"Get over the fear. Cover your canvas quickly!" So were some of the words of direction by professional oil painter, Michael Gerry, of Rockford, Illinois.

Gerry's oil painting class was a "free paint" one day workshop held Saturday, November 10, 2007 on the main level of The Next Picture Show. The workshop allowed each student to bring their own subject to paint. Michael walked among all the painters giving help when asked and even when he wasn't asked.

Students' experience ranged from a person who had never used oils before, to intermediate, to advanced. The subjects of the paintings also varied. Three were landscapes, one was a still life, and one was a portrait.

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Since the class, from 9 am. to 4 p.m., was during regular business hours of the gallery, many people visiting the gallery, were also treated to watching the workshop in action.