BBAS Master Class: Expressive Wildlife and Horse Portraits with Krystii Melaine

Join Buffalo Bill Art Show artist Krystii Melaine for a two-day oil painting workshop focused on creating emotional connection in wildlife and equine portraits. Through discussion, live demonstrations, and individual instruction, you’ll learn to move beyond copying photographs to infuse your work with life.

Topics include design and composition, reference photo selection, form and gesture, color mixing, and expressive brushwork. You’ll follow the full painting process from accurate drawing and quick underpainting to wet-in-wet techniques including how to handle edges, light, and values. Krystii will also share her approach to blending realistic subjects with abstracted backgrounds.

Students will receive personalized guidance while developing your own wildlife or horse painting on linen panel. You will gain practical skills and a deeper understanding of how to paint animals with emotional power and artistic expression.

Learn more about Krystii here.

May 29-31, 2026.
Friday, May 29: Evening meet-and-greet at Krystii’s new studio 15 minutes from town.
Saturday, May 30: 9 am – 4 pm.
Sunday, May 31: 9 am – 1 pm, with extended Q&A for those who wish to stay longer.

Skill level: Intermediate to advanced painters with oil painting experience.
Class will be limited to 15 participants.
Supply list will be shared upon registration.

Krystii will provide reference photos, or bring your own head photos of wildlife or horses to work from.
Once you’ve signed up, Krystii will be happy to answer your questions about materials, reference photos, and what you hope to get from this workshop.

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