Classes and Private Instruction

She has developed and easy logical approach based on the classical oil painting "alla prima" techniques of the impressionists. Her approach can be used in both out door (plein air) or studio painting. She believes that given the right tools and instruction a beginner can then go off on their own and practice.

Classes are taught in her beautiful, light filled, ocean view studio in the Cypress Village in Gualala California. Intensive 2-day weekend classes are on a Friday and Saturday for the total beginner to the more advanced painter. Classes are limited in number of students and all materials and supplies are provided for use during the class to save the student from initial expense. The class is structured but casual and with handouts of information covered in lectures. She gives demonstrations and provides one on one help to practice the simple step based class format.

" Take a long weekend and visit the Sonoma/Mendocino Coast. Learn to paint during the day and watch the sunset in the evening. ."

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  Create Your Own Private Class!

  If you and at least 1-2 other people would like to arrange your own class in either watercolor or oil it can be arranged. Call and let me know when you will be available (3 date choices are best) and I will book the time. See class listings for class descriptions or I can tailor the class to your specific needs.
  

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  Beginning Oil Painting Technique

  This is a structured intensive 2-day class in traditional oil painting techniques. Students will learn a loose, wet on wet painting technique. Aimed at the total beginner or "impatient" oil painter looking for a step-by-step logical approach. Student will be able to leave with basic understanding of oil painting and skills to begin to develop further skills on their own. Individual instruction provided. The class runs from 10am to 4:30 pm with a 1-hour break for lunch.

  Day One: Topics covered: brushes, paints and solvents explained, preparing your surface, mixing color, brushstrokes. Instructor demonstrations and hands on practice.

  Day Two: Topics covered: The 5 steps to building a painting. A still life will be taken from start to finish.

  Instructor demonstrations and hands on practice. Notes and handouts are provided.
  Class size limited to 3 (2 minimum).
  $300. Per student. All supplies provided.
  
  
  

  "Sarah's class was among the best I have ever had. On top of being supportive and inspiring, she is very well prepared and organized. We learned and accomplished so much in the two day workshop. And it was great fun.

  As total beginner in oil painting, having all the materials available in class made it easy to give it a try. The class size is small and tailored to the individual. Her workshop is a great space for the small classes.

  Sarah is simply a very good teacher, and her extensive art education is apparent in her class. She is able to explain verbally, as well as demonstrate, and critique. In addition she is a generous person, glad to share the little things that make all the difference. It is clear that she really loves to paint, so working with her is always relaxed and fun."

  Teresa Youtz
  The Sea Ranch, California

  
  

  "Great class! Individual attention with clear instruction and helpful demonstrations. Her enthusiasm for art/oils is contagious. I would highly recommend Sarah's class for beginners thru advanced."

  Anne Lincoln
  Davis, California

  
  

  "Sarah is a wonderful instructor with an enthusiastic and organized approach. I found her Introduction to Oils Class to be just what I needed to begin painting in a new and exciting way! I have signed up for the Intermediate Class."

  Craven Alcott

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  Oil Painting Help Workshop

  This is an unstructured session for painters of all levels who would like help with a particular painting or would like instruction with any part of the oil painting process. I am available for one on one help or demonstrations for up to 2-hour work sessions. Student should call to schedule. (Recommended for anyone whom has either taken my beginning class or some other beginning oil class on up to advanced painters)

  $50. Per hour. You can share the session with one other student if you like.
  Bring your own supplies. Please bring usable brushes.
  

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  Beginning Watercolor Technique

  This is a structured watercolor technique class for beginning students or students who are looking to review the basics in watercolor technique. Taught from a commercial illustrators perspective for both loose and realistic approaches.

  Individual instruction provided. Class limited to no more than 6 (2 minimum).

  Friday and Saturday 10am to 4:30pm with a one hour break for lunch
  All supplies provided.
  $275. Per Student

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  Visiting Instructors The studio also welcomes periodic visiting instructors in mediums other than painting. Classes in Polymer Clay and Book Arts are some of the favorites.