Rachel Hodis

Digital Art vs. Traditional Art

Digital Art vs. Traditional Art

Art has always been about expression, whether you’re sketching with a pencil or drawing on a tablet. Today, artists have more tools than ever, and with those tools come questions. Is digital art really that different from traditional art? Should you stick to one? Do you need to choose at all? Here’s a closer look at what sets them apart, where they overlap, and how you can grow in both.

Tools and Materials

Traditional art includes materials like graphite, ink, watercolor, acrylic, and oil paints. It’s hands-on. Every brushstroke, texture, and smudge exists physically. You get the feel of the materials in your hand, which is something many artists find satisfying.

Digital art, by contrast, is created using devices like tablets and computers. Styluses and replace brushes. Instead of a canvas, you have a screen. And while it might not feel quite the same, digital tools allow for near-infinite edits, layers, and effects without using up supplies.

Process and Flexibility

Both forms require creativity, discipline, and a sense of visual problem-solving. The big difference is how you get to your final work.

Traditional artists often have to plan carefully and mistakes can be hard (or impossible) to erase. With digital tools, you can try bold ideas, undo them, and adjust with much more flexibility. But that doesn’t make digital art easier. Both forms require real technique.

Final Products

A traditional painting is one-of-a-kind, made with real textures you can touch. A digital piece is a file. It can be shared, revised, and printed. Neither is better. They simply serve different purposes and offer different kinds of connection.

Transitioning Between Mediums

If you’re a traditional artist thinking about learning digital tools (or vice versa), know this: the core skills you’ve developed will transfer. You already know how to compose, balance, and observe. What changes are just the tools.

Start small. Choose a medium that feels comfortable. Stay patient, and be open to learning a new rhythm.

Why Try Both Digital Art & Traditional Art?

Being fluent in both digital and traditional art opens creative doors. Many artists today work in both spaces, switching based on what the project calls for. The more tools you have, the more ways you can express yourself and the more confidence you’ll have when trying something new.

Ready to Start Your Art Journey?

If you’re curious about developing your artistic skills—whether in pencil, paint, or Procreate—our art classes are designed to meet you where you are. We’ll help you build strong foundations, explore new media, and grow as an artist.

Sign up for art classes today and see where your creativity can take you! Call us at (626) 227-1149 or submit a contact form.

by
Rachel Hodis
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The Link Between Creativity and Academic Success

The Link Between Creativity and Academic Success

In a world increasingly driven by innovation and problem-solving, creativity is an essential element of academic and personal success. While many parents and educators prioritize traditional academic skills like reading, math, and science, research continues to show that artistic and musical activities are powerful tools for boosting cognitive development, emotional well-being, and even academic achievement.

How Creativity Shapes the Brain

Engaging in creative activities, especially music and the arts, activates multiple areas of the brain at once. When children learn to play an instrument, paint, dance, or act, they are strengthening neural pathways responsible for memory, attention, language, and spatial reasoning. For example, studies have found that music training can enhance the corpus callosum (the bridge between the brain’s hemispheres) improving the brain’s ability to transfer information efficiently.

This cross-brain engagement doesn’t just benefit artistic pursuits; it directly supports learning in core academic subjects. Musical training, in particular, has been linked to stronger reading skills, better mathematical reasoning, and improved executive functioning, which are the mental skills that help us plan, focus, and juggle multiple tasks.

The Role of Artistic Expression in Critical Thinking

Creative activities foster curiosity and flexible thinking, which are two essential skills for problem-solving. Through artistic exploration, students learn to experiment, take risks, and tolerate ambiguity. A child who experiments with painting techniques, for example, is learning how to test ideas and accept that mistakes can lead to breakthroughs. This is a mindset that can serve them well in science labs and math problems alike.

Drama and theater arts can also build empathy and communication skills. When students embody different characters, they learn to see the world through multiple perspectives, developing emotional intelligence and critical social skills that strengthen collaboration and classroom engagement.

Creativity and Emotional Resilience

Beyond cognitive skills, the arts provide a vital outlet for self-expression, stress relief, and emotional development. Many students face pressure from rigorous academic demands, and creative outlets help them process feelings, manage anxiety, and build confidence. Studies have shown that students who participate in music or visual arts programs often have higher self-esteem and a stronger sense of identity. These traits can help them persevere through academic challenges.

Integrating Creativity into Everyday Learning

The good news is that creativity doesn’t have to be confined to art class or music lessons. Educators and parents can nurture creativity by encouraging open-ended projects, celebrating original ideas, and providing opportunities for play and exploration. Schools that integrate arts across the curriculum often see higher levels of student engagement and academic performance.

