“Works of art are of an infinite solitude, and no means of approach is so useless as criticism. Only love can touch and hold them and be fair to them.”

— Rainer Maria Rilke

Mentorships and private classes available.

Please contact Victoria via the contact form.

Plein Air Painting Workshop Through the Pastel Society of Western New York

Victoria Brzustowicz and Colette Savage will be co-teaching this one-day workshop. Explore the joys of painting outside while learning from two experienced instructors and plein air painters. Learn best-practices, helpful hacks, and how to get the most out of your plein air sessions. All skill levels and all mediums are welcome. Mendon Ponds Park • Devils Bathtub Shelter

Saturday, June 13, 2026 • 10 AM–4PM

Register here.

Plein Air Painting through Irondequoit Community Education

Enjoy the joy of painting outdoors while learning about plein air painting from experienced plein air painters, Victoria Brzustowicz and Colette Savage. During our first class we will discuss gear, best practices, what to expect while painting outside, and answer questions and concerns. During classes two and three we will set up easels outside and paint under the guidance of your instructors at a predetermined location. All skill levels and mediums are welcome! (Please do not purchase equipment until after the first session). Click Here to Register

First class will meet at Irondequoit HS in the Faculty Cafe. The second session will be held at Durand Eastman Park, and the third session will be at the Helmer Nature Center. Held in partnership with Irondequoit Community Education.

May 2, 9, & 16, 2026 | 9:00 AM–11:00 AM

In session, Click Here to Register

Plein Air Workshop at the Thousand Islands Arts Center

Experience the joy of painting outdoors in this engaging plein air workshop led by experienced artists Victoria Brzustowicz and Colette Savage. On day one, we’ll cover the essentials—recommended gear, best practices, and what to expect when painting outside—along with time for questions and discussion to help you feel confident and prepared. On day two, we’ll head to a predetermined outdoor location to set up and paint on site, with individualized guidance and support from your instructors. All skill levels and mediums are welcome. Come ready to learn, explore, and be inspired by the beautiful landscape in Clayton! (Held at the Thousand Islands Arts Center, 321 James St. Clayton, NY)

Thursday and Friday, June 25, 26 | 9:30am-noon

Register here

Painting With Gouache at the Art Stop LLC

Explore the versatile world of gouache, a water-based, opaque, and pigment-rich medium. With its ability to layer light over dark, gouache combines the flexibility of acrylics and oils with the transparency of watercolors. This course can serve both as an introduction to essential techniques (including material exploration, color mixing, and effective paint handling), and for more experienced painters in gouache, it will allow exploration and refinement in a supportive environment. Each class includes demonstrations and ample painting time. Additionally, we’ll cover best practices for storing and framing gouache paintings. Join us for this five-week journey into the expressive realm of gouache.

5/4/26 -6/8/26 | 6:00–8:00 PM (Skipping Memorial Day)

Registration info and material list here.

Fundamentals of Drawing at Flower City Arts Center

In this six-week class, students focus on developing observational skills and drawing techniques using a variety of drawing media. No prior experience with drawing is required or expected. More advanced artists will also benefit from this refresher course.

In session

Thursdays, 6–8:30 pm, April 23, 30, May 7, 14, 21,28

Solvent Free Oil Painting at Flower City Arts Center

Discover the joy of oil painting with a solvent-free, eco-conscious approach. This six-week class explores the essentials of alla prima painting—working directly and expressively with color, light, and form. You’ll learn to mix colors from a limited palette and create paintings from your own sketches, photos, or still life setups.

Supportive critiques and personalized feedback will help you grow your skills and confidence while developing a mindful, sustainable painting practice. This class welcomes artists of all levels, from beginners to experienced painters looking to refresh their skills or explore a solvent-free approach.