Art Workshop (Thursday)

I took the Fundamentals of Drawing and Painting class and have enjoyed every minute of it! I highly recommend this class to anyone looking to build a strong foundation in drawing, whether you’re a complete beginner or returning to art after a long break. The instructor explains concepts like mark making, proportion, and measuring in a clear, systematic way that makes challenging techniques feel approachable. Learning to create a value scale completely changed how I think about light, depth, and form, and I was surprised by how much my drawings improved in just a few sessions. The class strikes a great balance between group demonstrations and personalized feedback, so you always know what to work on next without feeling overwhelmed. The learning environment is warm, supportive, and inspiring, with a small class size that encourages creativity while giving everyone plenty of individual attention. I left each session feeling more confident, motivated to keep practicing, and excited to continue taking classes with this instructor.

The Chelsea drawing & painting workshop is such a special respite in NYC! I was looking for a creative outlet as a form of stress relief from my corporate job, and the vibe was exactly what I needed. The classes are relaxed – you progress at-you-own-pace and skillset – and Raul is there to give guidance whenever you need. As someone with no prior experience with drawing, I love how nonchalant, non-judgmental, and quirky the atmosphere is. Raul is great at introducing students to each-other and cultivating conversation and cheer throughout the session and during breaktime. I ended up going consistently for 3 months, and I’m looking forward to picking it up again, when my schedule allows. Highly recommend giving the studio a shot.

Raul is very knowledgeable, supportive, & inspired teacher. He makes you feel comfortable and understands your needs, no matter what is your level in art. His suggestions is always helpful. Raul is friendly, fun to be around, hight educated in many fields. During the break he involves students in discussions about art, music, science, and many more. After classes you improve your painting/ drawing skills, meet nice people and feel happy being in relax environment. I highly recommend this workshop. Look forward to come back.

Raul is very knowledgeable, supportive, inspired teacher. He makes you feel comparable and understands your needs, no matter what is your level in art. His suggestions is always helpful. Raul is highly educated person in many fields, excellent artist himself, and fun to be around. During the break, he involves students in discussions about art, music, science, and many more. After class you improve your painting/ drawing skills and feel happy being in friendly, relaxed atmosphere. I highly recommend the workshop. Look forward to come back.

I attended this workshop with my daughter. It was a great experience! Raphael is very pleasant and a great instructor. We will definitely come back again for another project.

Really great way to spend a saturday evening. Instructor was very attentive and knowledgeable. Would recommend!

I loved this drawing class! The space is very intimate and it’s cool to be in a professional artists studio. Raul was a pleasure and very personable. His aid and guidance was a huge help and I can’t wait to go back!

A lot of fun!

It was really fulfilling to explore my creative side again. Rafael did a wonderful job at guiding me, explaining techniques and being encouraging. I had already enrolled of his 2 classes, and am glad that I will have the opportunity to continue my artwork with him two weekends in a row. Everyone there was friendly and personable. A lovely lady from Australia even brought in some homemade baklava. I would highly recommend anyone to take this class. Great atmosphere and a fun time. Thanks Rafael.

I had a really nice afternoon drawing and Rafael was super nice. He was a good instructor and really helped me. I am going back for sure!