Mendocino Art Center, Mendocino, Ca
Dear Brian
Thank you!
What a great experience it was to study with you in Mendocino this weekend.
Thank you for introducing us to the use of alkyd oil paints. Your step by step demonstrations were clear and concise. It's such a versatile medium, and perfectly complements all the traditional oil painting methods. It's so helpful to learn a more efficient technique to add greater luminosity and richness to our paintings.
It was a pleasure to see you achieve wide gradients of value and color, as well as understand how you develop sharp and soft edges to control how the positive and negative spaces interact.
I appreciate all the practice time you gave us each day to commit the lessons to memory.
Your generosity in candidly discussing your business experiences was so helpful. Learning your "lay of the land", and how to develop an ethical and positive working relationship with collectors, galleries, and publishers was invaluable. You anticipated and answered all the questions we had about how to develop a realistic approach to making a livelihood doing good work.
And not least, your memorable stories and contagious sense of humor made the hours fly by.
It was a real pleasure to be in your company, and meet a wonderful group of like minded artists.
I want to especially thank you and the Mendocino Art Center for giving me scholarship assistance. I'm so grateful you made it possible for me to attend.
Sincerely,
Walter Denn
To: Amanda McClure, Executive Director of The Quinlan Visual Art Center
Hi Amanda,
I would like to highly recommend and request the Quinlan Arts Center host an
oil painting workshop with Brian Davis. He is an amazing painter.
I recently took Brian's awesome 5-day fine art oil painting workshop at the
Mendocino Arts Center in northern California. I traveled from my home in
Thomaston, Georgia. The workshop was well worth the time and expense
involved to travel across country. It was the best painting workshop I have
taken. His paintings are absolutely beautiful. I feel like I can't say
enough good things about Brian. He has truly impressed me as a person and as
an artist. So I'd love for him to teach his workshop closer to home.
Brian is a master painter and widely recognized for his floral paintings and
posters. He is a veteran professional and has been making his living from
fine art for over 30 years. His paintings are in the collections of seven
museums including The Huntington Library, the Los Angeles County Museum of
Art, and the New York Botanical Garden.
Back in the 1980's, Brian produced a series of fine art posters of calla
lilies and other flowers that were very popular. Maybe you know someone
who had one of these posters in their home.
Brian readily shares the techniques he has developed over the years to make
him a successful professional artist. I think just as importantly he shares
the attitude and mindset it takes to be a successful professional artist.
He is a kind man who works just as well with beginning and advanced
students. There was a beginning student in Brian's first Mendocino who is a
retired executive. The student took the workshop without ever having picked
up a paint brush before. Brian has been his only teacher. Now the student
is doing really well and creates wonderful paintings that he is very proud
of and even has a gallery interested in carrying his work.
Brian gives so much information and help it is well worth the investment of
time and money to attend his workshop just once, but his classes are so rich
in information that it isn't possible to absorb it all in one session. It
is kind of like trying to drink out of fire hose. This is why I'd love to
see him come to Quinlan Arts Center so I can take his workshop again.
Brian is truly the best art instructor I have taken. One of the continuing
benefits of taking his course is that he really wants to see his students
succeed so he encourages us to email him with questions. I have emailed him
with questions a number of times both before the workshop and after the
workshop. He has always answered within a day or two and gives helpful
information. He is a kind, patient and generous man. I am not sure how he
answers all the emails with thoughtful answers but he does.
I am not the only one who really enjoyed Brian's Mendocino workshop. Here
is a link for the workshop feedback from other students of Brian's previous
workshops. Now that I have taken one of his workshops, I can honestly say
all the comments on the feedback page are true.
http://www.briandavisart.com/feedback.shtml
Also, I contacted Brian and here is a list of references of other workshop
presenters since I'd love for him to teach in Georgia. Here are the
references he sent me:
Phyllis Woods at the Mendocino Art Center www.mendocinoartcenter.org, or
Vince Fazio at The Sedona Arts Center vfazio@sedonaartscenter.com or
Ora Sorensen at www.orasorensengallery.com. Ora is setting up the workshop
at the Old School Square Cultural Arts Center in Delray Beach Fl,
www.oldschool.org.
You can contact Brian Davis at gr8painter@hotmail.com or better yet at
775-750-9824. He lives in Reno, Nevada. His website is
http://briandavisart.com/index.shtml
Finally, here is a link for one of the many galleries that carries his work.
It has a great online collection of images of his originals
http://www.lovesemporium.com/catalog.php?cid=73
If you have any further questions I'll be glad to answer what I can.
I really hope it will work out to offer one of Brian's workshops at the
Quinlan Arts Center. Maybe they could even become a series. Mendocino Art
Center has held five or six in the last two years. They are very popular.
Thank you so much for your time and considering Brian Davis for an upcoming
workshop at the Quinlan Arts Center.
Respectfully,
Lisa Ulricksen
Arts Desire workshop, Vancouver, Washington
Hi Brian,
I would like to thank you for the fantastic workshop! I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to take your workshop at Arts Desire. You provided the class with so much information and instruction packed into one week which must have taken you years to acquire.
Your teaching style is extremely valuable. You are able to break down your painting process in manageable pieces so that students at all skill levels are able to comprehend your painting approach. Your discussions and demonstrations on color values and luminosity were so beneficial. You also provided us with real examples of problems and solutions for solving them. Your practical business sense and advice is informative and relevant to the selling of our art.
