Comments about workshops...
Hi Jacq-
I can't believe it's already two plus weeks since we've been in majestic Monhegan, painting with all of you. Honestly, after such a peaceful time in the island, it was really tough getting back to the hustle and bustle of the mainland! How I wish I could spend more time painting barefoot on the granite rock!
I enjoy seeing posts from the Everything Monhegan FB site as it is a good reminder to stay grounded and focus on nature's beauty!
Thank you so much for creating such a rich experience for Olivia and me (and peripherally for Chuck). Olivia and I looked forward to each morning packing our equipment and heading out to a new location to paint! It was challenging to set up, mix paints and then brave the elements (wind and sun) but boy was it worth it when we were able to enjoy our creations! We both felt a great feeling of accomplishment knowing that we were able to finish a plein aire painting a day. We both learned so much about color mixing, values and composition. We both loved the opportunity to just paint in beautiful nature each day. You were so patient and kind explaining techniques and giving pointers. Though we both have solid experience practicing mindfulness, Molly's guided meditations grounded us both. She really added so much to our painting experience, having us focusing more on the process rather than the product.
Thank you to Charlie as well as he helped entertain Chuck :) but also helped out with keeping us on track and coordinating the details.
The critique in the end after the delicious lobster dinner was fun! It was so wonderful to be with such a nurturing and supportive group.
Thanks again for a wonderful week and I hope that we meet in Monhegan again. We will be back for sure. In fact, I'm already looking for some houses to rent for next year! Evangeline, Olivia & Chuck
Workshop over, feeling inspired and thoughtful. This was not a techniques approach to painting but a way to channel my inner knowledge and creativity to the canvas. It freed me to approach the architectural ( or any) subject in a new way.
Could not have asked for nicer weather or company. Valarie Porthier
I hope the rest of your summer is going well.
I am giving a presentation to our faculty and staff at my school. I am presenting about the Monhegan workshop.
I wanted to ask if you have some photos I can share.Thanks so much.
I had a great experience! Best, Eileen Lyons
Morning JR,
Thank you for your workshop which was magical, as is Monhegan.
I learned a great deal on how to look at my work while painting, thanks to your instructive critiquing… it is good to think outside the box while painting inside the box.
Also, thank you for the e-mail addresses of a fun and interesting group.
Wish you lived closer to lower Ct…but who knows.. may make it up to you some day for more positive instruction.
David
J. R. -
Thank you for the great experience painting on Monhegan !
Happy travels Best, Morgan
Jacq - thank you for the workshop and for bringing me to this little gem of an island, also the chance to meet the other wonderful artists. A great group ! Jenny - New Zealand
J.R. - I wanted to let you know your plein air workshop was a wonderful and rewarding experience for me. I felt I learned a lot from your demonstrations and personal critiques. I now know what areas I would benefit from further instruction. It is a relief that I have passed the first hurdle of just getting started painting again. I thought Molly's visualizations were very helpful. It was an unexpected plus. The first one was very calming and made me less anxious so I could focus and put forth my best effort.
The second visualization was also calming and must have consolidated what I had learned. I could see that I improved during the week.
Sincerely, Susan Bundy
I have been looking at this website for years and never had the nerve to go. My daughter and I just got back from the Sarasota workshop and had a wonderful time. We learned so much in just two days. Jacqueline is an amazing person and teacher.
My advice to anyone that is afraid to go, just go! You won't regret it! Jacki Bank
This workshop was fabulous! Having Jacqueline as a teacher was very inspirational. I have been doing oil painting since I was twelve and have a Masters in Art Education. Although I have taken many art classes in college this was very different. She taught me a different way to look at what I was seeing. It is easy to get set in one way of painting and not want to learn a different way. I enjoyed learning the techniques needed to be a successful Plein Air painter. She gave me the confidence needed to continue making art myself and not just for my students. I recommend taking this workshop even if you know how to paint, but want a fresh perspective. It is a challenge to allow yourself to change the way paint, but it is well worth work. Thank you Jacqueline for this wonderful experience.
