Member Event
Opus Essential Acrylics: Depth and Atmosphere with Louise Nicholson
Opus Essential Acrylics: Depth and Atmosphere with Louise Nicholson
This event is a community painting project! Join Louise for a fun and supportive paint-to-canvas experience and discover Opus Essential Acrylics firsthand.
Louise will demonstrate how she uses both opaque and transparent paints to build depth and atmosphere into her paintings. In this hands-on demonstration, Louise invites attendees to experience how both liquid and heavy body paints can work together to build layers and adjust tonal values, creating a painting that resonates.
Louise’s approach to any painting is to get some paint on the canvas and then problem-solve from there. She begins with an abstract background of deep, transparent colours, developing her subject from a value-based viewpoint. Using black and white, she adjusts values and hues with transparent washes. Mistakes may be made, but she fearlessly adjusts them using the forgiving medium of acrylic.
Materials
Opus Essential Fluid Acrylics: Quinatrodone Magenta, Phthalo blue, Ultramarine blue.
Opus Essential Heavy Body Acrylics: White, Black, Hansa Yellow, Transparent Earth Red, Cadmium Red Medium
GOLDEN Heavy Body Acrylics: Transparent Yellow Iron Oxide
Opus Denman Brushes: Flat 4, 8, 10, 12 Round
Opus Exhibition Pre-Stretched Canvas Surfaces - Deep 20” x 20”
Hosted by Opus Art Supplies & our Experience leader
Louise Nicholson, an award-winning acrylic painter originally from Ontario and now residing in North Vancouver, B.C., infuses her vibrant and imaginative compositions with captivating energy. Through her wildlife and figurative artwork, she weaves enthralling narratives that transport viewers to a magical realm beyond traditional representationWebsite: louisenicholsonartist.com
Instagram: @louisenicholsonartist
Facebook: @louisenicholsonartist
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Opus Member Events
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to register in advance?
Yes—most events require registration to reserve your spot. Free demos with limited space can fill up quickly, so we recommend signing up early.
What’s included in a paid vs free event?
Paid events may include hands-on instruction, materials, and exclusive product offers. The details will be listed on the event page.
Free events may include a short, informative session led by an artist—perfect for picking up techniques, learning about materials, and sparking inspiration. You’re welcome to paint along, but it’s not required.
Will I get a recording if I miss an online event?
No. These demos are live-only. If recorded, the footage is gifted to the artist and not shared publicly.
Can I attend an online event if I don’t live in BC?
Yes! Our online events are open to artists across Canada and beyond.
Where are events held?
We host events both in-store at select Opus locations and online via Zoom or other platforms. The location and format will always be clearly stated.
I registered but didn’t receive a confirmation email. What should I do?
Check your junk or spam folders first. If you’re still unsure, email Pamela Mark at pmark@opusartsupplies.com to confirm your registration.
What’s the difference between free and paid events?
Free events are short, demo-based sessions led by professional artists—great for inspiration and learning.
Paid events offer deeper, hands-on instruction with more time, materials, or exclusive access. They’re ideal for artists looking to grow their skills.
Some paid events are free or discounted for Artist and Creative Tier Members.
Is it okay to ask questions during the demo?
Absolutely. Use the community chat to ask demo-related questions. Our host will relay them to the artist as time allows.
When will I be let in from the Zoom waiting room?
We open the room right at the start time. Arrive a couple of minutes early to avoid delays.
How can I apply to be a demo artist?
We love connecting with artists who teach and inspire. Apply here to share your skills in an upcoming demo.