Through your encouragement and instruction I have been inspired to look at and paint in a whole new way. I’m looking forward to taking your next workshop in the near future!
Thanks again and see you soon!
Cindy Lunde
Rlunde@q.com
Prairie Sun Worhshops, Alberta, Canada:
Dear Brian,
Thank you so much Brian my man, you have finally helped me to get it through my thick skull what has been the
burr under my saddle as a painter. Other amazing artist have taught the importance of values and I knew what they were talking about,
but I just could not seem to achieve the wider ranges of values through out the entire painting and just would get lost and the thrill was gone!
Many paintings got tossed to the way side out of pure frustration over values alone. Working hours on an area to get it just right
only to find that the area surrounding my new value had lost its value and the vicious circle turned into a total loss of interest and
another painting landed in the bone yard of unfinished art.
Now, thanks to you, I WILL NOT spend so much time reworking and correcting things that should have been
nailed down in the under painting with more accuracy. Oh, and not to mention no more wasting so much
paint and the best part is NOT wasting so much TIME! What a huge load off of my back.
I knew you where a great painter but you are also an amazing teacher to say the least.
All I can say is if someone is hung up on just about anything as a painter, they need to for sure be in one of your classes!
What else can I say? Well one thing is for sure, "I THANK YOU for changing my art forever and I am grateful to you sir, more than you can ever know!"
Bless you Brian, Thank you so much!
Pamela Bergen
The moment that I was stopped in my tracks by the luminosity and glow of a Brian Davis rose, I knew it was where I wanted to go with my art. As a watercolorist and new to oils, I was a bit nervous that I would not be able to keep up with what Brian had to teach. But not to worry. Brian made sure that I understood and could master his concepts, spending individual time with, not only me, but everyone in the workshop, to make sure that we fully grasped his technique. And, his technique is very effective. At times, he even worked with us long after hours; as long as a student needed help. I have attended many workshops and never had a teacher show so much concern and dedication to go to the extent that Brian did. Plus, the class was fun. The workshop had ten students, some beginners and some advanced. We all profited from what he taught.
Since returning home and practicing Brian’s techniques, I have had such a positive reaction to my art from fellow artists that I can say his workshop was worth 150% of the price. In fact, because of my artistic growth, several of my artist friends are very interested in attending a workshop of his and I want to take another as well. The more I get into the technique he taught, the more questions I have. I can see the value, the refinement, that a second workshop would provide.
Brian,
You have set me on the path of becoming an Oil Painter and I thank you so much for your mentoring and for a wonderful workshop. IT WAS THE BEST WORKSHOP EVER!
Luane Penrose
Mendocino Art Center:
Hi Brian,
I just wanted to drop you a note to thank you for how much I have enjoyed your workshops. I plan to attend another in the near future. Your information was clear and helpful for artists of any level. The week moved along so quickly, I hated for it to be over.
I have already applied the information that I received from you in practice and it has improved my flower painting skills ever so much!
As I mentioned in class my background was in accounting. I retired and have spent the last ten years living my passion which is painting. I am so fortunate to co-own a gallery and to share my love of art with others.
The reason that I attended your workshop is that I felt that I needed a bump to the next level and the workshop did the trick. I hope to return again and again for more information but also just for the joy of painting with you.
Take care, Joanne
Brian Davis has always been the king of flower painters in my book, so when I saw he was teaching a workshop at Mendocino Art Center this past July, I enrolled in the class. I loved it. Brian's process of bringing a painting to life really resonated with me. His practical ways of doing things make a lot of sense, and his willingness to share his knowledge of the art world was an extra bonus. So I am happy to recommend his classes in my newsletter.
Sandy Delehanty
I have been a long admirer of Brian Davis's work and when I found out he was teaching workshops, I immediately signed up. Learning his technique has brought my work to a whole new level.
Have a wonderful day, Gobind
Brian, I learned more in your class than any of the university classes or workshops I have taken. That is saying alot since I have a BA in art. Anyway thought you should know how much I appreciate you/ Judith
Sedona Arts Center:
"Brian Davis's luminous oil paintings are as pleasing to the eyes as mole sauce is pleasing to the taste buds. Thankfully Brian was humble and generous enough to share the key technical aspects that make his floral compositions glow. He did this with poise and an unwavering sense of humor. For this I am eternally grateful."
Thanks Brian.
Best,
Tade
I just finished the Brian Davis painting workshop on "Luminous Oils" given at the Sedona Art Center from June 21-25, 2010, and I would say it was the best workshop/class I have taken (and I have taken many). It inspired me to believe that my art career dreams would become reality. During the workshop, I was impressed by Brian's style of teaching, the technical content of the workshop, and the expertise he shared on the business side of art. He also gave us some foundational ideas about the character traits necessary to become an artist of excellence.
Brian's friendly and down-to-earth style of teaching brought us together as a learning community. We started out as strangers and left as friends and colleagues. He has a real ability to communicate his ideas in concrete ways. He used effective organization in his presentations. First, he laid a groundwork by giving us principles and pointers; then, he demonstrated his techniques by working on his own painting, so we could gain a practical understanding of what he was saying. After that, he had us apply these ideas by working on our own paintings. Finally, he checked with each student to see if he/she had questions or needed help. He was available throughout each session to consult with each of us individually.