Allyson Sapherstein
Though the weather was not the best this Oct. 6th and 7th at our down close location in Niagara Falls, Canada, my creativity was engaged at Jacq's plein air workshop. From helping me with my tripod, to showing me how to use value, to being an encouragement, Jacq provided a learning experience to remember. Thank you J.R. Baldini !! Your pupil, Linda Skov
Jac thought you would like to see my finished painting from last weekend. Thanks again for
the workshop think it helped me alot by attending. Barb
Hello Jacqueline
Thank you for the kind words. I had an amazing 2 days. I've learned more from you than all my other workshop instructors together. You had a number a tips or comments that have stuck in my mind all week. If the rain holds off I plan to do a painting tomorrow...just in the backyard.
Best wishes always
I'll watch for future workshops on your website. Laurie
Well, what can I say? I have been trying to grab a minute here since my return to email you. You and my Monhegan experience have been on my mind since the boat pulled away from the dock. I have been changed forever and I am forever grateful to have met you and to have participated in your workshop! I miss you , Molly and Sarah like old friends or like family. Wow. Thank-you for sharing your gifts with our class. Thank-you for helping me break through the barrier that held me back in my own work. I am inspired and excited to see how my work develops as a result of your input. Just wanted you to know how much I appreciated everything!
I am hooked! Please let me know as soon as you schedule your next Monhegan workshop!
I'll be sending you some photos of the trip when I get a chance.
Fondly, Joan B
Hi Jacqueline,
Just back from my recent trip to Buffalo. I have to tell you the the highlight of the trip was painting with you at the workshop.
The location was unbelievable, awe-inspiring and indescribable. I'm trying to master phtalo but it really wants to master me.
I liked learning your grisalle method of doing a value study. It's a neat technique to add to my arsenal.
Most of all, I enjoyed meeting you and will think of you as one of my very talented artist friends. If I can help you advertise your Myrtle Beach workshop, I'd be happy to pass the information onto my plein air group of 60 plus artists.
If you need an assistant for your Monhegan workshops in 2010, keep me in mind. I would love to assist if your numbers get overwhelming.
Just touched up my paintings from Niagara Falls and will have them on my site soon.
Again, thanks for a memorable workshop. It was fabulous!
Ann Hair, NC
Jacqueline,
I just wanted to thank you again for not canceling the Myrtle Beach workshop. To be able to work with you for two days with your undivided attention was truly a valuable experience for me.
Not only did I get information regarding materials, location, set-up, and approach to plein air painting, I received something I wasn't planning on - a direction in my painting! The workshop was worth many times the price of admission!
Many more thanks and continued success in your workshops and painting!
Sincerely,
Bill D
Dear Jackie:
I had such a wonderful time painting last weekend. I learned so much. You are a patient and giving teacher. Comparing Saturday to Sunday's paintings was a revelation. I look at everything in terms of cast shadows. I also can't wait to send for the Graham paints and try them at home.
I hope I can sign up for other classes in the future. Linda K, NJ
Jacqueline
Thank you so much for the photo of Jeanne and me. We both enjoyed the workshop so much. As my first experience with plein aire painting, I really appreciated the opportunity to watch as you demonstrated establishing a value study and building up the painting with application of color from dark to light. I loved "in the moment" quality of painting outdoors, even when the wind was blowing my easel over! Your input was always helpful and so encouraging.
I plan to continue my efforts at painting outdoors and you can count on me being at one of your future workshops.
Thanks again. Karen Ketchum
Dear Jacqui,
Thank you for an excellent weekend of art instruction. The techniques you taught were great. The entire workshop was very enlightening for me. The methods you taught will bring me to a new level as a painter. I came to the workshop knowing very little about plein air painting, but left feeling inspired to continue with plein air painting.
I am also hoping to contact local plein air painters and try to start perhaps a plein air society in our area.
Again, thanks for everything...including the trip at the Falls, the Canadian fries and those excellent Maple Leaf cookies.
Wishing you many successes ! Kelly Sunderland, PA.
update
I just wanted to drop you a note and let you know what an impact you made on my life.
I only took one workshop with you but it certainly was inspiring and educational.
