Why Group Art Lessons at RSA Are the Best Way to Grow as an Artist


When it comes to learning how to draw and paint, many students ask us: “Should I take private lessons or join a group class?” While both options have value, group art lessons at the Raminfard School of Arts (RSA) offer unique advantages that make them an excellent choice for artists at every level.


🎨 1. Learn from Peers as Well as Instructors

Group classes create a dynamic environment where students can see how others approach the same subject. This builds perspective, inspires new ideas, and accelerates your growth.

🧑‍🏫 2. Structured Guidance from Expert Teachers

At RSA, our small group sizes ensure you get individual attention while also benefiting from the energy of the classroom. Instructors give tailored feedback, but you’ll also see real-time demonstrations that help concepts click faster.

🌟 3. Community and Motivation

Art can feel isolating, but in our group sessions, you’re surrounded by like-minded artists. The community atmosphere encourages consistency and accountability—two of the biggest factors in artistic progress.

💰 4. Affordable & Flexible

Group lessons offer a lower cost per session compared to private instruction, while still giving you access to professional-level coaching.

👉 Ready to join? Explore our Group Art Lessons and reserve your spot in our next session.

Only 3 Spots Left! Join Our “Overcoming Perfectionism in Art” Workshop in Agoura Hills


At the Raminfard School of Arts, we know how much perfectionism and self-doubt can hold artists back. That’s why we created our popular Overcoming Perfectionism in Art Workshop—a powerful one-day event designed to help you break free from fear of mistakes, unlock your creativity, and enjoy painting again.


This hands-on workshop includes:

👉 Only 3 spots remain for our upcoming session. Once they’re gone, registration closes!

📍 Where: Raminfard School of Arts, Agoura Hills

📅 When: Sunday, September 7th 10:30am-4pm

💲 Cost: $150 (includes, gourmet snacks, drinks, and supplies)

Ready to take this essential step for your artistic journey?

👉 Reserve your spot now »

Two Inspiring Art Workshops Coming to RSA This September

September at the Raminfard School of Arts is all about growth, confidence, and creative exploration. Whether you’re battling self-doubt in your art or looking to refine your figure drawing skills, our two upcoming workshops are designed to give you fresh tools, new perspectives, and a supportive space to create.


🧘 September 7 – Overcoming Perfectionism: Silencing Your Inner Critic

If you’ve ever stared at a blank canvas afraid to make the first mark—or left a piece unfinished because it “wasn’t good enough”—you’re not alone. In this workshop, we’ll explore how perfectionism can stifle creativity and learn strategies to break free from it.

  • Mindful exercises to quiet negative self-talk
  • Expressive painting drills that encourage freedom
  • Constructive, encouraging feedback in a judgment-free space

Date: Sunday, September 7  |  Time: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Raminfard School of Arts, Agoura Hills  |  Price: $150 (materials + refreshments included)

Register for Sept 7


👩‍🎨 September 21 – Introduction to Drawing the Female Figure: Live Model Workshop

Drawing the human figure can be intimidating, but with the right approach, it becomes one of the most rewarding skills you can learn. This live model workshop focuses on capturing the female form with grace, proportion, and expressive energy.

  • Capture movement and gesture quickly
  • Techniques for proportion, balance, and rhythm
  • Infuse life and storytelling into your poses

Date: Sunday, September 21  |  Time: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Raminfard School of Arts, Agoura Hills  |  Price: $150 (materials + refreshments included)

Register for Sept 21


Why Join an RSA Workshop?

Our workshops are hands-on, encouraging, and community-driven. Small groups mean personal guidance—and you leave with new skills and fresh motivation.

Behind the Head Drawing: Our 3-Phase Workshop Guide

Behind the Head Drawing: Our 3-Phase Workshop Guide

A look inside RSA’s classical approach to drawing the human head

At the Raminfard School of Arts, we believe strong drawings start with strong structure. That’s why our recent head drawing workshop focused on a clear, three-phase method that helps students break down complexity and build confidence from the ground up.

Here’s a glimpse into what we covered and how this method can transform your figure work.


