Full Time Program

An artist paints a portrait in a dimly lit studio. A woman in white poses on a chair, while another person stands near another canvas. The artist holds a palette with vibrant colors, focused on their work.

An artist paints a portrait of a woman sitting on a platform in an art studio. The studio has large windows, an easel, and various art supplies scattered around. A dark curtain hangs on the wall behind the platform.

Become a Full-time Student at GLAFA

The full-time curriculum starts simply, alternating multiple short exercises with time-intensive projects. It is designed to train the eye and mind as efficiently as possible without wasting time on unnecessarily elaborate paintings. Students will progress only when they have shown an understanding and proficiency of each step.

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If you would like to start a conversation regarding your artist goals, please email us at info@greatlakesacademyoffineart.com

Syllabus & Schedule

Figure studies are from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm every day. Afternoons consist of a systematic progression starting with Charles Bargue copies, mastering and rendering form through simple shapes, and simple casts through more advanced casts. Most of what is foundational resides in black and white studies; drawing, form, value relationships, and edges. This part of the course is approximately the first two years.

Once the students have met the standards required, they progress to color in the figure and through still lifes and portraiture. The senior year consists of a series of master-level projects geared towards each specific graduate’s independence, as well as the creation of a solid portfolio.

An artist's studio with a still life painting on an easel. The painting depicts a white sculpture, a vase with flowers, and a cloth on a wooden shelf. The dimly lit room has high ceilings and various art supplies scattered around.

Instructors will be firmly honest in their critiques and expect hard work and commitment, but will also pour all of their knowledge and experience into their teaching to give students the best possible education.

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Student’s Work

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A painting depicts a wooden puzzle comprising interlocking cross and sphere pieces on a cube-shaped platform. Light casts shadows, enhancing the contrast between the puzzle and the warm brown background.