Join D Derek from the Mystic Museum of Art for a special nature-based art class!

Georgia O'Keeffe blurs the line between representation and abstraction in her iconic flower and garden paintings. In this class you’ll explore a variety of acrylic painting techniques to develop your own style of abstraction. We will draw upon inspiration from the gardens of Wilcox Park and move from “what is seen” to “what is felt,” gradually shifting away from realism toward a more contemporary approach of painting. Using line, shape, color, value, and texture, you’ll reinterpret landscapes and compositions in your own unique way. This creative opportunity nurtures both creativity and spirit. 

Traditional and abstract artists of all levels are welcome, but registration is required. If registration is full, contact us to be added to the wait list: (401) 596-2877 x306 or reference@westerlylibrary.org

About the Instructor:

D Derek attended Parsons School of Design, American Conservatory Theatre for Dramatic Arts and Providence College. He is a recipient of 2025 NAACP Image Award, a New England Foundation for the Arts Grant, State of Connecticut DMHAS Arts Initiative Grant, public art commissions by the City of Norwich and Ocean Chamber of Commerce, awarded an ARPA Grant and an Artist Professional Development Cohort Grant and recently accepted to the Masters Abstraction Intensive In-Residence program at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, a Fellowship Residency at the Vermont Studio Center and a Fellowship Residency at the I- Park Foundation. He also placed 1st for Abstract Art at the New York City Washington Square Art Exhibit, presented at the New Britain Museum of American Art, and is a current art educator at the Mystic Museum of Art.  His artwork is in many private residences, corporate locations, galleries in the U.S. and Europe. 

He was selected in the International Contemporary Artist Book, Volume XI and is featured in Vellum Magazine as an emerging artist.

Instagram @dderekman