Art Lessons in Whangarei

Adult art classes on Thursdays.

No natural talent required. Richard and Diana Moore don't subscribe to that common art enthusiast's excuse: “I'd love to paint and draw, but I just don't have the talent.” To them, artistic expression is a skill that can be learned. Their motto of 'no talent required' has been a draw card for many students who lack confidence and faith in their own abilities.

They both believe anyone can master the basics of good drawing – all it takes is a step by step explanation of the fundamentals, taught in a clear and measured way.

The Moores, who have taught over 2000 adults and children, say they haven't had a single student who hasn't improved 100%. They point out that many art classes today can be intimidating - students are expected to draw or paint straight on to canvas or paper, using only their imagination, without any references or understanding of the basics of form and composition.

The secret of Richard and Diana's approach is starting with reality as a reference point. Their philosophy is a simple one – they believe that once a student can master realism, they can master any style. They encourage the use of photographs, where the three dimensional world has already been reduced to two dimensions and captured within the boundaries of the photographic frame.

Absolutely no grids or tracing. Just sketching by eye with the right questions in the background.

This is a technique commonly used by experienced artists and simplifies the process of translating what we see into the language of composition, perspective, line and form. Drawing from reality also builds the pathways from the left side of the brain to the right or ‘artistic’ side of the brain.

The Moore's teaching strategy is one of guiding and confidence building, of stretching and challenging when each individual student is ready. This interpersonal approach is critical to the success of the course, so they keep their classes small. This way, they are able to focus on each student's specific needs and challenges, helping them to make measurable improvements in each lesson.

As a husband and wife team, the Moores offer complementary approaches to art teaching. Richard, who was born with a natural talent, brings more than 30 years professional art experience to share with the students and Diana, who has learned to draw from scratch, brings empathy to those just starting out.

The Moores say one of the great pleasures they get from teaching art is the number of students who come away from their first lessons surprised at what they have achieved, as well as excited about the future possibilities of their freshly discovered abilities. They say the joy students feel after completing a picture is incredible. It's fantastic for self esteem, the skills stay with them and it's something they can do anywhere and any time.

Limited spaces - bookings essential.

Event listed by Diana Moore

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