Examine the Course Catalog - Studio Incamminati

Studio Incamminati 

2012-2013 School Catalog

Mission 

Studio Incamminati exists to meet the express needs of students eager to learn the aesthetic and philosophical 

techniques and principles of humanist realism. 

Modeled on the traditional Italian accademia and French atelier, Studio Incamminati provides a dynamic 

teaching program to produce highly skilled artists who can call upon their abilities to create art with depth of 

purpose. We teach artists whose art and teaching will in turn inspire others. 

As Studio Incamminati progresses, our students will master the practices needed to develop rewarding careers 

and lives in the arts. 

Contents 

340 North 12th Street 

Suite 400 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19007 

Phone: 215.592.7910 

Fax: 215.592.7912 

Email: 

info@studioincamminati.org 

Website: 

www.StudioIncamminati.org 

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter 

and our blog: 

www.studioincamminati.blogspot.com 

Artwork on front cover (clockwise from top left): 

Persian Archer, Dan Thompson, Oil on canvas, 

2008, 18 x 28 inches; Harlequin, Darren Kingsley, 

Oil on canvas, 2011, 16 x 20 inches; Sunday, 

Lea Colie Wight; Oil on linen, 2011, 32 x 28 inches; 

Black Shawl (detail), Stephen Early, Oil on linen, 2011 

♦ Revised January 2013 

ABOUT STUDIO INCAMMINATI ....................1-2 

PROGRAMS....................................................3-33 

Full-time Professional Program..............................3-19 

Requirements and Grading....................................4 

Curriculum.........................................................4 

Fall 2012 Courses ................................................7 

Spring 2013 Courses...........................................12 

Program Application and Tuition..........................18 

Payment, Scholarships and Grants.........................19 

Attendance, Absence, Makeup Classes....................19 

Teaching Fellows Program....................................19 

Part-time Professional Program................................20 

Curriculum, Application and Tuition.....................20 

Continuing Education.......................................22-26 

Evening Programs...............................................22 

Registration, Payment and Policies.....................25 

Day Programs....................................................24 


Emerging Artists................................................25 


Open Studio......................................................26 

Workshops......................................................27-33 

Fall 2012/Winter 2013 Courses............................27 


Summer 2013 Courses........................................29 


Art Educator Workshops......................................32 


FACULTY......................................................34-36 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS/STAFF ........................37 

ACADEMIC CALENDAR ...................................38

STUDIO INCAMMINATI 

The name “Studio Incamminati” is filled with symbolism. In Italian, “Incamminati” means “moving forward.” 

It also invokes the spirit and practices of its namesake studio founded by the great Renaissance artist, Annibale 

Carraci. Most importantly, Studio Incamminati reflects Founder and Artistic Director Nelson Shanks’ 

commitment to handing this philosophy and techniques to a new generation. Studio Incamminati helps fulfill 

this vision through its Full and Part-time Professional Program, workshops for the general public, art educators, 

and its award-winning outreach programs for school-age artists. 

Founders 

Nelson Shanks 

Studio Incamminati Founder and Artistic Director Nelson Shanks is one of the most sought-after 

artists and art teachers in the world. 

His work has been honored and exhibited in numerous museums and galleries worldwide, including 

Russian Museum in St. Petersburg and the Russian Academy of Arts in Moscow, the National Academy 

of Design, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the National Gallery of Art, and the Dayton Art Institute. 

His work is represented in many distinguished European and American collections. Shanks has served 

as visiting professor in fine arts at George Washington University, and taught at the University of the 

Arts in Philadelphia, the Art Students League in New York and the Art Institute of Chicago. 

After decades exploring and developing art curricula, he founded Studio Incamminati as a personal 

display of his commitment to changing the world’s view of art. 

Highlighting his numerous accolades are lifetime achievement awards from the Portrait Society of 

America in 2009 and the National Arts Club in 2010, the 2006 Pennsylvania Governor’s Award for 

Excellence in the Arts and the 2008 Fresh Artists Visionary Award for his work in art education. He 

is internationally renowned for his work, especially his numerous portraits of luminaries including 

Presidents Reagan and Clinton, Princess Diana and naturalist E.O. Wilson. 

