Inspired by Duncanson: Painting the Carp River, Lake Superior in Gouache with Takeyce Walter

$65 AIHA members; $80 non-members
Advanced registration required via this form; spots are limited

Join artist Takeyce Walter in exploring the beauty of Robert S. Duncanson’s Carp River, Lake Superior in this workshop that blends art history with hands-on painting practice. Celebrated as the first African American artist to gain international recognition, Duncanson was associated with the Hudson River School, known for luminous landscapes that captured both nature’s grandeur and delicate detail. Contemporary landscape artist Takeyce Walter cites Duncanson as a key inspiration in her own practice, and notably, both artists’ work is featured in For Liberation and For Life: The Legacy of Black Dimensions in Art, on view through December 31, 2025.

In this session, Takeyce will guide participants in studying Duncanson’s composition and use of light and color harmony before creating their own interpretation in gouache. Along the way, participants will learn practical gouache techniques—layering, blending, and building depth and atmosphere—while reflecting on how Duncanson’s artistry continues to resonate today. Supplies will be provided, all levels are welcome, and by the end of the workshop, you’ll leave with both a personal version of this historic landscape and a deeper appreciation of the artist’s legacy.

 

Takeyce Walter is an award-winning contemporary American painter (Jamaican-born), art instructor, and media producer living and working in upstate New York. Since her formative years, the impulse to create has driven her, resulting in a lifelong journey of artistic expression. Takeyce’s work is a testament to her deep-rooted connection with the Northeastern landscape, reflecting her profound contemplation of humanity’s relationship with nature and the environment. Through the masterful manipulation of oil paint, gouache, and pastels, she crafts evocative portrayals of the natural world, capturing its essence in every stroke—be it the meandering rivers, the ethereal skies, or the tranquil lakes. Each composition exudes a sense of intimacy, serenity, and veneration, inviting viewers to find belonging and connection in the beauty of the natural world.

Beyond her artistic endeavors, Takeyce serves as a staunch advocate for both art and the environment, dedicating her time and expertise to local non-profit organizations championing these causes. Her philanthropic efforts underscore her commitment to nurturing the very landscapes that inspire her work. In her latest explorations, Takeyce delves into the intricate interplay between humanity and nature, probing questions of access and connection to natural landscapes. Through her artistry and advocacy, she continues to illuminate the significance of preserving our natural heritage for generations to come.

In 2022, spurred by her volunteer work, Takeyce initiated a youth program titled, Art and the Environment in collaboration with The Nature Conservancy, Adirondack Chapter, and Black Dimensions in Art. This program aims to provide young artists with opportunities to engage with local preserves, learn the art of plein air painting from professional artists, and understand the significance of natural landscapes in both art and life.

Images from top: Carp River, Lake Superior, Robert Seldon Duncanson (c. 1821–1872), 1850, oil on board. Collection of Laura Grey. Summer Marsh, Takeyce Walter, 2023, pastel on paper. Courtesy of the artist.

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