I have been able to rededicate myself to painting (even though I still have trouble making time to paint as much as I would like).
Not only has my life improved artistically, but also personally. I have met a wonderful man that I plan on marrying soon.
I also wanted to let you know I want to do another workshop with you in the future. Don't know when for sure yet, one thing at a time:)
Thank you so much, Kelly S.
Hi Jacq:
Just a quick note to say how much I enjoyed the workshop.
Thanks so much for making this a valuable and fun experience. I have continued to edit some paintings done there including the birthday gift for my wife (who loved her gift). I also am processing the lessons conveyed and hope that the changes will continue to occur as they sink in. best
Dan J., Mass
Jac,
Well, what can I say?. You and my Monhegan experience have been on my mind since the boat pulled away from the dock. I have been changed forever and I am forever grateful to have met you and to have participated in your workshop! I miss you , Molly and Sarah like old friends or like family. Wow. Thank-you for sharing your gifts with our class. Thank-you for helping me break through the barrier that held me back in my own work. I am inspired and excited to see how my work develops as a result of your input. Just wanted you to know how much I appreciated everything!
I am hooked! Please let me know as soon as you schedule your next Monhegan workshop!
I'll be sending you some photos of the trip when I get a chance. - h and you can delete those videos- I'd love to write a recommendation for your workshops if you need one! Fondly, Joan
Hi Jacqueline - I took your workshop last June - it really gave me an amazing jump start. Kristina Wentzell
Your workshop has definitely influenced how I think about composition and values.
I have been using photos less and doing more from my head, or even combining subjects from photos so they have
the effect I’m looking for. I think I’m improving. I’m also trying to make every stroke count. Brenda Hofbauer.
Dear Jacqui,
Thank you for an excellent weekend of art instruction. The techniques you taught were great. The entire workshop was very enlightening for me. The methods you taught will bring me to a new level as a painter. I came to the workshop knowing
very little about plein air painting, but left feeling inspired to continue with plein air painting.
I am also hoping to contact local plein air painters and try to start perhaps a plein air society in our area.
Again, thanks for everything...including the trip at the Falls, the Canadian fries and those excellent Maple Leaf cookies.
Wishing you many successes ! Kelly
Sunderland, PA.
J. Baldini's Monhegan Workshop allows every level of painter a haven of creative expression.
You are encouraged to work at your own pace and find your individual style. It is truly a spiritual retreat.
Anonymous
The most important aspect of this workshop for me was time away on my own. If I attended another
workshop I would like greater emphasis on vino,lobster,cabana boys and cats- Loved it!
Brandy Gale
Jacqueline-
First off, I want to thank you for a great weekend workshop last month. I enjoyed it immensely, and most importantly
really jump-started my painting. I found your demonstrations and discussions on underpainting,
composition, color, value, "right brain" mode, brushwork, etc. very helpful. In just one weekend, my painting moved up
a whole level. I am excited again about working and have been painting busily since the workshop in preparation
for my family's art show on August 4th. I really will have some paintings to show for myself!
Hope your Monhegan/Bar Harbor trip is wonderful. I look forward to painting with you again.
Best-
Kristina W., NY
Jacqueline's workshop was very informative and taught me a technique for solving the value problems I had been struggling with.
I will continue to use the value on canvas technique instead of a sketch for plein air painting.
I also learned to avoid light colored clothing to avoid the glare factor. It was agreat experience overall.
Thank You! Wendy D.,Golden, Colorado
Hi Jacq,
I can't believe the trip is over, after looking forward to it for so long. You really are a dedicated teacher and I like your style of
making us think about the total picture and what we want to achieve before starting, ie values and shading, etc.
Elaine A., NY
Dear Jacqueline
This week has been magical. a dream come to reality. Monhegan is classic Maine coast. No matter where I look. I see a painting.
The changing weather is like multiple personalities full of surprise, if not anticipation.
Working with you under your tutelage, has been inspirational and has greatly increased my belief that I may learn to enjoy the unpredictability of watercolor. It certainly matches the aura of the island.
I look forward to seeing you and learning more next year.
Sincerely
Dawn S., Maine
This was the first time on the island for me and I loved it. Everywhere you look there's a painting!
