Michael John Angel Academy

David Bottoni · 06-02-2004, 05:30 PM

I am currently searching for a mentor, atelier or school where I can learn or rather improve my existing artistic skills to become a proficient and reputable artist. What I mean to gain is the knowledge found in techniques and processes to achieve realism in my representational art. Today I went on a tour at the Michael John Angel Academy, and I was very impressed. I have to say that their teachers and philosophy must be top notch because the artwork I viewed of various students at different levels was superb. What amazed me was that, in the end, all the students achieved an impressive level of high realism that was consistent with the objectives set forth by the school and expected by admirers of classical (realist) artwork. I won't go into detail about the school, since you can explore it further on their website http://www.angelartacademy.com.

I understand that patience is necessary, just as it is in all aspects of life, however, given that I can only allocate about 1 day a week for study (due to work and family commitments), I would not be able to learn any aspect of portrait painting for another 2 to 3 years by following their curriculum. Fine, I know I can still practice painting portraits on my spare time (which is decreasing rapidly), but at $172.00 a month (for one day a week instruction), I may find myself spending a lot of time and money learning the fundamentals of drawing with pencils and charcoal for two years and not gaining a great deal of painting knowledge. I understand that one must learn to draw proficiently and precisely before they can paint properly, however, I am not exactly a beginner either. At this point, I am leaning towards the 'go for it' decision, but still need opinions and suggestions from others...especially my wife

.

Thanks everyone.

David Bottoni

Allan Rahbek · 06-02-2004, 06:06 PM

David.

I think that a week long workshop, with concentrated study, will take you further and faster than this one day a week plan. You will get the basic knowledge so you can practice on your own at home.

Just a thought, Allan

Josef Sy · 06-03-2004, 08:31 AM

Hi David,

I agree with Allan. Where you are now, it is better to learn by yourself or read things about techniques and trying them out. Patience, perseverance, and follow through are keys.

As for draftsmanship, continue practicing and copying from masters and from life. You will never go wrong.

I have taken a weekend painting workshop and I find there is not enough time to finish and I was better off doing it on my own time at home. Time is always against us.

Michele Rushworth · 06-03-2004, 10:02 AM

Hi David,

Glad to see you checked out the Angel Academy. If that doesn't work for scheduling reasons, studying on your own can still be useful. Copying masterworks in museums is a good suggestion, as Joseph mentioned. Does the Art Gallery of Ontario have anything worth copying?

I would also recommend the books you can get through this site. Click on the image of the lady you can see over at the right of the screen (the cover of the Sargent book) to go to the list of books recommended by SOG. Tony Ryder's drawing book is where I would start.

Good luck!

David Bottoni · 06-03-2004, 10:11 AM

Hi Allan and Josef. My thoughts were in line with your comments. I really believe that Mr. Angel's school has an excellent curriculum and the proper approach to realism. That being said, I, like most people, will have a hard time devoting time and money for two years worth of drawing classes. I also understand the importance of these drawing instructions however would rather do them at home, whenever I get the chance. The issues at hand are 1. getting that instruction in written format in order to study it and 2. to get face to face feedback from a professional. The feedback from this site is excellent, but the electronic form of communication will always be lacking. The two week workshops available there (two per year) are one drawing workshop and one teaching 'flemish style' painting - each one costing approx. $1800.00. I believe that this school is worth every penny, but I currently don't have that many pennies.

.

David

Josef Sy · 06-03-2004, 10:20 AM

David, There is an amazing head study by Bouguereau at the AGO! I always go see it when I was leaving in T.O. many years ago. There are a couple of Anthony Van Dycks too.

David Bottoni · 06-03-2004, 10:36 AM

I just purchased Harold Speed's books the Practice and Science of Drawing and Oil Painting Techniques, and hope they will offer instruction similar in nature to that of Mr. Angel or the classical teachings of European masters. As I learn through instruction and practice, I am also researching the materials required for this training. I feel that I can pull off a decent painting now, but, through proper training, I know I can improve my painting considerably.

Thanks for your comments, they are definitely helpful.

David Bottoni.

Tito Champena · 07-18-2004, 11:02 AM

To me, painting is a skill that enable you to execute what is in your mind. Mastering a skill is different than obtaining intellectual knowledge. To develop a skill one has to practice more and read less.
The length and the amount of practice will vary from individual to individual and I'm afraid that there are no shortcuts for acquiring a skill.