Leona Shanks 

Leona Shanks, who co-founded Studio Incamminati with husband Nelson, is a teaching fellow at 

the Studio. She earned First Place in juried competition of “Inspiring Figures: American Women and 

Figurative Art,” at the Butler Institute of American Art in 2010. She was a Top 100 finalist in the Art 

Renewal Center’s International 2009 ARC Salon still life category. An accomplished sculptor, Leona 

also won the 2002 Edmund Stewardson Award for Sculpture. Her paintings have been exhibited in 

numerous exhibitions and are included in many private collections. 

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ABOUT STUDIO INCAMMINATI 

The Artistic Community 

Studio Incamminati offers an intimate artistic community and supportive atmosphere from faculty with on-site studios, 

administration, and fellow students. The group dynamic provides a nurturing environment where a community of artists 

learns from each other and grows together. 

Facilities 

The facility has over 13,000 sq. ft. of north lit studio space with atmosphere designed for the devoted pursuit of creative 

excellence. The facility includes exhibition space for all Professional Program students, and on-site faculty studios 

necessary for communal learning, cast studio, reference library, school supply store, and kitchen. The studio is located 

in Center City Philadelphia within blocks of the city’s “cultural mile” of world-class museums, art galleries, shops, and 

restaurants and is within a few hours of New York and Washington D.C. 

Learning Through Exhibitions 

Exhibitions are an important part of the learning experience. Studio Incamminati has at least two shows per year 

at galleries and other public venues. Students also travel to museums and galleries in Philadelphia, New York, and 

Washington D.C. to enrich their experience. 

Professional Artists as Faculty 

Accomplished instructors are the cornerstone of Studio Incamminati. Our faculty consists of professional working 

artists with on-site studios and visiting faculty who are internationally renowned artists and educators bringing a wide 

range of experience. Some have studied extensively with Nelson Shanks while others bring mastery developed in studios 

around the world. All are award-winning artists dedicated to helping students learn and succeed and providing them 

with the tools needed to realize a career in the arts. 

Programs 

Studio Incamminati’s extraordinary premise draws artists from a wide variety of circumstances. Our flexible offerings 

enable the most talented artists to participate, regardless of stage of life, professional experience or geographical 

distance. To meet the diverse needs of artists at all levels, we offer a variety of programs: 

Full and Part-Time Professional Programs, Evening and Weekend Public Programs and Winter and Summer Workshops

FULL-TIME PROFESSIONAL PROGRAM 

The Professional Program is based on teaching representational art—figurative, still life and portrait. It is designed for 

artists of all ages and levels of ability, from professionals seeking to expand their skills to talented high school students 

just embarking on their artistic journey. The program requires approximately four years of study. Students receive a 

Certificate of Achievement upon successful completing the program. 

Entrance Requirements 

The Professional Program is a highly selective course of study. Entrance is based on artistic merit, as determined by 

portfolio review and written application. Promising candidates are interviewed. 

Certificate of Achievement / Minimum Course Requirements 

Studio Studies 

Drawing: 25 Credit Hours 

Painting: 55 Credit Hours 

The Full-Time Professional Program requires four-years of study. In addition to courses required which count toward 

the Certificate of Achievement, students are required to attend art history lectures, discussion groups, museum tours, 

and participate in school exhibitions. 

Total Hours Required for Certificate of Achievement: 80 Credit Hours which is equivalent to approximately 

4,440 clock hours. 

A semester hour of credit represents three hours of classroom studio studies each week for a period of 18-19 weeks. Semesters 

are designated as Fall (September through January) and Spring (February through June). 

Evaluations 

Because of Studio Incamminati’s unique curriculum, methods of teaching, and intimate size, students receive 

continuous feedback on their progress. The faculty evaluates student competency during mid and end-of-semester 

evaluations and during individual and group critiques. Due to the progressive nature of the curriculum, each level of 

competency is carefully monitored. Students receive the maximum benefit of feedback from the entire faculty. 

