Interpreting the Architecture of DC with Trevor Young

Interpreting the Architecture of DC with Trevor Young

Class | Registration opens 3/2/2026 12:00 AM EST

Intermediate - Advanced
4/18/2026-5/23/2026
10:00 AM-1:00 PM EST on Sat
$370.00

Interpreting the Architecture of DC with Trevor Young

Class | Registration opens 3/2/2026 12:00 AM EST

Experience the architecture of DC in this plein-air class that focuses on the lines and geometry of stonework, groomed shrubbery, and the beautiful architecture of the 20th century. Focusing on three neighborhoods in Northwest DC that incorporate exceptional architectural features, this class will meet at the Taft Bridge in Rock Creek Park, Dupont Circles’ Embassy area, and the Cleveland/Woodley Park residential neighborhoods. This class will focus on how to create a palette to create the natural colors found in the landscape as well understanding geometry in relationship to architecture. The teacher will demonstrate how to construct the palette for the first hour of class and then provide additional individual guidance.

This is an intermediate to advanced class. A French or outdoor easel and drop cloth is necessary for this class. All locations are metro accessible. 

  • This class will explore the Spring season in all weather, including rainy or cloudy periods. Please dress accordingly. There will be 2 class sessions allocated to each location. 
  • Specific brushes needed: An assortment of brushes in various sizes and shapes—these should be soft brushes that are ready for use. Please do not use hard bristle brushes.


    A small assortment of palette knives (at least 2)


    Six surfaces in various sizes. Minimum size is 8” x 10”. This will be expanded on in class. All canvases must be toned prior to class. It is best to tone with acrylic paint. Tone in Yellow Ochre.


    Disposable Paper Palette, no smaller than 12” x 16” (the larger the better, please no small palettes)


    Lightweight easel for outdoor work 


    Paper towels or rags


    Drop cloth 


    Small bag for trash


    Container for oil or acrylic mediums or solvents to take home.


    Colors for Palette (you may paint with Oil or Acrylic, but Oil is recommended; Gamblin 1980 is an affordable choice): 

    Cadmium red medium 

    Cadmium red light 

    Alizarin crimson or Quinacridone Magenta 

    Cadmium yellow or Cadmium yellow light 

    Cadmium orange (optional) 

    Yellow ochre 

    Raw umber 

    Raw sienna 

    Ivory black 

    Titanium white

     Cerulean blue, cerulean blue hue (Blick brand: Blick Oil Colors - Ceruleum Blue Hue, 40 ml tube | BLICK Art Materials), King’s blue, or Sevres blue (choose one) 

    Cobalt blue 

    Ultramarine blue


    If using oil paint: 

    Small jars with lids (minimum 2 for solvents and mediums) 

    Odorless thinner such as Gamsol

    A small bottle of Gamblin’s Galkyd (4.2 or 8.5 oz.)


    If using acrylic paint:
    Water cup 
    Small spray bottle

    A small bottle of acrylic medium (2 or 4 oz.), gloss finish (Golden recommended). 

    Golden Acrylic Retarder is also a good medium.


    Optional Supplies: 

    Viewfinder (for example: https://www.dickblick.com/products/viewcatcher/)

Trevor Young

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