Decorus Atelier of Figurative Art offers a rigorous training program in classical methods of drawing, painting, and sculpture, following the traditions of the great masters. Students can attend part-time or full-time and will receive instruction in a variety of subjects, including figurative anatomy, narrative thinking, and philosophy.
Upcoming Classes at
The Decorus Atelier of Figurative Art (568)
All courses are held at 117 57th St, Brooklyn, NY unless indicated.
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.
The Decorus Atelier of Figurative Art
Sunset Park, Brooklyn 117 57th St 2nd Fl Btwn 1st & 2nd Avenues 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.
Reviews of The Decorus Atelier of Figurative Art
(4.9-star rating across
164 reviews)
Accelerated Introduction to Drawing
Anonymous
• April 1, 2025
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.
Quick Small Scale Portrait Sculpture
Elliot L. • March 12, 2025
A very real experience.
James Xavier's commitment and enthusiasm is contagious.
Quick Small Scale Portrait Sculpture
Aiyana P. • March 12, 2025
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.
Accelerated Introduction to Drawing
Laura K. • March 6, 2025
James was an awesome instructor and is clearly very passionate about what he does. A very comfortable environment with helpful feedback!
Drawing Improvement Through Bargue Copying
Alice G. • February 18, 2025
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 Art of Silverpoint Drawing
Aegina B. • January 13, 2025
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!
Accelerated Portraiture Drawing
Kelly K. • November 27, 2024
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.
Accelerated Introduction to Drawing
Yash J. • October 7, 2024
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.
Introduction to Écorché: Portrait Anatomy (Sculpture)
Anonymous
• September 8, 2024
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.
Accelerated Introduction to Drawing
Anonymous
• June 18, 2024
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.
Accelerated Portraiture Drawing
Zarna G. • May 31, 2024
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.
Accelerated Introduction to Drawing
Meena H. • May 23, 2024
Great class. James is a wonderful instructor. Gives you a lot of room to grow while giving helpful tips and advice.
Accelerated Portraiture Drawing
Renee C. • May 22, 2024
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.
Accelerated Introduction to Drawing
Anonymous
• April 1, 2024
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
Accelerated Introduction to Drawing
Iktan A. • March 24, 2024
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.
Accelerated Introduction to Drawing
Sharise S. • March 11, 2024
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.
Accelerated Introduction to Drawing
Albert D. • March 7, 2024
James was among the best teachers I’ve ever had - patient, passionate, and devoted. Was such a pleasure to take his class!
Accelerated Introduction to Drawing
Abigail D. • March 5, 2024
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!
Classical Drawing By Candlelight
Jakob S. • March 1, 2024
Amazing! The instructor is inspiring:) and givers one on one attention to you. Highly recommend
Accelerated Introduction to Drawing
Aeden Z. • February 19, 2024
Passionate teacher, generous with time, answered questions
Students praise the classes at The Decorus Atelier of Figurative Art for helping them hone their artistic abilities. Students felt inspired and motivated to pursue their artistic talents and proudly call themselves sculptors. The classes are described as a mix of beginners and advanced students, with a small class size that allows for individual attention from the knowledgeable and patient instructor, James. Students appreciate the welcoming and friendly environment, and many express their excitement to continue learning and return for more classes.
Quotes:
1. "This class was honestly an inspiration. It allowed me to pursue artistic abilities I didn’t know I had. Abilities we all have and maybe just haven’t nurtured enough. I am proud of what I made and proud to call myself a sculptor now."
2. "James is very hands on, not afraid to criticize but also very motivational."
3. "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."
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