Artistic Insights

I would find out their experience in a particular media, whether it be pencil, charcoal, conte crayon or pastels if their interest is in drawing.  If their interests lie in painting, I would inquire if their interest lies with oils, acrylic or watercolor or even mixed media.  If the student is brand new, I would introduce them to the tools and materials to show them how they are applied.  Gradually I would show them different techniques and how they could be used in a painting. Then I would find out the direction they are leaning toward and start out with the basic techiques and visuals they would like to explore.

I received a Bachelors of Fine Arts degree from Northern Illinois University in Drawing and Painting.  I have worked in all medias, but favor watercolors.  I like working with acrylic when hard edge designs are required.  

I've used my drawing skills to illustrate a children's book called "The Dream Doctor" authored by Kathryn Andries, available at Amazon and working an another one, soon to be published.

I have done commissioned watercolors for various business, and most recently at Crystal Lake Physical Therapy in Crystal Lake, IL.

Private Art classes in my home run $25 per hour. If it is a watercolor class, I will provide materials for the first class if they don't have any and upon the first meeting, I will give a list of suggested supplies.

If it is a drawing class, students should bring at least a 9x12 sketchbook and several grades of drawing pencils 2 or 4H, 2B, 6B and/or an ebony pencil along with a kneaded eraser and a pencil with a red eraser on its end. I will also have some supplies available during the class for the students to use.

How did I get into teaching? I have found over the years that students can do a lot more than they ever thought they could. I wanted to help those interested in wanting to experience different techniques that can be useful to enhance their art own art work, perhaps opening them up to things they might not have considered. If a student is ready to learn something new, they will overcome hurdles they didn't ever think were possible. I want to be there for the student who is ready to take that leap. 

I have worked in an elementary school for 26 yrs  offering them a wide range of medias and projects for grades in Kindergarten through 9th grade.

I have also worked in a few Continuing Education classes with adults in drawing, watercolor painting, ceramics and calligraphy through district high schools in Hoffman Estates, Schaumburg and Harper College and McHenry College.

I have given private art classes to both grade school children and adults in watercolor painting and mixed media.

I have recently found a new interest in the art of high-powered electric Woodcarving. I have learned to apply the techniques that I have learned in painting to enhance my wood sculptures. Having a painting background, does help with other artistic ventures I am discovering. I attended a High Level Woodcarving show in Iowa where 2 of my sculptures were entered and received ribbons. It was amazing to see the many talented people who have their pieces and view their techniques of paint application.