Course Description

In this mixed media art course, we will look to the camellia for our inspiration. I will share my philosophy about when the smallest glimmer of an idea tugs at your brain take notice, write it down,  nurture it, devote yourself to it and allow it to become your North Star.  This is a beautiful process that will open you to inspiration and ultimately become the creative bridge that will give form and meaning to your art.  My spark was a simple flower - the camellia and I would like to share my process and techniques with you.

We will begin by taking a trip back in history to explore the official court artist of Versailles, Pierre-Joseph Redouté and his incredible botanical Illustrations.  Then, we take notice of a small French novel that inspired Giuseppe Verdi’s famous opera, La Traviata and the painfully beautiful ballet, Lady of the Camellias. Our exploration will also include an iconic French fashion designer who chose the camellia as her signature flower and expressed her creative ideas through fashion. Such beautiful ideas to collect and fuel your imagination!

This course is for all levels, whether you’re just beginning your creative journey or in need of inspiration and new projects to explore.

Immediate Access

 $68.00

About the instructor

About Me Renee Mueller

Thank you for choosing to take my class, I'm so thrilled and honored that you're here. I want to tell you a little about me. I hold a BFA from the University of Michigan where I studied Art History, Dance, and Choreography. I danced professionally and had the honor of teaching dance at the University of Michigan's Musical Theater and Theater Departments. Most of my life has been spent in the dance studio and the theater. Because of this, I have had the privilege to work with many talented dancers, costume designers, set designers, lighting designers, and musicians. One of the many things that I learned from this experience in the performing arts was to honor your ideas and devote yourself to a subject. Also, to share, support, and collaborate. Once I decided to "exit stage left", it was challenging to find another creative outlet. Like many of us, I loved to draw, paint and create as a child, but never really invested a tremendous amount of time in cultivating that practice. About 10 years ago I began drawing again and decided to commit to a daily practice. I was challenged and inspired!. So, I continue to practice, experiment with materials, and allow my ideas to guide me through the process. When creating art, I draw upon the many methods I learned as a dancer, choreographer, and teacher. Research, gathering inspiration, honoring my point of view, and sharing ideas. It is my hope that by sharing my creative practices, my process, techniques and what inspires me, you will find something that works for you.