Art And Expressive Journaling With Virginia McGuire ?Natures Art Light And Beauty

For new students whether in person or online we begin with what the student is wanting to learn and focus there. I offer suggestions on the supplies and painting area. Together we decide on a first project. We can add technique lessons as we go or we can have that as a separate part of the class. Really each student can go with works naturally for them while also learning techniques. In an online group class, I ask the student questions to get a feel for their art style and I offer a few technique examples as support. I can also create follow up technique videos.

I was raised in an arts-focused home in terms of painting, music dance etc., so have always enjoyed the arts in general.

I began drawing in a more focused way around age 12. Then I began to take a variety of classes. Drawing, watercolor, pottery, acrylics, mixed media, oils, I have had a variety of classes. I graduated from UNC-G Greensboro. For my undergraduate degree, I focused on textiles and apparel design, family, and psychology (1981). Since then I have been in several local shows and galleries and have taken more classes in figure drawing and art journaling while continuing with my own mixed media work. I have been published locally for writing and art. I have enjoyed working with women on their expressions in art gatherings including floral work, mandalas, various nature paintings, art journals and creative expressive drawings of women with nature some classical, some nature-themed, some have a cultural theme example: Celtic, Native American etc., also some art retreats focused on these themes mentioned or on angelic or fairy expressions with flowers or skies. 

*Art journaling, creating paste paper to make a journal, mandala painting and mixed media soulful expressions of nature, etc. on paper or canvas are what I mainly offer as an instructor at this site. These can be classes for an individual or group if you have a small group for me to travel to. I do not offer pottery, glass painting, beadwork, or oil painting at this time.

Thus far a basic is about 35 per hour for online sessions and in-person is about 45.00 per hour if local, yet still this can vary if I offer supplies etc. If I travel to someone the fees include distance, time, and gas. It also changes if I supply the supplies or if they already have supplies. Online group classes with Zoom or Skype are another way of teaching and I am checking into how long each class will be and how to structure a project over say a 4 session project. Or make mini-session videos on specific projects.  

I got started teaching art in 2008 when a group of women wanted an art retreat. Women's groups have been really inspiring for me to work with, I also enjoy helping teen girls.

I then added in teaching a few individuals which is fun as well.

Couples groups are also fun and informative as the couples learn more about each other and can help each other's art to blossom.

I got started teaching art in 2008 when a group of women wanted an art retreat. Women's groups have been really inspiring for me to work with, I also enjoy helping teen girls.

I then added in teaching a few individuals which is fun as well.

Couples groups are also fun and informative as the couples learn more about each other and can help each other's art to blossom.

I have worked with women and teens thus far. In counseling, I have worked with all ages.

I enjoy the seasons and nature. It is an ongoing discovery!

I also enjoy celebrating various cultures and symbology.

I enjoy helping my students discover their inspirations from flowers, or seashells, to abstract paintings or super heroes!

Look for someone supportive of your style and expression. Someone that can offer suggestions that help, yet allow your self-discovery as an artist. Also, someone that is generally kind and that can communicate well.

Students might take time to see what really inspires them personally before talking with an instructor. If there are several inspirations/interests getting clear on those helps the instructor know where a good start is that is supportive and fun for the student.