
About
I am an adjunct professor at Saddleback Community College, and a resident artist for Segerstroms. I studied art at Otis and earned my MFA in painting at Savannah College of Art and Design. I love working with students of all ages and all abilities.
When I’m not teaching, I am working on my studio practice and running a small gallery in The Santa Ana Arts District. I paint in encaustic, cold wax, oil, pastel, watercolor and acrylic, and love exploring new techniques and mediums.
Follow my work on Instagram at @reneeortizstudios. To see more of my work, please visit ReneeOrtizStudios.com
I love art- everything about it! Whether it's the discovery process, the mark-making, creating something out of nothing, expressing myself where words won't go- I am passionate to share this with others. Art changes lives. It causes us to slow down, to notice, to empathise, to love.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I first like to get to know my student, and find out their goals for learning art. After assesing where they want to go and where they are currently, we discuss medium, supplies, and then set up a lesson time. I often start lessons with relevant inspiration from historic as well as contemporary artists, and then proceed to give direction and encouragement as we work through a painting together. We critique a work together, problem solve and set new goals for our next meeting.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a Segerstrom resident artist. I studied at Otis, Pasadena Art Center and LCAD and recently earned my MFA at SCAD. I am a member of California Art Club and LPAPA.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I base my fees on a sliding scale depending on student's needs and levels.
How did you get started teaching?
I have always enjoyed helping others and sharing what I know. After beginning my art studies at Otis, I continued my education at Loyola Marymount University for my degree in education. With many years dedicated to being an art instructor, I decided to return to academia in pursuit of my Masters. I recently earned an MFA in painting from Savannah College of Art and Design and am now officially a professor.
What types of students have you worked with?
I work with all types! I love the ones who tell me they can't draw a straight line- I take this as a personal challenge! I have worked with professional artists wanting to explore a new medium as well as beginning artists, just figuring it all out. I work with 5 year olds to 85 year olds!
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I have enjoyed participating in the First Saturday Art Walk in Santa Ana. It is good to be back in person, sharing and discussing art in my gallery. Please stop by! I would love to meet you!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Do your research. Have short and long term goals in mind. Know your why- fun and relaxation or maybe more career based?
I have always found it interesting when people say that they are not talented or refer to art as being a gift. Art is work and practice like anything else. Nobody sits down to a grand piano expecting to play a flawless concerto if they have never taken piano lessons. They understand the years of study and practice that go into this. But for some reason people expect to be able to paint right out of the gate. When they struggle, they give up and say they simply have no talent. Know that this is a commitment. It won't always be easy. My goal is to keep it fun so that the growth process is a lot less painful.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Again- what are your goals and your purpose in this? There is nothing wrong with doing this for pure enjoyment. Somebody studying to prepare a portfolio for art school would have a different approach.
What mediums are you drawn to?
Who are some artists that you admire?
We have different ideas of landscape, for instance. You might really love the work of somebody painting in oils, but you are thinking watercolor would be fun... Having some examples of styles that you want to learn about is so helpful to my preparing a course of study for you.