From Photo to Painting: Developing a Thoughtful Approach

Date: April 11th, 2026 (Saturday)

Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (PDT) 

Location: Federation Academy on Granville Island,  1310 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3S1 

Level: Open to All Levels

Medium: Oil & Pastel

Workshop Overview:

This workshop focuses on developing strong, confident paintings using photographic reference. The session opens with a brief introduction outlining the working process, key considerations, and the overall approach to interpreting photographs in paint.

Students will be provided with a curated selection of reference images and can begin painting immediately, applying the discussed concepts from the outset. Emphasis is placed on translating photographic information into painterly decisions—simplifying forms, organizing values, and making intentional choices that support mood, composition, and personal expression.

The workshop encourages independent problem-solving while offering guidance and feedback throughout, allowing each student to work at their own pace and direction.

About the Instructor - Masoud Habibyan, SFCA

Masoud graduated with a Bachelor of Design and worked as an animation project  manager for a couple of years. He has dedicated his whole life to art. He also enjoys music and plays Accordion in the Araz Music Ensemble.

Throughout the years Masoud has been inspired by old masters such as Ilya Repin,  Sargent and the French Impressionists. He has studied with Jeremy Lipking and Robert Johnson but over the last few years master artist, Dan Gerhartz has been his greatest influence. Dan has also been a personal mentor to Masoud and under his direction Masoud’s work grew and developed and his own individual style emerged.

He paints his figures in natural settings that evoke a sense of timeless idealism. He also excels as a commission portrait artist who is able to capture the likeness of his subjects perfectly.