About
Academically trained in Moscow, Russia, I work and teach in the traditions of early 20th century masters of plein air painting and life drawing. The knowledge I offer is for those who are ready to dedicate themselves to mastering the art of drawing and painting any object and any subject matter from life, be it simple everyday objects, portraits, figure or landscapes. My students can expect 3 to 4 hour academic lessons in the medium they choose. For plein air painting we will go to locations in Malibu and Santa Monica Mountains. For most other lessons we get together at my gallery space, Topanga Canyon Inn B&B.
Throughout my life I was told that I was good at teaching. From helping with my younger sister's class activities to homeschooling my five children I learned to find different ways of explaining for different learning abilities. My oldest child is now at Harvard working on her PHD in English, but she is also great at illustration, thanks to my lessons. There are many artists who are great at their art, but not many are good at explaining how they do it. I stand out from them because I am able to demystify the process, explain how and why as well as demonstrate it for you. I guarantee you will have a noticeable improvement after just a few lessons. If you continue with my instruction you will have a big improvement. Once you and I build your solid foundation of art knowledge and skills you will be able to transition to any art related career, fine art, illustration, animation, graphic design, or just enjoy it as a hobby on a higher level.
Don’t hesitate to ask me more questions or visit me at my gallery at Topanga Canyon Inn. If you are deciding whether or not my lessons are worth it go to my website ElenaRoche.com and sign up for my newsletter to receive announcements of upcoming free demonstrations, workshops and shows. Every so often I do a free demonstration after which I gain more students. The comments I get most are: I explained it very well, it starts to makes sense now and you make it look so easy. With my instruction and your dedication it will get easier and easier for you too.
Doing the work I love, sherring that knowledge with others and being paid for it is the best way to live.
Reviews
Ladan G.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The first session will be to go over the supplies, materials, general rules and to get an understanding of the students level and knowledge. The following sessions will start with a demo during which students can ask questions. Afterwards the student will work on their own small study of the same subject matter with my input.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I received my academic training in drawing and painting from an art college in Moscow, Russia.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$150 per 3 hour session, an additional 1 hour is free as it is used for setting up, walking to and from a location, critique and other discussions.
How did you get started teaching?
When I immigrated to the US in 1997 I began to exhibit and sell my paintings and commission works. People would often ask me if I offered lessons and workshops. So to fill this need I started taking dedicated students and teach mostly en plein air with some studio lessons.
What types of students have you worked with?
Students who are interested in academic art training and getting a strong foundation upon which to build any art carere from the age of 12 and up to adult.