The North Carolina Academy of Art is a small and dynamic center dedicated to the training of artists through the combination of intense observation with advanced craft skills. The curriculum derives from the classical-realist tradition rooted in the 19th century (most particularly exemplified by the French Academies in the teaching of master painters like Gérôme, Bonnat and Carlos Duran) but also addresses the creative and professional position of the artist in a contemporary environment.
It is the view of this Academy that throughout the 20th century prominent movements of art have steadily drawn attention (and teaching) away from close observation of the material world and the acquisition of strong technical skills, to a position where cohesive artistic thought is inexorably fragmented by the urge towards greater individual expression.
The Academy therefore provides students with the opportunity to explore distinctive aspects of their chosen subject through the development of considerable powers of draftsmanship, direct study of works of the Old Masters and a deep, practical understanding of the materials and methods of the artist. By this means, and through the resulting identification of clear artistic objectives, students acquire creative self-confidence, visual understanding and subtle and precise powers of description.
Study at the Academy centers upon the importance of drawing from life as a means to gaining skill in painting. Through intense observation students acquire a visual literacy that enables them to interpret humanist values in their work, and, ultimately, seek to create a work of universal relevance.
The program, like that of the French Academies, is based upon systematic progression through the classical disciplines, interpreting the basic elements of composition, form, color harmony and expression. Advancement to each level of study is dependent upon successful completion of the previous level. In this way, the program is carefully matched to each individual and not imposed in a ‘study group’ context.
[Via North Carolina Academy of Art]
School Info
Type: On-site
Program(s): Courses, Workshops, Part-time
Medium(s) Taught: Drawing, Painting
Instructor(s): Osiris Rain, Mark Gucciardi
Tuition: Varies by course of study
Financial Aid: None
Contact Info
Email: contact@ncacademyofart.com
Website: http://www.ncacademyofart.com/
3224-B Benard Ave.
Charlotte, N.C. 28206
Phone: 704.604.4195
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