Learn to Paint the Classical Way
Ongoing portrait and drawing classes taught by Heather Collins, atelier trained painter and longtime host of the television series Portraits in Pastels, for students of all ages and levels.
Taught by Heather Collins
Heather trained in the classical atelier tradition, and brings the same drawing and values methods into the classroom. She was the host of Portraits in Pastels, a television program on portrait painting that ran for several years, and has taught portrait and drawing classes to students of all ages ever since. Whether a student is picking up a pencil for the first time or refining years of practice, classes are built around the same fundamentals Heather uses in her own studio work: comparative drawing, the range of values, and mixing color palettes with just the right chroma and hue.
Beyond the Easel
Heather was the host of Portraits in Pastels, a television program on portrait painting that ran for several years, taking viewers through the classically grounded methods she uses in her own studio work.
Heather teaches ongoing drawing and portrait classes for students of all ages, from young artists just starting out, to adults refining their techniques. The classes are found on the same atelier fundamentals as her studio work.
A young portrait class in session
Another youth class with finished drawings
Classes for Every Age
Youth Classes
For young artists learning to see and draw! Proportion, shading, and simple still life and portrait studies are taught with patience and encouragement. The students are taught skill based art education with atelier training techniques combined with art projects that encompass each concept.
Adult Classes
For beginners and experienced painters alike. Comparative drawing, grisaille underpainting, and color theory with still life, cast, and portrait painting from life, all in the traditional classical method.
From First Marks to Finished Piece
Observation and practical study of line, shape, volume and proportion.
Seeing light and shadow and rendering halftones in gradation on form.
Exploring techniques and theory with limited or full color palettes, prepared or open palettes, and direct or indirect methods.
Individual feedback in each session so that students can progress at their own pace.
Class Format
Classes are held in small groups on Merritt Island, Florida, with students coming from Cocoa Beach, Cape Canaveral, and across the Space Coast, with sessions for both youth and adults offered throughout the year. Materials lists are provided ahead of time, and no experience is required to start. Contact the studio for current schedules, availability, and pricing.