Introduction to Abstract Painting Workshop

Explore the many ways abstractionists create dynamic and sophisticated large paintings. Use acrylic paints to brush, stamp, splatter, scribble, and scrape paint. Color, composition, and different styles of abstraction from cubism to minimalism will be explored.

Participation in recreation activities can provide positive outlets for one's time and energy.

Teacher Bio: Eric McRay received a BFA degree at the Maryland Institute, College of Art, where he earned a four-year scholarship for his artistic talent. A native of Washington, DC, McRay started his teaching career at the age of 16 teaching youth at the YMCA and the Capitol Hill Day School. McRay has had a varied range of teaching & lecturing experiences with Jerry’s Artarama, Cary Arts Center, Salvation Army, Cary Visual Arts, United Arts Council of Raleigh and Wake, Mary Phillips School, Longview School, Tammy Lynn Center for Developmental Disabilities, Wake County Public Schools, NC State University, UNC-Chapel Hill, Saint Augustine’s University, Artspace, and various NC arts councils.

All posted artwork painted by Eric McRay.

Supplies to bring for acrylic painting:

Canvas: Bring a 16×20 or up to 18x24 inch canvas. Nothing smaller.

Set of acrylic paint brushes. Various sized brushes.

A variety of colors of acrylic paint (red, yellow, blue, orange, purple, green, white, and brown.)

A palette, paper plates work well

Two containers for water to clean brushes- Gallery will provide two containers

Palette knives

Bring portable easel table top easel if you have one, or instructor will bring one to fit your canvas size.

Smock or painters clothes

Latex gloves, if concerned about your hands

Bring a few hardcopy prints or photographs of abstract styles that appeal to you. Please do not work from a pre-existing painting.

Location: Heart2Hands Sunroom

472 East 2nd Street, Clayton, NC 27520

Date: Saturday, October 3, 2026

Time: 11am-4pm

Instructor: Eric McRay

Tuition: $140

Medium: Acrylic paint- NO oils for this one

Ages: 16 Yrs. and over

NOTE: feel free to bring a lidded drink and something to eat for a break. We have a fridge and microwave. We also have filtered water to refill you lidded cup.

NOTE: Leave your cell number when you sign up incase we have an emergency cancellation.