I have followed the work of Brian Davis for years. I have not found a painter whose work I admired more. His gorgeous floral paintings are unique. I was so excited to take this workshop because I knew it was a chance to learn how he produced such beautiful luminous paintings. I was not disappointed. He generously shared his painting techniques with us, without reservation. His painting style is quite technical and time-consuming, yet he was able to impart the basic skills to each of us. As he pointed out, the techniques he uses could be applied equally well to portrait painting or other types of painting. The proof of his ability as an instructor was that each of us left with a beautiful painting. Completing the final details of the painting at home has given me the chance to internalize and process the instruction I received throughout the workshop. My friends and family are impressed with this new painting. They recognize, as I do, that my painting ability has reached a new level.
This Brian Davis workshop not only improved my technical painting skills, but provided invaluable real-life guidance in creating a successful career as a painter. Learning from an instructor who has been "in the trenches" as a working artist and who is now represented by over 60 galleries and has paintings hanging in 8 museums is completely different from taking a workshop from an academic instructor who may not be exhibiting at all. He shared with us the very instructive story of his own career, moving from working as an illustrator in Los Angeles to becoming a world-class fine artist whose work is sought after by galleries and individual patrons. He gave us numerous tips on dealing with galleries and gambits for networking.
Brian Davis shows you that it is not only innate talent but a strong work ethic that leads to the successful career that you envision for yourself. He dispels the notion that art is just fun. He reminds us that creating world-class art involves hard work, yet you are left with the understanding that if you have some basic artistic skills and are willing to put in the work, you can reach that high standard of excellence. Yet, even though he emphasized the need for hard work to produce outstanding art, this workshop was, in fact, fun, and we bonded as fellow artists and emerged as friends.
During the workshop, Brian Davis was constantly available for individual consultations and questions, even during lunch, and before and after the sessions. He was incredibly giving of his time and knowledge. He was more than willing to share the knowledge gained from his decades in the art world. After a workshop with Brian Davis, you are from that time on his student; incredibly, he offers himself as a mentor-a teacher with whom you can share future successes.
On a personal note, I have taught English as a lecturer at Arizona State University for several decades. During that time, I have served on committees evaluating the teaching skills of our teachers and participated in annual peer evaluations of the teaching skills on colleagues in our program. Coming from this background, I can state that Brian Davis is an extremely effective instructor. His workshop sessions are very well-organized. Most importantly, he is able to establish rapport with the students, so his instruction is meaningful. I strongly recommend that if you are considering taking one of his workshop that you take the plunge. You will not regret it.
For years, I have had a desire to take my painting beyond being just a hobby. I have wanted to have a successful professional career as a fine artist. I now see how to follow a path to reach that destination. I left this workshop with a new perspective. I felt as if I had experienced art as therapy, and, in fact, I gained a new image of myself. This workshop turned my dreams of a successful art career into achievable goals. It was a breakthrough for me.
Yours Truly,
Elaine Dehghanpisheh
________________________________________________________________________________________________
I changed to oil painting about a year ago from colored pencil after seeing Brian Davis’ paintings in a gallery. In the past, it had been my experience that your best results come from studying under an artist working in your medium with a style similar to that which you desire to attain.
Having taken workshops before, I have experienced the good, the bad, and the ugly. One of my oddest experiences was with a well-known artist who was adamant that it’s impossible to really make a living at art!
Brian is thorough, encouraging and willing to share readily from his vast body of experience. Any nerves I might have had quickly melted away as he is a delight to be around.
I feel as if I have jumped forward many years in my painting. I can’t wait to attend another one of Brian’s workshops. One of the unique things about Brian is that he has years of professional experience in the real art world. Many can give advice; however, Brian comes from a vast body of experience and a heart-felt desire to give back what knowledge he has amassed.
I can truly say that I am ruined for any other teacher! Brian’s workshop didn’t meet my expectations—it EXCEEDED them one-hundred fold!
Anyone who is desirous of improving their painting skills would do well to take Brian’s workshop. His down-to-earth insight and fantastic work ethic will truly change your painting experience from that time forward.
April Robbins-Hughes
Idaho
________________________________________________________________________________________________
Brian,
I can’t thank you enough for an incredible week of art. This feels like it changed my life and my art. I am looking at all of this with new eyes and a new attitude. You’ve made me a believer in possibilities and abilities that I have never seriously considered. Words can’t begin to describe this evolution. I hope some day to share with the world some wonderful art of my creation! I know I’ll be hack for another class. I wish you all the best in your endeavors and never doubt that you’re a GREAT teacher.
Eleanor Sullivan
Sierra Nevada College:
Brian,
Again Joan and I want to thank you for the week of instruction in your class. It was a real pleasure to watch a real artist work his magic and to be willing to share it with beginners like us. We are so lucky. You are an excellent teacher and we all learned a lot in a short time. I myself want to thank you for your kindness and encouragement in my drawings. I can honestly say that what ever drawing that I do from here on will be influenced by you.
Again from Joan and I, thank you. Charley
Corse Gallery and Atelier:
I hope there will be more times together in the future. This week reminds me of the movie ----"To Sir With Love'" --- how do you thank someone?! You changed our painting approach and in my case, I think you changed my life.
Thank you, Francene
Reno, Nevada
How do I put into words the lessons I've been taught by Brian Davis without sounding sappy. He is truly a master painter and teacher as well as peer, and a dear friend.
Realizing that my skill was at such an amateur level was a blow to my fragile ego. I had a passion to go beyond and literally had to dissolve my old art identity and start from scratch. I took notebook after notebook of notes, hours in his studio, studied books of the works of the great masters. I painted, he criticised. I worked harder. I realized that this man had priceless information to share through his problem solving approach to art making. My humility kept me in the learning mode. If ego gets in the way there is no room for growth.