Grading System 

Professional Program students receive a satisfactory or unsatisfactory grade, based on mid and end-of-semester 

evaluations. Students who receive an unsatisfactory course grade will be required to repeat that course. 

Advancement through the Professional Program is determined by evaluation results, and attendance. Students are 

required to be present at least 90% of their approved schedule. Students who do not meet these attendance requirements 

will receive written notification. If poor attendance continues, students will be asked to repeat classes, or a full year of the 

program, or may be dismissed from Studio Incamminati. Student lateness will be recorded and prorated as absences. 

Studio Incamminati reserves the right to require the withdrawal of any student whose educational development 

is unsatisfactory or whose conduct is deemed harmful to the school by the administration. Students forced to 

withdrawal will be subject to loss of financial assistance. For complete information on school policies, refer to www. 

StudioIncamminati/pro_program 

Studio Incamminati ◆ www.StudioIncamminati.org ◆ 215.592.7910 ◆ 

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Curriculum Matrix 

Concept: Seeing and drawing basic shapes and forms 

Skills to attain: 

LEVEL ONE 

◆ Abstracting from nature 

◆ Gesture 

◆ Block-in 

◆ Using straight lines and 

angles 

◆ Accuracy of gesture and 

proportion 

◆ Massing lights and darks 

◆ Understanding light 

direction 

◆ Value fields 

◆ Seeing shapes in perspective 

◆ Stepping back to assess 

the big picture 

LEVEL TWO 

◆ Maintaining basic 

shapes and forms as new 

disciplines are introduced 

◆ Stating relative values 

with accuracy 

◆ Creating value systems/ 

value relationships 

◆ Developing edges 

and textures 

◆ Building structure 

and form 

Concept: Understanding human anatomy and other natural forms 


LEVEL ONE 

◆ Seeing and expressing the 

human figure as a whole 

◆ Learning to edit down to 

the bare essence to create 

a powerful image that is 

not cluttered with senseless 

information 

◆ Further defining shapes in 

subsequent passes 

LEVEL TWO 

◆ Studying values of the 

figure in its environment 

◆ Relating gesture, angles, 

anatomical landmarks, and 

shapes of light and shadow 

◆ Transforming flat shapes 

into fully dimensional form 

◆ Seeing and expressing 

abstract linear movements 

through the figure 

◆ Studying anatomy 

◆ Using resources to figure 

out anatomy of model 

LEVEL THREE 

◆ Making shapes beautiful 

and combining shapes 

into poetic, musical wholes 

◆ Composing multiple 

elements 

◆ Marrying drawing skills 

to color 

LEVEL THREE 

◆ Relating the figure to the 

background in color 

◆ Making drawing studies 

to prepare for paintings 

◆ Using resources to figure 

out anatomy of model 

LEVEL FOUR 

◆ Maintaining a consistent 

level of fluid drawing that 

properly prioritizes the 

order of macro to micro 

LEVEL FOUR 

◆ Mastering the ability to 

abstract from nature, 

rather than drawing the 

literal line

Concept: Applying this knowledge in monochromatic paint studies 


LEVEL ONE 

◆ Using fluid strokes 

◆ Painting with charcoal first 

◆ Advancing to grisaille 

Concept: Pure color studies 


LEVEL ONE 

◆ Seeing and relating basic 

color relationships under 

artificial light 

◆ Learning vocabulary of 

pigments and terms such 

as hue, value, intensity 

and temperature 

Concept: Synthesis 


LEVEL ONE 

◆ Setting up and composing 

still life 

◆ Developing still life and 

figure drawings 

LEVEL TWO 

◆ Proficiency in paint 

handling 

◆ Controlling paint in thin 

layers 

◆ Rhythmically integrating 

edges 

◆ Advancing to the full 

tonal and value spectrum 

with “closed grisaille” 

