Tag Archive for: painting

Fine Art And Mental Health: Boost Your Well-Being

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Fine Art And Mental Health: Boost Your Well-Being

Fine Art And Mental Health: Boost Your Well-Being

Fine art has always been a part of human culture and has been used for centuries to express emotions, communicate ideas, and tell stories. But did you know that art can also have a positive impact on mental health? In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of art for mental health and how it can be used to boost your well-being.


Develop a Sense of Control and Agency

One of the most significant benefits of art is its ability to provide a sense of control and agency. Creating art allows individuals to explore and express their emotions, thoughts, and experiences in a way that feels authentic and meaningful to them. This can be especially helpful for individuals who struggle with verbal communication or feel like they don’t have control over their mental health. By engaging in the creative process, individuals can gain a greater sense of self-awareness and empowerment, which can help to improve mental health outcomes.


Relax and Reduce Stress

Art can also provide a way to relax and reduce stress. Creating art is an immersive experience that requires focus and concentration, which can help individuals to let go of worries and anxieties. Additionally, research has shown that engaging in creative activities can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can help to reduce feelings of anxiety and tension.


Increase Self-Esteem and Self-Worth

Another benefit of art is its ability to increase self-esteem and self-worth. When individuals create something that they are proud of, it can be incredibly empowering and validating. This can be especially true for individuals who struggle with negative self-talk or low self-esteem. By engaging in the creative process and creating something beautiful, individuals can gain a greater sense of self-worth and confidence, which can help to improve their mental health.


Opportunities for Social Connection

Art can also be a form of social connection and community building. Engaging in art lessons, classes, or workshops can provide an opportunity for individuals to connect with others who share their interests and passions. This can be especially helpful for individuals who feel isolated or disconnected from others. By participating in art lessons, classes, or workshops, individuals can build relationships and find a sense of belonging, which can be incredibly beneficial for their mental health.


Summary

The benefits of art for mental health are numerous and far-reaching. Whether it’s through painting, drawing, sculpting, or any other form of creative expression, art can provide a sense of control, relaxation, self-esteem, and social connection that can be incredibly supportive of mental health. If you’re looking for a way to support your own mental health, or that of a loved one, consider incorporating art into your self-care routine. You may be surprised at how much it can help.


Advance Your Fine Art Skills with Tailored Art Lessons!

Hodis Learning & Music provides expert art instruction at competitive rates. Our tailored, individualized approach to art lessons provides students with the opportunity to flourish in their studies while connecting with a kind, expert art teacher. Contact us to learn more or schedule your first session!

Art History and its Influence on Today’s Artists

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Art History and its Influence on Today’s Artists

Art History and its Influence on Today's Artists

Art has been an integral part of human history for thousands of years, reflecting the values, beliefs, and cultural heritage of various societies. From ancient civilizations like Egypt and Greece to the Renaissance and beyond, art has undergone countless transformations, each with its own distinct style, techniques, and influences. Today, the rich art history of the past few millennia continues to shape and inspire contemporary artists, and plays an important role in modern day art lessons.

 

Art history; ancient Egyptian art.

The Influence of Ancient Art

One of the earliest and most influential styles of art is ancient Egyptian art, which dates back thousands of years. The art of ancient Egypt was characterized by its use of symbolism and representation, with images and figures often serving as a representation of religious and cultural beliefs. The art of ancient Greece was similarly influential, characterized by its realism and attention to detail, which have had a lasting impact on the development of Western art.

 

Art history; the Renaissance art painting.

The Renaissance and Beyond

The Renaissance, which took place between the 14th and 17th centuries, was a time of great cultural, intellectual, and artistic renewal, and saw the rise of artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. The art of the Renaissance was characterized by its realism and attention to detail, which had a profound influence on the development of modern art.

 

Art history; expressionist art painting.

The Art of the Modern Era

In the 19th and 20th centuries, the art world underwent a major transformation, with the rise of modern movements like Impressionism, Expressionism, and Abstract Expressionism. Some artists from the Modern Era include Van Gogh, O’Keeffe, and Picasso. These movements sought to challenge traditional conventions of art and explore new forms of expression, and continue to influence contemporary artists to this day.

 

Art history; contemporary art painting.

The Influence on Contemporary Artists and Art Lessons

Today, the history of art continues to influence and inspire contemporary artists, with many artists exploring and referencing various styles and movements from the past. This is especially true in art lessons, where students are introduced to the rich history of art and the various styles and techniques that have shaped the development of modern art. By learning about the history of art and its various styles, students are able to gain a deeper appreciation for the art form, and are better equipped to understand and create their own works of art.


