Description:

“Van Gogh said, “It’s looking at things for a long time that ripens you and gives a deeper understanding.” Studying Art and Design via keeping a journal helps you to really “see,” using your life as the vehicle for training your eye. Learning to draw on-location and keep a journal is key for future art careers. Topics include: gesture, contour, “mistakes,” positive/negative space, lettering, elements of design, maps, color and perspective; as well as examining famous artists’ work. We’ll cover still lifes to figure drawing (with live models), on-location and fast. Our medium: primarily pen and watercolor, some pastel too. I give lots of information in class and email detailed notes each week, along with a “challenge.” The best way to get better at drawing is to…draw. I draw daily–for more than “practice,” learning: what I haven’t drawn, I’ve never really seen. This class is 14 years in the making. I’m constantly tweaking as I learn how my students learn, so it’s the same but different. And because the journal makes it so personal, students get something new each year they join. I’ve had repeat students for 2-7 years! This year “Drawing and More” gets a name change to “Drawn to Attention.” As we see an increase in screen time, drawing counters passivity by helping to train “mindfulness.” (Moms welcome to draw too!)

Here’s what students and parents are saying about this class:

“These 3 years I’ve learned so much about art & myself in your class.”–Jay

“You made me confident in my drawing skills. I’m looking forward to next year!”–Katelyn

“Magic is spreading in our house. Thank you for encouraging Ela–now teaching her little brothers!”–Tim, dad

“I learned so many new things about watercolors. Because of this class I draw more.”–Diego

“I love the way we all have to embrace the mistakes & not make our journal too precious!”–Talia

“Thank you for teaching Dominic an amazing life skill!”–Heather, mom

“I’ll miss this class but I’ll never stop journaling!”–Viviana”