LEVEL TWO 

◆ Advancing to figure studies 

◆ Appreciating color 

relationships under 

different light conditions 

◆ Seeing and expressing 

complex color set ups 

LEVEL TWO 

◆ A long pose figure drawing 

in charcoal 

◆ A long pose figure drawing 

in graphite to see relative 

values and to plan ahead 

with specific goals for stages 

of a long pose figure drawing 

LEVEL THREE 

◆ Using warm and cool 

mixtures in “closed grisaille” 

◆ Studying planes and light 

effects 

LEVEL THREE 

◆ Developing color in 

light and shadow areas in 

progressively longer studies 

◆ Advancing to natural light 

set-ups 

◆ Exploring personal 

aesthetic sensibilities 

◆ Capturing the essence of 

the whole in a three hour 

color study and maintaining 

the order of the whole when 

developing a study further 

LEVEL THREE 

◆ Preparing compositional 

sketch and basic color 

study to apply skills 

acquired up to this point 

to a fully realized painting 

◆ Developing paintings in 

stages from drawing and 

composition studies through 

grisaille to completion 

LEVEL FOUR 

◆ Calibrating values while 

keeping each value note 

harmonic with the whole 

LEVEL FOUR 

◆ Painting with color that 

captures the beauty of 

light bathing form 

◆ Keying the color 

temperature determined 

by the light source 

LEVEL FOUR 

◆ Advanced figure studies 

incorporating all the 

fundamental concepts at 

the core of the program 

◆ Still life 


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Concept: Refining preceding stages by focusing on personal expression, selection of subject matter, and careful 

examination of why one paints the subject matter selected 


LEVEL ONE 

◆ Applying principles 

learned in still life to figure 

work and vice versa 

◆ Attending lectures on art 

history 

◆ Touring major exhibitions 

and collections in New 

York, Philadelphia and 

Washington, DC (all levels) 

Concept: Independent studies 


LEVEL ONE 

◆ Completion of assigned 

homework such as Bargue 

drawings, Old Master copies 

LEVEL TWO 

◆ Determining what the 

goal of the painting exercise 

is and when it is reached 

LEVEL TWO 

◆ Completion of homework 

such as self-portrait 

in charcoal and grisaille, 

copying Old Master 

paintings for structure, 

composition, abstract 

value fields 

Curriculum content Copyright 2012 Studio Incamminati 

LEVEL THREE 

◆ Working with mentors 

to begin thinking about 

personal professional 

direction 

◆ Progressing on the path 

to self discovery and self- 

reliance 

◆ Planning Level 4 schedule 

LEVEL THREE 

◆ Completion of assigned 

homework, such as 

creating painting from 

figure studies 

To view a detailed curriculum document, visit www.StudioIncamminati.org/curriculum 

LEVEL FOUR 

◆ Preparing for specific 

exhibition opportunities 

such as auctions and Studio 

Incamminati exhibitions 

◆ Choosing between painting 

still life or strengthening 

skills by classes in other 

levels 

LEVEL FOUR 

◆ Developing creativity in 

concept and composition 

in consultation with 

assigned mentors 

◆ Preparing for independent 

work at Studio Incamminati 

or elsewhere

Fall 2012 Courses 

First semester: September 6, 2012–January 18, 2013 

Level One/First year students: 

Course Title: Figure Drawing: Charcoal I 

Instructor: Jon deMartin 

Location: Level Two Studio 

Time: Mondays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. 

Course Description: The course is designed to give the student the opportunity to deconstruct the figure drawing 

process. Students begin from the action to the description of form in both line and value. Long poses enable the student 

to problem solve each aspect of the drawing. Short poses are introduced near semester end to test the student’s ability 

to seize the action and construct the figure. This course emphasizes the three-dimensional, spatial, geometric and 

structural ways of thinking and problem solving. Poses are held for four weeks beginning with the head and moving to 

the figure. Poses increase in complexity with foreshortening introduced. 2 Credit Hours 

Course Title: Still Life Drawing: Bargue/Cast I 

Instructor: Natalie Italiano 

Location: Level One Studio 

Time: Tuesdays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. 