At home, parents can foster creativity by exposing children to diverse artistic experiences, from concerts and museum visits to simple crafts and musical play. Even a few minutes of daily creative activity can spark curiosity and strengthen the brain in lasting ways.

Final Thoughts

Students need more than rote memorization to succeed. They need to be able to think critically, solve complex problems, and adapt to new challenges. Artistic and musical activities lay the foundation for these skills, bridging the gap between creativity and academic success. By championing creativity, we empower the next generation to reach their fullest potential, both in the classroom and beyond.

If you’re ready to unlock your child’s creative potential and support their academic growth, we’d love to help. Contact us today to sign up for art or music lessons. Call us at (626) 227-1149 or submit a contact form to get started!

by
Rachel Hodis
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Art Portfolio Development Tips

Art Development Portfolio Tips

Creating an art portfolio can feel intimidating, but it’s one of the most rewarding parts of an artist’s journey! Whether you’re applying to art schools, interviewing for creative jobs, or submitting work to galleries, your portfolio showcases not just your technical skills but your unique artistic voice. Here are some essential tips to help you develop, organize, and maintain a portfolio that truly stands out.

1.    Understand the Purpose of Your Portfolio

Before you start gathering pieces, understand what your portfolio is for. Is it for a college application, a job interview, or a gallery submission? Each has different expectations. Art schools might want to see exploration, experimentation, and your creative process, while galleries prefer polished, cohesive bodies of work that reflect a clear style or theme.

2.    Curate Thoughtfully (Quality Over Quantity)

It’s tempting to include every piece you’re proud of, but a strong portfolio focuses on quality, not quantity. Choose works that best demonstrate your range, skills, and personal interests. Always check specific requirements as to the number of pieces to include. Include a variety of mediums and techniques if relevant, but make sure they all reflect your style and commitment.

3.    Show Your Process

Many schools and employers love to see how you think and develop ideas. Include sketchbook pages, drafts, or progress photos. These show that you’re not just technically skilled but also creative, curious, and capable of growth. These are valuable traits.

4.    Keep It Cohesive

Even when showcasing range, your portfolio should feel cohesive. Pay attention to how your pieces flow from one to the next. Arrange them to tell a story or highlight connections between your ideas, techniques, or subjects. This creates a professional, intentional impression.

5.    Present Professionally

Good presentation elevates your work. Make sure photos or scans are clear, well-lit, and high resolution. Mount physical works neatly if needed. For digital portfolios, keep file sizes manageable and follow naming conventions. Include titles, dimensions, medium, and brief descriptions when appropriate.

6.    Keep Updating

A portfolio isn’t static; update it regularly. As you grow as an artist, your portfolio should evolve too. Review your collection every few months and swap out older works for new, stronger ones. This shows that you’re active, improving, and engaged with your craft.

7.    Get Feedback

Before submitting, ask a teacher, mentor, or art professional for feedback. A fresh pair of eyes can help spot gaps, suggest stronger sequencing, or point out weaker pieces. Constructive criticism is invaluable to help you present your best work.

Ready to Level Up Your Portfolio?

Building a portfolio doesn’t have to be stressful, and you don’t have to do it alone! At Hodis Learning & Music, we help students develop and refine art portfolios for college, job applications, and gallery submissions. Our art lessons and portfolio development coaching are designed to elevate your skills and help you confidently showcase your best self.

Contact us today for more information about art lessons or portfolio assistance!

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Rachel Hodis
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Summer Learning Opportunities with Hodis Learning & Music

Keep Kids Learning All Summer with Hodis Learning & Music’s Enrichment Programs

Summer break doesn’t have to mean a break from learning! At Hodis Learning & Music, we offer a wide range of educational programs designed to keep students engaged, get ahead, and even explore new passions over the summer months. Below is a snapshot of our summer offerings, all designed with flexibility, fun, and student growth in mind.

SAT & ACT Tutoring

Is your student preparing for college applications? Summer is the ideal time to get ahead on SAT or ACT prep without the stress of a full academic schedule. Our expert tutors provide personalized strategies, targeted practice, and confidence-building support that help students raise their scores.

Academic Enrichment or Catch-Up

Whether your child struggled in a certain subject this past school year or is ready to accelerate their learning, we offer tailored tutoring in core subjects like math, English, science, and more. Our educators meet each student where they are and help them understand concepts, and gain confidence and momentum going into the fall.

Foreign Language Learning

Summer is the perfect time to start learning a language like Spanish or Mandarin! Our immersive, one-on-one language tutoring builds vocabulary, fluency, and cultural awareness. Students can learn to speak conversationally in the language of their choosing, and build a solid foundation for fluency.