Brian helped me to find my way and world class art is within me. I now know how to get there. I am so proud to call him "teacher." His problem solving methods have made him a true master painter. If one remains humble enough to listen and apply, he can master Brian's approach and become the artist that he dreams of being.
Cheryl Tangen
The Quinlan Vistual Arts Center, Gainsville, Gerogia
Dear Brian,
I am still "glowing", no pun intended (....well, maybe :) after attending your workshop in Georgia. I have been practicing my new skills and continue to work on our original white rose, hoping that in time it will have the same beauty and luminescence of your paintings.
I had never attended an art workshop before and was not sure what to expect. I was very pleasantly surprised to find you to be so informative, supportive and downright funny. The days just flew by. I am keeping my eyes on your website with the intention of taking another workshop with you in 2013.
Thanks again for sharing your inspiration, philosophy and talent. It was truly an experience I will never forget.
Sincerely,
Sally Painter
PS. At your encouragement, I went to Art Basel on Wednesday. There was a lot of interesting art, some exceptional and some downright crazy. But, I can honestly say that I did not see anything that compares to your paintings. You are in a league of your own.
Renee Hewitt, PhD
I REALLY LEARNED ALOT AND ENJOYED YOUR CLASS! I'm not as wordy as the lady that wrote the long letter on your workshop feedback but I agree completely with her comments. Keep up the great teaching.
Brian,
What an amazing talent you have! After spending a week at the Quinlan with you, I feel like I have been in the presence of art royalty! The colorful stories you shared of your illustrious life as an artist, businessman and entrepreneur in the art industry were captivating-like your artwork!
Being a busy, married mom of a 10 year old boy with a career as a traveling consultant, I was feeling selfish about taking the time to develop my artistic side by taking this class. As I pondered how to fit the class into our schedules the convenience of the Quinlan was a factor. The pictures of the luminous flowers kept drawing me back to your website. As I reviewed the comments on your web page from previous students I thought, if these comments are true, this should be an incredible experience! Convinced, I signed up the day of the class; fortunately, you welcomed me into the class along with the other students. On the first day as I listened to you talk about your past workshops and how we would always be your students, I was still a bit skeptical about how long the teacher-student relationship might last. By the end of the week, I was convinced you were sincere about wanting us to succeed. When I contacted you days after the class was over you were genuinely interested in helping me with my questions. You ARE the real deal!
Having played with acrylics, the idea of oil paint was scary territory for me. After your thorough instruction and demonstration of your tried and true techniques, I know that I will enjoy painting with oils; and, my painting will improve as I hone my skills. Thank you for spending time discussing the beginning basics to the business of art and everything in between. It has been over a month and I am still digesting the content of the class. As I prepare my studio for action, I am eager to set into motion the lessons learned now that the holidays are behind us.
Thank you for sharing your techniques and de-mystifying the process of making great paintings and getting them into galleries. Your patience, wisdom, knowledge, humor and encouragement all made the class so much fun!! Your teaching has inspired me to push myself to paint with patience. With practice, you have encouraged me that I can do this. I enjoyed every minute of class and look forward to the next time I can take another!
On a personal note, I want to thank you and the rest of the class for embracing the addition of my son, Lance in the afternoons. On my easel at home he left me a note, 'amazing!' on my rose underpainting.
I will forever be grateful that I signed up for the class; it was such a gift to learn how to paint from a master! Brian, I'm honored to be your student!
Cherie Robinson
Hello Brian, Happy New Year to you!
Thanks so much for the fun and information-packed workshop! Your willingness to share your career experiences and the business side of the art world were an added bonus that I found valuable. Your positive attitude gave me a much-needed energy shot in the arm. When I returned home I immediately submitted to three top national painting organizations -- and I was accepted into all three! Thanks for sharing your painting tips, your words of wisdom and enthusiasm!
Here's to a new year of happy painting!
Tammy Schlosser
If you are new painting or have never used oil paints, of which I was in both categories, I highly recommend this class. Initially, I was intimidated and thought only advanced students would be qualified to take this class. However, Brian is a wonderful instructor and I was able to produce a beautiful piece. His class will provide you the foundations for value painting, understanding the quality and care of your material and the business of being an artist. He was wonderful in sharing what he knows about producing such beautiful art. I will definitely be taking his classes again as there is such much to absorb. Thanks Brian for your time and wisdom.
Elizabeth Ferrara.
Dear Brian,
Your class has changed my “art life” forever (one must understand that art is 90%
of my life)! I have never had an instructor convey such a vast array of useful
information, and I am quite certain I will never find another who will.
I really didn't have the correct perspective of backlit photos. So far I have taken
about 200 photos of the roses I brought to class. I am delighted to have a few
“worthy” and many that are just pretty roses to use in my still life paintings.
I am so looking forward to your next class to see what the next step will be. I
plan on having the black/white/shades of gray on the board before class begins
so you can monitor my progress on applying the color. I want to learn that last
10% that will make it “arresting”.
In addition, your engaging sense of humor, and your kindness made this class the
perfect package. I can't believe I have been so blessed to have met you!
God Bless,
Cindy Elder
I attended Brian Davis's workshop in October 2016. I learned so much from him from the techniques he uses to knowledge of dealing with the art world and art business. I had a wonderful time and thanks to his advice I entered the International Artist Magazine Landscape competition and placed 3rd! Brian's technique is fun and the results are phenomenal!!
