IMPRESSIONIST PAINTING

Impressionist-inspired painting on canvas with Mariana Hernandez

This October, artist Mariana Hernandez returns to The Jamii Hub for a three-part painting series inspired by Impressionism. Through close looking, drawing, brushwork, and layered colour, Belonging Older Adults participants will create their own paintings while learning from the techniques and approaches associated with artists such as Claude Monet, Camille Pissarro, and Édouard Manet.

The series begins by looking together at examples of Impressionist painting and talking about what makes these works recognizable, from loose brushwork and changing light to the way artists captured everyday places and moments. Participants will then turn to their own canvases, beginning with a rough drawing based on one of two reference images: the Berczy Fountain or a Man and Child image.

The second workshop moves into painting. Mariana will introduce participants to longer painting brushes and demonstrate ways of holding and moving the brush to create looser, more expressive marks. The group will follow the painting process step by step, building colour and form gradually rather than trying to finish everything at once.

During the final session, participants can continue developing finer details and adding layers to their painting. Those who finish early may begin another work, depending on the size and pace of their first piece.

For older adults looking for free painting workshops or beginner-friendly visual arts programs in downtown Toronto, this series offers a supportive way to spend time with painting while learning practical techniques. No previous painting experience is needed, and materials including canvases, paints, brushes, palettes, pencils, and reference images are provided.

Originally from Chile, Mariana is a Toronto-based artist whose work is strongly influenced by the city’s waterfront and urban spaces. She studied Fine Art at OCAD University, and her paintings are known for vibrant colour, confident line work, and a close attention to water and city life. Her familiarity with painting Toronto places makes her a natural guide for a series that begins with well-known local imagery.

Belonging participants register for the overall program once, then can drop in to the October sessions. If you already receive Belonging updates by email, you are already registered.

Support free community arts

Jamii keeps programs and events free so everyone can take part, without financial barriers. If you're able, you can support our $15 for 15 Years campaign and help us reach $15,000 by December 15 for Jamii's future programs at The Jamii Hub. Your donation moves the goal forward and is eligible for a charitable tax receipt. Donate here now.

Jamii's Belonging Older Adults workshops are sponsored by Government of Canada - New Horizons for Seniors Program, Canada Council for the Arts, Government of Ontario, and St Lawrence Neighbourhood Association.