Please see the class schedule below.
The Academy provides the following art classes and private instruction in locations across Southwest Florida. See the student testimonials below for feedback from current and former students.
(Beginners)
Do you want to discover the creativity that is within you? In this beginner class, watercolor painting is a FUN way to tap into your creativity. You learn basic watercolor techniques such as strokes, washes, mixing colors, masking, and resists. Elements and principles of design are explored for creating effective paintings. You also learn to value and support your artistic self. Participants need to bring the following supplies: Watercolor paint in tubes (alizarin crimson, cadmium yellow and phalo/cobalt/ or ultramarine blue), watercolor brushes (1" flat & #10 round), 140 lb watercolor paper (one large 24"x 30" sheet or a few smaller sheets), container for water and white plastic palette. No art experience is required. See fees below at end of this page.
(Advanced Learners)
Do you want to take your creativity to a deeper level? You receive instruction on additional techniques such as creating skies, reflections, shadows, etc. and continue to enjoy applying your knowledge of watercolor techniques and design to create effective and meaningful paintings. While working on your individual painting within a group setting, you receive instructor assistance, as well as group feedback through instructor led class critiques. Beginner level knowledge and skills of watercolor painting and drawing are required. Bring your own supplies. See fees below at end of this page.
Would you like to make every day of your life count? In this class you are guided through creative exercises to develop your own unique journal. Learn about a creative journaling method that combines use of words and visual images made through guided visualization. This creative process helps us to appreciate our gifts and grow from our life experiences by tapping into inner wisdom and guidance. Each participant is provided: * A class workbook filled with hands on exercises, tools and resources for promoting health and well-being; *Instruction and opportunites to use a variety of creative exercises, including the 4 basic steps of visual journaling; *A positive, supportive environment with the opportunity for sharing and interacting with others. No art experience is required. Bring your own watercolor crayons and/or oil pastels OR purchase them from the instructor at class. See fees below at end of this page.
Artist Circles:
An Artist Circle is a group of people who support each other in being creative. An important aspect of growth for the artist is our development as a person. As artists we can come together for support, encouragement, and protection. An artist circle is one way to accomplish this. This group will meet at least once a month with the guidance of a creative coach. The coach leads the group so that each member has an opportunity to share their creative vision and personal creative goals, and receive feedback, ideas, and support from the group for overcoming obstacles and accomplishing goals. See fees below at end of this page.
Susan is also available for private instruction. Cost is $60/hr in your home and $50/hr at Susan's home studio.
For questions or to sign up for a private lessons OR to set up group lessons in your home community, please contact Susan.
Academy classes have been held at the following community locations in Southwest Florida:
If you would like to have classes scheduled in your community, please contact Susan.
Art Lesson Fees:
Private Art Lessons (at your home) =$60 / hour
Group Art Lessons (at your home)
2 people =$30 / hour per person
3 people =$20 / hour per person
4 people =$15 / hour per person
5 people =$12 / hour per person
6 people =$10 / hour per person
Artist Circles (meets once a month) =$10 / hour per person
Workshop and presentations available upon request.
"This class was wonderful! I commit myself to finding the great artist inside myself! Linda Schnieder,Naples, FL
"She brought out in me creative abilities I didn't know I had and for the first time ever, got my right brain working with my left. The course was thoroughly enjoyable, both an exciting and fascinating experience."
Hunter Leake, MD, Ft. Myers, FL
"This course helped me realize how much I needed to pursue my creative talents, something I haven't done for years due to stressful demands on me and my time."
Susan Long, Naples, FL
"This is a most worthy course with a gifted teacher. It needs to reach people. I am finding her handout materials to be very useful. She fired up my thinking, expanded my understanding."
James Ward, Naples, FL
You captured me from the first sentence of your program and you have found a permanent place in my heart. Thank you so much for putting me back in touch with my creativity and for making me understand how I can positively share my joy with others."
Ron Diorio, Naples, FL
"This course will give you many views that will be new and exciting. She shares many references...there is much interaction. You may find by opening this window a new outlook in your life."
Jane Lange, Naples, FL
Parkinson's Association
You're a most gentle and kind person, very nurturing. I enjoyed your class tremendously.
Paula Zambreno, Naples, FL
Vanderbilt Country Club
The class was excellent and I am singing your talents to all my art-inclined friends here at Lighthouse Bay. Your approach is so logical that it makes you think everything is achievable. Going from simple to complex or more variety is wonderful. As I mentioned before, your easy, calm, encouraging manner makes it a joy to be in your class.
Jean Ciroalo
Bonita Springs, FL