“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.”
Mentorships and private classes available.
Please contact Victoria via the contact form.
INTRO TO PASTELS at The Art Stop LLC, Penfield NY
The Intro to Pastels class is a five-session course perfect for beginners and those looking to deepen their understanding of pastel techniques. Students will learn the basics of working with soft pastels, exploring foundational skills such as blending, layering, and creating texture. Each session will focus on different aspects of pastel work, from understanding color theory to building depth and form in still-life and landscape compositions. Exercises and demonstrations will help participants develop confidence and control over the medium while encouraging personal style and creative exploration.
Daytime session starting Wednesday Days 5 WEEKS 11/3/25-12/8/25 SKIP 11/24, 6:00-8:00 PM, TEEN TO ADULT
Call or stop by the Art Stop to register.
DAYTIME OIL PAINTING at The Art Stop LLC, Penfield NY
In this class we’ll explore materials, fundamentals, and best practices of oil painting, with an emphasis on direct or “alla prima” techniques. Color mixing and creating a range of colors from a limited palette will be taught. For students with previous experience in color mixing, a more complex palette will be used. Paint from your own sketches, photos, or studio still life. We’ll have demos in each class that will cover various topics such as various ways to start an oil painting, oiling out, stretching a canvas, preparing a panel, glazing, and varnishing.
6 WEEK CLASS $179 MONDAYS 11:00-1:00 NEXT SESSION: 11/4/25-12/15/25 SKIP 11/24
Intermediate Pastel Painting at Flower City Arts Center
Designed for artists with a foundational understanding of pastel techniques, this course delves deeper into the art of pastel painting, offering a dynamic exploration of advanced concepts and methods. Participants will refine their skills in layering, blending, and creating texture while also learning to evoke emotion and atmosphere in their compositions.
A suggested materials list will be provided before the first class.
Register here. Waiting list only
Tuesdays, November 4, 11, 18, 25
The Art of Ink: Pen and Brush Techniques at Flower City Arts Center
This four-week class offers an in-depth exploration of pen and ink, as well as brush and ink techniques, using both Walnut ink and India ink. Students will learn the fundamentals of creating dynamic line work, shading, and texture through various approaches, including hatching, cross-hatching, stippling, and washes. Each week will focus on building skills in both mediums, with an emphasis on the unique qualities of Walnut ink’s warm, organic tones and the rich, deep blacks of India ink. By the end of the course, participants will have a solid understanding of the tools and techniques used in traditional ink drawing and the ability to create detailed, expressive artwork using both inks.
A suggested materials list will be provided before the first class.
Note: No class on November 27th.
Register Here Waiting list only
Thursdays, November 6, 13, 20, December 4
2025 Painting by the Pond
RMSC Cumming Nature Center Workshop
PAINTING BY THE POND & Painting in the Pines
The 2025 classes have taken place, but will be offered again in 2026!
Click here to download Sergei Bongart’s notes on painting in a PDF format.