About
https://www.facebook.com/IncredibleMeInst/
Incredible Me Institute Incorporated was established as a non profit organization so that I could seek out grants. My intention has always been to offer adults a release for stress by focusing on something creative; bringing about some peace of mind and joy to the heart for the least amount of $ possible. We often paint FL landscapes in oil at the Safety Harbor Museum and paint a variety of things at the Greenbriar Clubhouse; not far from Countryside Mall, in acrylics. Watch for announcements of scholarships for students 55+ - that's usually who I can get grants for!
I am an organizer for 3 Meetup.com groups: Greenbriar Clubhouse Beginner Painting, Beginner's Oil Painting (we don't just do oil but I can't find how to change the name!), and Safety Harbor Senior Art Club (not just for seniors; 16 years and up ok).
I have been teaching beginner painting classes for 12 years now. The Safety Harbor Museum Director tells me my classes are the most fun! I call it "serious fun" because the intention is to learn the basic skills & methods of creating Fine Art and have fun at the same time!
I discovered art - oil painting specifically- at 45 years old. I was so surprised to learn that there are skills to be learned I took one class after another and set up a studio on my back porch. I established Incredible Me Inc as a non profit so I could obtain grants and offer classes as affordably as possible so others could have the same joy .
Reviews
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
All our classes are presented so that a first time painter can learn the basic skills of creating fine art. We all paint the same picture; I guide the student every step of the way from start to finish in a 2 hour workshop.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I studied drawing in pencil and charcoal from the University of Art in San Francisco and at St. Petersburg College in Clearwater, FL. I started taking oil painting classes at Michaels at 45 years old, which is where I enthusiastically discovered that Fine Art can be learned! From there is sought out painting classes from many teachers in the Tampabay area. Learning with the intention of teaching is an excelerated learning experience (learning with a little pressure!); and I have been teaching these classes now for over 10 years.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Depending on the venue, classes are between $20 and $35. Mostly all supplies are included. Some classes you bring your own canvas.
How did you get started teaching?
I worked in a Family Center as the Program Director for 16 years. I was working there when I first started taking painting classes myself in 2007. I was so excited to discover this hobby I could not wait to set up classes and offer them there. It was the perfect opportunity partly because I could offer the classes for free and hone my teaching skills!
What types of students have you worked with?
Artists of all levels come to class! Many students have never, ever picked up a paint brush before. Some students have been artists for years but don't have a studio at home or are snowbirds with no art supplies here...seasoned artists tell me its much more fun to paint with a support group where they often also make new friends. We, me included, all have something to learn from observing each other's work!
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I have many art students that return for classes on a very regular basis. Obviously they get better and better with every class - so I get to witness that! I can't tell you how happy that makes me . Some of those students have been coming to my classes for eight years now. So we all become friends and we have definitely become a club!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Check out 100s of pictures from years of fun classes on Facebook! A picture paints 1,000 words!
https://www.facebook.com/IncredibleMeInst/
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What size canvas should I bring. And please wear old clothes!