Phase 1: Construction & Proportions

We begin every head drawing by establishing the underlying form — not the features. Students used the Loomis method and envelope block-ins to map major shapes using light pencil pressure on newsprint.

Key takeaways:

  • Use a sphere for the cranium and a wedge for the jaw
  • Focus on gesture, tilt, and major landmarks (brow, nose, chin)
  • Avoid drawing features too soon — just simple volumes and planes

“Draw the house before the windows.”


Phase 2: Features on Form

Once structure was in place, students began mapping facial features with attention to planar logic and form integration. No floating eyes or flat noses here.

In this phase, we emphasized:

  • Using triangulation and axis lines for accuracy
  • Wrapping lips around the muzzle
  • Placing eyes within sockets—not on top of the face
  • Thinking in planes instead of outlines

Phase 3: Value & Rendering

Using a Kimberly 9XXB pencil, we modeled light and shadow directly onto the established forms. This is where the drawing began to breathe.

Students practiced:

  • Massing large shadow shapes before rendering details
  • Layering value gradually and preserving highlight areas
  • Using edge hierarchy (soft vs. sharp) to control focus
  • Letting features emerge naturally through light logic

“Model the egg before drawing the eye.”


What Students Said

“I used to always start with the eyes — now I see how building the structure first changes everything.”
— Workshop Attendee, 2025

“This step-by-step method gave me so much more confidence. It finally makes sense.”
— Beginner Student


Want to Learn This Method?

Whether you’re new to portrait drawing or looking to refine your skills, our next Head Drawing Workshop will give you tools that actually work. You’ll leave with a stronger understanding of structure, light, and the classical drawing process.

Follow us on Instagram or join our email list to be the first to hear about upcoming sessions.

A Beginner’s Guide to Painting and Drawing in Agoura Hills

How to Choose the Right Art Class for You

 

Starting your artistic journey can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re unsure where to begin or what kind of class suits you best. Whether you’re a total beginner or returning to your creative roots, choosing the right art class makes all the difference. At the Raminfard School of Arts in Agoura Hills, we offer a variety of options tailored to your skill level, interests, and goals. Here’s how to find the perfect fit for your artistic growth.

1. Explore Different Mediums

One of the first things to consider is what type of art you want to learn. At RSA, we offer:

  • Drawing: Ideal for learning structure, proportion, shading, and line work.
  • Oil Painting: Great for those looking to dive into traditional, rich techniques with slow-drying pigments.
  • Acrylic Painting: Perfect for quicker-drying projects with vibrant color possibilities.
  • Figure Drawing: Learn to capture the human form through live model sessions.
  • Plein Air Workshops: Take your creativity outside and paint from nature, guided by professional instruction.

2. Choose a Class Based on Your Level

Our classes are designed for students of all skill levels. Whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time or polishing your portfolio, we tailor instruction to meet you where you are. No need to worry about being too advanced—or too new. We’ve got you covered.

3. Consider Class Format and Flexibility

RSA offers flexible weekly group classes and one-day workshops. Each session is two hours and customized to your goals. Our small group sizes ensure personalized guidance, and you don’t need to bring any supplies for your first class—we provide everything you need to get started.

4. Find a Convenient Location

If you’re searching for “art classes near me,” location matters. We’re conveniently located in Agoura Hills, serving the Conejo Valley and surrounding communities like Westlake Village, Calabasas, Oak Park, and Thousand Oaks.

5. Learn from Experienced Instructors

Since 2000, the Raminfard School of Arts has helped hundreds of students discover their creative voice. Our experienced instructors are practicing artists who provide thoughtful, one-on-one guidance. Many of our students have gone on to win awards, gain gallery representation, or simply develop a lifelong passion for art.

6. Why Students Love RSA

Here’s what sets us apart:

  • All supplies provided for your first class
  • Welcoming and inspiring studio environment
  • Family-friendly classes for ages 9–adult
  • Affordable rates and flexible scheduling
  • Specialty workshops every month

Ready to Begin?

Your artistic journey starts with one step. Explore our weekly class schedule or join a workshop to dive in. Let’s create something amazing—together.

