Private lessons offer students individualized instruction and dedicated time to build artistic skills while developing habits and behaviours that serve them far beyond the studio—
observation, creative problem-solving, persistence, independent thinking, & most of all—creativity as a source of joy.
Private Art Lessons
Private Art Lessons are a great fit for any artist who…
Develop stronger foundations in drawing, painting, color, composition, observation, or other areas.
Has a particular interest—Portraiture, animals, illustration, painting, mixed media, or any area they want to explore more deeply.
Needs a more individualized pace
Would like freedom to move slowly through challenging concepts, or move ahead when something clicks.
Has so many ideas but needs help with execution and/or access to space and supplies.
Is stuck on an independent project or creative idea and would like support taking it further.
We do not follow a “cookie cutter” approach at Heartwork Studios.
The goal is to meet each artist exactly where they are, so no two lessons are the same. That said, here is a list of what typical lessons could entail depending on the interests of the learner.
Drawing
Observation and proportion
Shape and form
Value and shading
Perspective
Portrait drawing
Painting
Color mixing
Brushwork
Composition
Working from observation
Developing a painting from idea to finished work
Creative Development
Sketchbook practice
Developing original ideas
Exploring materials
Creative problem-solving
Finding a personal artistic voice
Understanding how artists get ideas.
Skills that carry beyond the studio
Learning to make art teaches us much more than how to draw or paint.
When students practice observing closely, working through frustration, making decisions, solving visual problems, and trying something that doesn't quite work yet, they're developing skills they can carry with them far beyond the studio.
Collage/Sculpture/Mixed Media
Understanding the traits of different materials and how they work together.
Exploring shape, form, and structure
Experiencing different kinds of art-making, both 2-Dimensional and 3-dimensional
Independent Projects
Guidance with self-directed projects
Practicing communication, openness to feedback, and collaborative problem-solving
Developing a body of work.
Observation teaches us to notice details and look at the world with greater attention.
Problem-solving teaches us to approach challenges from different angles and keep working when the first solution doesn't work.
Creative thinking gives students practice generating possibilities rather than assuming there is only one right answer.
Patience and persistence grow naturally as students work through the messy middle of a drawing, painting, or project.
Confidence develops when students learn to not only trust their own authentic ideas, but are then allowed to see them through independently.
Art gives young people a place to practice being curious —to ask questions, experiment, make mistakes, and discover what happens next.
And most importantly, Joy in the creative process. Children don’t need to be taught how to enjoy the process of making art. What they DO need is the space and time to freely explore art-making in an age appropriate, authentic way without judgement or over-managing. The more of these opportunities they’re given, the more likely they are to carry the joy of creativity all through childhood, into adulthood.
Pricing
$35/hour
For ages 7 and up
Lessons typically meet bi-weekly, but weekly is an option too.
“Laura is an absolutely phenomenal artist and teacher to my elementary child. She caters to the interests of her student and offers a variety of materials and ideas so that no two classes are exactly alike. Laura is also very flexible with finding a time that fits our schedule. We are so grateful to have found her and recommend her, and Heartwork Studios, to everyone we know looking to explore their creative side.” - Stefani J.
parent testimonial
“I was just a beginner and once I had a few sessions painting at Heartwork Studios and taking a few lessons, the improvement in my understanding of painting with acrylics was mind blowing. The results were really amazing.” - Judy G.
artist testimonial
Meet the Instructor
Laura Pahlas is a fourth generation artist. She holds fine arts degrees in both painting and art education as well as a Wisconsin teaching license. Through her work as a studio artist and her 10+ years as an educator, Laura has developed a warm and gentle teaching style that celebrates process over product and allows the learner’s authentic voice and creativity to shine.
Start the process
Fill out the interest form at the link below, and we’ll get back to you within 48 hours talk about scheduling your first lesson!