A CLASSICAL APPROACH TO ART EDUCATION



The approach I take regarding art education is very similar to that used by the early masters. Instead of simply telling students what to do, I teach them why it needs to be done a particular way. Students then practice these techniques until they become second nature. Part of this practice comes from copying the works of the great masters before us. However, while we begin by copying the works of others for the value it provides, the goal is always to have students reach the point where they can just sit down and draw any subject that is placed in front of them. This then, is why I place such a high value on establishing a solid foundation in both skills and knowledge.

In addition, I also place a strong emphasis on 3D "life" drawing, as this causes students to really have to see what they are drawing. I therefore have an extensive collection of sculptures/objects for students to use while they are here, including all of the objects that you see on this page and throughout the rest of the site.


"Adjusting the pace to the student - not the other way around!"


I am convinced that private art lessons, rather than group lessons, are more effective for beginning art students. In many ways this is due to my own art education. Quite honestly, I feel that I learned more in my two years of private art lessons than I did in four years as an art major in college - and I went to a private college with small class sizes! My lessons, therefore, are conducted in much the same way as piano and other private lessons are - allowing me to move at a pace that is comfortable for each individual student. Each lesson begins with students showing me the project(s) that they worked on during the week. If changes need to be made, we discuss these, otherwise we move on to the next assignment. A 1/2 hour lesson provides ample time for me to explain a new technique, style, etc and then to observe as students begin - giving pointers as needed. Plus, students can ask questions at any time without having to wait for me to finish with a long line of students waiting in front of them!

Please Note:

Subject material presented is appropriate for all ages - I do NOT use nude models in my studio. If this is something that you feel your child needs, many other programs in the area offer such classes.

In addition, all exercises and larger projects used in levels 1-3 are what are classified as “realism”. We will not be covering abstract, "contemporary", or cubist styles. If you are interested in one of these styles, they can be explored in level four, once a strong drawing and color theory foundation has already been established.