My Teaching Method and Philosophy

I teach because artists who want to paint in a representative manner need to understand the visual language. My approach to teaching is based on knowledge passed down from artist to artist and I teach from that background of good instruction I received in New York.

Art is not magic and great art does not just happen. My class is not for the art student who wants social time or fun time. My class is designed for the student who is tired of going to class and not learning anything, or learning very little. Art can be taught.

After years of frustration after completing my art degree, I went to New York to study and found the training I needed. And so I understand the artistic hunger for good instruction and I don’t waste time in my class with unnecessary gimmicks or tricks. I teach the fundamentals that all artists need and can use regardless of style or subject matter. I do not teach my students to copy what is before them but rather to respond to, to interpret, the subject.

I use the still life and live models to teach my students to see and think in an artistic manner and to develop their aesthetic taste. Observation from life, not photos, is how your eyes, your mind, and your hand can develop artistic honesty.

– Charles Y. Walls

Comments from Students

"Did I mention how much I am learning from you? Did I mention how much I am enjoying it??? Thank you for being a wonderful instructor and a good friend. Even though I am always slammed with 3-D contract work and unable to paint daily as I would like, this class is really giving me a feeling of accomplishment."
--- Mozelle F.

"I have learned so much, Charles, and I look forward to what will come next, I know its miles on the brush. Just never thought it would be such a long trip for me. Thanks for your presence in my life."
--- Christy M.

"I love painting with all my classmates under your lead and feel so much better about myself after seeing my progress. I want to thank you and let you know how much I appreciate you being such a great teacher."
--- Amber S.

"Thank you so much for the wonderful workshop last weekend, I’m so glad I attended. I learned many good things. Thanks for sharing your knowledge."
--- Julie P.

"I am amazed at how many of the little insights to come from your instruction have remained with me, and I feel like we have only scratched the surface! You are a great instructor as well as a gifted artist."
--- Carol D.