Expressive Realism

Costa Dvorezky's Approach to Painting the Figure in Oil

Experience the first online workshop filmed with Costa Dvorezky! Join Costa as he unveils his secrets to painting the figure in oil, using alla prima techniques. In this workshop, you'll explore the fundamentals of composition and effective color use, crucial when creating expressive figurative paintings. Costa will share his approach to paint application, and the importance of understanding values when creating depth and emotion. Immerse yourself in the art of figurative painting, learning directly from Costa's experience and distinct style. Open to all levels, from beginner to advanced artists.

  • Close to 5 hours of artistic content to learn from. Filmed in Tuscany

  • Accessible to all levels. An understanding of figurative drawing is suggested.

  • Life-time access with unlimited streaming. Learn at your own pace, with no set hours or deadlines.

  • Audio: English

  • Subtitles: English & Spanish

  • Reference photos to paint from

  • Comprehensive handbook: available to download and print

  • Option to join and engage with other creatives in our community section

Expressive Realism | Figure Painting in Oil

with Costa Dvorezky

Register before the 25th January 2024 to enter our raffle to win Costa's painting. Update - raffle now closed, we will announce the winner by 5th February!

Register today

for life-time access

What This Course Is About and What You Will Learn!

Embark on a journey of artistic discovery with Costa Dvorezky. In this online workshop, Costa Dvorezky, will guide you through his creative process and approach to simplifying the figure, from the initial sketch to the final brushstroke. This course is designed to cater to artists of all skill levels – from beginners taking their first steps in the world of art, to seasoned painters seeking to refine their techniques, or gain new ideas and inspiration!


What's Included in our Online Workshop with Costa Dvorezky?

Introduction to Materials and Palette: Costa will introduce you to the materials essential for creating his dynamic figurative paintings. He will share insights into his limited palette, refined over years of professional painting.

Step-by-Step Painting Demonstration: Follow Costa as he demonstrates his method for sketching and blocking in the figure with paint. Costa will show you his step-by-step approach to producing a finished painting.

Deep Dive into Techniques: Throughout the workshop, Costa will focus on crucial elements such as composition, color values, and edge control. Understand how these components come together to produce an expressive and life-like figurative painting.

Personal Insights and Stories: Gain inspiration from Costa's personal journey in the art world. Learn about his beginnings, challenges, and what drives his passion for figurative painting.

Interactive Learning Experience: Utilize the photo references that Costa himself uses, allowing you to paint alongside him. This hands-on approach ensures a more immersive and practical learning experience.

Community Engagement: Share your progress and connect with fellow artists in the Community Section. This interactive platform is a great place to exchange ideas, and receive feedback from other creatives.

Lifetime Access: Enjoy the convenience of revisiting the course material anytime. The workshop is designed for lifetime access, enabling you to learn at your own pace and review techniques as needed. With no time constraints and no deadlines.

Whether you're looking to begin your artistic journey or aiming to add new dimensions to your existing skills, this Costa Dvorezky Online Workshop is a gateway to mastering the art of figurative oil painting. 

Workshop Overview

  1. 1
    • Interview with Costa

  2. 2
    • Course Overview

    • 1. Setting up the model and deciding on the composition

  3. 3
    • 2. Establishing the Underpainting using Burnt Sienna and Embracing a Sculptural Approach

    • 2a. Refining Details and Preparing for Painting with Colors

  4. 4
    • 3. Finalizing the Underpainting

  5. 5
    • 4. Transitioning to Color and Focusing on Values

    • 4a. Discussing Materials and Painting Tools

  6. 6
    • 5. Painting with the Full Color Palette Part 1

  7. 7
    • 6. Painting with the Full Color Palette Part 2

    • 6a. Painting with the Full Color Palette Part 2a

  8. 8
    • 7. Adding the Finishing Touches

    • Thank You for Watching!

Costa Dvorezky

Meet your instructor for this workshop

Born in Russia, Costa developed his unique style of art through extensive schooling at the Art College and the Academy of Arts in Moscow. His passion and talent for art was recognized by Russia’s Union of Young Artists when he received the Development of The Year Award in 1997. Through his paintings Costa goes beyond the obvious, to uncover the symbolism within the human aspect of daily life. His creativity and style come alive through his works depicting dark and surreal figurative imagery. See more of Costa's artwork below:
Costa Dvorezky bio picture