Musing In Oil

My typical process is finding out the level of understanding, and past experiences with composition, color theory and work from there. I like to take the student for a walk outside to explore aerial perspective, linear perspective, light and shadows, and the hidden hues of color that you find in nature.  Also, it is important that we develop an expected outcome of our time, whether it is just a one time process or the skills required to get them started on their own over a course of several outings. 

I grew up with a father who enjoyed Plein Air painting. He gave me my first easel and set of paints.  Always a visitor to the many great museums in Southern California, I have learned so much from observing techniques of masters.  I returned to painting as an adult by taking a couple plein air painting classes. I also have taken many college courses in art and drawing. I am also a student of Art History. 

My fees are $75.00 for the first visit when materials are provided by the student. I charge $125.00 at the first visit for providing sketch pad, easle, canvas, paints, solvents, gloves, mask, and brushes. Subsequent meetings are $40.00 per sessions which are flexible in time according to the day, but usually consist of 1-2 hours.

I have always enjoyed teaching art and began in my children’s classrooms as “The Picture Person”, from there I was helping other students in college classes who had little or no experience. A few friends and relatives along the way made me realize I was good at helping others mix their way through creating works through oil. 

I have worked with students of all ages, from 5, including children with special needs, up to seniors; enjoying every moment we share! I also am capable of conducting other lessons in vinyl block print making, pastels, and other mediums.  I have a basic art cirriculum for those that prefer to study beyond work in the studio, and for all ages.

I am currently a docent at the Huntington Library, working in the Portrait Gallery during the conservation of Blue Boy. It’s been fun to interact and share some of my knowledge on oils. Some of my more favorite museums are the Hilbert Museum in Orange, The Norton Simon, Huntington Library, and of course, both Getty Center and Getty Villa.  I am passionate about the art and history of Late Antiquity & Early Medeivel, and everything Roman! 

I like to never take myself too serious and you should too. Art is a creative process. You have to laugh at your mistakes, and applaud yourself when you’ve really nailed it!  I hope you would find an instructor that will allow you to respect and enjoy the process of learning, and also appreciate the fun that should be happening during this time. You will become a better human being through the understanding of art, the history and the culture of it's origins.

Be sure to ask about supplies, environment and location, costs, special needs and accommodations.