About
I run public and private art events where I teach an individual or a group of people (from 2-50) to paint a particular painting of the group or hosts choosing. I teach painting from scratch in mainly the realism and impressionistic styles. I create a fun and relaxed atmosphere and my goals are that everyone has a fun time and that each person produces a successful painting or learns techniques that will lead them to producing successful pieces of art. I've been an artist since I can remember and have been painting for 10 years. With over 200 events I've had a few thousand people learn from me. I have a strong background in figurative and portrait painting but I also do lanscapes, florals, still lifes, etc. I mainly specialize in oil and acrylic painting and have an extensive drawing background. For those of you that would like to take a look at my fine art works, please check my website mendivilfineart.com or my Instagram or Facebook at Mendivil Fine Art.
I love connecting with my students and enjoy the teaching aspect. I love seeing the look on people's faces when they learn a new technique or when they produce their first beautiful piece! Art is an amazing way to express, to interact, to de-stress, etc.! I believe if everyone did art, there would be a much lower need for therapists! :)
Photos and videos
Reviews
Kathy B.
Jessica F.
Meghan M.
Patricia R.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I assess the student's starting point. What is his or her goal? What are the student's tastes in art and artist styles? We go slowly from there at a pace that is comfortable for the student. I am patient and I teach patience as it is one of the most important aspects of art.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am self taught but have been an artist since about the age of 5. My first experience with art was with drawing and I can draw just about anything. I've been doing both oil and acrylic painting for about 10 years and specialize in figurative and portrait paintings but landscapes, florals, still lifes,etc. are all painting types that I enjoy teaching and creating.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
A lot depends on distance. I will typically charge $25 t0 $40 per hour (with a two hour minimum), depending on where the person is located as I typically go to him/her.
How did you get started teaching?
I started about 2 and a half years ago. I hosted an art teaching event at the home of someone I know and from there my business grew. I've done over 200 group events now. At the same time I began to get requests for one on one lessons and started doing that when there was time.
What types of students have you worked with?
From beginners to people with some experience. All ages, men and women, people of all walks of life.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
All my events are special in some way. The ones that stand out the most are the ones where people come up to me afterwards to thank me because they had no idea they could successfully create art. Sometimes they're emotional because art creation is often moving.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for someone that you feel comfortable with right from start. Ask them about their patience and flexibility. Just as important, let them know what your goals are and what styles you are interested in learning. As important as everything else. I would also tell the student the he/she (the student) must understand that patience is important. Sometimes the process can be slow as it will often take time to acquire the skills you may be seeking.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What exactly are you looking for? What styles are you looking to learn? Will you be practicing on your own as well as during the actual lessons?