Karen Sako
The Language of Layers Texture, Color & Expression in Oil + Cold Wax
May 31 - Jun 5
4 Teaching Days
Description
Returning for the 3nd year in 2026
Discover the expressive world of oil and cold wax in this dynamic workshop designed for artists of all levels!
We’ll start by experimenting with acrylics, Flashe, and even repurposed paintings as our foundation—then add layers of collage for texture, depth, and fresh visual energy. As we move into oil and cold wax, you’ll learn how to blend, scrape, and build luminous surfaces that reveal rich color interactions and surprising textures.
Through demonstrations, guided exercises, and one-on-one feedback, you’ll explore design, composition, and mark-making while developing your own intuitive process. Whether your style leans toward bold abstraction or subtle suggestion, this workshop will help you find new ways to express your voice and elevate your work.
Expect to leave with a collection of layered, textural pieces—and a deeper understanding of how to balance freedom, structure, and play in your painting practice.
Videos
Biography
Chicago-area artist Karen Sako creates paintings that fuse the precision of design with the freedom of abstraction. Her background in graphic design and decades as an instructor fuel her mastery of color, composition, and mark-making. Sako’s work, celebrated for its boldness and emotional resonance, has earned numerous awards and recognition in both national and international exhibitions. Collected across the globe, her paintings invite viewers to experience the mystery of light, the rhythm of nature, and the energy of pure expression.
Learn More about Karen Sako
Fees
If 12 or more students attend class (all teaching days): $380
If 11-10 students attend class (all teaching days): $390
If 9-8 students attend class (all teaching days): $410
If 7-6 students attend class (all teaching days): $465
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Room & One Dinner Fee plus tax: $490
(There are 5 nights’ accommodations included in the “Room & One Dinner Fee” listed above.)
Itinerary
Sunday, May 31
Check-In to your unit at Dillman’s (check-in time is 3:00 p.m.)
5:00 p.m. Welcome Reception (included in package)
6:00 p.m. Dinner at Dillman’s (included in Room and Meal Package. $28 additional for day students.)
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday – June 1, 2, 3 & 4
Breakfast On Own
9:00 a.m. – Noon Class in Session
Lunch On Own
Meals are on your own. All accommodations have cooking facilities. You may preorder box lunches and dinners for meals to be taken alone or with your group in: your studio, the lodge deck, cafe, or your accommodation. (Pre-ordering for lunches and dinners is required.)
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Class in Session
Thursday, June 4
9:00 a.m. – Noon Class in Session
NOON Champagne Toast & Dessert (included in package)
Lunch On Own
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Class in Session
4:00 p.m. Class ends
Friday, June 5
Depart – check-out time is 10:00 a.m.
Optional Events – Sign Up Required / Subject to Change:
Monday 5:00 p.m. Dine-Around Dinner (Depart from Lodge Lobby)
Monday 7:00 p.m. S’more Roast (no charge)
Tuesday 7:30 a.m. Yoga
Tuesday 5:00 p.m. Dine-Around Dinner (Depart from Lodge Lobby)
Wednesday Noon Pontoon Ride on White Sand Lake (no charge)
Wednesday 5:00 p.m. Moondeer & Friends Gallery Tour (no charge)
Wednesday 6:00 p.m. Dine-Around Dinner
Thursday 5:00 p.m. Dine-Around Dinner (Depart from Lodge Lobby)
Dine-Around Dinners: Registration required at the front desk, meet at 5:00 p.m. in the main lobby for carpooling.
Day students are welcome to attend the Welcome Reception and Farewell Reception (included in your package). You are also invited to join the class dinners (additional fee). PAL’s (Participants at large) can vacation at Dillman’s for $40 per night for accommodations. Costs for box lunches and dinners are additional.