“I like how supportive the teachers are. They understand my interests and artistic level so I can focus on painting things I want to paint.”
-Jocelyn
“Allison and her painting, as well as her self-confidence, have blossomed during her 8 years with Artworks."
-Kim, parent
“We have nothing but the highest regard and fondest memories of David's near decade with ArtWorks. Not only did he learn the fundamentals and fine points of creating art, but learned to appreciate the hard work and genius of masters such as Monet.”
-Shirley and Dan
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Foundations Program
Level 1
In our Foundations Program students learn fundamental skills of both drawing and painting. Each student is guided through a program that is entirely customized to him or her. Students choose images that interest them the most, from projects geared to their individual skill level. Over time, the range of subject matter is very broad, and includes landscape, animals, and still life. All students progress at their own pace, moving on to more complex projects as their skills develop.
Students begin in Drawing to learn the basics of shading and representing form realistically. They explore these concepts in greater depth as their understanding improves, and learn new rendering techniques as image choice becomes more sophisticated. How far a student progresses through the curriculum, is dependent on his or her skill level and age. Over the course of the entire program, students will have an opportunity to work in graphite, pastel, charcoal, conte crayon and other traditional drawing media.
 Once students become proficient with the skills in drawing for their age and skill level, they move on to painting. Courses in Watercolor, Acrylic and Oil paint come next. With each new painting medium students receive intensive instruction, including color mixing and painting techniques, and the proper use and care of materials. All painting projects are also designed to present new drawing challenges. Throughout the painting courses, we offer the widest range of technical experience while considering each student’s abilities and supporting his or her interests.
Level 2
Students who begin our program at a younger age, will explore more advanced subject matter in each medium as their teachers feel they are ready. This offers them the opportunity to learn from more sophisticated material, and further improve their skills. The timeframe for Level 2 course work will vary from student to student.
Advanced Study
After having completed their Foundations course work in each medium, students are technically proficient, competent in color mixing and able to draw and paint realistically. At this point the program is further customized. Given the significant development of their abilities, most students will benefit from more advanced course work in the media they’ve previously explored. Some may be interested in subjects such as portraiture or figure drawing. Others may find the study of a work of a particular artist appealing. Students with high technical proficiency may choose to explore new media. Projects at this level are quite varied. Each is designed to offer new challenges and to further the individual student’s artistic development.
PREPARING A PORTFOLIO?
If you need to develop a professional portfolio, we can help. Our teachers will work with students to assess individual portfolio requirements, and offer projects customized to meet those requirements. We have extensive experience working with students on portfolios for high school applications, particularly for School of the Arts; and are equally able to provide support for college level work. We also offer a specialized Portfolio Preparation Workshop in the summer that is designed to offer the student more concentrated time for portfolio preparation. Give us a call to discuss your needs. And, consider enrolling in a class for help with your portfolio. You’ll be amazed by what you can accomplish!
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