Susan Frech-Sims
Dear Brian
Thank you!
What a great experience it was to study with you in Mendocino this weekend.
Thank you for introducing us to the use of alkyd oil paints. Your step by step demonstrations were clear and concise. It's such a versatile medium, and perfectly complements all the traditional oil painting methods. It's so helpful to learn a more efficient technique to add greater luminosity and richness to our paintings.
It was a pleasure to see you achieve wide gradients of value and color, as well as understand how you develop sharp and soft edges to control how the positive and negative spaces interact.
I appreciate all the practice time you gave us each day to commit the lessons to memory.
Your generosity in candidly discussing your business experiences was so helpful. Learning your "lay of the land", and how to develop an ethical and positive working relationship with collectors, galleries, and publishers was invaluable. You anticipated and answered all the questions we had about how to develop a realistic approach to making a livelihood doing good work.
And not least, your memorable stories and contagious sense of humor made the hours fly by.
It was a real pleasure to be in your company, and meet a wonderful group of like minded artists.
I want to especially thank you and the Mendocino Art Center for giving me scholarship assistance. I'm so grateful you made it possible for me to attend.
Sincerely,
Walter Denn
To: Amanda McClure, Executive Director of The Quinlan Visual Art Center
Hi Amanda,
I would like to highly recommend and request the Quinlan Arts Center host an
oil painting workshop with Brian Davis. He is an amazing painter.
I recently took Brian's awesome 5-day fine art oil painting workshop at the
Mendocino Arts Center in northern California. I traveled from my home in
Thomaston, Georgia. The workshop was well worth the time and expense
involved to travel across country. It was the best painting workshop I have
taken. His paintings are absolutely beautiful. I feel like I can't say
enough good things about Brian. He has truly impressed me as a person and as
an artist. So I'd love for him to teach his workshop closer to home.
Brian is a master painter and widely recognized for his floral paintings and
posters. He is a veteran professional and has been making his living from
fine art for over 30 years. His paintings are in the collections of seven
museums including The Huntington Library, the Los Angeles County Museum of
Art, and the New York Botanical Garden.
Back in the 1980's, Brian produced a series of fine art posters of calla
lilies and other flowers that were very popular. Maybe you know someone
who had one of these posters in their home.
Brian readily shares the techniques he has developed over the years to make
him a successful professional artist. I think just as importantly he shares
the attitude and mindset it takes to be a successful professional artist.
He is a kind man who works just as well with beginning and advanced
students. There was a beginning student in Brian's first Mendocino who is a
retired executive. The student took the workshop without ever having picked
up a paint brush before. Brian has been his only teacher. Now the student
is doing really well and creates wonderful paintings that he is very proud
of and even has a gallery interested in carrying his work.
Brian gives so much information and help it is well worth the investment of
time and money to attend his workshop just once, but his classes are so rich
in information that it isn't possible to absorb it all in one session. It
is kind of like trying to drink out of fire hose. This is why I'd love to
see him come to Quinlan Arts Center so I can take his workshop again.
Brian is truly the best art instructor I have taken. One of the continuing
benefits of taking his course is that he really wants to see his students
succeed so he encourages us to email him with questions. I have emailed him
with questions a number of times both before the workshop and after the
workshop. He has always answered within a day or two and gives helpful
information. He is a kind, patient and generous man. I am not sure how he
answers all the emails with thoughtful answers but he does.
I am not the only one who really enjoyed Brian's Mendocino workshop. Here
is a link for the workshop feedback from other students of Brian's previous
workshops. Now that I have taken one of his workshops, I can honestly say
all the comments on the feedback page are true.
http://www.briandavisart.com/feedback.shtml
Also, I contacted Brian and here is a list of references of other workshop
presenters since I'd love for him to teach in Georgia. Here are the
references he sent me:
Phyllis Woods at the Mendocino Art Center www.mendocinoartcenter.org, or
Vince Fazio at The Sedona Arts Center vfazio@sedonaartscenter.com or
Ora Sorensen at www.orasorensengallery.com. Ora is setting up the workshop
at the Old School Square Cultural Arts Center in Delray Beach Fl,
www.oldschool.org.
You can contact Brian Davis at gr8painter@hotmail.com or better yet at
775-750-9824. He lives in Reno, Nevada. His website is
http://briandavisart.com/index.shtml
Finally, here is a link for one of the many galleries that carries his work.
It has a great online collection of images of his originals
http://www.lovesemporium.com/catalog.php?cid=73
If you have any further questions I'll be glad to answer what I can.
I really hope it will work out to offer one of Brian's workshops at the
Quinlan Arts Center. Maybe they could even become a series. Mendocino Art
Center has held five or six in the last two years. They are very popular.
Thank you so much for your time and considering Brian Davis for an upcoming
workshop at the Quinlan Arts Center.
Respectfully,
Lisa Ulricksen
Arts Desire workshop, Vancouver, Washington
Hi Brian,
I would like to thank you for the fantastic workshop! I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to take your workshop at Arts Desire. You provided the class with so much information and instruction packed into one week which must have taken you years to acquire.
Your teaching style is extremely valuable. You are able to break down your painting process in manageable pieces so that students at all skill levels are able to comprehend your painting approach. Your discussions and demonstrations on color values and luminosity were so beneficial. You also provided us with real examples of problems and solutions for solving them. Your practical business sense and advice is informative and relevant to the selling of our art.
Through your encouragement and instruction I have been inspired to look at and paint in a whole new way. I’m looking forward to taking your next workshop in the near future!