Fun Educational Activities

Turn curiosity into discovery with our hands-on science and enrichment projects! Our fun educational sessions are perfect for students who want to explore how things work or who thrive through experiential learning. From at-home chemistry experiments to creative problem-solving, our expert educators make learning exciting and engaging.

Music Lessons

Our summer music instruction supports students in learning or refining their skills on instruments like piano, guitar, drums, and more. Lessons are tailored to each student’s level and interests, making music both fun and rewarding. All ages and skill levels are welcome– from beginners to advanced musicians.

Art Instruction

Creativity takes center stage in our personalized art lessons. Whether your child loves painting, drawing, or working with mixed media, our art instructors help students grow their artistic skills, explore new styles, and express themselves creatively. Art instruction is also open to students of all ages and skill levels, because there’s no wrong time to learn something new or start a new hobby!

Flexible Scheduling That Fits Your Family

We know summer calendars can be packed with sports, camps, and vacations. That’s why all our sessions are flexible and customizable, and offered both in-person and online. We’ll help you schedule lessons to work around your summer plans while still reaching your goals.

Ready to Make the Most of Summer?

Don’t wait until the back-to-school rush! Contact Hodis Learning & Music today to learn more about our summer offerings and reserve your spot. Call us at (626) 227-1149 or submit a form on our website and an HLM representative will reach out to you within 24 hours.

 

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Drew M. Hodis
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Artistic Anatomy: Mastering the Human Figure in Drawing

Artistic Anatomy: Mastering the Human Figure in Drawing

Drawing the human figure is a challenging yet rewarding endeavor for artists of all levels. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of mastering the human figure in drawing.

The Importance of Studying Human Anatomy

The human body is complex and intricate, making it a fascinating subject for artists. By studying human anatomy, artists gain a deeper understanding of the structure and proportions of the body, allowing them to create more realistic and lifelike drawings. Understanding the underlying bones, muscles, and tissues enables artists to depict the human figure with accuracy and confidence.

Mastering the human figure in drawing not only improves the technical skills of an artist but also enhances their ability to express emotions and tell stories through their art. The human body is capable of a wide range of movements and poses, each conveying a different message or feeling. By mastering the human figure, artists can create dynamic and engaging compositions that resonate with their audience.

Start with the Basics

Begin by studying the basic structures of the human body, such as the skeletal system and major muscle groups. Understanding these foundational elements will provide a solid framework for more advanced studies.

Use Reference Materials

Utilize anatomy books, online resources, and reference images of the human body to study its proportions, shapes, and forms. Observing and understanding how the body moves and functions will enhance your ability to draw it accurately.

Practice Regularly

Like any skill, learning artistic anatomy requires regular practice. Set aside time each day to sketch and study the human figure. Start with simple gestures and gradually progress to more detailed studies.

Attend Live Drawing Classes

These drawing classes provide an excellent opportunity to practice drawing from a live model. You will develop your observational skills and understand how the body moves and poses in real life.

Focus on Specific Areas

Pay attention to areas of the body that are challenging for you. Whether it’s hands, feet, or facial features, dedicating extra time to these areas will help you improve your overall understanding of anatomy.

Get Started

Mastering the human figure in drawing is a valuable skill for any artist. At Hodis Learning & Music, we offer art lessons that provide aspiring artists with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Unlock your full creative potential by calling or emailing us today.

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Drew M. Hodis
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Summer Tutoring Can Be Fun!

summer instruction

Whether you’re retaking a class, trying to get ahead, or looking to learn something new over the summer, Hodis Learning & Music has educators to meet your needs and make learning a blast!

Call or send us a message to schedule a session.

Book a language tutor before your next trip

You booked your flight, now book a language tutor to help you prepare for your upcoming trip!

Learning a language can help you feel confident and ready to live like a local.

Learn More

Resources

Reasons to book a tutor over the summerSummer music lessonsArt LessonsKeep your student reading

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Drew M. Hodis
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Hodis Learning & Music Celebrates 4 Years in Business! Message from the President

4th year Anniversary for Hodis Learning and Music

Last week, Hodis Learning & Music celebrated four years of business! I am so proud of how much our team has accomplished since our third anniversary.

Upholding a Tradition of Excellent Service and Giving Back

Four years ago, my team and I developed Hodis Learning & Music upon a philosophy of kindness and expertise. Every decision that our company has made has stemmed from and further promoted this philosophy. Our tradition of excellent service is strong and spreading throughout the Pasadena area. Check out how far we’ve come since our first business anniversary!

We have continued our philanthropic endeavors. We believe strongly in giving back to the educational systems that our students go through to enrich their education. As such, we have continued to give 20% of our profits to SPEF and PEF.


