A while back, I was leading an oil portrait workshop–in a locale which shall remain nameless–when a very well-known realist artist and teacher–who I will refer to as what’s-his-name–came to have lunch with me on the last day. He looked at the students’ work and remarked, “I have been to many workshops, including my own, and I’ve never seen this kind of progress, ever!” I was flabbergasted that he would make such an admission, so I asked him, “Can I quote you on that?” To which he replied, “ABSOLUTELY NOT!” So you can take what’s-his-name’s word for it, or you can read what some of my previous students have shared.
The most important thing–if you want to be a painter–is to learn to think like a painter. That is the central core of my teaching. It’s important to realize that where you’re at now is a direct result of the sum total of your knowledge and experience. However, these very same things are keeping you from moving forward. Wayne Dyer said, “When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”
In my workshops I cover a myriad of technical issues, but ultimately, it’s all about transforming your mindset. (Fade out fiendish laugh!) Above you can see a portrait class in my teaching studio at SVA. The curtain keeps the ambient room light off the model.
Marvin Mattelson is now conducting his classes and workshops online in Full HD 1080p through his Fine Art Portrait Academy. For further information, or to register for an upcoming offering, please follow this link to his teaching page.
Until next time…
Mary Ellis LaGarde says
June 4, 2012
Hello Marvin,
Just a note to let you know that I love your blog so keep it coming. I am sure you wouldn’t recall, but we met years ago in Santa Fe while I was visiting Tatiana Andreeva and taking a class at our atelier. I will be reading your blogs regularly and preparing for one of your upcoming portrait workshops soon. Mary LaGarde
Marvin Mattelson says
June 4, 2012
Hi Mary,
Thanks for reconnecting and your encouraging words about my blog. It’s still in its infancy but I’m really enjoying the writing. I look forward to reconnecting in the not too distant future.
Tod Mason says
June 4, 2012
Take his workshop people…its kick ass!….meaning, it will kick your ass…in a good way.
Marvin Mattelson says
June 4, 2012
C’mon Tod, who’s gonna believe that this is on the up and up?
Brandon Perlow says
June 6, 2012
So was this other oil painter the “Dark Lord” who likes pietas I speak of?
Marvin Mattelson says
June 6, 2012
Obviously I’m not telling.