The workshop was great. Some days were frustrating beacuse I was trying to learn something new, but I learned a lot.
so the total experience is very satisfying. Also gained a new respect and appreciation for plein
air painting. Hope to return next year.
Judy M., Maine
Jacqueline taught me to see from a unique perspective and to convey that perspective to others.
Margaret A., NY
I thoroughly enjoyed the workshop & appreciate your patience in letting me learn in my own way.
Thanks a lot.
Baila M., Chicago
I have enjoyed this workshop trememdously. It has been a great group of people and it has been a great experience seeing
the different styles and techniques that people have used.
I thought that the demos were very interesting and useful and I like the way Jacqueline would help each of us to accomplish our goals.
The artistic advice and instruction were excellent. Thank You!
Roseann E., Rhode Island
I feel that I have begun a good foundation for painting with emphasis on value.
Louise R., N.Carolina
This was my first painting workshop. I found Jacqueline a knowledgeable and encouraging instructor. The friendliness of the students and the beauty of Monhegan made for a helpful learning environment.
Sue ., Maine
The workshop with Jacqueline Baldini has been one of the greatest painting learning experiences I have had.- I learned more in 3 days than what I have learned in other workshops and painting courses - the result has been remarkable.
Jorge P., Miami
Jack
Thank You is all I've been saying all week, grateful for the environment, which helps me in knowing now where my passion has always been.
Goal #1 Find Direction
Grateful for your patience & soft guidance which freed me from perfection.
Goal #2 Relax and allow me to be a beginner
Grateful that this group was diverse and encouraging and sharing themselves.
Goal #3 Not be imtimidated by those further ahead of me.
What I've learned...
Someone told me I needed to paint, paint, paint. This week gave me the opportuniy to realize the benefit.
Working 5 days a week , and being tired at night, had prevented me from experiencing this.
Going back with a drive to continue. Dawn and I are going to produce one painting a week and meet once a month for art date. I'm thinking I need to start another art group - gather friends that paint.
I am looking forward to the next workshop. I love the caribbean and I was thinking these workshop options
included my 2 favorite worlds. Also, I haven't studied under one person and I want this opportunity.
Claralee S., Maine
Hi, Jacq!
The whole experience was a dream for me. I can't tell you how wonderful it was to have that extra time
together. I really enjoy your company and it is pretty amazing that there was so much synchronicity going
on! I am already looking forward to next year....
Molly, Maine
Just a note to say how much fun I had at the workshop!
I'd love to be caught up with what the rest of you did in the workshop! It's been quite fun for me to apply what I did do to my current work. When I close my eyes now instead of visualizing Tuscan landscapes or Medieval villages waking up to the smell of
espresso and croissants in Southern France, I smell Josh's cold mushroom soup, fog, and I hear, "cake before frosting",
and I'm in heaven.
Thanks again, Jaqui, for the thoughtful directions you sent me in.
What a fabulous workshop! I look forward to continuing contacts with the foggy 14.
Suellen
Thank You for a most wonderful adventure. I hope to paint with you again.
Debanne, New Jersey
What a great workshop! It was exactly what I'd hoped for because it struck the right balance for me of instruction and time to practice what I learned.
Jacq is not only a wonderful artist but she is also a skilled and dedicated teacher: encouraging, sensitive,honest and completely
devoted to the art of painting.
Thank you so much for my private tutorial at Burnt Head. I learned more from you about watercolor in 2 hrs. than I did in an 8 week course I'd just finished!
Judy Kamm, Mass
A note of thanks to you for providing a wonderful and fun workshop. This was my first workshop and I look forward to doing
more in the future. I am hoping to keep in touch with some of the other students in the Boston area and I think we even planned
a saturday to paint outside.
Thanks again for a great week and I will hopefully continue to paint!!! Kind regards
Dottie Laughlin.
Being in the out of doors around beautiful Monhegan Island challenged me to paint fast so as to capture the light and the quickly changing atmosphere. We were very fortunate to experience a diverse climate change from bright sunlight with heavy shadows to wet misty gray days. An emphasis in this class was grisalle, color temperature and the simplification of the subject. Being a plein air painter forces you to think on your feet and quickly brush in the essence of the island.
