My approach to teaching is rooted in the belief that artistic freedom is earned through technical mastery. I believe that anyone can learn to paint realistically if they are given the right mental map. In my studio, we trade 'talent' for 'technique.' My goal as an instructor is to provide a supportive, hands-on environment where beginners can master the fundamentals of oil painting. In our sessions, we will cover:

Materials & Mediums: Gain an understanding of your toolkit, from selecting the right oil pigments and brushes to preparing support and managing solvents.

Still Life: You’ll learn how to render volume, weight, and texture through careful observation.

Value Studies: The "black and white" of painting. We focus entirely on light and shadow to create a powerful three-dimensional presence on a flat surface.

The Limited Palette: We utilize the Zorn Palette (Yellow Ochre, Cadmium Red, Ivory Black, and White) to teach sophisticated color mixing. This restricted range ensures tonal harmony while teaching you to see temperature shifts.

Beginning a Portrait: We deconstruct the head into manageable geometric shapes. You will learn how to render a likeness with structural accuracy.

Working from Life: The core of our practice involves painting and drawing from life. This develops the coordination required to capture a likeness.