Dynamic Composition
Classes with Rebecca Burritt
Learn the Guarded Artistic Language Underlying Master Works
TX HCA is very fortunate to have an instructor who is fluent in the secret language of dynamic composition, also known as dynamic symmetry. Rebecca Burritt teaches a series of classes for artists who wish to gain knowledge about this hidden world and learn how to use it in their own work.
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Two dimensional artwork (painting and drawing) is usually contained in a frame that is rectangular, square, or, perhaps, round. Inside the frame, color/tones, lines, and shapes are arranged in relation to each other and to the frame. This is known as composition. Composition is perhaps the most important tool the artist has to communicate his or her vision. It is the abstract message, the music to the lyrics of the subject of painting 0r drawing.
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Unfortunately, dynamic compositional principals of the ancients, revitalized in the Renaissance, have been discarded or lost in contemporary art training. Fortunately, a few masters have carried the thread forward through the 20th and 21st centuries. One notable example is the late Myron Barnstone. We are grateful to his steadfastness and to the artists who trained with him, including Holly's teacher, Juliette Aristides, and our very own, Rebecca Burritt.
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Scroll down for classes in dynamic composition.
All Levels Welcome!
BOTANICAL DRAWING
Discover the Exquisite Designs underlying Botanical Forms
This class will bring us into the inner world of plants, flowers, and seeds. All living plants share characteristic growth patterns and have exquisite designs underlying their forms. We will use a sketchbook to do botanical studies and complete 1-2 drawings of a dynamic floral arrangement.
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You will gain an introduction or a deeper understanding of Dynamic Symmetry when you study with Rebecca Burritt. She is fluid in the language of dynamic composition. Although we may not reference the book directly in this workshop, you may take a deeper dive by studying the classic text The Elements of Dynamic Symmetry by Jay Hambridge.
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This class has a second part for those who wish to continue their Botanical Drawing studies with Rebecca. Part 1 is a prerequisite for Part 2 - register for either Part 1 or for BOTH Parts 1 and 2. If you wish to add Part 2 later, let us know.
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Rebecca Burritt studied extensively with and became assistant to Myron Barnstone. For more about Rebecca, please see our Faculty and Staff page.
Still Life Drawing by Rebecca Burritt
NEW CLASS!
DRAWING FOUNDATIONS
Observation and Design
For the serious student who wants to learn the foundational principles applied in Dynamic Composition I and II. ​
This course establishes the foundational drawing and design principles required for advancement into more complex studies such as Dynamic Symmetry and Old Master analysis. Because each assignment builds upon the previous one, students must complete all course requirements in sequence; repeating the course, when recommended by the instructor or voluntarily undertaken by the student, is often beneficial and allows time to internalize a new way of seeing and problem-solving.
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Introduction to the basic principles and fundamental terms and ideas of drawing and design influenced by the Barnstone Method: observational measurement to assess proportions; construct a notional space; sight directions and coincidental relationships; gesture drawing and analytical drawing procedures. We will be using still life as our subject.
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Students are expected to attend all classes, or make up for any missed classes. Homework will be assigned.​
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This course is a prerequisite to Dynamic Composition I and II. It will be offered periodically and may be repeated by the student, if desired.
DYNAMIC COMPOSITION I
Master Studies
The focus of Dynamic Composition I is Master Studies.
We will explore the design systems that lay underneath master works. These elements of marks, patterns, and rhythms enhance the strength of the artist’s intent or vision and create a kind of immersed poetry.
We will also explore how to hone our design capabilities to create intentional unity and energy within our own work. Both will involve analyzing master works and a rigorous drawing practice in the studio involving design techniques.
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Reproduction of master works to study will be provided by the teacher.
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Drawing Foundations must be successfully completed per instructor before enrolling in Dynamic Design.
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Dynamic Composition I
2026 TBD​​​
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Dynamic Composition I is a prerequisite for Dynamic Composition II​​
DYNAMIC COMPOSITION II
Still Life Design
The focus of Dynamic Composition II is Still Life design.
We will explore the design systems that lay underneath master works. These elements of marks, patterns, and rhythms enhance the strength of the artist’s intent or vision and create a kind of immersed poetry.
We will also explore how to hone our design capabilities to create intentional unity and energy within our own work. Both will involve analyzing master works and a rigorous drawing practice in the studio involving design techniques.
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Each student will design and draw their own still life using their own or the studio's supply of objects.​​
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Dynamic Composition I is a prerequisite for Dynamic Composition II​​
Dynamic Composition II
2027 TBD
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Dynamic Composition I is a prerequisite for Dynamic Composition II​​
Read our Refund and Cancellation Policy here.
We are a Nonprofit Organization
The Texas Hill Country Atelier is a nonprofit art school, funded by program revenue and by the generous support of people like you. Your gift helps enables us to provide opportunities for artists and art enthusiasts to expand their abilities, knowledge, and appreciation for classical art.
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We are grateful for your support. As a 501(c)(3) organization, your gift is tax deductible.
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Financial records are available upon request.