FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Our Acrylic and Oil Painting Classes
Do you have questions before signing up for a painting class?
Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about our acrylic and oil painting classes: materials, required skill level, class structure, and registration.
Where are the painting classes held?
The classes are held in Saint-Lambert on Montreal’s South Shore, near Longueuil and Brossard.
What days and times are the painting classes scheduled?
What happens during an in-person painting class?
Imagine a welcoming workshop where you progress at your own pace, guided step by step, while painting a subject that truly inspires you. No stress or imposed subject: just the joy of learning and creating. A personalized approach Our classes combine theory, practice, discussion, and artistic exploration, always adapted to your level and tastes. You choose a work or image that inspires you, because when you love the subject, you enjoy it more... and you’re likely to learn faster, too! Since a painting can sometimes take several sessions to complete, it might as well be a subject you're passionate about. Each painting brings its own challenges and lessons. Choose your size You are free to paint on the canvas of your choice. For a first experience, I recommend a medium size (approximately 16" x 20"): large enough to work comfortably, but not too large: we want to avoid feeling overwhelmed. From the first session, you'll learn: • How to read a paint tube and identify important information for your purchases. • Basic brushes and their uses. • The colour wheel to help you understand colour theory and mixing. • The squaring technique to transfer your sketch to the canvas. • And you'll be guided to begin painting. Yes, from the very first class. The structure of the sessions Each class combines a theoretical capsule (15 to 30 minutes) followed by work on your subject. Topics may include: light and shadow, atmospheric perspective, the proportions of the human body, and more. As the weeks go by, practice becomes more and more important, so that as you paint, you learn how to handle your brushes, create effects, and compose your works. Your pace, your works You can create one or more works during the session, depending on your pace, the size of your canvas, and the complexity of the subject. In short: here, you move forward step by step, you choose what inspires you, and you learn in a motivating and relaxed atmosphere.
Do I need to know how to draw to take a painting class?” ✅
No. You don’t need to know how to draw to take a painting class.
The exercises and demonstrations are designed to help beginners understand the basics: simple shapes, colors, light, and brush techniques. With practice, you’ll build confidence and develop your own style.
Do I need to know how to paint or draw to participate?
Not at all! Our classes are open to beginners and more experienced students alike. You progress at your own pace, with personalized support.
Les cours de peinture sont-ils adaptés aux débutants ?
Oui. Les cours de peinture sont ouverts aux débutants comme aux personnes ayant déjà un peu d’expérience.
Les techniques sont expliquées étape par étape afin que chacun puisse progresser à son rythme, dans une ambiance conviviale et encourageante.
Est-ce que je peux utiliser le matériel que j’ai déjà ?
Oui ! Apporte-le, et nous vérifierons ensemble s’il convient.
What supplies do I need to start painting?
When starting out, there’s no need to buy everything. The essentials are:
a few versatile brushes, professional or extra-fine quality paints depending on your budget, a canvas, and a disposable paper palette.”
What size canvas should I choose?
The choice of canvas size depends on your project, your experience, and the space on your wall at home. For beginners, it's best to start with medium formats, such as 16" x 20" or 14" x 18". These sizes allow for comfortable working and provide enough space to properly lay down shapes, details, and nuances. Avoid small formats (e.g., 10" x 10" or 8"x 14") if you're just starting out. They limit your working space, make details more difficult to achieve, and can quickly result in a "crammed" result. Small formats are better suited for quick studies or for experienced artists looking for a specific exercise. The importance of proportions: If you're working from a photo or inspirational image, respect the proportions to avoid distortion. For example, if your image is square, choose a square canvas. If it is rectangular with a 2:3 ratio, choose a canvas that maintains this same ratio (such as 40x60 cm or 50x75 cm). This makes it easier to transfer shapes and maintain the balance of the composition.
What happens if I miss a class?
Missed classes may be made up within the current semester according to the regular class schedule and only if space is available. Students must notify the school in advance of their absences. Missed classes cannot be rescheduled for another semester. Missed classes are non-refundable.
Where can I buy my painting supplies?
Fine art specialty stores are often the best choice for finding quality products, recommended by experts. You'll find a wide selection of brushes, canvases, acrylic and oil paints, and other painting accessories. Here is a selection of local stores in Longueuil and on the South Shore of Montreal. HACHEN Address: 1091 Boul. Saint-Bruno, Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, QC J3V 5K3 DeSerres Brossard 9550 Boul. Leduc, Suite 45, Brossard, Quebec J4Y 0B3 or DeSerres St-Hubert 4055 Bd Taschereau, Saint-Hubert, QC J4T 2G6 Micheals 4990 Boul Taschereau Greenfield Park,
How much does a course cost and how do I register?
Our rates vary depending on the package chosen (individual course, session, or subscription). Registration is done online, by phone, or on-site, with secure payment.