About
The Downtown Art Academy offers classes in drawing and painting for ages 11 through adult, with occasional specialty classes for children and parties. We offer a curriculum for classical, academy-style drawing and painting, as well as classes for students who want to paint for fun. Our professionally-trained instructors will teach you to create realistic subject matter or guide you to create abstract paintings through the understanding of composition, design, and sound color theory. Drawing is done in graphite and charcoal, or you can learn to paint in watercolor, oils, acrylic, pastel, or mixed media. Classes are held throughout the day from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and are designed around each students skill level. For an updated listing of class times and offerings, visit: www.mainstreetstudioslv.com/downtown-art-academy.
What makes our classes so successful is the level of experience we offer our students. Sharing our knowledge through hands-on demonstrations and easy-to-understand language is what continues to inspire our students to keep creating. Our passion for art is contagious.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Instructors will be in contact with potential students to discuss with their artistic goals are so they can be placed into the class that is right for their skill level.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
As the lead instructor at the Downtown Art Academy, Cheryl Magellen has been a professional painter and teacher since 2009. After receiving her Bachelor of Fine Art in college, she trained at the Southern Oregon Art Academy, the Scottsdale Artists' School, and studied privately with over 18 professional artsits. Her work has won several awards and been shown in National juried compeitions. In additional to owning and operating the Downtown Art Academy, she also curates and manages the gallery at Main Street Studios.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Private sessions are $140 for 90 minutes each week. Group classes, when available, are $20 per student for 2 hour sessions. All classes must be pre-paid to reserve space.
How did you get started teaching?
I taught children to swim alongside my mother when I was 13 years old. I later taught graphic arts, Feng Shui, and did private consultations. When I began painting, teaching became a natural transition for me.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have taught children as young as 5 years of age, seniors, and every age in between. Anyone with a desire to learn can become proficient at drawing and painting.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
When teaching art, every day is a special event. To see each students work progress and improve is a delight. It builds confidence and self-esteem in students.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for a teacher whose work you admire and if you are serious about learning to become an accomplished artist, ask for references and look over your instructor's resume. A good instructor will not hold back their knowledge and will help you in any way they can. Professional artists generally have websites.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Students should think about what they specifically want to learn in their classes and what direction they way to take their art--do you want to pursue art professionally or as a hobby? Any student who wants to paint realistic subject matter, should learn to draw. Even abstract art has disciplines that make it stand out from the crowd. It is especially important to have an open mind. A good instructor will ask you to try different things with your art, challenge your current abilities, and think outside the box.