Overview
“Find Your Style” is a transformative 11-month course designed to help artists uncover and develop their unique artistic voice. Inspired by the wisdom of art world giants, each lesson guides participants through conceptual exercises and practical assignments that reveal what drives their creativity and how to express it authentically. The course culminates in a personal exhibition, allowing participants to showcase their evolved style and receive feedback from their artistic community.
Course Structure
Duration: 11 Months (February – December)
Cost: R800 / €80 per month
Format: Monthly Online Meetings (2 hours each) plus homework
Community: Collaborative group of artists from diverse backgrounds
Final Project: Living-Room Exhibition
About Amy
M.A Fine Arts
Amy Jane van den Bergh is a passionate artist and mentor with a deep commitment to helping others discover their unique creative voice. With years of experience in the art world, she has drawn inspiration from a variety of artistic movements and influential figures. She has designed this course based on the exact exercises and practices that she used over the last decade to uncover her own unique and authentic artist style. Firmly believing that these exercises are key to unlocking an artist’s self-awareness, she is dedicated to using them to help other artists find and refine their own artistic voices. Known for her thoughtful and supportive approach, Amy Jane believes in the power of community, collaboration, and continuous learning as the foundation for artistic growth.
Course Outline
Before the course begins you will be required to submit your current work. Once enrolled in the course you will be given the instructions and submit the drawings to Amy Jane van den Bergh.
Month 1: Steal Like an Artist with Austin Kleon
Learn how to creatively use influences from other artists. Explore the concept of “stealing like an artist” and reinterpret your key influences in your own style.
Month 2: The Influences Pyramid with Andy J. Pizza
Prioritize and analyze the influences that shape your work. Build an “Influences Pyramid” to visually map your inspirations and understand their core elements.
Month 3: Your Visual Vocabulary with Danielle Krysa
Identify the visual elements that define your style. Discuss the importance of a cohesive visual vocabulary and document recurring motifs, colors, and forms.
Month 4: Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
Develop a playful relationship with creativity. Explore the concept of “Big Magic” and engage in activities that invite inspiration and fresh ideas into your process.
Month 5: Your Inner Artist Child with Julia Cameron
Reconnect with the joy of creation. Engage in creative play to nurture your inner artist and rediscover what makes art fulfilling for you.
Month 6: Guest Speaker Session
Gain inspiration from a surprise guest artist. Hear about their journey, challenges, and achievements, followed by an interactive Q&A session.
Month 7: The Artist Statement with ChatGPT
Clarify your artistic vision by crafting an artist statement. Use ChatGPT to distill your influences into a concise statement that guides your work.
Month 8: Your Purple Cow with Seth Godin
Identify your unique niche in the art world. Explore Seth Godin’s “Purple Cow” concept and strategize how to highlight what makes your work distinctive.
Month 9: Where Do I Fit In?
Find your place in the art community. Identify the right networks and create a plan to connect with communities where your work resonates.
Month 10: A Crit Session with John Cleese
Present your work and receive constructive feedback. Incorporate John Cleese’s theories on creativity and refine your work based on critique.
Month 11: Present and Reflect
Celebrate your artistic journey and reflect on your growth after the exhibition. Share highlights and discuss the evolution of your style with peers.
Expectations and Responsibilities
- Participation in Monthly Meetings
- Completion of Homework Assignments
- Living-Room Exhibition Presentation.
Materials Needed
- Basic Art Supplies (Varies by Medium)
- Journal for Reflection and Notes
- Access to Art Reference Materials
Payment Details
Design by Daniela
FNB | 62747959221
Cheque | 250655
Reference your name and DYHO