The rigorous curriculum is designed by Founder and Artistic Director Nelson Shanks

Renovated studio features 13,000 sq. ft. bathed in north light

"The Hero", Leona Shanks, Oil on linen, 2009, 30 x 40 inches First Place winner, 2010 Inspiring Figures, sponsored by the Portrait Society of America

"The Lecture", (Edward O. Wilson), Nelson Shanks, 2008-2009, Oil on canvas, 50 x 46 inches

Nelson Shanks' painting demonstration with Michael Smerconish

"Red Onion", Darren Kingsley, Oil on linen, 2008, 17 x 24 inches

Each artist gets personalized attention and group support

"I Wanna Be Adored", Stephen Early, Oil on linen, 2010, 40 x 32 inches

Special events help artists sharpen their career skills

Artists work three-dimensionally to strengthen structural drawing skills

"Waiting", Lea Colie Wight, Oil on linen, 2009, 42 x 32 inches Finalist, 2010 Inspiring Figures, sponsored by the Portrait Society of America

Programs such as Emerging Artists reach out to youths and their teachers

Curriculum emphasizes use of large color palette and extended model poses