Our Process

Every student, 12 & up, begins with the same process at De Vita Academy of Art.

The evidence of our success is seen in the outcomes of our students' work.

1: BARGUE DRAWING

The student's journey begins with the development of a value scale and form drawing. The student develops an understanding of the language of drawing and the nuances of value to develop form. We will go over materials and techniques.

After that short exercise, the student develops a Bargue drawing, a 19th Century drawing exercise, that assists the student in their understanding of measuring and enveloping the subject for drawing.

2. OBSERVATIONAL CAST DRAWING

The student takes what was learned in the Bargue Drawing and applies it to a three-dimensional monochromatic cast drawing in graphite. Here the student learns the analytical approach of sight measuring, plumb lines, and clock angles.

3: CHARCOAL STILL-LIFE

In this project, the student develops a complex drawing in charcoal and white pastel on toned paper, using multiple objects, which implies an compelling narrative. The student develops a harmonious composition concentrating on the effects of light as it interacts between objects and the mood that resonates from these interactions.

4. LANDSCAPE OIL PAINTING

The first painting the student creates is a small Impressionist painting. In this way, the student can concentrate on the rudiments of oil painting, including mediums, canvases, paints & pigments, brushes , and color theory.

The painting can be taken from a reference by the student or as an homage to a Impressionist Master.

5. ANIMAL PORTRAIT IN OIL

The second painting the student creates will be a portrait of an animal of their choosing. It may be a pet, spirit animal, or an animal in the wild. It is essential that the student develops a painting that exudes a spirit of a living creature while exploring textures, such as fur, scales, skin, etc.