The urban classical art initiative is an outreach to inner city student artists who would not otherwise have an opportunity to study drawing and painting from the classical academic method of the old master’s. Our training is a highly skill based. We use a progressive sequence approach where each assignment equips the student with the appropriate knowledge, practice and skill to successfully take on the next more difficult assignment.

We explain each assignment with its objectives thoroughly, demonstrate it and allow the students enough time to successfully execute and create a highly refined work. We begin with drawing fundamentals to make sure each student is on the same page with our philosophy and approach regardless of the students experience or level. We then move through the remaining necessary drawing courses which include Bargue drawing, geoform and cast drawing, master copies, portrait and figure drawing. Once drawing assignments are completed to the instructors satisfaction, we move students on to painting, first in black and white, then limited color and finally full color.

After completing all of the assignments, each students will have gained the knowledge, skill and experience to create any type of drawing or painting desired. We are accepting 4 to 10 students, ages 14 - 19 and adults. For more information, please send an email to info@cooleystudios.com.