High Desert Classroom
The Wild Brush School offers a variety of painting classes for artists of all levels, in the vast, wild beauty of the Galisteo Basin Preserve, in Lamy, New Mexico.
Our High Desert Classroom opens up a new kind of artistic experience through our immersion in the wilderness landscape, as we explore various painting techniques, and principles from throughout Art history.
This rugged, wild environment pushes participants beyond what is comfortable—beyond the walls of the art studio. This landscape requires artists to accept the harsh nature of their surroundings, and strips away all that is not necessary for the making of Art. It narrows our attention and focus to what is most essential to the making of true, authentic Art.
Our classes are not fixated on the outcome, or the “finished” painting—we are focused on the process and the practice of painting itself. There is no emphasis placed on creating a realistic looking painting—or an abstract one. What matters is the spirit in which we make Art—and helping you shape and establish an ongoing artistic practice.
Our High Desert Classroom is not a fit for everyone—but for those who are able and willing to accept the risks and discomforts of the desert wilderness—it can be artistically transformative.
But this rugged environment is not the only thing that separates The Wild Brush School from other offerings. Unlike other studio-based programs, our classes are not intended to teach you step-by-step instructions on how to paint like someone else. Our hope is to guide you in the search for your own artistic spirit through the study of traditional painting principles, color theory, lessons from Art History, and the interaction of the natural world.
Unless otherwise specified, all painting mediums (pastels, watercolor, gouache, acrylic, oils,) are welcome, and our course content can be applied to both traditional, or abstract forms of art. We also encourage a minimalist approach to the supplies we recommend for our class. This is not only more economical, and environmentally-friendly, but it also helps to emphasize what is most important: the practice of painting itself.
Please note that all attendees and instructors are required to sign a “Good Conduct” agreement that helps ensure that our High Desert classroom environment, and our group discussions remain both respectful and constructive. All are welcome, and we look forward to painting with you.
Jeff H. Beerworth
Jeff H. Beerworth is the founder, and lead painting instructor of The Wild Brush School. He graduated from Montserrat College of Art, where he studied Painting and Art History. Before moving to New Mexico, he worked as the Program Director, a Figure Drawing Instructor, and Oil Painting Instructor for the Shelburne Craft School in Shelburne, Vermont.
A few of his favorite artists are: George Inness, J.M.W. Turner, Whistler, Degas, and Mark Rothko.
He enjoys spending time with his family, painting, hiking, fly fishing, chess, reading, writing, and playing music.
Our Philosophy
Our aim is not to teach you to paint like someone else—but to help you find your own authentic, artistic vision. Through our immersion in the High Desert landscape, and the introduction of classical painting techniques. color theory, and lessons from Art History, we will help you develop and maintain a life-long painting practice.
Lessons from the Land
The junipers, pinõns, and various plants of the Galisteo Basin have found a way to thrive in a harsh, desert environment. That is the beauty of their nature—and it holds wisdom that we can use to shape a more vibrant artistic spirit.
Art is for Everyone
When we come to understand the elements of classical painting, color theory, and Art History—we also learn that we each have a unique way of seeing, and depicting the world around us. We are all artists—and Art is for everyone.
Community
Our hope is to grow and bring together a community of local artists who share a passion for the land and art-making. Through classes, lectures, and community events we hope kindle the human artistic spirit in the High Desert of New Mexico.