About
Jason Polins currently teaches art classes in oil painting, drawing and the human figure in his Somerville art studio and at Northeastern University in Boston. He also offers workshops and private instruction.
As an instructor I believe the freedom of artistic expression relates to the facility of one’s craft. That’s why I offer a variety of art classes focused on skill building.
My school offers art classes in oil painting and drawing to students of all levels and abilities. Students receive individual attention and easel time to tackle concepts and build a strong foundation. Students focus on skills in and outside the studio to become enabled by competance and not restricted by inability.
I paint because I’m moved by the beauty of Nature and our modern world. My subjects include portraiture, figure painting/drawing, still life and landscape/cityscape. Everywhere I turn I see more to paint about. The experience of having someone sit for a drawing or painting and describe who they are, imbuing a portrait with a sense of the individual, their unique essence. Or the delicate way light falls on shapes in a still life.
The hue, value and chroma of it all. What does it mean that these objects are being put together, why and how it all works. Or landscape painting, which pulls us in awe of nature’s depth. Billions of years of development and change for us to study and learn from.
Landscape is a crucial endeavor, as we all belong out in nature. As humans, we seek to reconnect to nature on so many levels. It provides a centering of ourselves in a way that reminds us we belong to something much bigger than our constructed environment.
So here I am, I’ve got this great studio. I’m completely immersed in what I do and I am totally energized to have students to share it with and help them in their excitement of their own work! It’s a great opportunity for all.
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Reviews
Jeff F.
Emilie M.
Sonya A.
Robin F.
Sarah M.
Arthur R.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I have a variety of ways to introduce drawing and painting to new students. We begin mainly by working on developing a baseline dialogue through exercises intended to help everyone understnad a little about what they currently understand and want to learn from classes in my Atelier.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I studied at Boston University recieveing my BFA.
Then went to Florence Italy, to the Florence Academy of Art for my graduate education.
I have also been lucky to work directly with 2 painters over several years. They have become great mentors of mine as well as being some of the greatest painters working today.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Lessons are generally 3 hour blocks of time. This may seem long, but in order to talk about process and demonstrate and have you be able to dig your hands into your work, that time will fly by!
my base cost is $85/hr. I have been taught to paint by some of the most well regarded individuals and schools available. When you study with me, you will NOT be getting adult daycare time. I am hoping to push you to better yourself and your abilities. I take my teaching seriously and I am hoping you are equally into your itch to learn and grow artistically!
I don't mean to scare you by sounding so serious about what I do. Ultimately we will have a lot of fun, laugh and learn:) It's serious fun!
How did you get started teaching?
Teaching is something that my family has always been involved in. I also was encouraged to teach by my mentors who believe that sharing knowledge is one of the most important opportunities. I find teaching a wonderful way to help people get to know themselves better!
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with all types of students.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
what are your goals? Are you willing to learn? This is your time, how do you want to use it?