About
Ocean View Arts has switched from group classes to private lessons either in person at our Ocean View, Norfolk, location, or online via Zoom. Students who were in group classes before the pandemic say that they learn much more in a one-hour private lesson than they did in two group lessons, and the cost is more economical, too, averaging about sixty-five dollars per hour for a private lesson.
The beginning of each student’s art studies at Ocean View Arts typically focuses on the basics of traditional realism, the nearly-forgotten secrets of the Old Masters. This forms a strong foundation for advancing into any other type of art from anime to abstract painting, from Impressionistic landscape painting to realistic portraiture, from collage to sculpture, fabric art to home dec. Even computer graphic design is impacted beneficially by having the kind of knowledge that made the Old Masters great.
Students may choose to work with mandala drawing, Prismacolor drawing, watercolor, pastels, acrylics, oils or fiber arts, with a focus on still life, landscape, portrait, figure or anatomy, using realistic or visionary techniques.
High school students may elect to focus on portfolio development for college admission or scholarship opportunities.
As a published author and book editor, Meryl Ann also coaches students in writing and illustrating picture books.
Meryl Ann is an award-winning professional who studied art for 7 years in NY with a student of Norman Rockwell. She has taught thousands of students over several decades--and because the methods of the masters is so effective, every one of her students has been successful at creating a realistic image in their first drawing.
Ocean View Arts lessons are suitable for untrained beginners or advanced students, adults or teens. Students progress at their own pace in a nurturing environment whether in private in-person or online lessons.
"I love to teach students to create the kind of artwork that they thought they could never accomplish...when students can't help smiling as they look at their completed work, I'm thrilled because not only do they have a lovely piece of art to hang on the wall, they've also learned something new and excelled at it beyond their expectations--and we have lots of fun!"
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I always invite prospective students to visit the Ocean View Arts studio and gallery to see examples of my work and students' work so they know what to expect. Then we discuss together which of the Ocean View Arts educational offerings might be the best fit.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I studied art for seven years in New York with master of realism, Harold R Stevenson, who was a student of Norman Rockwell. Our direct artistic lineage includes many artists well represented in museums, including Howard Pyle, Jean-Léon Gérôme, Antoine-Jean Gros, Jacques-Louis David and François Boucher. I am the author of two craft books (traditionally published) and of several hundred articles on arts-related topics. I am also an editor.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Private lessons are as low as $65/hour. Private lessons are usually in person but can be on Zoom. Online workshops vary in cost, typically $10 - $45.
How did you get started teaching?
I did some student-teaching during the last two of the seven years that I studied with my mentor. Within three months of completing my studies I opened my first art school in Louisiana. Ocean View Arts is my second art school.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with all ages, from pre-school to retired. Several students who already had degrees in art have said that they learned lots of useful new information in their very first lesson with me! I have helped many high schoolers develop an impressive portfolio.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
The most important thing that a prospective student can do when making a choice about a teacher is to look at the work produced by that teacher's students. A group of students who do consistently excellent work show that their teacher is successful in imparting knowledge. You can see my students work on my website, OceanViewArts.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
The most important question a students should ask herself is: what brings me the most joy? The next step is to find a teacher who can successfully guide that student on her path toward the joyful and creative endeavor.