Lenore Hietkamp 

Nicholas is probably the best art instructor I've ever had. I've been painting in acrylics for 30 years, and have taken lots of art classes and even PhD studies in art history – so I think I know what I'm talking about.  I've taken four of his classes now (the figure painting ones), and am signed up to take the Style class. I love his approach, which I describe as master-apprentice –he teaches how he paints, not how we want to paint, so that we first learn how to see and do. He then encourages students to explore their own style further (that's why he created his Style class). So I learned to not be afraid to paint compositions that I observe in life, subjects that make real paintings, instead of what people think artists ought to paint these days –some type of self-expression, some confusing mix of anguished abstraction and sweet children. I learned that what I see can be composed, can be caught in a perfect harmony of colour, line, shape, texture, light. And that such a composition can become translated onto canvas by my passion for movement of hand and paint. The possibility of such a transformation is what will keep me searching and painting, and for that pursuit I have Nicholas to thank.

Norma Pepper

I can't tell you how many times I have looked at my painting ... I cannot believe I had a hand in doing that! It was a wonderful class, very relaxed, fun, and I felt I took so much away with me. I cannot wait to start a painting at home now using what I learned at the class. 

I would for sure take another course with you, without hesitation. You have a gift for teaching and explaining the why's and how's so easily.

I loved your choice of music too – bonus!

Pat Tranter

Thank you for an awesome weekend.  My canvas is such an amazing source of pride for me, and I am grateful for all your help and tireless encouragement.

Nick, the huge amount of personal attention, group attention and your step-by-step instructions as you worked on your canvas (and ours) was invaluable.  The music, singing and camaraderie were wonderful.  I learned a great deal and a new way of painting and looking at art.  The entire session

was a great confidence builder.  It was truly a weekend to remember and I thank you.

Taste of the Figure Student Testimonials