Summary

In conclusion, the history of art is a rich and fascinating journey, reflecting the cultural, intellectual, and artistic development of human societies. From ancient civilizations to the modern era, art has undergone countless transformations, each with its own unique style and influences. And as art continues to evolve, the history of art will remain an important source of inspiration and guidance for artists and students alike.


Begin Taking Art Lessons Today!

Immerse yourself in the rich history of art and hone your skills with an expert art teacher today! Art lessons at Hodis Learning & Music don’t just focus on the technical aspect of art; our art teachers also delve into art history to bring students a greater appreciation of mediums, styles, and art as a whole. Learn more or schedule your first session by calling or emailing us today.

The Benefits of Art Education for Children

The Benefits of Art Education for Children

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The Benefits of Art Education for Children

The Benefits of Art Education for Children

Art education can play a vital role in a child’s development, offering a multitude of benefits that can help them grow into well-rounded individuals. From promoting creativity and to building fine motor skills, art education provides a well-rounded approach to learning that can help children excel academically and personally. In this blog, we’ll explore the many benefits of art education and how it can help children thrive.

Benefits of Art Education

Creativity

Art provides children with the opportunity to explore their imaginations. This helps them think creatively outside the box and come up with new, innovative ideas.

Self-Expression

Art allows children to express themselves non-verbally, which can be especially helpful for those who find it difficult to articulate their feelings.

Fine Motor Skills

Drawing, painting, and other art activities help children to develop their fine motor skills, which can improve their writing and other tasks that require dexterity.

Confidence

As children learn and improve their art skills, they gain confidence in their abilities, which can improve their overall self-esteem. Check out other mental health benefits provided by art in this article.

Cultural Awareness

Learning about different styles of art and the history of art can help children develop an appreciation for different cultures and perspectives.

Critical Thinking

Art encourages students to think critically and make decisions about colors, shapes, and other design elements. This can help them to develop problem-solving skills that will help them in other areas of life.

Relaxation

Engaging in art activities can be a relaxing and therapeutic experience for children, providing a way to de-stress and unwind.

 

Overall, learning art can have a positive impact on children’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development.


Begin Taking Art Lessons Today!

At Hodis Learning & Music, we provide art education for all ages and skill-levels. Some of the mediums we teach include painting, photography, illustration, and more! Learn more or schedule your first session by calling or emailing us today.

10 Fun and Easy Art Projects for Kids to Try at Home

10 Fun and Easy Art Projects for Kids to Try at Home

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10 Fun and Easy Art Projects for Kids to Try at Home

10 Fun and Easy Art Projects for Kids to Try at Home

Looking for fun and easy art projects for your kids to do at home? Look no further! In this blog post, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions for 10 art projects that are perfect for children and can be done with materials commonly found around the house. So let’s get started!

1. Paper Plate Animals

Materials: Paper plates, scissors, glue, markers or crayons

Instructions: Use markers or crayons to color the animal. Use scraps of paper or construction paper to add details such as eyes, ears, and a nose.

2. Salt Painting

Materials: Table salt, white glue, watercolor paint, paper

Instructions: Draw a picture on a piece of paper with white glue. Sprinkle salt over the glue and shake off the excess. Once the glue has dried, use watercolor paint to paint over the salt, and watch as the colors spread.

3. Marble Painting

Materials: Marbles, paint, paper, a shoe box or box with high sides

Instructions: Pour some paint into the bottom of a box. Drop marbles into the box and roll them around to cover them in paint. Carefully place a piece of paper in the box on top of the marbles, and gently rock the box back and forth to make the marbles roll around and create a painting.

4. Vegetable Printing

Materials: Vegetables, paint, paper

Instructions: Cut vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and celery in half. Dip the cut side into paint and stamp onto paper to create unique prints.

5. Paper Bag Puppets

Materials: Paper bags, markers or crayons, construction paper, glue

Instructions: Use markers or crayons to color the paper bags. Use construction paper to create eyes, ears, and a mouth. Glue the pieces onto the bag to create a fun puppet.

6. Bubble Wrap Printing

Materials: Bubble wrap, paint, paper

Instructions: Cut a piece of bubble wrap into the desired shape. Dip it in paint and then press it onto a piece of paper to create a unique pattern.

