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Jan 16, 2026
Media: oil
Size: 4x6 in
I’ve been thinking a lot about good art teachers lately and the teachers that stand out to me as being exceptional have been not only excellent artists themselves but have also been kind, especially when giving critical feedback (criticism is so important when you’re starting out but it can also be demoralizing). They’ve also been: generous (with both helpful information and praise), patient (as you continue to make that same mistake that they pointed out last time), good problem solvers (as they help you out of the mess you may have created), and passionate about art. I think of Karen Margulis when it comes to teaching pastel painting. She is one of the most dedicated and talented artist-teachers I know. I also think of Karen Appleton who no longer teaches oil painting but is an exceptional artist. I love her creativity, her kindness, and her compassion. I learned so much from these outstanding artists.
The painting above is based on a modification of a still life that Karen Appleton set up for a class several years ago.
I’ve been thinking a lot about good art teachers lately and the teachers that stand out to me as being exceptional have been not only excellent artists themselves but have also been kind, especially when giving critical feedback (criticism is so important when you’re starting out but it can also be demoralizing). They’ve also been: generous (with both helpful information and praise), patient (as you continue to make that same mistake that they pointed out last time), good problem solvers (as they help you out of the mess you may have created), and passionate about art. I think of Karen Margulis when it comes to teaching pastel painting. She is one of the most dedicated and talented artist-teachers I know. I also think of Karen Appleton who no longer teaches oil painting but is an exceptional artist. I love her creativity, her kindness, and her compassion. I learned so much from these outstanding artists.
The painting above is based on a modification of a still life that Karen Appleton set up for a class several years ago.
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