Start painting now!
Have you been wanting to learn to paint for years but haven't found the right environment, the right teacher, the right price? Are you afraid that everyone will be more advanced than you? Or maybe you've been wanting to pick up your old brushes and begin again? This class may be just for you.

Current Class Availability
I am currently on summer vacation. Classes will resume later this year. Please inquire if interested.


Frequently Asked Questions:

Where are the classes held?
They are held at Mary Medrano Gallery in historic downtown Campbell. It is a studio and gallery combination.


I have never painted before. How do I begin?
Most students begin with the same three lessons.

1) A white bottle
2) A reflective surface
3) A glass vase

After these first three lessons I have dozens of other exercises in my repetoire. There is also a great deal of flexibility. For example, one student immediately wanted to paint faces. Another student wanted to paint flowers. Some refuse to paint certain objects, like my gnarly boots! hmm...

Each week's lesson is slightly more challenging so that you see progress in your painting skills.


Do you use oils or acrylics?
In the painting lessons we use acrylics and water, needing only soap and water cleanup. There are no solvents in the studio.


Do you give assignments or do students work on their own projects?
I give assignments as long as the students want them. I am always prepared with an assignment, however, students sometimes come in with ideas of their own that they want to work on. Either way is fine with me.


What materials do you provide (if any)?
I provide a 3' x 3' table for each student, a protective covering for the table, a water bucket and water.


How far is your studio from parking?
It is very close. There are free parking lots next to and behind the studio. There is also free parking on Campbell Avenue.


What about the schlepp factor?
Most students can carry all of their supplies to the studio in one trip. After the lesson,with a wet painting in tow often takes two trips.


How many students in a class?
Six students maximum per class. I call the lessons semi-private because I can help each person individually as needed during every class.


What is the structure of the class?
We usually begin with students sharing what they worked on or finished from the previous week's class. This is not mandatory but usually very fun and rewarding for all.

If the student didn't have time to work on their painting between classes (not mandatory), they will often times continue to work on that same painting the following week. They also have the option to begin a new lesson.

After show and tell, we begin with the day's lesson, show examples, and then begin painting.


What payment methods do you accept?
Cash, check or credit card.


Do I need to sign up for a certain number of lessons?
Yes. Classes are offered in blocks of 4 weeks for $160. Please inquire about the schedule.


Can I come see a class in action before I begin?
Yes.


More questions?
Please send me an email, or call (408) 250-2732.


Supply List

I recommend University Art for supplies. Aaron Brothers is also a good choice. Michaels will have some of these items but probably not all items.

I wouldn't be particular about brands of paint at this point because as you experiment you will discover what you like or dislike. I would recommend getting tubes of paint over jars for ease of use and smaller quantity of paint.

We will mix the paint with water, as necessary so no need for any type of mediums or gels at this point.

Acrylic paint colors:
Cadmium Yellow medium
Lemon (or hansa) yellow
Cadmium Red light or medium
Alizarin Crimson
Cerulean Blue
Cobalt or Ultramarine Blue
Titanium White
Carbon black

Any other colors that you fall in love with at the store!

Palette:
Disposable paper palette.

Brushes:
Synthetic (for acrylic paints). No need to buy expensive brushes. University Art has their own brand that I like and are very affordable.
Flat size #s 2, 6, 12 or 1/4", 1/2" and 1" plus any others you see that you really like.

Canvas Panels:
8" x 10", or 9" x 12", or 11" x 14". Your choice of size. Bring two of any size to each class.


Palette Knife:
Any style that you like for mixing paints. The design of knife that can rest completely flat against the palette (while you are holding it) are easiest to use.

Old towels, rags, t-shirts:
These are used for cleaning your brushes while painting. Bring one to every class.


Easel:
University Art sells an aluminum fold-up style table-top easel that is perfect for bringing to class. Ask if you don't see it.


More questions?
Please send me an email, or call (408) 250-2732.

Lisa

Barbara

Linda


Heather


Paige


Lisa

"... It made me so happy when I finally clicked with your telling me to paint what I see.  I propped the pot up in my room today, and saw it with fresh eyes.  I love it! I can't wait to try glass... 

Your art and your teaching style are both wonderful, and I'm really enjoying my time with you."
-Paige