About
Hello! My name is Elena. I was born and educated in Russia, where I completed full four-year course at the prestigious Moscow Watercolor and Drawing Academy (I graduated cum laude), and then --- a year-long course majoring in portrait at the Stroganoff Academy.
When I teach, I prefer to start with academic drawing because I believe it to be a solid foundation of success in visual arts. I feel myself pretty much equipped with my background in drawing, watercolors, pastels and oil, as well as, most recently, in mixed media.
I have quite varied experience in this respect, having successfully helped some of my students to prepare for admission to higher educational institutions (including New York School of Arts, among others) and assisted numerous others in bringing their hobbyist painting to a whole new level.
Weather it is career aspirations or just hobby, I feel very much prepared to help you in achieving new heights in your endeavor.
I enjoy working with kids because they don't afraid to make mistakes, they try to find different ways of doing their art work. My students inspire me a lot!
Highlights
Photos and videos
Reviews
Natalia F.
Nina V.
Elena S.
Anastasia K.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
First, I ask the student about their goal. What do they want to accomplish?
Then, I'm curious to see their art work. What do they love to draw or paint?
Also, I ask what kind of artist, style do they love and why?
This information provides me with an insight into the most appropriate format of the classes and lets me plan the work accordingly.
How did you get started teaching?
When I came from Russia to US, I wasn't fluent in English. But I have many Russian speaking friends. They liked my art classes. It was so nice and very fun. We made exhibition of kids' art, did activities, read poems and ate Russian cuisine.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with both kids and adults.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Past year my work was accepted to MOMA, NY, local exhibitions, online exhibition as a member of the RRPN, I volunteered to AFTA (Association of Floridian Teaching Artists), it was so much fun to work with kids in summer camps.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Your teacher has to know not just how to draw or paint. Good teacher also knows history of the art and artists. I wish you to find a teacher who will speak the language of art and soul.