El Towle, Barnet, Vermont
Jacqueline
Thanks so much for all the hard work making the Monhegan Workshop possible. I tried to hold onto the vacation mode as long as possible. A week has passed and I have two more paintings, one a rework of the study on Horn Hill, and the other a pallette knife rendition of a sunset in the Berkshires. Almost abstract in its looseness.
I am hoping to return next summer a more accomplished painter. Meanwhile, I'll continue life drawing and weekly painting when I can.
Your personal attention to each of us was inspirational.
Sara Jones, NYC
J- I took some photos of exhibit. Will send. Enjoyed working with you.
Your Suuuth'n student,
Acton
For all who don't know Jacquiline she is a very lovely woman who gives her all in her workshops. My trip to Monhegan was
amazing to say the least. Everywhere I turned there was something to paint and artists
abound this tiny island as if the island were owned by artists. It was a crowning point in my art career to be
with Jacky and the friends that I met there and will be treasured for years tocome. Jacquilines expertice with
painting En Plein Aire captured my heart and soul and it will capture whoever should attend one of her
workshops. I will try to get back to Monhegan again for the experience was a joyful one and also my stay at
the Trailing Yew.
From: Ron Rudat Attleboro , Ma.
It was a great workshop!! You were a super leader (and excellent critiques)... The group was lots of fun!!!
I came away with some good material...
I really enjoyed meeting you...the workshop was everything I hoped for...
I'd like to do it again, if possible .
Sincerely
Debbie Seymour
Just a short note to tell you how much I enjoyed your workshop on Monhegan - Everything was perfect &
I've worked on some of my sketches to make a finished painting. Thank you for your brochure for the St.
Lucia workshop & I plan to go.
Sincerely
Nona Rutter
P.S. I have a painting juried into Pastel Society Show ,NYC
My experience on Monhegan was so very expanding for me artistically and personally. It opened me up to
new ideas and ways of addressing my art and themes.
Jacqueline Baldini runs a gentle workshop where all are welcomed.
She is a competent, knowledgeable and sure-handed instructor. I admired greatly her art-- both watercolor
and oil--and her clear and sincere interpretations of the scenes at hand.
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend a Baldini workshop.Jacq facilitates a wonderful week of art.
If you ever get a chance to attend, don't hesitate.
Thanks Jacq, you are the best.
I heard about Monhegan on visits to Maine. I have visited the island twice for a week to attend two Baldini
workshops.
Deborah Cavanaugh, NC
What a terrific experience working with you! I was delighted to have received such valuable information,
particularly re: right brain technique,along with your professional, honest critiques during the Niagara
workshop.
Jacq, you understand the passion to create, and are a skillful, encouraging guide and a wonderful person, too.
Thank you for making the whole experience fun and challenging. Your plein air workshop would
benefit anyone at any stage of their creative endeavours. Thank you again
3rd workshop
Brandy Gale, Ontario
Hi Jacq,
Thanks for the photo.
I had a such a wonderful weekend learning to use acrylics for Plein Air painting.
You have such a natural way of teaching and the subject of Niagara Falls was so captivating that I did not want to stop painting, and indeed your workshop has seized my imagination so that I have continued to paint.
Even when I am not painting I am in the beautiful space of thinking like a painter and seeing the landscape as a vast work of art.
The sky keeps calling for the first stroke of my brush. Your workshop shows the way to organize the impressions of the day into memorable paintings while experiencing the freedom of the outdoor landscape.
Thank you so much for the beautiful weekend of painting.
Bonnie White, Lillydale ,NY
Hi Jacq:
Thanks so much for a really great painting and learning experience in Niagara Falls on 9/10 and 11, 2006. I
had never tried to paint outside before and didn't know what to expect. The workshop what a great
inspiration and your personalized attention and encouragement were truly appreciated. Thanks for posting
my painting on your website--my 15 minutes of fame! I look forward to more plein air painting on my own
and attending another of your workshops.
Once again, thanks.
Tim K., Michigan
