Fine Art Classes
Ongoing classes in figurative and still life painting, taught in the realist tradition.
Still Life with Darren Kingsley
September 8th - December 15th
Tuesdays 10am-4:30pm (14 weeks)
$900
The Still Life Painting Class is designed for students interested in developing their observational painting skills through a focused study of color, form, composition, light, and materiality. Working primarily from carefully arranged still life setups illuminated by natural light, students will learn to create life-sized, representational paintings that capture the subtle relationships of value, color temperature, edge, and atmosphere.
Through sustained observation, students will strengthen their ability to simplify complex visual information, accurately measure proportion, and translate three-dimensional form into convincing two-dimensional paintings. Emphasis is placed on developing a disciplined working process in composition and drawing to block-in, color mixing, paint application, and refinement while cultivating a deeper understanding of how light describes form and creates visual harmony.
Open to artists of all experience levels, Darren provides individualized instruction tailored to each student's goals and abilities. Through demonstrations, one-on-one critiques, and discussions of both technical and artistic decision-making, students receive guidance at every stage of the painting process. Whether building a strong foundation or refining an established practice, participants will gain the skills and confidence to approach still life painting with greater clarity, sensitivity, and control.
It has been said that a sustained still life practice opens up the secrets to an artists finishing methods, this class is a perfect compliment to our figure painting classes.
Figure Painting - Darren Kingsley and Stephen Early
September 10th - December 17th
Mondays and Thursdays 9am-4:30pm (14 weeks)
1 class/week: $1,250 | 2 classes/week: $2,500
Instructed drop-in: $100/day
Develop your figure painting skills in ReAL's atelier environment through sustained work from the live model. Designed for artists seeking a deeper understanding of the human figure, this course emphasizes observation, structure, and a thoughtful, process-driven approach to representational oil painting.
Working from extended poses over multiple sessions allows students to move beyond quick studies and develop fully realized paintings while gaining a deeper understanding of form, anatomy, light, color, and composition. Students will learn how to accurately construct the figure, organize values, mix harmonious color, and create the illusion of three-dimensional form through careful observation.
Throughout the course, instructors Darren Kingsley and Stephen Early will provide live demonstrations covering every stage of the painting process. Individual critiques ensure each student receives personalized guidance tailored to their current level and artistic goals.
Topics include:
Accurate figure drawing and proportion
Gesture, structure, and anatomical construction
Understanding light, shadow, and form
Value organization and color mixing
Edge quality and paint application
Developing convincing flesh tones
Compositional decision-making
Refining and resolving a finished painting
Whether you are building a strong foundation or refining an established practice, this class offers a disciplined and supportive environment rooted in the traditions of classical realism. Students of all experience levels are welcome, with instruction tailored to meet each individual's needs.
Figure and Portrait Painting Open Studio
Saturdays 9am - 4pm
Sundays 9am - 4pm
$25
Step into a focused, inspiring, and judgment-free environment on Sundays with our full-day Open Studio session, featuring a 6-hour pose with a live model. Most times these poses are 2 days extended poses. 12 hours in total where you can really stretch out to study the figure and create.
This immersive experience allows you to paint or draw directly from life, honing your skills in portraying the human figure. Bring your own materials, and we’ll provide easels and tables, ensuring you have everything you need to focus on your art. Work alongside the dedicated artists of the Realist Art League, sharing in the camaraderie and passion for realism that defines our studio.
