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Start painting now!
Have you been wanting to learn to paint for years but haven't found the right environment, the right teacher, the right price? Are you afraid that everyone will be more advanced than you? Or maybe you've been wanting to pick up your old brushes and begin again? This class may be just for you. These are semi-private lessons so you get one on one attention every class!

Next Scheduled Class
January 4 - February 8, Mondays, 4-6 pm.


Purchase Six Weeks of Painting Lessons Now!

Painting Lessons

Frequently Asked Questions:

Where are the classes held?
They are held at The Alameda Art Works, Studio 5.
1068 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 95126.
408.250.2732
map



I have never painted before. How do I begin?
Most students begin with these three lessons:

1) A white bottle
2) A reflective surface
3) A glass vase

After these first three lessons I have dozens of other exercises in my repetoire. There is also a great deal of flexibility. For example, one student immediately wanted to paint faces. Another student wanted to paint flowers. The subject matter is up to you.

Each week's lesson is slightly more challenging so that you progress quickly with your painting skills.


Do you use oils or acrylics?
We use acrylic paint, using soap and water cleanup.
There are no solvents used in the studio.


Do you give assignments or do students work on their own projects?
I give assignments as long as the students want them. I am always prepared with an assignment, however, students sometimes come in with ideas of their own that they want to work on. Either way is fine.


What materials do you provide?
I provide a 3' x 3' table for each student, a chair, a protective covering for the table, and a bucket of water.


How far is your studio from parking?
It is right outside the door and is free.


What about the schlepp factor?
Most students can carry all of their supplies to the studio in one trip. After the lesson, with a wet painting in tow, two trips are often necessary.


How many students in a class?
Eight students maximum per class. I call the lessons semi-private because I can help each person individually as needed during every class.


How is the class structured?
We usually begin with students sharing what they worked on or finished from the previous week's class. This is not mandatory but usually very fun and rewarding for all.

If the student didn't have time to work on their painting between classes (not mandatory), they will often times continue to work on that same painting the following week. They also have the option to begin a new painting.

After show and tell, we begin with the day's lesson, show examples, sometimes I do a demo, and then the painting begins.


How much do the six lessons cost?
$240.
Returning students pay $200
.


What payment methods do you accept?
Cash or check.



Do I need to sign up for a certain number of lessons?

Yes, six.


How do I enroll for a class?
Payment for all 6 lessons guarantees your enrollment. I cannot hold a spot for someone without payment up front.


Can I come see a class in session before I begin?
Yes.


What should I wear to class?
Clothes that you don't mind ruining. Acrylic paints are permanent and cannot be washed out of your clothes.


More questions?
Please send me an email, or call (408) 250-2732.



Supply List

I recommend University Art for supplies. Aaron Brothers is also a good choice. Michaels will have some of these items but probably not all items. Items can also be ordered online from Dick Blick. http://www.dickblick.com

I wouldn't be particular about brands of paint at this point because as you experiment you will discover what you like or dislike. I would recommend getting tubes of paint over jars for ease of use and the fact that they are available in smaller quantities than jars.

We will mix the paint with water, as necessary so no need for any type of mediums or gels at this point.

Acrylic paint colors:
Cadmium Yellow medium or Cadmium Yellow medium hue
Lemon (or hansa) yellow
Cadmium Red light or medium, hue is fine
Alizarin Crimson
Cerulean Blue
Ultramarine Blue
Titanium White
Carbon black

Any other color(s) that you fall in love with at the store!

Palette:
A pad of disposable palettes or the sta-wet style palette. This is a palette that includes a sponge, special paper, and the container. If you go with this method be sure you have all three components. They are often sold separately. Read the packages carefully, the paper is usually not included with the palette. It is important to get the correct paper for the palette - not all papers work with this system.


Brushes:

Synthetic (for acrylic paints). No need to buy expensive brushes. University Art has their own brand that I like and are very affordable.
Flat size #s 2, 6, 12 or 1/4", 1/2" and 1" plus any others you see that you really like.


Canvas Panels:

8" x 10", or 9" x 12", or 11" x 14". Your choice of size. Bring two of any size to every class
.


Palette Knife:

The knife blade should be able to rest in direct contact with the palette while you are holding it.


Old towels, rags, t-shirts:

These are used for cleaning your brushes while painting. Bring one to every class.



Easel:
University Art sells an aluminum fold-up style table-top easel that is perfect for bringing to class. Ask if you don't see it.



More questions?
Please send me an email, or call (408) 250-2732.


Soumen
Soumen

Lisa
Lisa

Heynia
Heynia

WhiteBottle
Lisa


Barbara


Linda


Heather


Paige


Lisa

 

"... It made me so happy when I finally clicked with your telling me to paint what I see.  I propped the pot up in my room today, and saw it with fresh eyes.  I love it! I can't wait to try glass... 

Your art and your teaching style are both wonderful, and I'm really enjoying my time with you."

-Paige

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