Classes and Workshops
Click to see photos of our new studioLearn traditional realism techniques for oil painting and drawing from classically trained instructor Sadie Valeri.
Sadie creates an open and friendly environment for serious, focused study of classical realist technique.
All levels welcome! Traditional methods are an excellent foundation for beginners, and experienced artists will significantly advance their understanding of proportion, structure, and light with these time-tested techniques.
Classes are small and each student receives individual instruction tailored to their needs. Classes are for adults, with exceptions made for mature youth who are interested in pursuing a professional art career.
Weekly Classes
Oil Painting and Drawing classes meet once a week at Sadie’s San Francisco studio, usually for 6 weeks. Classes are for both the beginner who wants a manageable introduction, and for the experienced artist who wants to refine their realist skills. Classes are offered in rotation throughout the year.
Drawing Fundamentals | Figure Drawing | Oil Painting
Workshops
Workshops are intensive full-time study for a short period of 1 to 10 days. Workshops are offered a couple times a year at Sadie’s San Francisco studio, and occasionally at other locations.
Workshop Course Descriptions
Model Sessions
Open model sessions are non-instructed, and are designed to be an affordable way to practice classical methods. The model holds a long, multi-session pose, lit with a single light source, ideal for completing a refined drawing or painting.
Model Sessions Schedule and Fees
Comments from Students
“Your passion and intensity in what you do and love are evident in what you teach.”
-Sheila
“All of a sudden, all things I want to do suddenly converged on a pencil point!You gave me direction and book recommendations that now will last me for a year’s worth of self-study.”
-Eileen
“The workshop was so inspiring and informative - you have a wonderful gift for teaching, besides your gift for painting.”
-Connie
“You were able to give us so many new thoughts, ideas and processes in such a short time. Not only informative - but so patient, pleasant and fun to be with - all in all a great experience.”
-Sandy
“You are one of those people who is an amazing blend of outstanding artist and gifted teacher. Generous, kind,and knowledgeable, you are one of a kind! I have learned so much during these five days and I feel that my experience will create a life changing turn in my work.”
-Loriann
“I had studied figure drawing with Anthony Ryder for several years before taking a class with Sadie, and I can say she has a similar high level quality of attention, care, generosity and seriousness as a teacher and fine artist. Bottom line, San Francisco is lucky to have her, and your time with her will be well worth it.”
-David S.
Sadie’s instruction re: methods and materials is very precise and clearly communicated… she guides you through processes you would be very unlinkely to discover on your own - secrets she has discovered are revealed.
-Cheryl
See more student comments on Sadie’s Yelp page