7. Tissue Paper Collage

Materials: Tissue paper, glue, construction paper

Instructions: Cut or tear the tissue paper into small pieces. Use glue to stick the tissue paper onto a piece of construction paper to create a beautiful collage.

8. Sponge Painting

Materials: Sponges, paint, paper

Instructions: Cut sponges into desired shapes, such as circles or squares. Dip them in paint and then press them onto a piece of paper to create a unique painting.

9. Bead Jewelry

Materials: Beads, string, scissors

Instructions: Cut a length of string and thread beads onto it to create a beautiful bracelet or necklace.

10. Sticker Collage

Materials: Stickers, paper

Instructions: Use stickers to create a fun and colorful collage on a piece of paper.

 

There you have it – 10 fun and easy art projects that your kids will love! And the best part is that they can be done with materials that you likely already have at home. Get creative and have fun!


Unlock Your Creativity With An Expert Art Instructor

Is your child creative? Are they interested in art? Take their skills to the next level in private, 1-on-1 art lessons with our expert art teacher! Learn more or schedule your first session by calling or emailing us today.

Hodis Learning & Music Art Portfolio Workshop

Art Portfolio Workshop

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Sign Up Early And Save!

  • Sign up by March 14 to save $20 on your workshop.

Art Portfolio Workshop

Hodis Learning & Music Art Portfolio Workshop

Art Portfolio Workshop Overview

Attention all artists! Are you ready to take your skills to the next level? Whether you’re an amateur, aspiring art student, or professional, a curated art portfolio is essential to your success. It’s the key to tracking your progress, honing your craft, and presenting your work to the world.

When it comes to applying to art schools or seeking professional opportunities, a well-developed portfolio can make all the difference. With most top art schools accepting only a few select candidates, you need to stand out from the crowd. This applies to artists looking to showcase their work in galleries, shows, or residencies. No matter where you are on your artistic journey, a polished art portfolio is a must-have.


Why Choose Us

Our Art Portfolio Workshop offers personalized one-on-one instruction with a professional artist and educator who understands the ins and outs of the application process. In just four weeks, you’ll learn the skills you need to build a comprehensive art portfolio that showcases your unique style and talent. You’ll also gain the expertise to edit and perfect future portfolios, giving you a competitive edge in the art world.

In this workshop, you get to set the schedule and pace for your sessions. Our expert educator will even meet with you at your home, so sessions are comfortable and convenient for you.


Sign Up Early & Save

Don’t let the opportunity to create a stunning art portfolio pass you by. Enroll in Hodis Learning & Music’s Art Portfolio Workshop today and take the first step towards achieving your artistic dreams.

Reserve your spot in this workshop by March 14 and save $20 on the listed price! If you want more information, read about our workshop here. Contact us today at (626) 227-1149 or visit hodislearning.com/contact to reserve your spot in the Art Portfolio Workshop today!

2023 Personalized Summer Programs: tutoring, music lessons, and art lessons

Hodis Learning & Music Summer Programs

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Hodis Learning & Music Summer Programs

 

2023 Personalized Summer Programs: tutoring, music lessons, and art lessons

 

Summer Programs Overview

It’s never too early to start thinking about summer! Hodis Learning & Music is excited to share a sneak peek of our summer programs so you can start planning for the months ahead. 

Each program takes place one-on-one with our expert tutors and educators. Lessons are always tailored to the student and their unique learning style and skill-level. Now let’s break down exactly what programs you can choose from!

Standardized Test Prep Workshop

Prepare for the SAT, ACT, GRE, ISEE, or SSAT with focused, individualized tutoring to maximize your chance of acceptance to your dream school!

Personal Statement Workshop

Learn how to craft a standout personal statement to increase your chance of acceptance to college or private school.

Foreign Language Workshop

Learn Spanish, Mandarin, or Korean in this fun, interactive workshop! Appropriate for anyone from beginners to advanced speakers.

Music School Preparation and Audition Training Workshop

Polish your application and perfect your audition piece with professional musicians who attended schools such as USC Thornton School of Music, Berklee College of Music, and Oberlin Conservatory!

Art Portfolio Workshop

Gain skills, brush up on technique, and learn how to compile a stellar portfolio in this art portfolio workshop. Appropriate for all levels from beginners to prospective art school students to professionals.