Our Expert Educators

Our expert tutors, music teachers, and art instructors are the backbone of our company. Our team of exceptional educators have helped give us a reputation of excellence and reliability in the community, and we are indebted to all of their hard work. Further, our team has grown substantially over the past year, helping to expand the number of subjects offered so we can serve more students in their academic, musical, artistic, and homeschool endeavors.


Trusted Collaborators

We are grateful for our trusted collaborators. Namely, we thank Nexusplex Business Production Agency and The South Pasadenan News for their help in building and advertising our company. Additionally, we are grateful for the partnership of SPEF and PEF, who have helped us to make a bigger impact on our community. Finally, we are grateful for the partnership of local school districts and organizations who have given us the opportunity to serve students in need.


Thank YOU!

Hodis Learning & Music would not be where it is today without our loyal clients and dedicated community of supporters. We are grateful for your business throughout the past three years. My staff and I look forward to continuing to serve you and our beautiful community in the coming years.

 

by
Rachel Hodis

Artistic Anatomy: Mastering the Human Figure in Drawing

Artistic Anatomy

Drawing the human figure is a challenging yet rewarding endeavor for artists of all levels. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of mastering the human figure in drawing.

The Importance of Studying Human Anatomy

The human body is complex and intricate, making it a fascinating subject for artists. By studying human anatomy, artists gain a deeper understanding of the structure and proportions of the body, allowing them to create more realistic and lifelike drawings. Understanding the underlying bones, muscles, and tissues enables artists to depict the human figure with accuracy and confidence.

Mastering the human figure in drawing not only improves the technical skills of an artist but also enhances their ability to express emotions and tell stories through their art. The human body is capable of a wide range of movements and poses, each conveying a different message or feeling. By mastering the human figure, artists can create dynamic and engaging compositions that resonate with their audience.


Start with the Basics

Begin by studying the basic structures of the human body, such as the skeletal system and major muscle groups. Understanding these foundational elements will provide a solid framework for more advanced studies.


Use Reference Materials

Utilize anatomy books, online resources, and reference images of the human body to study its proportions, shapes, and forms. Observing and understanding how the body moves and functions will enhance your ability to draw it accurately.


Practice Regularly

Like any skill, learning artistic anatomy requires regular practice. Set aside time each day to sketch and study the human figure. Start with simple gestures and gradually progress to more detailed studies.


Attend Live Drawing Classes

These drawing classes provide an excellent opportunity to practice drawing from a live model. You will develop your observational skills and understand how the body moves and poses in real life.


Focus on Specific Areas

Pay attention to areas of the body that are challenging for you. Whether it’s hands, feet, or facial features, dedicating extra time to these areas will help you improve your overall understanding of anatomy.


Get Started

Mastering the human figure in drawing is a valuable skill for any artist. At Hodis Learning & Music, we offer art lessons that provide aspiring artists with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Unlock your full creative potential by calling or emailing us today.

by
Rachel Hodis

Cultivating an Artistic Eye

Cultivating an Artistic Eye

Great artists see the world differently. They notice the interaction between light and shadow, the subtleties of color, and the shapes hidden in everyday objects. Developing this “artistic eye” is not just about creating better art, it’s about appreciating the beauty in the world around you. Looking to sharpen your artistic perception and gain an artist’s eye? Read on to discover how.


1. Train Your Eye to See Shapes

Everything around us is made up of basic shapes like circles, squares, and triangles. Finding these shapes and learning how  to break down complex objects into their simplest forms can help you better understand proportions and composition.

Exercise:

  • Choose an everyday object, like a mug or a plant. Sketch it quickly using only basic shapes. For example, you might draw a mug as a cylinder with a rectangular handle. Add more details gradually to transform the shapes into a more realistic representation.


2. Observe Light and Shadow

Shadows and highlights are crucial for adding depth and dimension to art. But first, you need to understand how light interacts with surfaces.

Exercise:

  • Place an object like a cup or a piece of fruit under a single light source. Observe the shadows it casts and the way light creates gradients on its surface.
  • Try sketching the object, focusing on the shadows and highlights rather than the object’s outline. Use shading techniques like cross-hatching or blending to mimic the light effects.


3. Focus on Colors in Everyday Life

Colors are rarely as simple as they seem. Part of having an artistic eye is identifying the variations and gradients within a color. A green leaf might contain hints of yellow, blue, or even purple, depending on the light and its surroundings.

Exercise:

  • Spend time observing the colors around you. Look for unexpected hues in familiar objects, like the reddish tones in shadows or the various shades and colors within a patch of grass.
  • Use a sketchbook to create a color wheel based on what you see. Mix paints or layer colored pencils to match the real-life colors.


