About
I am a locally renowned portrait painter since 1998. I just set up Unwanted Animals Publishing to get my book titled, “Flash”, published to help raise money for the Humane Society. In 1971 I graduated from Cardinal Stritch College with a BA degree in art education. Since then I have sold hundreds of portraits of people and pets. Most recently I have done wedding paintings in oil that are listed on Etsy. To confirm this you can check out my website, https://heavenlyacresart.com.
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Experience level
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Kay L.
Kay L.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I think it is very important to find out what the student is looking for in art instruction. Then, I try to tailor the lessons to that person as far as age, experience and interest. For example, a student might only be interested in doing art for pleasure or relaxation versus someone who is interested in pursuing a career in graphic design etc. Although I keep this information in mind for long term lesson planning, I initially prefer to use the Betty Edwards method of starting with drawing which is the foundation for all art work. If the student is very young, I have other lesson plans and books that guide me through that process.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelor's Degree in Fine Art from Cardinal Stritch College and was certified to teach in 1971. Since then, I started a business in 1998 where I sold 100s of portraits of pets and people. Most recently I did wedding paintings of couples kissing at their weddings. And, I published a children's book titled Flash which is available on Amazon that I wrote and illustrated myself. In this book Flash tells the story of his mom, an abandoned cat. It teaches children to have empathy for abandoned animals and about the importance of spaying and neutering. 25% goes to the Humane Society.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $40/hour. After the first lesson, if the student likes the lesson, I request that the person commit to the next four lessons by paying for them in advance. If he/she has to cancel, I will try to reschedule but there are no refunds unless I cancel.
How did you get started teaching?
I went to college for a degree and was certified to teach but ended up working for the State of Wisconsin for 32 years in non educational roles. Please see above for other life experience in the art field. And, have assisted art teachers in the class room.
What types of students have you worked with?
Adults and grade school and high school age.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I read my Flash book to Friends Day Care in Kewaskum to 4-6 years olds in my Flash cat costume. After I finished, the children couldn't wait to come and pet me in my cat costume. One child asked me if he could pet my tail and I answered that he could only if he didnt pull my tail!!.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Be open minded and give things a chance. In other words, don't expect instant results. All great things take time and work!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
1) Why do I want to do art work?
2) What good is doing art work anyway?
3) What am I really interested in doing with art?