Course Description: Proportion, a fundamental element of all drawing and painting, is explored through graphite 

drawing. Students learn the basic skill of comparison, as relating to lines and points across a flat surface. The course 

begins with Bargue drawing exercises. Once the skill of working from a flat copy is achieved, students progress to drawing 

simple still life objects and build toward more complicated arrangements, interiors, and cityscapes. 2 Credit Hours 

Course Title: Figure Drawing: Charcoal I 

Instructors: Robin Frey and Joseph Dolderer 


Time: Wednesdays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. (Frey) 

Fridays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. (Dolderer) 

Course Description: This course stresses the crucial importance of an effective start to a drawing or a painting and 

addresses the principles essential to capture the energy, feeling, and the gesture of a pose. Students develop the ability 

to simplify the figure into internal lines representing the movement, stance and action of the pose. As the semester 

progresses, students create the large abstract shapes of light and shadow, which start to create a sense of mass and 

volume. These concepts are executed through an application of charcoal on toned paper. Control of the medium is 

essential to achieving the required goals. 4 Credit Hours 

Course Title: Still Life Drawing: Charcoal I 

Instructor: Peter Kelsey 


Time: Thursdays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. 

Course Description: First year still life charcoal drawing teaches the student to simplify the subject matter by resisting 

detail and learning to extract what is necessary to build a drawing. It is critical to the foundation to learn basic 


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relationships of proportion, shapes and value fields while at the same time, creating the effect of light bathing the 

objects. Charcoal is a very painterly material and allows students to work easily with massing values in a drawing process 

that is particularly suited for training painters. The degree to which one develops the ability to master charcoal is in 

direct relationship to the level of painting skills later. Details in a drawing or painting are developed after students learn 

to control the order of the foundational large masses. The course begins with short still life drawings to develop the 

ability to correctly see proportion and shape. Eventually, the class works on two-day drawings. 2 Credit Hours 

Level Two/Second year students: 

Course Title: Color Study: Still Life I 

Instructor: JaFang Lu 

Time: Mondays, 9 a.m.–noon 


Course Description: Students explore the concept, purpose and process of color study in depth. Through color study 

with still life, students understand the principles and practice of painting, the effect of light as opposed to painting the 

local colors and become familiar with the pigments/paints. Students work mostly with still life in artificial/halogen 

light. When appropriate, students work with color gels and/or different lightings to illustrate the difference between 

the effect of light and local colors. 1 Credit Hour 

Course Title: Color Study: Figure I 

Instructors: Natalie Italiano 


Time: Mondays, 12:45 p.m.–3:45 p.m. 

Course Description: This course reinforces and builds upon the basics of color study introduced in Level One. 

Students learn to understand color as the effect of light on form and see plane changes as color changes. Students learn 

to make strong color statements and to exaggerate color in order to see the “gesture” of the color. They learn to mix 

colors, become familiar with the Studio Incamminati color palette and learn to adjust colors directly on the canvas. 

Students paint a color study from the figure, learning how to break down the complex figure into simple preliminary 

color statements. Once the large shapes are understood and properly related, the student breaks the large shapes into 

smaller shapes with an awareness of the planes of the figure. 1 Credit Hour 

Course Title: Figure Drawing III 

Instructor: Robin Frey 


Time: Tuesdays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. 

Course Description: Working on the foundations of Level One drawing courses, this course is designed to give 

students the opportunity to deconstruct the figure drawing process. Students begin from the action to the description 

of form in both line and value. Long poses enable the student to problem solve through the study of each aspect of 

the drawing. Short poses, introduced towards the end of the semester, test the student’s ability to seize the action and 

construct the figure. 2 Credit Hours

Course Title: Structural Drawing and Sculpting the Portrait and Figure 

Instructors: Dan Thompson 


Time: Wednesdays, 9:15 a.m.–4:00 p.m. 

Course Description: This course helps the developing figurative artist learn to see the inside of forms while painting 

their exteriors. It helps students understand interior spaces of organic or human form by introducing students to the 

tools of structural study. A morning linear exercise using line to explore space is paired with an afternoon long pose. 

