frustrating, if you are trying to “control” it.) The surface also allows colors to be more intense, giving a stained glass look that is amazing, and makes lifting easy, allowing a push-pull method of composition similar to working with opaque paints.
This workshop is intended to give you a variety of ways to approach the unique characteristics of YUPO. We will take advantage of the abstract, flowing ‘liquid’ look of wet in wet application and experiment with stamping, texturing, lifting and even texturing with foam rollers. We will talk about design and how to go from the crazy accidental abstraction of YUPO to finished work. We will also talk about “taming” YUPO to do representational work, flattening washes, graded washes etc.
Come if you are a beginner and want to have fun playing with paint, if you are an accomplished watercolorist who wants to explore a new surface, or anyone in between who wants to expand their horizons and try something new.
I turn to YUPO when I want to “play” with watercolor and just have fun. The participant can expect to finish at least a couple completed or nearly completed paintings in the three days.
About James Turner:
James Turner graduated from the University of MN with a BS in Mechanical Engineering, followed by an MD, with residencies and board certification in Internal Medicine and in Anesthesiology. He studied watercolor with a variety workshop instructors starting in 1995 while practicing medicine and raising a family. These include Mel Stabin, Steven Quiller, Dale Laitinin, Mark Mehaffey, and John Salminen.
Now retired for five years, he has been able to paint more consistently and participates in several plein air events where he has won multiple awards including, most recently, Best Watercolor and Best Body of Works well as First in the Quick Paint at Grand Marais and Best in Show in Red Wing MN. He is a signature member of the Minnesota Watercolor society and has won multiple awards including Best in Show, He is a signature member of the American Watercolor Society and won an award for the YUPO piece “The Critics” there in 2022. He also teaches watercolor classes on YUPO, Plein Air Painting and Journaling.