4. Practice Gesture Drawing

Gesture drawing is a quick and loose sketching technique that captures the essence of a subject’s movement or form. It’s particularly useful for understanding proportions, movement, and flow.

Exercise:

  • Set a timer for 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Sketch a person, animal, or object in motion, focusing on the overall form and energy rather than details.
  • Repeat this with different subjects to develop your ability to quickly capture what you observe around you.


5. Keep a Daily Observation Journal

Make observation a daily habit. Keep a sketchbook or journal on hand to document things that catch your eye as you develop your artistic observation skills.

Exercise:

  • Dedicate a few minutes each day to drawing or writing about something you observed. Maybe you noticed the way the afternoon light filtered through the leaves on a tree or the geometric patterns on a building.
  • Reflect on what makes these details stand out and how you might incorporate them into your art.

6. Slow Down and Be Present

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the beauty around us. Cultivating an artistic eye requires mindfulness and patience.

Exercise:

  • Spend time in a park, a museum, or a busy coffee shop. Challenge yourself to notice something new every five minutes—a unique color combination, an interesting shadow, or a striking texture. Sketch or jot down your observations to reinforce your discoveries.


Final Thoughts

Developing an artistic eye is a journey that takes time and practice. As you consistently complete the exercises above, you’ll not only improve your artistic skills but also gain a new perspective on the world. Remember, art is as much about seeing as it is about creating.

Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your skills, our private art lessons provide personalized guidance to help you develop your artistic talents.. Call or email us to learn more or book your first session.

by
Rachel Hodis

Exploring Art History Through Lessons

Exploring Art History Through Lessons

Art history is a fascinating subject that tells the story of human creativity across cultures and centuries. By incorporating art history into art lessons, students not only learn the techniques and skills needed to create their own masterpieces but also gain a deeper understanding of the world around them, and the state of art today.


Bringing Techniques to Life with Historical Context

Art history provides a helpful backdrop for understanding artistic techniques. Learning about the Impressionists, for example, reveals why artists like Monet and Renoir experimented with light and color in new ways. Studying Cubism with its bold lines and shapes helps students see how Picasso and Braque challenged convention. By introducing art movements alongside hands-on projects, students gain insight into the “why” behind the methods they’re learning.

  • Lesson Idea: Pair a discussion about Renaissance frescoes with a fun experiment using plaster and paint to mimic the fresco technique.
  • Learning Outcome: Students learn about materials and the processes used to create the masterpieces we still admire today.


Inspiring Creativity through Famous Artworks

Famous artworks are more than just beautiful; they can give us clues about the artist, their motivations, and the time they lived in. Discussing the stories behind iconic pieces like van Gogh’s Starry Night gives students a more complete sense of the art and its impact. These stories can inspire students to embrace their own unique perspectives and learn how to create art that reflects them.

Encourage students to analyze these works, asking questions like: 

  • What emotions do you feel looking at this artwork?
  • What might the artist have been thinking or feeling?
  • How would you add emotion to your art?


Exploring Art Styles across Cultures

Art history is also helpful for exploring different cultures. Students can delve into the vibrant patterns of African textiles, the intricate details of Islamic calligraphy, or the serene landscapes of Japanese ukiyo-e prints. By learning about art forms from around the globe, students develop an understanding of the history of different cultures and how geography, major events, and values impacted art, from the materials used to the subject of the works created.

  • Lesson Idea: Learn about Navajo sandpaintings, discuss their cultural significance, and observe common symbols in Navajo art. Encourage students to think about what symbols they might use to represent their own values or experiences. Then, using colored sand, powdered chalk, or dyed salt, have students sketch a simple design on sturdy paper or canvas. Using glue, students can carefully apply sand to bring their designs to life. This lesson is meant to be inspired by, not a replication of, ceremonial practices. Emphasize respect for the sacred nature of the traditional art form.
  • Learning Outcome: Students explore the connection between art and culture, learn about Navajo traditions, and create symbolic artwork.


Connecting Art and History to Today

Art history lessons provide a foundation for understanding modern art and design. Students can trace the evolution of styles, seeing how the past influences contemporary creations. This connection helps young artists understand that their work is part of an ongoing narrative, inspiring them to contribute their voices to the ever-growing world of art. 

Why Choose Hodis Learning & Music?

At Hodis Learning & Music, we’re passionate about making art history an engaging and enriching part of art instruction. Our tailored art lessons can integrate historical context along with practical techniques and creative exploration. Call or email us today to learn more about our art lessons.

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