The Raminfard School of Arts Story

Where Art and Community Thrive!

The Raminfard School of Arts studio in West Los Angeles, around 2005

RSA, Circa 2005, in the back room of a popular dance studio in West LA


RSA began in May 2000 in the garage of Daniel Raminfard’s father in West LA. Daniel’s goal was simple: teach art the classic way, and make everyone feel welcome. Students learn how to see and why things work. No shortcuts, no trends.

Daniel trained under Persian-American painter Houshang Payman. In 2003, the school moved into the back room of a dance studio. Daniel also worked full-time as a banker to keep it going. It was hard, but he never stopped teaching.

After the 2008 financial crisis, Daniel left banking and gave all his time to RSA. Students learn drawing, color, light, form, and composition. They also try new things, take risks, and have fun. RSA is also a real community. Students come to make art, and they stay because they belong. Friendships grow here, and so does confidence.

Today, Daniel leads a team of teachers who are all working artists. Some of them first came to RSA as students. In early 2022, after COVID-19, RSA moved to Agoura Hills. More than 25 years and 7,500 students later, our values are the same: high standards, joy in making art, respect for each other, and the belief that good teaching can grow both your skills and your spirit.

Meet Our Expert Staff & Instructors

At the Raminfard School of Arts in Agoura Hills, you’ll learn from working artists who love to teach.

Daniel Raminfard, Founder and Lead Art Instructor at the Raminfard School of Arts in Agoura Hills

Daniel

Founder & Instructor

Daniel founded the Raminfard School of Arts in 2000 and has spent over two decades teaching artists of all levels the timeless fundamentals of drawing and painting.

Visit Daniel’s Website: danielraminfard.com

Daniel Raminfard, Founder and Lead Art Instructor at the Raminfard School of Arts in Agoura Hills

Ronit

Co-Founder & CFO

With an MS in Architectural Engineering and 17 years in lighting design, Ronit designed our premium Agoura Hills studio and now leads financial operations.

Brandon Liu, Assistant Art Instructor specializing in concept art and illustration

Brandon

Assistant Instructor

Brandon is a concept artist and illustrator known for his exceptional design work, mastery of color, and experience at studios including DreamWorks and Nickelodeon.

Willie 

Assistant Instructor

Willie is a talented artist and educator with extensive experience in the visual arts field. His unique knowledge of various mediums makes him a valuable addition to our team.

Lani Chloupek, Studio Assistant Manager at the Raminfard School of Arts

Lani

Studio Manager

As a graduate in graphic design, Lani brings meticulous organization, a welcoming presence, and a teacher’s mindset to our studio operations.

Jana Hashemizadeh, Assistant Art Instructor specializing in traditional realism

Jana

Assistant Instructor

With a degree in art, Jana is a traditional realist with expertise in detailed and technical work across various art forms and mediums.