Oil Painting for Absolute Beginners No drawing skills needed

Come nervous, leave proud.

We’ll guide you every step of the way.

A woman with long blonde hair and glasses smiling as she paints on a canvas in an art studio.

Oil Painting for Stick Figure Drawing Dropouts

THE OUTCOME

You’ll leave with an 8”x10” painting in progress or complete, plus a simple method for seeing shapes and mixing color so painting feels doable (not intimidating). Most people surprise themselves.

WHAT YOU’LL PAINT

You’ll paint an image you choose.

Image deadline: Please submit your image by January 31. If you register after this date, an image will be chosen for you so you’re ready to paint.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Everything you need is provided, including:

• 5 hours of instruction

• All supplies (including a color reference image)

• Peaceful studio setting with easels

• Professionally prepared aluminum panel (AKA “canvas”)

Lunch: There’s a 45-minute lunch break. Please bring your own lunch/snack.

WHO THIS IS FOR

This class is for you if:

• You’ve always wanted to try oil painting but didn’t want to buy all the supplies

• You’re curious, but you feel intimidated

• You want a relaxed, supportive experience and clear instruction

If you’re the person who says, “I can’t even draw a stick figure,” I want you.

What Students are Saying:

  • Student’s first painting. Close-up of vibrant red flowers with yellow and black centers surrounded by lush green leaves.

    Michelle, thank you so much for such a great class. I have taken classes at Dillman’s Resort in Lac Du Flambeau and come away from your class with more knowledge and confidence than I did taking other classes. I can’t wait to get back and finish my masterpiece!

    - Kay

    (Wow - I am literally flabbergasted at this unsolicited testimonial. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.)

  • Student’s first painting. A painting of a bouquet of colorful flowers in a purple vase with a pink ribbon, on a brown table against a blue background.

    Not only is Michelle a world-class artist, but she is also an amazing teacher. I really can't draw, but she has patiently guided me in learning to visualize light, shadows, and subtle colors that I never noticed before. I don't know who is more proud of what I'm accomplishing under her tutelage, Michelle or I. Don't miss this opportunity to learn to paint with Michelle!

    - Terri

  • Student’s first painting. A painting of a beach scene with rocks, turquoise water, waves crashing against the rocks, and a blue sky.

    Michelle, you are an amazing teacher! You brought my dream of being an artist to a whole new level! Thank you for your patience and instruction and seeing me through it all!

    –Sheila

  • Student’s first painting. Painting of a colorful bouquet of tulips in a purple vase on a gray canvas background.

    Thank you for explaining so much in detail. That made sense to a non-painter.

    – Jessica

    (gave class rating: Perfect 10!)

  • Student’s first painting. A painting of a bright yellow sunflower with a dark center, set against a blue background.

    My favorite part was seeing the final (painting) done! Thank you for this Awesome experience!

    –Theresa

    (Gave a perfect 10 rating)

  • Student’s first painting. Painting of a lighthouse on a rocky shore, with a cloudy sky and ocean in the background.

    You are seriously the best teacher!!

    – Jennifer E.

  • Student’s first painting. A purple rose in the foreground alongside green leaves and dark purple stems, depicted in a painting style.

    Thank you so much. We all had a great time. We were all surprised with our (final paining). You are an excellent teacher. Sheila was wonderful. Everything was beautiful. I think that anyone that comes to take your class will be very impressed with the experience. Thank you for your hospitality and knowledge. I look forward to doing some more work with you and learning more.

    – Trista

    (This message brought tears of joy to my eyes!)

Upcoming Class Dates in Wisconsin

The short answer - May.

I spend the winter in my Fulton, Texas studio and return to Ladysmith, Wisconsin in May 2026. I plan to have classes every month. Watch here for updates and of course, the Student Exhibition at the end of the summer.

What’s next?

Learn to Paint at home - Premium Oil Painting Kits

I have teamed up with Menomonie photographer, Kathy Westaby, to offer high quality painting kits. They will have everything you need to learn to paint. I am super excited about this project and think you will absolutely love them.

  • This is for you if…

    You want to see if you can create something you really are happy to put on your own wall.

    You suck at drawing - or maybe not.

    You are a little intimidated by art.

    You think that painting sounds interesting.

    You would like to utilize painting to work thru PTSD, anxiety, stress, loneliness, boredom, retirement, grief etc. Art can significantly improve all of these.

    All 2D mediums welcome. Beginner to expert.

  • Instruction from a professional artist who specializes in realism oil paintings.

    Everything you need to paint including easels, paint, brushes, medium, canvas etc.

    Snacks and beverages unless otherwise stated.

    Contact us directly if you need lodging or transportation from out of town.

  • Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of the class.

    Introductions first.

    Instructions and direction next.

    Then we will jump right into painting.

  • Junky clothes

    Earbuds

    Notepad if you like but there will not be a test.

  • We would be happy to reschedule you into another available time slot.

    I’m sorry but we cannot offer refunds for no shows or incomplete attendance.