CodyArts Announces Exclusive Masterclass with Internationally Acclaimed Artist Krystii Melaine

CodyArts is pleased to announce a special two-day masterclass with internationally recognized wildlife and equine artist Krystii Melaine, taking place May 29–31, 2026, in Cody, Wyoming. Melaine is well known for participating in the Buffalo Bill Art Show & Sale since 2003.

Designed for intermediate to advanced oil painters, Expressive Wildlife and Horse Portraits will focus on helping artists create stronger emotional connection and artistic expression in their animal portraits. Through live demonstrations, discussion, and individualized instruction, participants will learn techniques that move beyond simply copying photographs to creating paintings filled with life, movement, and atmosphere.

Workshop topics include design and composition, selecting effective reference photos, understanding form and gesture, expressive brushwork, color mixing, values, edges, light, and wet-in-wet painting techniques. Students will also gain insight into Krystii’s signature approach to balancing realistic animal subjects with abstracted backgrounds.
Participants will develop their own wildlife or horse portrait on linen panel while receiving personalized guidance throughout the process.

The workshop schedule includes:
•Friday, May 29: Evening meet-and-greet at Krystii’s new studio located approximately 15 minutes from Cody
•Saturday, May 30: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., painting workshop, lunch provided
•Sunday, May 31: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., painting workshop, lunch provided followed by an optional extended Q&A session

Class size is limited to just 15 participants to allow for meaningful one-on-one and the workshop is held in the CodyArts classroom. A supply list will be provided upon registration. Krystii will provide reference photos, though students are also encouraged to bring their own wildlife or horse head references to work from.

“This workshop is a rare opportunity for artists to learn directly from one of the premier wildlife and equine painters working today,” said Rene’ Huge, Director of CodyArts “Krystii’s work is known not only for technical excellence, but for the emotion and connection she creates within each piece. We’re excited to be able to offer students this intimate learning experience here in Cody in collaboration with the Buffalo Bill Art Show artists.”

Registration is $295 per participant.
For more information or to register, please visit CodyArts.org.
Link: https://www.codyarts.org/products/masterclass-w-kristii-melaine

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