BOOK TWO WORKSHOPS TO GET 10% OFF your second WORKSHOP
22nd - 28th August 2027
5 Day En Plein Air Oil Workshop
From £2,250.00 (Approx. USA $3,123.00)
Plus UK VAT (Sales Tax @ 20%) *
Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Yorkshire and experience a week of dedicated portrait study in one of England’s most inspiring regions. From rolling green dales and dramatic moorlands to historic market towns and centuries-old stone cottages, Yorkshire offers a rich cultural landscape that provides the perfect setting for artistic growth and creative focus.
Join Michael Shane Neal for a workshop devoted to painting the portrait from life. Working from live models, students will receive individualized instruction designed to strengthen both technical skills and artistic vision.
Through demonstrations, lectures, critiques, and daily painting sessions, Neal will share his approach to creating compelling portraits that capture not only a strong likeness, but also the personality, attitude, and presence of the sitter.
Topics will include drawing, feature relationships, values, color harmony, edges, and paint handling. Special attention will be given to observing and interpreting expression, light, and form as essential components of a successful portrait. Students will explore practical methods and principles of oil painting while developing a deeper understanding of design, composition, and visual storytelling.
Throughout the week, daily demonstrations and discussions will provide insight into Neal’s working process, while one-on-one guidance will help each student address individual challenges and goals. Whether you are an emerging artist seeking a stronger foundation or an experienced painter looking to refine your skills, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to study portrait painting in depth while enjoying the unique beauty and atmosphere of Yorkshire.
Michael Shane Neal (b. 1968) is a distinguished American portrait artist known for his exceptional skill in traditional oil
painting and his ability to capture the essence and character of his subjects. Neal has built an international reputation for his realistic and emotive portraits, often focusing on notable figures, including politicians, military leaders, and cultural icons.
His artistic style is heavily influenced by the techniques of the Old Masters, emphasizing the use of light, shadow and rich color palettes to create depth and lifelike portraits. Neal is an influential figure in the art community, celebrated for his commitment to the craft of portraiture and his ability to tell compelling stories through his paintings.
In addition to his work as a portrait artist, Neal has also been dedicated to teaching and mentoring aspiring artists for more than 30 years. He conducts workshops and lectures, sharing his expertise in traditional painting techniques and portraiture.
