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.


A Taste of Plein Air Painting at Flower City Arts Center

Join me for a four-week plein air class designed for artists of all experience levels who want to explore the fun of creating outdoors. Each session will take place at a different location, offering fresh inspiration and new challenges. Use the medium of your choice—whether it's oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel, pencil, or pen and ink—allowing for personal expression and experimentation.

The class will include guided instruction, group critiques, and plenty of time for independent work—all in a supportive, creative environment.

Bring your favorite materials, an open mind, and your love for the open air! A suggested materials list will be provided prior to the first class.

Session 2: Mondays, July 7, 14, 21, 28

In session

Fundamentals of Drawing at Flower City Arts Center

In this 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.

A suggested materials list will be supplied prior to the first class.

Wednesday, July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 | 6-8:30

This class is in session but will be offered again this Fall.


Paint the Colors of Pittsford Plein Air Workshop Through the Pittsford Library

Get outside and paint along the canal in Pittsford this summer! This plein air painting class will cover the basic tools and techniques needed to paint outdoors, including how to set up a palette, mix colors, and choose a subject. After a short demonstration, participants will have one-on-one instruction as they work at their own pace.

This class is suitable for beginner and more experienced artists. We'll be painting in oil paints, with all tools and materials provided. Dress for the weather with layered clothing and a hat with a brim. Bring sunscreen, water, and a folding chair if you prefer to sit. The group will meet at the library and walk to our destination by the canal. In case of inclement weather, registrants will be contacted about a rain date. Registration required.

Monday, August 18, 2025 | Time: 9:30am - 12:30pm

Registration here.

Cottonwood on the Canal, oil 8” x 10”


PAINTING IN THE VINEYARD
@ 20 DEEP WINERY

Get outside and paint the lovely vineyards at 20 Deep Winery in Mendon this summer! This plein air painting class will cover the basic tools and techniques needed to paint outdoors, including how to set up a palette and choose a subject. After a short demonstration, participants will enjoy one-on-one instruction and interaction with instructor Victoria Brzustowicz as they work at their own pace, while sipping wine as you learn. We’ll end the session by sharing our artwork created in this session, and you’ll go home with a finished oil painting of the late summer vineyards. This class is suitable for beginner and more experienced artists. All tools and materials will be provided. Class will be held at 20 Deep Winery, 187 Mendon Ionia Rd, Mendon, NY 14472. Pre-registration required. (Wine not included in the class price)

THURSDAY AUGUST 21 | 5:00PM-8:00PM $40

Register here.


RMSC Cumming Nature Center Workshop
PAINTING BY THE POND

Saturday, SEPTEMBER 20 | 9:30AM-12:30PM $35

Join us for a relaxing and creative morning outdoors as we paint a quiet pond set beneath the changing leaves of Cumming Nature Center. This plein air painting class will cover the basic tools and techniques needed to paint outdoors, including how to set up a palette and choose a subject. Beginner painters will have the option to use a pre-sketched canvas as the foundation for their painting. After a short demonstration, participants will enjoy one-on-one instruction and interaction with instructor Victoria Brzustowicz as they work at their own pace.

This class is suitable for beginner and more experienced artists. All tools and materials will be provided. Register here:


Click here to download Sergei Bongart’s notes on painting in a PDF format.