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I post tips about abstract painting, techniques, professional advice for artists, and travel tips for creative travel in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Welcome to the Blog
Santa Fe is deemed a UNESCO Creative City for good reason: we are home to a plethora of cultural goodies, such as the galleries on Canyon Road, Meow Wolf, SITE Santa Fe, The International Folk Art Market, and Indian Market, to name just a few. We also have hundreds of artists that offer classes in their area of expertise. Further, we JUST got rated in the top 10 Cities for Art Lovers in the WORLD (2022) by Travel+Leisure magazine! Yes, you heard right: we are right up there with Venice, Berlin, Austria and San Francisco. If you have done the search, “art classes near me,” and didn’t come up with much, then it might just be time to book your flight to Santa Fe to take that art class!
Many people feel trepidation with the idea of showing their artwork to others. However, participating in regular critiques is one of the best ways to improve as an artist. Finding a group of artists that are willing to share their work, give and receive feedback is a huge asset to your creative process. It is important to understand the purpose, benefits and ways to participate in a critique so that you get the most out of the experience. If you are ready to be bold and get feedback on your artwork through critiques, then read on!
Santa Fe is full of amazing accommodations. From world-class hotels to quaint, historic adobes, Santa Fe has lodging for every taste. Some people prefer to stay right downtown, while others love staying out in the county, known for beautiful high-desert views and a bit more peace and quiet. Here are some suggestions from a 20-year local Santa Fean
If you want to learn how to paint, you have come to the right place! I started out as an oil painter, but once I learned how to use acrylic, I made the switch and have never gone back! Don’t get me wrong: oil painting has its place, but for several reasons I have chosen to focus on acrylic. First, I will address the differences between oil and acrylic paint, and then I will discuss how to set up a work space, what tools you need, and how to start an acrylic painting. Consider this your How to Paint 101 crash course!
"I was looking for an experience beyond the typical tree painting class and Andrea’s class was perfect! I’ve taken many art classes and am a relatively experienced painter, but my mother was more nervous about being “let loose” to paint whatever she wanted to. During our class, Andrea handled both our desires wonderfully. Giving us mediums, techniques and suggestions whenever we needed them. We could have brought in reference photos, (or wine lol) but being surrounded by Andrea’s work was inspiration enough. We both walked away really feeling like we created something memorable and unique in just two hours.
"Different (BETTER) than just a ‘Wine & Paint’ class!
"Andrea is an accomplished artist, and her teaching style is appropriate for all levels of artists. Our granddaughter is very proud of her finished painting. We had a wonderful time, and we created some great family memories, along with some interesting paintings. We all agreed that we can’t wait to do it again. It was a great family activity."
"We created some great family memories, along with interesting paintings."
"My son and I had an amazing weekend in Santa Fe and the best ending to it was taking our abstract painting class with Andrea. From the minute we walked in, we were in a warm and welcoming environment. Its clear Andrea loves what she does and that she was born for teaching art. I had no experience and felt a little inhibited, but with her guidance and support it was an extremely positive experience and I certainly learned a lot."
"It is clear Andrea loves what she does and was born for teaching."
"Andrea Cermanski has all the skills of a good teacher. She's knowledgeable, patient, encouraging, and gives precise and helpful instruction to each individual student, allowing him or her to discover their hidden artistic talents."
"Good Teacher, Knowledgeable, Patient & Encouraging."
"I did a private class with Andrea and it was so wonderful!! Andrea is an amazing artist and she is also a great teacher!! Thorough, patient and just a fun person to be around! I really wanted a basic introduction to how to use the paints, mediums, brushes, palettes, etc. I got that and so much more!! She even helped me with the anxieties I was having around painting. I left feeling inspired, and way more confident! Ready to go home and explore. I look forward to another class after I have played some on my own. Highly recommend!"
"I left feeling inspired, and way more confident!"
