The Decorus Atelier of Figurative Art
Upcoming Classes in NYC

The instructor was truly so helpful and took time to really cater the experience to exactly what I needed in my level of drawing. It definitely is an intro class and an introduction to the studio so do keep that in mind as a good chunk of the first hour was walking through the studio and talking about what services were offered etc. The instructor did gladly let me stay past the time to help me individually with my drawing which I so appreciated and everyone there was so helpful. I would definitely recommend if someone is considering full time classes at the studio for an introduction class.

A very real experience. James Xavier's commitment and enthusiasm is contagious.

This was a fantastic class. James was incredible. He started the class off by giving us a tour of his studio where some of his other students were working which allowed us to be immersed in mind and body in the craft of portraits in different modes. He was available and present with the lesson which felt intimate and extraterrestrial at the same time. His words were incredibly uplifting and his instruction showed how firmness meets flexibility in the craft of one's self. I would highly recommend this class for anyone who feels that there is something burgeoning inside them that needs a guide to come through. James is both an instructor of the art of sculpting clay as well as one's own vision for themselves. 10/10 would recommend and will very likely work with James again.

James was an awesome instructor and is clearly very passionate about what he does. A very comfortable environment with helpful feedback!

Wonderful course. The instructor was amazing and so helpful; I am surprised that I managed to see improvement in just one course. This studio is a delightful place to learn.

The instructor could not have been nicer or more enthusiastic. The approach was personalized and very helpful, and helped me overcome some of my perceived obstacles (hesitation about making mistakes, etc.) I love that this rather obscure art is alive and well and being taught regularly!

This was the first art class I have ever taken in person. I have mostly studied online. James was such a great teacher, super welcoming. The space is great, all of the students were happy to be there. There is something really inspiring about being in a place surrounded with paintings, drawings, sculptures etc, ran by someone who really cares about what they're doing, and is an incredibly talented artist themselves. The small class sizes is a huge plus. I learned a lot on my first day and 100% will be returning. I can't say enough good things.

Really friendly, super helpful and inspiring. Highly recommend for artists of any level (I went with virtually no drawing experience), especially if you’re looking to do something different and new.

I highly recommend this course, especially if you're looking for a class with a lot of guidance and one on one instruction. James is an excellent teacher. He's incredibly knowledgable, personable and professional. This class was a combination of anatomy lectures and hands on modeling. I learned a lot and was very happy with my finished model. I also appreciated the casual class environment. There were often other students working on drawing or painting projects and James would invite conversation around the student work.

It's incredibly hard to find ongoing beginner classes for adults. James was great and spent a lot of one on one time with me which is pretty unheard of in group classes. Taking more classes and very excited to learn how to draw.

If you’re looking to improve your artistic ability, look no further. James offers very professional lessons across a wide range of mediums. There were only a few other students in the class, so it felt as if I had a private session. I’ve learned so much from just a few hours working with him. Was a unique and special way to spend my time in New York. Highly recommend.

Great class. James is a wonderful instructor. Gives you a lot of room to grow while giving helpful tips and advice.

It was a really great class; James is really knowledgeable and impressive. During my 3 hours there, I learned new ways of organizing my drawing so I can depict the subject matter with more ease and fluidity. James has taught at schools like Stanford, and he is classically trained; he gave me tips on how to hold my pencil and block out shadows so I can better depict mid tones and highlights. I would definitely go again and I recommend for other people to go.

What a wonderful experience! The Atelier is a breeding ground for creativity. James provides excellent guidance through the art of drawing, sculpting and painting and highly encourages in depth study of human anatomy. Our class was very intimate and I just loved being surrounded by likeminded intellectuals, discussing art, perspective and philosophy. I will be back

The experience for my grandson was excellent! His progress was made all the better due to his professor who explained throughly where he could expand his knowledge. I’m looking forward to set up additional classes for him.

Very informative and beautiful space, makes you motivated to draw and feel out your own skills. James the instructor was so kind and made my sister and I feel right at home and help with drawing pointers. Best art class by far with demonstrations and kind words thay push us to be better.

James was among the best teachers I’ve ever had - patient, passionate, and devoted. Was such a pleasure to take his class!

Incredible time! James genuinely works with each individual and meets them where they are at. I am an absolute beginner and felt comfortable leaning into the process and thoroughly enjoyed opening myself up to a new skill set!

Amazing! The instructor is inspiring:) and givers one on one attention to you. Highly recommend

Passionate teacher, generous with time, answered questions