Outdoor Painting Workshops Offered at Selu this Year

On April 22, the Radford University Art Museum will offer the first of multiple plein air (French for “in the open air”) workshops open to all painters of all skill levels free of charge.

The day-long workshops will each be led by different artists and take place at the Selu Conservancy, a 380-acre protected retreat and meeting center owned by Radford University.

The first event will be helmed by Theresa Rykaczewski, the Art Museum’s registrar. Prior to joining Radford University, Rykaczewski taught Fine Arts at Jacksonville University and served as the Program and Curatorial Director at an Atlantic Beach non-profit, Word Revolt Art Gallery.

Rykaczewski will offer instruction in impasto oil painting, a technique using thick applications of paint and brush techniques that leave texture on the canvas. Her approach will explore Impressionist techniques.

Artwork created at this workshop may be eligible for display at the Radford University President’s 2023 “Friends of Selu Day” and the 2025 Selu Scenery Exhibition at Radford University Art Museum.

While there is no cost, the workshops do require registration and space is limited. Rykaczewski will provide a list of recommended tools and materials upon registration. Registration takes place online.

The workshop will run from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and in the event of inclement weather, the workshop will take place on April 29 instead.

For further information, people may contact the Contact Radford University Art at RUartmuseum@radford.edu.