Author Archives: penfrea

Axiom #2: Be An Original. Go From Good to Great!

Be An Original! We have heard that one many times, and I just wanted to explore this axiom in this short video. We can make something technically good by making something similar to someone else’s idea. It might even sell well. But if we want to be the best version of ourselves and create theContinue reading “Axiom #2: Be An Original. Go From Good to Great!”

Axiom #1: The End Product Will Never Be Greater Than the Idea Behind the Artwork.

I’m at the point in life where I love to pass on to others things that I have learned along the way. As I teach and as I ponder great thoughts while painting I come back to some principles, some axioms, over and over again. I thought it would be good to get these writtenContinue reading “Axiom #1: The End Product Will Never Be Greater Than the Idea Behind the Artwork.”

Learning From Nature

“Like music and art, love of nature is a common language that can transcend political or social boundaries.” – Jimmy Carter This Art Instruction Video called “Learning from Nature” is meant to encourage artists and aspiring artists in their creative development through studying the visual world. Although this is the primary intended audience, there mightContinue reading “Learning From Nature”

Mural for an Elementary School

  I had the great opportunity to meet with the first graders at South School and ask them what they thought was important for their fellow students to remember.  Their answers all revolved around the theme “Be Kind.”  Each of the children placed their hand print on the lower section which became a field ofContinue reading “Mural for an Elementary School”

Drawing More Realistically

A new session of drawing is opening September 11th for teens.  Students will study, draw and discuss techniques to increase observation, draw proportionately, increase value judgement in shading, and become aware of 3D effects.  Drawing is a foundational skill for any kind of art, and drawing can be an art form in it’s own right. Continue reading “Drawing More Realistically”

Teenage Art

They filed in the studio on a blustery and rainy afternoon coming from a small town in Redwood Country, Northern California.  Some knew each other previously and the chatter among them was upbeat, energizing and fun.  They gathered around the “Idea Table” searching for reference material for what they might like to draw.  Moving toContinue reading “Teenage Art”