Welcome new
OPEN STUDIO Facilitator

Craig Reesor

EAA member artists may have heard that we have a new Open Studio Facilitator in wonderful artist/teacher Craig Reesor! This is an excellent time to jump in to the Open Studio program if you’ve never taken a class before, as Craig is redesigning the structure and format of the classes as we speak.

Here’s what Craig says:

“I'm from a large family where I was immersed in the arts from a young age. My mother was an avid painter, while my father was in law enforcement. Early on I expressed a strong interest in the fine arts. I was exposed to many art books at home, visited art galleries in Laguna Beach, and pursued the fine arts in school. Upon entering high school, I had instructors take notice of my talent, and was hired to work for North Clackamas School District. While there I gained hands on experience designing print materials to support education. I worked as an apprentice for three years with my mentor, Dee Boyles, who had a strong influence on me. Dee Boyles was a highly respected graphic artist, and oil painter in Portland Oregon.

I entered the United States Air Force upon graduation from high school. My passion in art led to an opportunity to work as the squadron artist. I created murals and other artwork on several bases around the world. I contributed to air museums, and my largest piece of art was featured on the walls of a large aircraft hangar. My work gained notice from congressmen and generals.

After serving in the USAF, I continued working as a freelance illustrator and painter. Financial pressure and the desire to support a family led me to another career in law enforcement, although I continued to always devote time to painting.

I consider myself a representational artist, with an emphasis on landscape and portraiture. I enjoy expressing myself in various mediums and continue today enjoying sharing my skills with others. We are developing the class according to what the artists wants. The class is flexible and each individual can work on whatever art project they want to bring in. As an instructor/facilitator, I can offer an opinion, and help with a variety of mediums. The class is designed to be a no stress, relaxed environment. There will be some group work, as well as individual work. I will offer some example work, and invite different artist into the class that can teach more examples of different mediums, and approaches. I understand that as artists we all have individual styles, and levels of art abilities. The class is meant to address this fact. The room has great lighting with high ceilings, temperature control, clean-up stations, and table, and chairs. Bottled water, baked goods, and music are also available. Still life, and figure drawing/painting will be offered. Plein air, and settings can be decided by individual artists. Most importantly, Open Studio is a community of artists that can grow, and learn from each other in a great environment! Each artist is required to bring in their own materials to create their own art.”

We are so excited about the all new and improved exciting Open Studio weekly class, we hope you’ll join us soon! For more information, visit the EDUCATION page of our website. We are so lucky to have Craig Reesor as our facilitator for the new and improved Open Studio, we hope you’ll join us!