Painting and Drawing Classes (or, more appropriately, ‘Art Groups’)

Aim

The aim of the group is to facilitate your development in 2 dimensional art using a choice of oil, acrylic, pen and ink, charcoal, graphite and/or mixed media in the styles and subject matter of your preference. (Actually, the real aim is to have fun!)

What to expect

a) Your wishes

In my experience, most adult budding artists have a very good idea of the direction in which they wish to progress. I therefore see my role as assistant and advisor for you in the development of your own style/s in the media and subject matter of your choice. Apart from some initial exercises for less experienced artists, the sessions will cater to your individual wishes with my role being mainly to give advice and suggestions on technical and compositional aspects (which you are free to reject!) as you develop skills and ideas of your own. I also have many art references from which you can draw inspiration.

As such, the sessions won’t begin with, “Tonight we are going to...” but, throughout the term, “What would you like to create and how can I assist?” You are therefore in charge of how much or little structure you wish me to provide.

b) Demonstrations

I periodically give demonstrations, which you can choose to watch or if you prefer, can continue working on your own project/s. These demos show either my techniques or those of other artists or requests from group members. Something which has also worked well in the past is for me to demonstrate in stages with interested group members following these, bringing their own individually to the process.

c) 'Ambience'

Warning: The groups are held in a garage, still used for its intended purpose (except during art groups sessions) but with paintings on the walls and bookcases predominantly filled with art books and references.

I find the group interaction is perhaps the most valuable aspect of the sessions. Put simply, we 'have a good time', talking art (or, perhaps more often, simply having a chat), enjoying a cuppa, snack or, especially when the 'flow' arises, creative silence.

About Me

I have been regularly painting and drawing for around 20 years. Until recently, being employed as a full time teacher, painting was mainly an enjoyable pastime. My works would briefly adorn my walls, usually soon to be 'acquired' by friends and family. Although still loving the daily interaction with students, at the end of 2005 I decided to resign from my job of 23 years and pick up the brush full time.

Since then, I have had 4 one-person shows (selling over 70 paintings), delivered around 10 commissions, have works in 2 corporate collections and have had my work and demonstrations twice featured in ‘Artist's Palette’ Magazine. Numerous requests for lessons have prompted me to begin art classes, a wonderful opportunity to combine my shared passions for teaching and art. For more information, go to Biography.

Numbers

Groups will consist of no more than 5 students (usually 4), ensuring individual attention and the promotion of interaction among members of the group.

Schedule

• Four 8-11 week terms per year, coinciding as much as possible with school terms (this is negotiable with members of the art groups).
• At the moment I have 3 groups per week, all 2½ hours in duration: Wednesdays 6:30 and 9:00pm, Thursdays 9:30am – 12:00pm and Saturdays 10:00am – 12:00pm.
• More sessions will be scheduled if numbers demand.
• Next term begins 14 April - 21 June (tentative end date)

Fees

There are no set fees as I feel the groups have much to offer to anyone interested, regardless of their financial situation. I have a container into which members can place whatever they feel moved to pay. I don't check individual amounts; I only count at the end of the week (for taxation and banking purposes) or, I must admit, will raid the 'kitty' if I'm in need of ready cash!

For some people, this is daunting ("How much should I pay?"). If it's of any help, I used to charge $25 per session, but gratefully accept any amount.

Materials

You can use my materials but most members prefer to buy their own (often better quality!) after a few weeks.

Wet canvases or boards can be stored here – nothing worse than trying to transport a wet painting!

Testimonials from art group members

"Michael's classes are holistic experiences that provide a high level of artistic education, a stimulating creative atmosphere and a relaxed social atmosphere which is conducive to sharing information and acquiring new skills. Each week is a new and amazing artistic experience where Michael generously imparts the secrets and detailed technical information to build a solid foundation for personal development. He is a skilful, experienced and sensitive art teacher who provides the perfect atmosphere for learning and individual expression. The workshop environment fosters a social environment where creative artists from a diverse range of backgrounds and with distinctly different learning needs are sensitively guided through basic and advanced techniques to realise their full talents. Each week Michael provides the requisite foundation for an enjoyable and satisfying artistic event. Thank you Michael for sharing your astounding teaching talents with each and every member of your class".
AP

"Michael provides encouraging individualised tuition within a small group setting. He caters for all levels of artistic ability from beginners to advanced students in a relaxed, fun-filled environment."
MW

"The best course I’ve ever done."
GL

"Thanks to Michael's gentle encouragement and generous sharing of his time and expertise, painting is pure pleasure and my work is saleable."
KV