Workshops

Two-Day Workshop | July 17–18, 2026
Friday & Saturday | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
All Experience Levels Welcome
Non-Members $250 Members $200
*ALL MATERIALS INCLUDED*

The Beauty, Power & Elegance of the Horse
In this two-session workshop, we’ll explore the beauty, power and elegance of the horse -from careful study to a finished painting. We’ll begin with charcoal sketches capturing the essential connections of form. These drawings will lead us into a deeper understanding of equine anatomy. Beginning with the second session we will bring the horse to life in paint. Starting with an abstract underpainting and as the image emerges, we will refine it with impressionistic brushwork -suggesting form and energy without overworking the details.

About the instructor – Shelly Hackett

Shelly Hackett is a full-time artist based in Fountain Hills, AZ. She currently teaches at the Sonoran Art League and the Sedona Arts Center. Shelly is known for her expressive, atmospheric style and vivid gestural brushwork. Her work captures the essence of her subjects – often horses and western themes. She has a passion for sharing her expertise, Shelly’s classes focus not just on the technique, but one helping students infuse their work with life, mood, and authenticity. Her award winning work has been featured in Western Art Collector magazine and exhibited in galleries across the U.S.

**PROVIDED:**

• A variety of reference photos & patterns
  
• 9 x 12 inch canvas board
• Oil Colors
  • Permalba White
  • Ultramarine Blue
  • Raw Umber
  • Burnt Sienna
  • Raw Sienna or Yellow Ochre
  • Cadmium Yellow
  • Cadmium Red

Optional Materials (not provided)

• Jar with lid for turpentine and two old dish towels
• Suggested brushes: Flat #1 & 4, Filbert #2 & 8
• Material needed if you want to work larger
  • Canvas or Wood Panel (primed 11×14 or 12×12 suggested)
  • Your own brushes
  • Oil colors listed above