Here, We Are: Portrait Drawing Workshop with Leslie Barlow

Throughout time people across the world have used portraiture to document the appearance, personalities, and stories of themselves and others––and there is a power in this representation and record that continues to have influence today. In this three hour workshop we will discuss the importance of and beauty in honoring our likeness in visual art, and practice basic observational measuring and drawing techniques to help you more accurately record the lines, planes, and features on your face. Instruction will be short and at the beginning of the workshop to allow for ample drawing time, one on one feedback, relaxed breaks and collaborative discussion. No drawing experience required.

Leslie Barlow is a Minneapolis based artist and educator. Primarily an oil painter, Barlow shares stories through figural relationships that explore the politics of representation, identity, otherness, and racial constructs. She received her BFA from the University of Wisconsin-Stout in 2011 and MFA from the Minneapolis College of Art in Design in 2016. Barlow has been featured in Minnesota Original (Spring 2016), and recognized as a 2016 Artist of the Year in City Pages. She is a two time recipient of the Minnesota State Arts Board Grant Initiative, and a 2018 recipient of the Minnesota Museum of American Art purchase award from the Minnesota State Fair Juried Exhibition. Check out her work here! (Link to https://www.lesliebarlowartist.com/)

Event notes:

• Remember to bring a photo of yourself. Printed will be easier to work with, but on your phone is also okay.
• Paper, pencils, erasers, and snacks will be provided. Feel free to bring your own supplies.

Space is limited - be sure to sign up early!

The true cost of this event is $20 per attendee. As a part of our sponsorship for this event, MidWest Mixed works to cover the fees to make this event possible. To keep our events open and accessible for all, any donations are valued and appreciated.

Here, We Are is a series of creative workshops that build community and engage with themes of identity centering mixed race, multiracial, and transracial adoptee experiences. The content generated in these workshops have the opportunity to be shared at the 2019 MidWest Mixed Conference. MidWest Mixed believes arts engagement enriches conversations about identity by encouraging creative modes of reflection, strengthening community relationships, and providing space for brave sharing.