This introductory class provides a rigorous introduction to both technical and formal problems in painting. Emphasis is placed on understanding the fundamentals of the painter's craft through a range of available materials; including pigments and paints, structures, surfaces and grounds, brushes and tools, varnishes and preservation strategies. Students will have the opportunity to explore a variety of mediums. Subject matter is explored through traditional painting genres of still life, landscape, figure and portrait, symbol and allegory.