Julia Armstrong Peltz

Learn to paint beautifully with oils using a unique and harmonious color mixing method taught by this award winning Portland artist in a relaxing and fun environment.  Beginners and fellow artists welcome! If you are interested in taking a class, please contact me for more information.

         
                      
 
 Student Comments About the Class:

"In the stillness of art creation, isn't it wonderful to have a gentle hand to guide the learning process of really seeing? The observation of an object, landscape or person is a skill that somehow Julia was able to awaken in me." MA

"I cannot recommend classes from Julia enough. Even though I am a total 'newbie', I was welcomed with open arms and given encouragement to find my own style. Julia has an eye for color that is amazing; she sees things in your colors that really make your paintings "sing". Her classes are at convenient times, the students are generous with encouragement and you will create something that you had no idea you were capable of...try it; you will love being a part of her world." CS

"I've taken only three group sessions from Julia yet have learned so much related to painting techniques and color mixing. She explains and demonstrates different methods while encouraging each of us to stretch or push ourselves in a very positive way. Julia does this respectfully while seemingly taking the individual styles and experience of her students into consideration. Mentally it's been a great escape. Truly therapeutic! I walk away from each class with a bounce in my step, felling excited and more alive." KT

"I am so very fortunate to be part of Julia's painting class. Being able to participate in a class consisting of supportive, fun, loving, talented people is truly a blessing. No matter what level of painter you are, everyone is always so helpful. Julia is a thoughtful, kind and inspiring teacher and class is always fun. I cant wait until classes start again!" JS

"It was a moment of serendipity that opened a new and unexpected world of creative expression for me. From photographer to oil painter. Six years with Julia has made my art blossom and has given me great joy. She teaches with a gentle hand that allows her students ways to improve while maintaining their own style. She is the best!" SF

"I have been been taking classes from Julia for four years now and drive almost two hours each way to attend! It has been an amazing journey for me to learn from Julia and to meet with others who love art...and to paint weekly is so inspiring! I have learned so much and enjoy the overall class experience. Julia brings out the best in her students!" KB

"Julia is an amazing art teacher. Her unique approach to color allows students of all levels and backgrounds to unleash their artistic potential in a friendly and inclusive environment." M & H

"Julia is a warm, encouraging and excellent teacher. She has a unique teaching method which enables quick results and I was amazed at the quality of artwork I was able to produce in just one session. The classes are always fun, and I have learned a lot and also connected with so many people. I highly recommend Julia." PB

I had not picked up a paint brush in over 25 years and tentatively signed up for a session with Julia. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted by her in a warm, welcoming manner in her studio. After that class I was hooked! I have been with Julia for several years now and have learned so much...from creating my palette to how to hold the brushes. Her teaching style is calm, professional and thoughtful. I feel like a talented painter now! And we do have a ton of fun! I have met some terrific people who feel like family now!" BM

"I couldn't be more happy attending Julia's classes. Not only have I advanced in my love for painting, the friends I've met make it even more rewarding." LR

"I was shocked when Julia said that I would be able to oil paint. It seemed so far from anything I had ever done. I couldn't draw a stick man or even do watercolor. I could only color in the lines. She took the fear out of the unknown and walked me every step of the way until my final product was complete. Every time I thought I was done, she would point out  a few final touches that would turn my painting into a painting that I would be so proud of. I have enjoyed her classes in a nice quiet setting where I made new friends. Thank you, Julia for seeing the talent that I never knew I had! I so appreciate your encouragement!" JS

"I can't say enough about Julia's painting classes.  She welcomes you where you are at and has an obvious talent for encouraging whatever is innate for you - this is not a cookie cutter class - your art will not resemble anyone else's in the class.  I have taken previous painting class and had given up, deciding that painting was 'just not my thing', though I felt repeatedly called to try it.  After seeing a painting done by a friend who'd taken her class, I decided to give it one last go.  I'm so glad I did!  Thanks to my start with Julia, I'm currently working on making this my living.  Without reservation, I highly recommend her classes."  S.H.

"Julia's oil painting classes have given me a gift that is not easily put into words.  I had no idea I could paint until I enrolled several years ago.  It has added much joy to my life and made me realize I have a talent that was not known.  I believe many have that too.  She is a gentle guide that produces amazing results in her students.  A wonderful way to learn and also meet new and interesting people."  S.F.

"Julia is a gem.  I took a series of painting classes from her, and it opened my eyes to something special within myself.  She has this uncanny ability to make the classes relaxing and laid back, while getting her students to make beautiful art.  She is an amazing artist, but more importantly, she is a fabulous teacher.  I am planning to sign up for more classes in the future.  If you have any desire to explore your artistic inclinations, do yourself a favor, and take a class with Julia"  H.F.

“I just wanted to say how pleased I was with your art course. I can't tell you how I've struggled over the years and how your course opened up a whole other world for me. Your teaching technique only allows for great successes and I wish everyone could experience you and your class!” ~ L.A.

“Taking painting with Julia was a life changing event for my daughter. Painting became a new passion and gave her direction her senior year of high school. Julia has a heightened degree of sensitivity to those around her. She knows how to connect with individuals on a different level than most. And that is what brings out the beauty in what others
can create.” ~ D.O.

"I had never taken a painting class before or had any formal training in art. After taking a few classes with Julia, I felt like I could confidently say that I am an oil painter. She gives you all of the tools you need to learn the basics, and then she uses her expertise and patience to meet each student where they are, whether they are a novice painter or a well-practiced one. I created pieces of art through these classes that I am so proud of and I have given many as gifts to my dearest loved ones. I highly recommend this class to anyone who wants to begin or continue their artistic journey." LC

"I have really enjoyed oil painting classes with Julia. It has been really helpful to learn a new method of mixing paint colours. Julia is a very kind, easygoing teacher who makes it fun to come to class with no pressure. I highly recommend Julia's class." JB