Thanks again and see you soon!
Cindy Lunde
Rlunde@q.com
Prairie Sun Worhshops, Alberta, Canada:
Dear Brian,
Thank you so much Brian my man, you have finally helped me to get it through my thick skull what has been the
burr under my saddle as a painter. Other amazing artist have taught the importance of values and I knew what they were talking about,
but I just could not seem to achieve the wider ranges of values through out the entire painting and just would get lost and the thrill was gone!
Many paintings got tossed to the way side out of pure frustration over values alone. Working hours on an area to get it just right
only to find that the area surrounding my new value had lost its value and the vicious circle turned into a total loss of interest and
another painting landed in the bone yard of unfinished art.
Now, thanks to you, I WILL NOT spend so much time reworking and correcting things that should have been
nailed down in the under painting with more accuracy. Oh, and not to mention no more wasting so much
paint and the best part is NOT wasting so much TIME! What a huge load off of my back.
I knew you where a great painter but you are also an amazing teacher to say the least.
All I can say is if someone is hung up on just about anything as a painter, they need to for sure be in one of your classes!
What else can I say? Well one thing is for sure, "I THANK YOU for changing my art forever and I am grateful to you sir, more than you can ever know!"
Bless you Brian, Thank you so much!
Pamela Bergen
The moment that I was stopped in my tracks by the luminosity and glow of a Brian Davis rose, I knew it was where I wanted to go with my art. As a watercolorist and new to oils, I was a bit nervous that I would not be able to keep up with what Brian had to teach. But not to worry. Brian made sure that I understood and could master his concepts, spending individual time with, not only me, but everyone in the workshop, to make sure that we fully grasped his technique. And, his technique is very effective. At times, he even worked with us long after hours; as long as a student needed help. I have attended many workshops and never had a teacher show so much concern and dedication to go to the extent that Brian did. Plus, the class was fun. The workshop had ten students, some beginners and some advanced. We all profited from what he taught.
Since returning home and practicing Brian’s techniques, I have had such a positive reaction to my art from fellow artists that I can say his workshop was worth 150% of the price. In fact, because of my artistic growth, several of my artist friends are very interested in attending a workshop of his and I want to take another as well. The more I get into the technique he taught, the more questions I have. I can see the value, the refinement, that a second workshop would provide.
Brian,
You have set me on the path of becoming an Oil Painter and I thank you so much for your mentoring and for a wonderful workshop. IT WAS THE BEST WORKSHOP EVER!
Luane Penrose
Mendocino Art Center:
Hi Brian,
I just wanted to drop you a note to thank you for how much I have enjoyed your workshops. I plan to attend another in the near future. Your information was clear and helpful for artists of any level. The week moved along so quickly, I hated for it to be over.
I have already applied the information that I received from you in practice and it has improved my flower painting skills ever so much!
As I mentioned in class my background was in accounting. I retired and have spent the last ten years living my passion which is painting. I am so fortunate to co-own a gallery and to share my love of art with others.
The reason that I attended your workshop is that I felt that I needed a bump to the next level and the workshop did the trick. I hope to return again and again for more information but also just for the joy of painting with you.
Take care, Joanne
Brian Davis has always been the king of flower painters in my book, so when I saw he was teaching a workshop at Mendocino Art Center this past July, I enrolled in the class. I loved it. Brian's process of bringing a painting to life really resonated with me. His practical ways of doing things make a lot of sense, and his willingness to share his knowledge of the art world was an extra bonus. So I am happy to recommend his classes in my newsletter.
Sandy Delehanty
I have been a long admirer of Brian Davis's work and when I found out he was teaching workshops, I immediately signed up. Learning his technique has brought my work to a whole new level.
Have a wonderful day, Gobind
Brian, I learned more in your class than any of the university classes or workshops I have taken. That is saying alot since I have a BA in art. Anyway thought you should know how much I appreciate you/ Judith
Sedona Arts Center:
"Brian Davis's luminous oil paintings are as pleasing to the eyes as mole sauce is pleasing to the taste buds. Thankfully Brian was humble and generous enough to share the key technical aspects that make his floral compositions glow. He did this with poise and an unwavering sense of humor. For this I am eternally grateful."
Thanks Brian.
Best,
Tade
I just finished the Brian Davis painting workshop on "Luminous Oils" given at the Sedona Art Center from June 21-25, 2010, and I would say it was the best workshop/class I have taken (and I have taken many). It inspired me to believe that my art career dreams would become reality. During the workshop, I was impressed by Brian's style of teaching, the technical content of the workshop, and the expertise he shared on the business side of art. He also gave us some foundational ideas about the character traits necessary to become an artist of excellence.
Brian's friendly and down-to-earth style of teaching brought us together as a learning community. We started out as strangers and left as friends and colleagues. He has a real ability to communicate his ideas in concrete ways. He used effective organization in his presentations. First, he laid a groundwork by giving us principles and pointers; then, he demonstrated his techniques by working on his own painting, so we could gain a practical understanding of what he was saying. After that, he had us apply these ideas by working on our own paintings. Finally, he checked with each student to see if he/she had questions or needed help. He was available throughout each session to consult with each of us individually.
