About
I will teach you how to unlock your hidden talents and to discover essential techniques that can help you avoid months of frustration. I teach various sketching techniques, color mixing, brushwork techniques and teach about light, shadow, color theory and composition.
I not only teach these various aspects about art, but I teach you how to make your own decisions in using these aspects.
I have taught classes at College of San Mateo and at University Art in Redwood City, CA. I now teach classes in my own studio in San Carlos, CA.
I have won many awards in art shows across the nation and collectors from all over the world own pieces of my work.
https://www.facebook.com/Jockartist/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-chapman-875a4911/
I enjoy watching my students learn and to begin to make their own decisions while working on a painting.
There is nothing more gratifying than seeing the happy smile on one of my student's faces after he/she has finished a beautiful painting.
Reviews
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I start with a painting that is on the small side and pretty simple. Quite often, if the student has never painted before, I'll let them use some of my paint and brushes. All they need to do is pick up a small canvas.
I don't have a planned class; I let the students pick what they want to paint. Some want to paint pets, some landscapes, some portraits, and I help them to do it.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have always been involved in art, but have been painting professionally for 24 years.
I have no formal training as far as teaching, but am told I'm a natural born teacher and very generous with my methods and the passing along my knowledge.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $30 per class. These are drop in classes, where you don't have to commit to many classes. Take one class and if you don't like it, you aren't out a lot of money.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching at the College of San Mateo. A call went out for somebody to teach adult oil painting classes and I went in for an interview.
I brought in a lot of samples of my work and they decided to take a chance on me. I taught 3 semesters at CSM.
What types of students have you worked with?
I work with beginners to intermediate students. They range in age from 16 to 80+. I've taught gifted children as young as 9 years old.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
One of my students had a grand daughter who was visiting her and she asked if she could bring her along so she could take some lessons. I agreed and the little girl did a painting of a bunny. She did a great job and gave me a big hug. That really made me feel good.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would tell them to go to a teacher who will help them to develop their own style and not just copy what the teacher does. They should be able to help them draw because this is the foundation of any painting. They also need to learn how to come up with a great composition, learn about light and shadows, and color mixing. Brush work isn't so important, but know what types of brushes to use is important.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
A student should decide what type of art they want to create.
What medium do they want to use and what are the pros and cons of that medium.
Do they want to paint just for fun or do they want to get into selling their work.