(Redlands, CA) - On Friday, May 14, the San Bernardino County Museum will offer a special TalkShop, “Portrait Art,” from 1 to 5pm. This program is free with pre-paid museum admission, but preregistration is required no later than May 3.

Led by Curator of History Michele Nielsen and abstract surrealist Jason Jenkins, participants will explore the art of portraiture—accuracy and facial expression, the importance of backgrounds, the use of color, and the effects of adding multiple portraits in a single painting. Nielsen will show portraits from the museum and Jenkins’ collections to demonstrate these concepts. Jenkins will then lead participants in a master class to create portraits using acrylic paints and woods.

Artist Jason Jenkins is an abstract surrealist influenced by the 1950s abstract expressionists with a dash of urban style. Large-scale originals dominate his portfolio, with subjects ranging from political themes to cultural surrealism that reflects the grit of the urban street scene.

A TalkShop is a topic-related talk from a museum staff member using specimens or artifacts, followed by artist-led master class in an appealing medium or genre. TalkShops are intended for adults and children 13 and older. No previous experience or skills are required. TalkShops are part of the museum’s “Arts, Naturally” initiative supported by a grant from the James Irvine Foundation.

Participation in a TalkShop is included in the paid museum admission. However, space is limited, and pre-registration is required by May 3. For more information and registration, call the Education Division at (909) 307-2669 ext. 256 or visit the museum’s web site.

The San Bernardino County Museum is at the California Street exit from Interstate 10 in Redlands. The museum is open Tuesdays through Sundays and holiday Mondays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $8 (adult), $6 (senior or military), $5 (student), and $4 (child aged 5 to 12). Children under five and Museum Association members are admitted free. For more information, visit www.sbcountymuseum.org.

The museum is accessible to persons with disabilities. If assistive listening devices or other auxiliary aids are needed in order to participate in museum exhibits or programs, requests should be made through Museum Visitor Services at least three business days prior to your visit. Visitor Services’ telephone number is 909-307-2669 ext. 229 or (TDD) 909-792-1462.