Alla Prima Painting (Sept. 2026)

The phrase alla prima is Italian for at first attempt.  A painting is typically painted in one session while the previous layers of paint are still wet, creating an immediacy that is often loose and expressive.  Applying wet-into-wet paint allows colors to be easily blended while edges can be manipulated and softened. 

Because alla prima is done relatively quickly, it is an excellent choice for plein air painting outdoors, working live from a model or any situation where you want to capture the impression of your subject. Although the phrase typically describes oil painting, acrylic artists also benefit from the practice of painting alla prima in one session.  Retardants can be added to acrylic paint to slow the drying time and allow for direct blending and the softening of edges.

Meets: Monday Nights, 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Dates: Sept. 7, 14, 21 & 28
Location: Art Verve Studio at 2700 N. Campbell Ave. Suite 300, Tucson, Arizona 85719

Instructor: Lisa Larrabee
Format: Lecture & demonstration, studio practice with individual feedback or one-on-one instruction.
Level: Beginner to intermediate. All levels are welcome!

Medium: Oil paint, water soluble oils and acrylics
Technique: Observing and completing a painting from life each session
Materials: The instructor will email the materials list before the first day of class. Note that painters must use drop cloths over tabletops. Oil painters are specifically required to use Gamsol or odorless mineral spirits & dispose of their oily rags in a flammable waste can.