The Hodis Learning Advantage

Some perks about signing up for our summer programs:

  • Sessions take place in a focused, one-on-one environment either in-home or a public, convenient location like a public library or coffee shop.
  • Workshops are led by expert educators who have years of experience in their chosen field.
  • Lessons are tailored to your unique needs, specific skill-level, and individual learning style.
  • Flexible scheduling. Students aren’t locked into a specific number of sessions. While we do have suggestions for the number of and frequency of sessions, you get to set the schedule that works best for you.


Sign Up For Our Personalized Summer Education Programs

Learn more about our fun, educational summer programs here! Plus, when you sign up today, you can save $40 on the listed price.

Why HLM Art Instruction Might Be Right for You. Read more now! Image of an artist holding a palette and paintbrush with a smile on her face.

Why HLM Art Instruction Might Be Right for You

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Why HLM Art Instruction Might Be Right for You

 

Why HLM Art Instruction Might Be Right for You. Read more now! Image of an artist holding a palette and paintbrush with a smile on her face.

 

You don’t want to invest a lot of money in lessons yet

Perhaps you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics, but you don’t want to spend a ton of money or get locked into a semester-long class. Our art instruction is offered at some of the lowest market rates, but that doesn’t mean you’re sacrificing quality instruction. Hodis Learning & Music (HLM) art instructors are professionals with years of experience, and have degrees in their field. Additionally, instructors meet with you one-on-one and can teach in your home, so lessons are comfortable and not intimidating. 


You have a child who likes art and you want them to have more instruction

Maybe your child is getting bored with coloring books, or perhaps they were gifted a new camera and want to start taking photos. If this sounds familiar, HLM art instruction might be a great way to get your child creating and learning in a more focused, educational way. We have instructors for a variety of mediums and age-levels, and lessons are designed specifically for your child’s age and skill level. Plus, any new art materials you buy for your child are certain to get used on a regular basis with their HLM instructor!


You don’t have art lessons in school

Perhaps your student doesn’t have art lessons in school, or they aren’t able to fit it into their schedule. Art instruction with HLM can provide your student the opportunity to hone their skills, or learn brand new ones, outside of the classroom. With HLM, you get to set your own schedule. While we do bill on a month-to-month basis, you can determine how many lessons you want in that month, so sessions fit into your schedule.


Or, the lessons in school aren’t enough

Maybe your student needs extra attention outside of school art classes so they can develop their skills and technique. Whether you are simply looking for that extra instruction, or your student is considering applying to selective art schools, HLM instructors can help your student excel at the next level. With many instructors having gone through the rigorous application process themselves, they know what goes into an application and portfolio for art school. 


Take 1-on-1 Art Lessons With an Expert Art Instructor

To learn more about our art instructors and what they teach, visit our website at hodislearning.com or call (626) 227-1149 to schedule your first session today!

Blog post! Artist series: Georgia O'Keeffe. Image shows O'Keefe's famous painting, Pedernal and Red Hills.

Artist Series: Georgia O’Keeffe

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Artist Series: Georgia O’Keeffe

Blog post! Artist series: Georgia O'Keeffe. Image shows O'Keefe's famous painting, Pedernal and Red Hills.

Georgia O’Keeffe was born on November 15, 1887. She grew up on a farm in Wisconsin and was one of seven children.

 

Photo of Georgia O'Keeffe

 

After graduating high school in 1905, she studied at the Art Institute of Chicago and the Art Students League of New York. During that time she learned traditional painting techniques.

Four years later she experimented with abstract charcoal drawing after studying the ideas of Arthur Wesley Dow, a revolutionary American artist.

 

Artworks by Georgia O'Keeffe: New York Street with Home (left) and a charcoal drawing (right).

 

By the mid-1920s, Georgia O’Keeffe was highly regarded as a successful artist, known for her paintings of New York.

 

Deers Skull with Pedernal

 

In 1929 O’Keeffe took her first trip to New Mexico, where she found inspiration and beauty in the desert landscape and Native American and Hispanic culture. This inspired her painting for the next two decades.

 

Georgia O'Keeffe's painting, Pedernal and Red Hills

 

Georgia O’Keeffe died in Santa Fe, New Mexico on March 6, 1986. She was 98 years old. She is one of the most influential artists of the 20th century and is known for her contributions to modern art.

 

 

Sources: https://www.okeeffemuseum.org/about-georgia-okeeffe/

 

Learn How to Paint Like O’Keeffe

Schedule a private art lesson with our expert art teacher!

Van Gogh's Starry Night Painting

Artist Series: Vincent van Gogh

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Artist Series: Vincent van Gogh

 

Blog post! Artist series: Vincent van Gogh. Image shows van Gogh's famous painting, Starry night.

