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Decorus Atelier of Figurative Art is committed to offering students a solid foundation in classical methods of drawing, painting, and sculpture though a rigorous schedule of traditional training. Students training at Decorus will follow in the traditions of the great masters of art, and concentrate on developing strong technical skill and control. They will learn how to infuse their work with a sense of narrative, and critical thinking essential to fine art and figurative realism today.

Our instructors are dedicated to creating better artistic construction and change in an atmosphere where artists can learn how to fuse technique, and figurative anatomy with an interwoven sense of narrative content, the eternal or universal, and philosophy. We are dedicated to transforming our students and to building the strongest artists possible.

Following the Classical Atelier method of training, students work through cast drawing, cast painting, figure drawing, and figure painting. Students at Decorus Atelier will find a dedication to the study of figurative anatomy, alla prima painting and indirect method painting in the tradition of the old masters.

Students are welcome to attend part time or full time. We work with each student to find the right balance and design a suitable course of study tailored to their individual needs. The Full Time program typically takes 4-6 total semesters of study (2-3 years) to complete the entire program depending on the dedication of the individual student. Students will work through a series of projects at their own pace in a friendly, supportive atmosphere mastering skills to build a solid foundation for creating highly realistic drawings and paintings.

Courses are offered throughout the year by various instructors in Figurative painting, drawing, sculpture, ecorche, anatomy, still life, perspective, plain air landscape, urban and architectural drawing and painting, cast drawing, painting, narrative thinking and philosophy. Master workshops, and open figure drawing/painting sessions are offered regularly.

Reviews of The Decorus Atelier of Figurative Art

(4.9-star rating across 124 reviews)
Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

8/10/2023
Michael L.

Attended: Accelerated Introduction to Drawing


I loved working with James - he is very generous with his time and clearly has a passion for both teaching and art. It is a very unique space and program that he has set up, simply a one-of-a-kind experience. I will be coming back!

Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

8/4/2023
Helaina G.

Attended: Accelerated Introduction to Drawing


If you’re interested in learning how to draw- I’d highly recommend this class. James is really good at creating a welcoming environment, is obviously super knowledgeable and most importantly for me at least- really good at giving targeted, transferable and immediately actionable feedback in a firm but positive way. I really felt like he was looking closely at my work and really tailoring advice. The value honestly far exceeded the price and I’ve definitely paid more for less.

Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

7/28/2023
Amna A.

Attended: Accelerated Introduction to Drawing


The class was great! I am a total beginner with drawing and was able to learn a lot in just one class! Everyone at the school was kind and helpful

Accelerated Portraiture Drawing

7/17/2023
Alex C.

Attended: Accelerated Portraiture Drawing


Knowledgeable instructor and intimate and friendly environment.

Accelerated Portraiture Drawing

7/11/2023
Anonymous

Attended: Accelerated Portraiture Drawing


Really thorough informative class that is tailored to your skill level. I learned so much in the few hours of class and left energized and motivated to continue learning more. The instructor’s passion is contagious! Can’t wait to come back.

Accelerated Portraiture Drawing

6/29/2023
Anonymous

Attended: Accelerated Portraiture Drawing


A fascinating and informative class! James takes his time to cater to the needs of his students and is enthusiastic about sharing his vast knowledge. Overall, a wonderful experience!

Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

6/20/2023
Maia K.

Attended: Accelerated Introduction to Drawing


James was enthusiastic about the class. I told him what I want to learn, and he was trying to teach me as much as he could. I could def tell he is so good and amazing at his artwork so I would def take another class going forward. highly recommended

Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

6/16/2023
Diego M.

Attended: Accelerated Introduction to Drawing


The class was beyond my explanations. Professor James is very knowledgeable and talented in his craft. Highly recommend!

Accelerated Portraiture Drawing

5/30/2023
Cynthia G.

Attended: Accelerated Portraiture Drawing


Fantastic class. I learned more in this one class than all my years taking art growing up. Highly recommend.

Accelerated Portraiture Drawing

5/28/2023
Hajra Heidi B.

Attended: Accelerated Portraiture Drawing


What an amazing class! The space was so cool and the students were super kind to eachother. James (the professor) was incredible. He was so supportive and had amazing tips to gain accuracy in my portrait drawing class. I can't wait to go back. This place is way more than just an art class; it's a school, a community, and a safe haven for all those lovers of art. Highly recommend. ❤️

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Questions about this school?
117 57th St 2nd Fl, Brooklyn, New York 11220
The Decorus Atelier of Figurative Art
Sunset Park, Brooklyn
117 57th St 2nd Fl
Brooklyn, New York 11220

Directions:
We are conveniently located just a few blocks away near the 59th station off the N/R train and right next to the ferry stop for the South Brooklyn Ferry coming from Wall Street in Manhattan to Sunset Park Brooklyn. You can find parking right outside or at the Brooklyn Army Terminal next door.

Upcoming Classes at The Decorus Atelier of Figurative Art

Accelerated Introduction to Drawing
Accelerated Introduction to Drawing
Next start date:

Thursday Sep 28th, 3–5pm Eastern Time

Accelerated Portraiture Drawing
Accelerated Portraiture Drawing
Next start date:

Wednesday Sep 27th, 3–5pm Eastern Time

Classical Canine Portraiture
Classical Canine Portraiture
Next start date:

Wednesday Oct 4th, 6:30–9:30pm Eastern Time

Dia De Los Muertos Theme: Live Model 3 Hour Pose
Dia De Los Muertos Theme: Live Model 3 Hour Pose
Next start date:

Saturday Oct 28th, 6–9pm Eastern Time

Artistic Dynamics of Light and Form
Artistic Dynamics of Light and Form
Next start date:

Wednesday Sep 27th, 3–5pm Eastern Time

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