Cindy Bernhard Art Lessons

I am a college painting professor. I have worked with students in after school programs and community events ranging from 6 years old to 70 years old.

I believe the most important skill an artist can learn is how to see. I teach my students to translate what they observe from a three dimensional object to a two dimensional surface. Ultimately, having the skills to work from observation leads to the development of a personal visual language. Training the eye to see subtle shifts within contour, value, texture, and color can lead to a more complex making of pictures. Through the skills of drawing and painting representationally a student is able to develop a personal set of rules for their own art making. We must see subtle shifts in the world in order to create our own.

I believe students learn best from someone they can trust. In order to foster a sense of security with my students I share both my personal experiences as well as my paintings and sketchbooks. Through this exchange my students gain confidence in my skills and teaching ability. In return, this correspondence helps me gain valuable feedback from my

students guiding in the development of my own personal studio practice.