I have followed the work of Brian Davis for years. I have not found a painter whose work I admired more. His gorgeous floral paintings are unique. I was so excited to take this workshop because I knew it was a chance to learn how he produced such beautiful luminous paintings. I was not disappointed. He generously shared his painting techniques with us, without reservation. His painting style is quite technical and time-consuming, yet he was able to impart the basic skills to each of us. As he pointed out, the techniques he uses could be applied equally well to portrait painting or other types of painting. The proof of his ability as an instructor was that each of us left with a beautiful painting. Completing the final details of the painting at home has given me the chance to internalize and process the instruction I received throughout the workshop. My friends and family are impressed with this new painting. They recognize, as I do, that my painting ability has reached a new level.
This Brian Davis workshop not only improved my technical painting skills, but provided invaluable real-life guidance in creating a successful career as a painter. Learning from an instructor who has been "in the trenches" as a working artist and who is now represented by over 60 galleries and has paintings hanging in 8 museums is completely different from taking a workshop from an academic instructor who may not be exhibiting at all. He shared with us the very instructive story of his own career, moving from working as an illustrator in Los Angeles to becoming a world-class fine artist whose work is sought after by galleries and individual patrons. He gave us numerous tips on dealing with galleries and gambits for networking.
Brian Davis shows you that it is not only innate talent but a strong work ethic that leads to the successful career that you envision for yourself. He dispels the notion that art is just fun. He reminds us that creating world-class art involves hard work, yet you are left with the understanding that if you have some basic artistic skills and are willing to put in the work, you can reach that high standard of excellence. Yet, even though he emphasized the need for hard work to produce outstanding art, this workshop was, in fact, fun, and we bonded as fellow artists and emerged as friends.
During the workshop, Brian Davis was constantly available for individual consultations and questions, even during lunch, and before and after the sessions. He was incredibly giving of his time and knowledge. He was more than willing to share the knowledge gained from his decades in the art world. After a workshop with Brian Davis, you are from that time on his student; incredibly, he offers himself as a mentor-a teacher with whom you can share future successes.
On a personal note, I have taught English as a lecturer at Arizona State University for several decades. During that time, I have served on committees evaluating the teaching skills of our teachers and participated in annual peer evaluations of the teaching skills on colleagues in our program. Coming from this background, I can state that Brian Davis is an extremely effective instructor. His workshop sessions are very well-organized. Most importantly, he is able to establish rapport with the students, so his instruction is meaningful. I strongly recommend that if you are considering taking one of his workshop that you take the plunge. You will not regret it.
For years, I have had a desire to take my painting beyond being just a hobby. I have wanted to have a successful professional career as a fine artist. I now see how to follow a path to reach that destination. I left this workshop with a new perspective. I felt as if I had experienced art as therapy, and, in fact, I gained a new image of myself. This workshop turned my dreams of a successful art career into achievable goals. It was a breakthrough for me.
Yours Truly,
Elaine Dehghanpisheh
________________________________________________________________________________________________
I changed to oil painting about a year ago from colored pencil after seeing Brian Davis’ paintings in a gallery. In the past, it had been my experience that your best results come from studying under an artist working in your medium with a style similar to that which you desire to attain.
Having taken workshops before, I have experienced the good, the bad, and the ugly. One of my oddest experiences was with a well-known artist who was adamant that it’s impossible to really make a living at art!
Brian is thorough, encouraging and willing to share readily from his vast body of experience. Any nerves I might have had quickly melted away as he is a delight to be around.
I feel as if I have jumped forward many years in my painting. I can’t wait to attend another one of Brian’s workshops. One of the unique things about Brian is that he has years of professional experience in the real art world. Many can give advice; however, Brian comes from a vast body of experience and a heart-felt desire to give back what knowledge he has amassed.
I can truly say that I am ruined for any other teacher! Brian’s workshop didn’t meet my expectations—it EXCEEDED them one-hundred fold!
Anyone who is desirous of improving their painting skills would do well to take Brian’s workshop. His down-to-earth insight and fantastic work ethic will truly change your painting experience from that time forward.
April Robbins-Hughes
Idaho
________________________________________________________________________________________________
Brian,
I can’t thank you enough for an incredible week of art. This feels like it changed my life and my art. I am looking at all of this with new eyes and a new attitude. You’ve made me a believer in possibilities and abilities that I have never seriously considered. Words can’t begin to describe this evolution. I hope some day to share with the world some wonderful art of my creation! I know I’ll be hack for another class. I wish you all the best in your endeavors and never doubt that you’re a GREAT teacher.
Eleanor Sullivan
Sierra Nevada College:
Brian,
Again Joan and I want to thank you for the week of instruction in your class. It was a real pleasure to watch a real artist work his magic and to be willing to share it with beginners like us. We are so lucky. You are an excellent teacher and we all learned a lot in a short time. I myself want to thank you for your kindness and encouragement in my drawings. I can honestly say that what ever drawing that I do from here on will be influenced by you.
Again from Joan and I, thank you. Charley
Corse Gallery and Atelier:
I hope there will be more times together in the future. This week reminds me of the movie ----"To Sir With Love'" --- how do you thank someone?! You changed our painting approach and in my case, I think you changed my life.
Thank you, Francene
Reno, Nevada
How do I put into words the lessons I've been taught by Brian Davis without sounding sappy. He is truly a master painter and teacher as well as peer, and a dear friend.
Realizing that my skill was at such an amateur level was a blow to my fragile ego. I had a passion to go beyond and literally had to dissolve my old art identity and start from scratch. I took notebook after notebook of notes, hours in his studio, studied books of the works of the great masters. I painted, he criticised. I worked harder. I realized that this man had priceless information to share through his problem solving approach to art making. My humility kept me in the learning mode. If ego gets in the way there is no room for growth.