 

This summer we’re starting an artist series where we’ll highlight a famous artist in a blog post! We’ll share facts and some of their most famous works in each post. This week we’re starting with Vincent van Gogh!

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Vincent van Gogh was a Dutch painter born in 1853. 

While he is now highly-regarded as an influential artist and post-impressionist painter, he did not spend his whole life as an artist, and only sold one painting in his lifetime.

 

Van Gogh's Starry Night Painting. Learn how to paint with in our private art lessons!

 

Van Gogh began his career as an apprentice at an art dealership. It wasn’t until 1880 that he began to draw, mostly teaching himself. When he did paint, he used watercolor. 

In 1881 he met and worked with other artists and eventually began oil painting.

 

Vincent van Gogh's paintings, Sunflowers (left) and self-portrait (right). Learn how to paint with one of our expert art teachers!

 

Throughout the last decade of his life, he studied different types of art, traveled, met other artists, and used nature as inspiration for his work. During this time he created some of his most famous paintings.

 

Vincent van Gogh's painting, The Bedroom. Learn how to paint with one of our expert art teachers!

 

Van Gogh is best known for his post-impressionist work characterized by bright, dramatic brush strokes.

 

Vincent van Gogh's painting, Irises. Learn how to paint with one of in our private art lessons!

 

He is also remembered as a lonely, misunderstood artist who struggled with mental health.

When van Gogh died in 1890, he was almost completely unknown, but now is one of the most well-known and influential artists of all time.

Sources: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Vincent-van-Gogh 

 

Learn How to Paint Like Van Gogh

Schedule an art lesson with an expert art teacher at Hodis Learning & Music today!

Building Your Art Portfolio for Art School Applications. New blog post! A photo of an art student painting and another art student creating a ceramic bowl.

Building Your Art Portfolio for Art School Applications

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Building Your Art Portfolio for Art School Applications

Building Your Art Portfolio for Art School Applications. New blog post! A photo of an art student painting and another art student creating a ceramic bowl.

If you’re a prospective art school applicant, you might already know about or even have your own art portfolio. After all, your portfolio is 90% of your application to schools, according to HLM educator and professional artist Gwen Hollingsworth. Gwen graduated from the UCLA School of Arts and Architecture in 2020 and now works professionally as a painter and art instructor in Los Angeles.

While UCLA was her chosen school, she is also familiar with the application process for the Art Center College of Design, Yale School of Art, Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), and California Institute of Arts. She can also help review art portfolios for high school programs such as LA County High School for the Arts.

We spoke with Gwen about the importance of your art portfolio, when you should have one compiled, how a professional review can prepare you to speak about your work, and what a portfolio review workshop might look like.

Q: What are the steps students must take to apply to art school?

  • A: It depends on the school, but most include a portfolio, a personal statement, and an application. It’s important to make sure you have a strong body of work that is continuous and cohesive. You’ll also need a good statement describing your work and practice and why you want to attend the school you’re applying to.

Q: How important is it to have a developed and polished art portfolio?

  • A: Your portfolio will be 90% of your consideration for art schools. Keep in mind though that while your portfolio is important, they’re also not expecting professional-level work. They really want to see that you have potential.

Q: What goes into developing and polishing an art portfolio?

  • A: It depends a bit on the schools you’re applying to because different schools have different requirements. However, for every school, it’s important to show a story and progression in your portfolio. You want to make sure all pieces of work are tied in and connected. It’s also important to craft your technique and show you know what you’re doing and that you do it well.

Q: How can you specifically help students develop their art portfolios?

  • A: I have a lot of experience talking about and critiquing artwork. I’ll ask students questions about why they’re making what they’re making. It’s important to be able to talk about your work. I also have experience with the application process and getting into a selective program. I know what schools are looking for and can help students meet those requirements. I can also help students refine and perfect their technical skills.

Q: How will students be better off after working with you on their art portfolios?

  • A: They’ll have a more realistic understanding of the application process. I also want to make sure they aren’t making random pieces. Instead, they’ll have a body of work that’s more put together and ready for review by an academic committee.

Q: What kinds of students, in terms of level and subject area, can you help?

  • A: I can help students of all levels and in different mediums, including painting, illustration, sculpture, ceramics, photography, and TV & Film Editing.

Read more about the Hodis Learning & Music Art Portfolio Workshop, which we’ll be offering soon! And learn more about Gwen or schedule a session with her today.