Summer is Almost Here!

Camps & classes run from June 9 to August 23

(no class: June 29 – July 6)

Good luck, Ellen!

After 15 incredible years of sharing her passion and talent for oil painting at Art Attack, we’re bidding a fond farewell to Ellen Howard as she embarks on an exciting new chapter in Boise, Idaho.

Her creativity and dedication have left a lasting impression on our studio and in the hearts of her students. While she may be moving to a new home in another state, the seeds of inspiration she planted will continue to bloom here for years to come.

From Ellen:

“It’s hard to believe that 15 years have flown by as part of the Art Attack team! I still remember those early days painting in Nancy’s garage — what began as me attending as a student grew into cherished friendships, creative collaborations, and a deeply fulfilling teaching journey. Who would have thought those first brushstrokes would lead to a rewarding career in painting and teaching?

Art Attack has been an essential part of my life. I’ve had the privilege of teaching children, teens, and adults and contributing to countless events over the years. It has truly been an honor to get to know all of you, to see your growth as artists, and to share in your creativity week after week.

I’m so grateful to Nancy and Audrey for their vision and “can-do” spirit, and for creating a space that has nurtured so many artists. Your support and trust have meant the world to me. You’ve not only been students and colleagues, you’ve become part of my extended art family. As I am preparing to move, know that I’ll deeply miss our weekly time together. Though I’m stepping away for now, I hope to return for occasional workshops, and my inbox will always be open if you’d like to reach out.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for being a part of this incredible chapter in my life. With much love and deep gratitude, I won’t say goodbye – but see you soon!”

We’ll miss her deeply and wish her all the best on her new adventure!

Want to reach out to say goodbye?

Share a memory or a thank you with her by clicking the button below.

Camp Week 8: Wild, Wild West!

August 4 – 8

A personal favorite theme of Nancy’s, this week of camp brings us to a faux Old West town just over the hill in Half Moon Bay where we are lucky enough to paint on location.

Howdy partner! Yippee ki go with us to Long Branch Farms, the darlin’ of Half Moon Bay. This cozy little western street will be yours for a day of dang fine plein air painting. Put on your cowboy boots and saunter down the wooden sidewalks while you sip lemonade and dream of what life was like in the old west. Scout out the perfect spot and make a mighty fine painting on location. We’ll bring all the supplies, and helpers you need to to get the job done right.

At Long Branch Farms we find ourselves immediately immersed in a land from another time. Wooden walkways, barrels, and wagon wheels help set the scene. We walk through the town, discussing if we’d rather be sheriffs or outlaws, and we wave hello to the resident chickens and horses.

We open our sketch books and create thumbnail drawings and value studies of potential compositions, and then we set up our easels and get to work on our one-day paintings!

The week ends with an art show that makes you feel like you’re destined to travel West to find your fortune. You don’t want to miss this fun-filled week of summer camp!

Learn more about all our incredible themes and field trips!

Nancy and Ellen joined the California Art Club in Yosemite last week for a painting retreat! They spent 4 days in the stunning national park, spending each one plein air painting at a different spectacular vista. From El Capitan, to Bridal Veil Falls, to Cathedral Beach — Mother Nature was showing off!

In addition to her oil paintings, Nancy opted to also make some pieces in gouache (one example shown below of El Capitan). We are big fans of the water-based medium for it’s vibrancy and easy clean up, making it a no-brainer for art on the go.

Ellen flexed her skills as a plein air landscape painter, and showed once again why she’s the sitting Vice President of the California Art Club.

All in all, a beautiful trip to be remembered!

♥ We’ll see you at the studio! ♥