Brian helped me to find my way and world class art is within me. I now know how to get there. I am so proud to call him "teacher." His problem solving methods have made him a true master painter. If one remains humble enough to listen and apply, he can master Brian's approach and become the artist that he dreams of being.
Cheryl Tangen
The Quinlan Vistual Arts Center, Gainsville, Gerogia
Dear Brian,
I am still "glowing", no pun intended (....well, maybe :) after attending your workshop in Georgia. I have been practicing my new skills and continue to work on our original white rose, hoping that in time it will have the same beauty and luminescence of your paintings.
I had never attended an art workshop before and was not sure what to expect. I was very pleasantly surprised to find you to be so informative, supportive and downright funny. The days just flew by. I am keeping my eyes on your website with the intention of taking another workshop with you in 2013.
Thanks again for sharing your inspiration, philosophy and talent. It was truly an experience I will never forget.
Sincerely,
Sally Painter
PS. At your encouragement, I went to Art Basel on Wednesday. There was a lot of interesting art, some exceptional and some downright crazy. But, I can honestly say that I did not see anything that compares to your paintings. You are in a league of your own.
Renee Hewitt, PhD
I REALLY LEARNED ALOT AND ENJOYED YOUR CLASS! I'm not as wordy as the lady that wrote the long letter on your workshop feedback but I agree completely with her comments. Keep up the great teaching.
Brian,
What an amazing talent you have! After spending a week at the Quinlan with you, I feel like I have been in the presence of art royalty! The colorful stories you shared of your illustrious life as an artist, businessman and entrepreneur in the art industry were captivating-like your artwork!
Being a busy, married mom of a 10 year old boy with a career as a traveling consultant, I was feeling selfish about taking the time to develop my artistic side by taking this class. As I pondered how to fit the class into our schedules the convenience of the Quinlan was a factor. The pictures of the luminous flowers kept drawing me back to your website. As I reviewed the comments on your web page from previous students I thought, if these comments are true, this should be an incredible experience! Convinced, I signed up the day of the class; fortunately, you welcomed me into the class along with the other students. On the first day as I listened to you talk about your past workshops and how we would always be your students, I was still a bit skeptical about how long the teacher-student relationship might last. By the end of the week, I was convinced you were sincere about wanting us to succeed. When I contacted you days after the class was over you were genuinely interested in helping me with my questions. You ARE the real deal!
Having played with acrylics, the idea of oil paint was scary territory for me. After your thorough instruction and demonstration of your tried and true techniques, I know that I will enjoy painting with oils; and, my painting will improve as I hone my skills. Thank you for spending time discussing the beginning basics to the business of art and everything in between. It has been over a month and I am still digesting the content of the class. As I prepare my studio for action, I am eager to set into motion the lessons learned now that the holidays are behind us.
Thank you for sharing your techniques and de-mystifying the process of making great paintings and getting them into galleries. Your patience, wisdom, knowledge, humor and encouragement all made the class so much fun!! Your teaching has inspired me to push myself to paint with patience. With practice, you have encouraged me that I can do this. I enjoyed every minute of class and look forward to the next time I can take another!
On a personal note, I want to thank you and the rest of the class for embracing the addition of my son, Lance in the afternoons. On my easel at home he left me a note, 'amazing!' on my rose underpainting.
I will forever be grateful that I signed up for the class; it was such a gift to learn how to paint from a master! Brian, I'm honored to be your student!
Cherie Robinson
Hello Brian, Happy New Year to you!
Thanks so much for the fun and information-packed workshop! Your willingness to share your career experiences and the business side of the art world were an added bonus that I found valuable. Your positive attitude gave me a much-needed energy shot in the arm. When I returned home I immediately submitted to three top national painting organizations -- and I was accepted into all three! Thanks for sharing your painting tips, your words of wisdom and enthusiasm!
Here's to a new year of happy painting!
Tammy Schlosser
If you are new painting or have never used oil paints, of which I was in both categories, I highly recommend this class. Initially, I was intimidated and thought only advanced students would be qualified to take this class. However, Brian is a wonderful instructor and I was able to produce a beautiful piece. His class will provide you the foundations for value painting, understanding the quality and care of your material and the business of being an artist. He was wonderful in sharing what he knows about producing such beautiful art. I will definitely be taking his classes again as there is such much to absorb. Thanks Brian for your time and wisdom.
Elizabeth Ferrara.
Dear Brian,
Your class has changed my “art life” forever (one must understand that art is 90%
of my life)! I have never had an instructor convey such a vast array of useful
information, and I am quite certain I will never find another who will.
I really didn't have the correct perspective of backlit photos. So far I have taken
about 200 photos of the roses I brought to class. I am delighted to have a few
“worthy” and many that are just pretty roses to use in my still life paintings.
I am so looking forward to your next class to see what the next step will be. I
plan on having the black/white/shades of gray on the board before class begins
so you can monitor my progress on applying the color. I want to learn that last
10% that will make it “arresting”.
In addition, your engaging sense of humor, and your kindness made this class the
perfect package. I can't believe I have been so blessed to have met you!
God Bless,
Cindy Elder
I attended Brian Davis's workshop in October 2016. I learned so much from him from the techniques he uses to knowledge of dealing with the art world and art business. I had a wonderful time and thanks to his advice I entered the International Artist Magazine Landscape competition and placed 3rd! Brian's technique is fun and the results are phenomenal!!
Susan Frech-Sims