Janie Gildow - Students

Some comments from Janie's students.....

Gale Sherman Tucson, AZ:

"I had a few other drawing teachers before I started taking class from Janie, but I never connected with them as I have with her. Not only is she an accomplished artist, but she is an excellent teacher. Janie is very organized (giving the BEST power point presentations and handouts) followed by appropriate exercises. To top it off, she is able to meet the varying needs of students—from the least experienced to the most advanced. She gives positive feedback, nurturing and nudging each individual student. Janie has not only taught me to produce fine technical pieces, but has also encouraged me to think and create "outside the box." How much have I learned from Janie? I've taken 9 different classes (and repeated 2... by choice) in 4 years"

Maryann Kot Tucson, AZ

"Why do I attend as many of Janie's colored pencil classes as I can--even though I have attended all the required classes at the Desert Museum to enable me to get my Nature Illustration Certificate? Beside the obvious, Janie's abundant knowledge of colored pencil and her positive way of teaching it, I walk away from each session feeling good about my accomplishments and what I have learned in class and can't wait to get started on the next colored pencil project I have planned.

The last day of each session is the most inspiring. Janie has students 'show and tell' the work done during the classes. It is a good time to interact with the other students you have been working with. It is always a positive experience with Janie leading the way with comments about good composition, tonal quality, color layering, etc. Then the class gets a chance to point out their favorite drawing or part of a drawing. Everyone leaves the class feeling good about what they have experienced in the class.

I am looking forward to the next class I am able to take with Janie."

Fred North:

"Janie Gildow's enthusiasm for colored pencil artistry was contagious. In her teaching she nurtures her students allowing each one to work at developing his/her latent talent."

Jean A. Becker:

"Janie's superb artistic talent is very much admired by her students and fellow artists. What I also found to be true is that she is a wonderful teacher! Janie was able to simplify, clarify and demonstrate techniques and concepts that definitely helped me to enjoy my drawing. Janie has a great "wit" and she's not afraid to use it, but, most importantly, she is patient, helpful and understands the best ways to encourage her students. I am fortunate to be one of her students."

Mary Moore M. Ritchie Linville Falls, NC:

"Janie is the best prepared instructor as evidenced by her outstanding PowerPoint presentations. It is obvious she puts a lot of time and effort in planning the curriculum for her classes. I have attended three different classes over the last several years and treasure each one. I must mention she adds a lot of humor to the class as well."

Mary Laigast New Orleans, LA:

"I found Janie Gildow through a workshop advertisement in a national art magazine for Colored Pencil: Feathers and Beyond. Although I live in another state, I attended the workshop and I’m so glad I did! I continue to come in for her classes and I’m never disappointed. No matter what your level, Janie provides you with the guidelines needed to develop your skills."

Delores Scott Tucson, AZ:

"Janie really knows her stuff!! What I have learned from her classes has been quite an enjoyable experience. It has made quite a difference in how I’m using my pencils and the results I’m seeing with my drawings. Thank you! "

Adrienne Hughes Tucson, AZ:

"I was truly a beginner when I took my first class from Janie—I was hooked! Now I am gaining confidence and can’t wait for my next project to begin. Thanks, Janie, you are a miracle worker."

Kare Williams Tucson, AZ:

"Janie Gildow has a wealth of knowledge and conveys it with clarity and passion. Her teaching not only educates but inspires."

Karen Siefert Green Valley, AZ:

"Such an enjoyable class! I am able to move at my pace while absorbing and learning so many things!"

Nan Nasser Tucson, AZ:

"Janie Gildow is an accomplished artist and excellent instructor. She is supportive and encouraging while offering constructive criticism—classes are fun! A great experience."

Nan Margdant Cortaro, AZ:

"Great classes—Colored Pencil 1 and 2. I learned so much—now I just need to practice—practice—practice. Thank you for all your slide presentations, demonstrations and handouts. I love your books!"

Rebecca Mauldin Tucson, AZ:

"An accomplished artist in colored pencil, Janie is an inspirational teacher as well as a published and nationally known author."

Shari Cavanaugh Wilsonvile, OR & Tucson, AZ:

"Janie—you are truly an inspiration—such a talented artist who is willing to share her talent, inspiration, and secrets with us. A very enjoyable class."