JD Gibson Art Lessons
About
DRAWING is the foundation of every aspect of the visual arts. I teach every student to draw what they see using a technique called 'CORRECT OBSERVATION'. This method was developed by the old masters of art and is still the best approach to drawing. You will receive a firm understanding of gesture drawing, conture drawing, spacial relationships and composition. You will learn the proper use of tools and materials.
My classes are also designed to guide you, the artist from basic to advanced drawing, leading you effortlessly into the world of painting. You will learn to paint with light and realism using sound techniques and studio skills developed over hundreds of years by the great masters of art. My painting classes are designed to be enjoyable and you will learn PERSPECTIVE, COLOR THEORY, LIGHT AND SHADOW, TEXTURE, COMPOSITION and more. As a bonus we will learn aspects of art history!
All levels of ability are welcome.
I love the work I do because it allows me to express my thoughts and feelings in a way that I can also share with others. Art is the oldest form of human expression. Creating art is my passion. Teaching art is my joy. We are all artists inside. Some of us only need a guide to help show us the way to be more creative every day. Creating art adds to the quality of our lives. I'm here to help you reach your goals.
Highlights
No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Each new student gets to draw a picture, preferably a still life.This allows me to assess her/his basic level of ability and knowledge. It's important for me to observe the ability of each student individually. Although each student will get the same level of quality attention, it's important to have an idea of everyone's strengths and weaknesses.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've been interested in art all my life. Even as a young child I was always drawing and painting. In high school my teacher's would bid higher and higher prices for the paintings I produced at home. I received my bachelor's degree from Hussian College of Art in Philadelphia, PA from 1984 to 1988. I also studied classical drawing and painting at PAFA, (Philadelphia Academy of Fine Art) where after 3 years I received my completion certificate. I have also won several awards for my work including excellence in academic achievement.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My standard pricing is $25. per hour, per student. I have a one hour minimum. The time will go by quickly, but we will delve deeply into every aspect of art as described earlier.
How did you get started teaching?
Actually, I started teaching while in art school. I assisted fellow students with assignments they found difficult to completet. That's when I found out how much I liked to teach. My official start art teacher began in 2001. I was offered a teaching position with my Alma Mater, Hussian College, where I taught illustration. I was then offered a teaching position with the Philadelphia Dept. of Parks and Recreation. That is where I first worked with children.
What types of students have you worked with?
The types of students I've worked with range from children in their primary years (ages 6 to 12 years) to teens and young adults. I also have years of experience successfully teaching art to children and adults with learning and emotional difficulties. My students are people from all walks of life, including professionals, people enjoying retirement and everyone who is interested in learning how to paint and draw.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
There are so many fond memories that it's hard to single out just one, but I have a story or two to tell.
While teaching a group of children, I overheard a young pupil tell another, "Mr Gibson said that I can be anything I want in my life, that I control my own destiny." That made me feel so good!
Another little boy told me, "I didn't know I was so good at art until you told me to try it and have fun!" One of my adult pupils said to me, "I've been taking art classes for years and you're the first instructor who actually taught me anything."
I love being an artist and teaching art is very rewarding.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Not everyone has the the ability to teach. If I were looking for a teacher, first I would look at the quality of work the teacher has produced himself/herself. Second, I would look at education and experience. Third, find an instructor with insight. Someone who is able to share real information so the student not only understands, but can apply the lessons learned naturally.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Every perspective art student should know what it is they want to achieve. If you're interested in painting, but your drawing skills are weak you won't have a good time in a painting course. I would then suggest you take a drawing course. If you've written a book, or you want to illustrate books and magazines, enroll in an ILLUSTRATION class.