Still not sure? Contact us and we’ll help you find the right class for your goals and experience level.

🎨 12 Principles Every Artist Should Know


🎨 12 Principles Every Artist Should Know

 

Mastering your craft starts with mastering the fundamentals. These timeless principles are essential for any artist working in drawing or painting—whether you’re just starting out or refining your style.

 

  1. Draw Every Day: Build confidence, coordination, and control through consistent sketching.
  2. See Like an Artist: Train your eyes to observe values, shapes, and edges—not symbols.
  3. Understand Light and Shadow: Forms come to life through accurate value relationships, not just color.
  4. Start with Big Shapes: Block in major forms before adding detail—structure first, texture later.
  5. Use a Limited Palette: Restrict your color choices to improve harmony and deepen your mixing skills.
  6. Mind Your Edges: Varying soft, hard, and lost edges creates visual interest and realism.
  7. Composition is King: Great design holds attention—plan your layout thoughtfully.
  8. Be Patient with the Process: Layers take time. Don’t rush what needs to evolve.
  9. Learn from the Masters: Study Sargent, Zorn, Sorolla, Bouguereau and others. Let their brilliance guide yours.
  10. Critique Your Work: Step back often, assess honestly, and make deliberate adjustments.
  11. Stay Curious: Ask questions, experiment, and never stop learning.
  12. Enjoy the Journey: Progress is messy—celebrate your growth and love what you do.

 

Whether you’re painting plein air, building your portfolio, or refining technique in the studio—these principles are your compass.

 

Save this list, print it, share it. Let it guide your next painting session.


Art in the Open: Outdoor Painting Workshops

The Joys and Challenges of Plein Air Painting

Painting outdoors is a thrilling, sensory experience that demands both spontaneity and skill. At RSA, our plein air workshops bring artists into nature’s studio, where light, color, and atmosphere shift by the minute.

Our recent “Golden Hour” workshop in Malibu was a perfect example. As the sun dipped lower in the sky, students captured the warm glow and dramatic shadows on canvas. Wind, changing light, and the hum of the ocean added to the challenge—and the beauty.

These sessions offer more than just painting instruction; they teach artists how to see with fresh eyes and respond to the moment with courage and creativity.

Whether you’re new to plein air or looking to refine your outdoor technique, our workshops offer the perfect blend of challenge and inspiration.

From Hobbyist to Artist: Fine Art Workshops

Transitioning Through RSA’s Workshops

For many adults, making art started as a pastime—a way to unwind. But at RSA, we’ve seen countless students evolve from hobbyists to artists with confidence and vision, thanks to our immersive one-day workshops.

Take Jessica, who began with a Zorn Palette workshop and discovered a passion for portraiture. Or Mike, whose first plein-air outing led to a new obsession with capturing natural light. Our workshops are designed to challenge, inspire, and unlock new levels of artistic growth.

These aren’t just classes—they’re transformational experiences.

Mastering the Basics: The Importance of Foundational Art Skills

The Importance of Foundational Art Skills

Every great artist starts with the basics. At RSA, we emphasize the value of foundational skills like observational drawing, perspective, proportion, and color theory. These aren’t just technical tools—they’re the building blocks for powerful creative expression.

Whether a student dreams of painting like John Singer Sargent or simply wants to sketch more confidently, we meet them where they are. Our classes are structured to develop both skill and intuition, helping students master the fundamentals before diving into advanced techniques.

When the basics are strong, the possibilities are endless.


Student Spotlight: Celebrating Emerging Artists at RSA

Celebrating Emerging Artists at RSA

At RSA, we believe that every student has a unique artistic voice waiting to be nurtured. Our Student Spotlight series is dedicated to showcasing the incredible talents and journeys of our young and adult artists alike.

Take Sofia, age 13, who joined RSA with a love for manga and now confidently paints portraits in oil. Or Amir, a retiree discovering the joy of charcoal figure drawing for the first time. With guidance from our instructors, these students are not only improving technical skills but also learning how to express themselves more authentically.

Through the Student Spotlight, we aim to celebrate growth, dedication, and the diverse ways in which art enriches lives.