About
I am a teaching artist specializing in life drawing skills, oils, watercolor and acrylics with over 35 years of artistic experience. I have worked in an array of mediums from painting to pottery and from art supply sales to curating at a gallery. In addition to studies in Advertising and the Fine and Applied Arts at The Art Institute of Philadelphia and Glassboro State College, I have a strong background in Art business. When I am not painting or designing in my studio, I am teaching and advocating the importance of Arts education and Arts funding. I have, also, been involved in live theater productions designing and painting sets since 2004.
My teaching method is to work with each student on lessons that are uniquily designed for him/her. Young and beginner students begin with receiving a strong foundation in skills learning and Art principles. From there, students begin apply these lessons to develop their own style or "signature" in their artwork. For the more advanced artists, refresher lessons are always a good idea in order to refine their talent. In addition to personal one-on-one lessons, group lessons, workshops and speaking engagements are, also, available.
My own personal style is realistic with a softening of edges and colors. The subjects of my work usually include human and animal forms. I don’t believe that this has ever been a conscientious decision on my part to choose to capture the live figures. It has been more of revelation, in fact. Regardless the subject, it is my hope that the viewer will come away from my paintings with a “feeling” whether it be a calmness, empathy or even a fond memory.
More information about lessons and services is available on my website and social pages:
http://www.paulafineartist.com/home.html
https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-farrar-745a2351/
https://www.facebook.com/PaulaFineArtist/?ref=settings
It is always a thrill to see my students progress and succeed. It is even more thrilling to see the excitement that comes over the faces of my students when they realize they are progressing. One student who started with me at the age of 12, went on to be accepted by Moore College of Art and has aspirations of becoming an animator. Another, student’s artwork was selected from a student show go on to an exhibit at Stockton College. And, a fellow artist who was having difficulty with her perspective drawing was able to move past the frustration after a couple of refresher lessons. These are the moments that I use to gauge that the way I teach is working.
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Photos and videos
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
New students are first evaluated to determine skill level and find where their interests lay. Basic concepts are introduced first. The pace of learning is set by the student depending on how quickly the student is able to apply these concepts. In the process, experimentation of all mediums are used.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been a teaching artist for over 35 years.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
General private lessons are $30 for adults and $25 for students. Workshops and group prices vary.
How did you get started teaching?
I began teaching in an afterschool and continueing education programs in Berlin. Grade school age children were taught using Creative Arts. Adult training was more concentrated such as Drawing or Watercolor.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students as young a 3 year. However, I now work only with students 8 years and older. Students 8 - 11 are able to understand the concepts in drawing where students age 12 and up are better able to apply those concepts in their artwork.
I, also, work with adults who are beginners through advanced. Some are seasoned artists who are looking to refresh their skill with a certain workshop or new medium. However, many new adult artists are those who are newly retired, empty nesters or just wanting to get back to their hobby where they left off or learn a new one.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
If there is something that you are wanting to try, don't let your fear of failing stop you. Embrace your failures. If you find a teacher who fits what you are looking for but your are made to feel embarrassed for making mistakes, find a new teacher. We are not all the same.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Whether you are looking for lessons on a whim or having been wanting to take lessons for a while, all questions - big or small, silly or not - should be taken seriously. Just as importantly, a teacher should be asking prospective students questions, as well. The more you know, the more effective and fun the learning experience will be.