WHAT WE TEACH
drawing, painting + creativity:
As our student you can totally be in control of what you want to learn---we've got you! From markers to oil paint, we provide instruction in all subjects and in all common drawing and painting materials.
We teach classical realism along with creativity. Our students learn patience, gain self-esteem and develop faith in themselves with every project. Through creative problem solving, they learn to trust in their unique ideas.
Young students get to explore, develop neatness and learn how good it feels to make amazing art. Teen students get to express themselves, build portfolios and learn to master art techniques. Adults get time to relax, make friends and become masterful in any medium.
yes you can!
No matter your experience level, you will feel comfortable and supported in our small classes. Each student will be working on their own project, so you'll never have to worry about how you might compare.
We are art coaches, personal trainers and support staff. The more time we have together with a student, the more we know what they'll need. Everything we do is for you and if you get stuck on something, we promise we'll get you through it.
how classes work:
During our regular classes, you'll pick a unique project and your teacher will tailor instruction just for you. We work with students closely, guiding them every step of the way. You will learn how to draw more accurately, explore techniques for various media, and you'll gain a greater understanding of color theory. Our goal is to make sure your creative journey is enjoyable and that your art is a success. All materials are provided.
You can even join in via Zoom to learn drawing and dry media with materials you have at home.
For those that are more interested in enjoying the process, our Art for Relaxation classes offer optional projects to follow as a group. All materials except for acrylic and oil painting supplies will be provided. You are welcome to bring in your own, of course. This class offers light instruction and is a perfect class for beginners as well as independent students that just need more studio time.
Your first class is always free to try! Class is once a week at your scheduled time. Each session is 1.5 hours long.
our vision:
We hope to share the joy of art with as many people as possible. We are committed to providing high-end experiences to students of all levels and backgrounds.
founder:
Valerie Lewis started Art Academics to provide small classes with lots of one-on-one attention - for everyone. With over 20 years of teaching under her belt, she found herself frustrated by the gap between the level of care her private students received versus what she was able to provide teaching larger groups at other art schools. There had to be a better way -- and Art Academics was born.
Valerie's passion for teaching is rivaled only by her own creative work. In 2014 she was named Best Visual Artist by the OC Weekly and later was profiled in Orange Coast Magazine. She received her BFA in Painting at CSUF but is a constant learner. Valerie was a recipient of the Florence Millner Arnold Grant and the Joanne Blankenship Memorial Art Award.