Curriculum

The Ani Art Academies curriculum is divided into 7 sections: Introduction to Drawing, Governing the Material, Anatomy of Form, Natural Forms, Introduction to Painting, Painting Techniques, and Endgame. With an unwavering emphasis on rudimentary exercises, efficiency, and material dynamics, our goal is to help bring the Artist's intention to life through technical excellence.

  1. Introduction to Drawing:

    Our program begins with an introduction to the basic materials we employ and to several very rudimentary marks. These first marks will serve as the initial few pieces of a vast visual vocabulary.   From gripping a pencil to executing a confident line, this introduction lays the groundwork for a thorough understanding of draftsmanship and effective problem solving --two skills that will be vital throughout the entire course.

  2. Governing the Material:

    Expanding on the previous section, this phase takes a more in depth look at the material dynamics and the impact of improving control.  With powerful skill building exercises focused on pressure, the Artist develops new levels of sensitivity and confidence.

  3. Anatomy of Form:

    Exploring spheres, cylinders, cones, and cubes, the Artist learns how light describes these four basic forms that populate the world around them.  Exhaustive, meticulous repetition exercises intimately familiarize the Artist with the basic behavior of light; further enhancing technical control.

  4. Natural Forms:

    This section of the program moves beyond simple forms and immerses the Artist in to a world of more complex biomorphic or natural forms.  Life studies, casts, and other similar subjects offer a wide range of challenges that balance the rectilinear and the curvilinear.

  5. Introduction to Painting:

    In the same manner as Introduction to Drawing, this phase presents the basic materials employed by a Painter and explores the dynamics of placing brush to surface. From executing a simple palette arrangement to effects of brush angles, this introduction lays the groundwork for a complete understanding of the craft.

  6. Painting Techniques:

    From direct painting to strategic layering techniques, Painting Techniques offers you a salvo of choices to ensure that the Artist’s preferred approach yields the best quality result. At the same time, careful attention is paid to the maintenance of fulfillment and enjoyment in all areas of the process.

  7. Endgame:

    Finally, we complete the process of the 'finish'.  Aspects of the craft such as Varnishing, Framing, Shipping Preparation, and Promotion are all thoroughly examined to ensure the Artist's efforts are protected, promoted, and well received.

The average time frame for the Ani Art Academies Apprenticeship Program is three years. However, there is a certain flexibility that allows tailoring to fit individual goals. Some areas of focus may require more time (meticulous rendering techniques, etc.) and will increase the length of the program. Prospective Apprentices must be willing to attend full time and be extremely dedicated to completion of the training program

Academy Schedule/ Trimesters:

Each year is divided into three trimesters**.  The Fall Trimester runs from Sept. 1st to Dec. 15th.  The Second is Jan. 5th to April 15th.  The Third is May 1st to August 15th.

The last week of each Trimester is for Performance Assessment Reviews (PARS). PARS is a comprehensive analysis of a student's performance within the Program. Ani Art Academies Apprentices must maintain satisfactory reviews in order to maintain their Scholarship status.

**Specific trimester dates subject to change due to regional Holidays.