Realistic Painting in Oils
with Kristina Laurendi Havens

For intermediate to advanced students

Kristina Laurendi Havens joins the studio again this fall to lead an intimate, intermediate-to-advanced oil painting intensive focused on composition, color harmony, and painting language. Bringing an MFA from Texas Christian University, Kristina offers a technical approach that emphasizes the "color story" and the deliberate preparation of the painting surface. While many local sessions focus on foundational mechanics or broad explorations, Kristina’s class is designed for those ready to refine their personal painting language through frequent live demonstrations and high-level individualized instruction.

Workshops

Kristina Havens' head shotElevate your painting with Kristina Laurendi Havens. Build the tools you need to become a confident problem solver in front of your canvas...

Portrait Painting from the Live Model

7:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. Tuesday-Wednesday,
October 27-28, 2026
10:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Saturday,
November 14, 2026

$70 - Fee covers model fee for minimum 6 students, maximum 12.
at Shane McDonald Studios K

Tuesday-Wednesday, October 27-28, 2026
7:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Over the course of two evenings, Kristina will guide students step by step, working towards a likeness with accurate skin tones from reference of a live model.

Doors will open at 7:15 p.m. for students Class fee covers the live model, although tips are encouraged if you take reference photos.

PLEASE NOTE: Kristina observed one big factor holding back several of her students at her last workshop… the surface you paint on! STOP buying cheap canvas boards… Kristina highly suggests two very reasonable brands

  • Senso all media primed linen panels
    • or
  • Centurion oil primed linen panels

Both are available on Amazon or on Jerry’s Artarama.
*** More info will be shared upon registration regarding suggested materials.

Saturday, November 14, 2026
10:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Kristina will guide the class through painting a portrait from a live model. We’ll start with the pose, set-up, and lighting, then move to a limited palette and strong composition, ultimately aiming for a realistic likeness.

A supply list is provided upon registration. The model fee is included in the class fee, but a tip is usually appreciated if the model allows photo references.

All skill levels are welcome. Class instruction will be in oil paint. If you prefer drawing or working in another medium, contact Kristina before registering.

Kristina Havens demonstrates portrait painting

Art Materials & Palette Recommendations

Start with the materials you own based on Kristina’s recommendations. She’ll provide further instructions based on your project needs.