Artist Ken Wischmeyer photographs images from around the world and creates dynamic digital paintings from these photographs. In his sixth year as an UCLA Extension instructor, Wischmeyer is currently teaching Photography and Photoshop classes, and he will also teach a new Adobe Lightroom class in the spring as well.
In June, Wischmeyer leads an inspirational instructional photography and cultural tour of France. He will teach Photography and digital imaging to the group throughout this all-inclusive trip.
In this interview, Wischmeyer enthusiastically discusses digital painting and this unique upcoming tour:
L.C. In creating your digital artwork, what are some of the digital imaging techniques you are most interested in as integral to the design experience?
K.W. For me, it always starts with the original photograph. I strive to get the best possible exposure and composition in the camera - rich contrast, color saturation, rhythm and balance within my compositions.
When I get back to my "digital darkroom," I ask myself what level of digital enhancements do I want to apply to the image so as to achieve my creative goal for the artwork. Many times, I go for complete photographic realism - I only apply color and tonality adjustments. For other images, I might convert to black and white and apply "toning" effects, split-toning, etc. There are also images that inspire me to apply a combination of different Adobe Photoshop layering and filtering techniques, as well as masking and hand-coloring techniques. When these images are then printed on canvas, they become my "Digital Paintings."
L.C. Please describe some of the highlights that you expect participants will especially enjoy in the exciting upcoming instructional tour of France.
K.W. We have a great itinerary planned for both photography and experiencing the culture of France. We will have the opportunity to photograph Monet's beautiful gardens in Giverny, the wonderful coastal village of Honfleur, and of course, the D-day landing beaches and U.S. Cemetery in Normandy. We will also visit the Loire Valley to photograph and tour some of the incredible royal chateaux, and then will end the tour with three days in Paris. Not only will I be providing photography instruction throughout the tour, but also the itinerary provides time for digital imaging instruction in Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop.
The enrollment deadline for the tour is February 10.
For more information, visit www.kewdigitalart.com
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