Our Philosophy
At ArtWorks we recognize that each student is unique. In our relaxing, non-competitive environment, students feel encouraged, supported and inspired. Through individualized instruction and a customized program, we nurture and guide each student to their highest artistic potential. Our students inevitably succeed and emerge with confidence and pride.
Since 1994, we have had the great pleasure and privilege of offering our program to thousands of students throughout San Francisco and the surrounding Bay Area. We are entirely dedicated to helping all students tap into their artistic capabilities and to realize their artistic goals. We care deeply about our students and their experience in our program and treasure the opportunity to be mentors to aspiring artists of all ages.
Our Approach
The ArtWorks program focuses on fundamental drawing and rendering skills. We teach the visual arts by developing the student’s ability to see relationships. Each student is guided through a program that is entirely customized to them, from teacher guided projects geared to support the student’s individual skill level and interests. The goal of each project is to facilitate the student’s growth with their drawing skills and increased knowledge of the medium they are working in.
For each project, our teachers determine the level of challenge, while the student selects references that appeal to them most. As the student progresses, we continually adapt our instruction to meet each where they are. We design all projects to introduce new skills as the student is ready, and to further enrich their understanding.
Since our classes are not group lessons, each student is able to progress at their own pace. Students are instructed individually moving on from simpler linear references to more complex three-dimensional curriculum as their skills develop. Over time students will explore a broad range of traditional mediums and subject matter.
“I appreciate my relationships I have built with my many teachers who have been encouraging, helpful, supportive, and knew just how to push me.” ~Jordan, student
“My favorite part about attending ArtWorks is that it provides me a little escape from the hustle in my everyday life and gives me the chance to sit down and find my center while I paint whatever my heart desires. I love the time I have spent here at ArtWorks and learning from many professional teachers and creating memorable relationships.” ~Clarissa, student
"I like coming to ArtWorks because its really fun, the teachers are great, and you learn a lot of cool new things." ~Katie, student
"I love the whole ArtWorks experience, coming into somewhere that’s like a home, working with great teachers, and creating something that is entirely my own." ~Kirstyn, student
“I have always felt so comfortable when I am here. It is one of my favorite places to go to, where I am welcomed and supported by the friendly teachers and fellow students, and where I can do what I love to do: paint." ~Allison, student
"If we find a high quality program we feel very lucky and we stick with it. We have found it here at ArtWorks." ~Jana and Gregg, parents