Morning exercises are done with inanimate objects, increasing in complexity. In the afternoon, students draw and paint 

the portrait to determine how principles of structural seeing interface with the enigmatic human head and ultimately 

are incorporated into a more comprehensive working method. Long-pose drawing and/or painting is the preferred 

context for exploring the course material, as a structural grasp manifests itself into the chaos of paint handling via controlled 

subtlety. 2 Credit Hours 

Course Title: Closed Grisaille I 

Instructors: Steve Early and Darren Kingsley 


Time: Thursdays - 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. (Early) 

Fridays, 9 a.m.–noon (Kingsley) 

Course Description: This course addresses the principles essential to transform abstract shape into form and create a 

sense of light on the figure. Students focus on the full range of values and develop the ability to make accurate value 

calibrations. An understanding of the full range of values allows the student to create the effect of light on form. The 

focus is on structure, anatomy, proportion, light direction, edge conditions and abstract movements through the figure 

and composition. These concepts are executed through an application of semi-opaque and opaque paint in the light 

and shadow areas of the figure. This enables the student to develop painting skills such as scumbling, feathering, and 

texture. 3 Credit Hours 

Course Title: Cast Drawing 

Instructor: Darren Kingsley 

Location: Cast Studio 

Time: Fridays, 12:45–3:45 p.m. 

Course Description: The goal of this course is to paint a cast that seems to emerge from the surface of the painting, 

while stressing the need to see and paint as clearly and accurately as possible. Studying from a cast gives students 

consistency in lighting and poses, allowing accuracy to be checked over time. The principles studied here can be 

directly applied to figure and still life paintings. Students begin by drawing for a few days to lock the proportions and 

composition in place. The concepts of gesture and proportion are of primary importance at this stage. This is not a 

value drawing but a line drawing with accurate shadows. 1 Credit Hour 

Level Three/Third year students: 

Course Title: The Figure: Duotone into Color 

Instructor: Kerry Dunn 

Location: Level Three Studio 

Time: Mondays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. (10 weeks: September 10–November 12) 


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Course Description: This course serves as a bridge between color studies and paintings. The focus is on creating the 

human form using a limited palette. Starting with short pose exercises, students concentrate on creating mass and 

volume using a “generic” flesh tone. Once they become proficient at this stage, students experiment with cool vs. warm 

notes found in the human form. Poses are in artificial light for most of the term. 1 Credit Hour 

Course Title: The Portrait: Duotone into Color I 




(10 weeks: November 12–January 15) 

Course Description: This course has two main goals: to address the head/portrait as a subject and employ the 

technique known as duotone as the bridge from monochromatic to full-color painting. The focus is on starts and 

middle stages of the painting process. Accurate proportions are instrumental to getting a good likeness and this is true 

at the start as well as in longer poses. This is primarily explored at the grisaille stage. Basic value relationships are also 

explored within the duotone monochromatic palette. With this foundation, subsequent values can be introduced while 

staying organized. Color slowly is introduced and students learn how to identify which colors are most significant. This 

transitions into a full-color block-in and then into more developed paintings where a longer time period is employed to 

explore the middle stages of the painting process and its subsequent challenges. 1 Credit Hour 

Course Title: Figure Painting: Color I 

Instructors: Lea Colie Wight and Stephen Early 


Time: Tuesdays, 9 am–3:45 p.m. (Wight) 

Thursdays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. (Early) 

Course Description: This course guides students through the opening stages of full-color painting and provides them 

with a foundational painting process. The student brings a level of competency in drawing, color study and value 

awareness learned in the first two years and these skills are brought together to inform the full-color paintings. Poses 

begin with 12 three-hour sessions moving to 10 six-hour painting sessions as the semester progresses. The poses are 

in both natural and artificial light. Paint handling, form building in color, atmosphere and spatial composition are 

addressed. 4 Credit Hours 

Course Title: Structural Drawing and Sculpting the Portrait and Figure 

Instructor: Dan Thompson 



Course Description: For the developing figurative artist, this course is geared toward learning to see the inside of forms 

while painting their exteriors. It helps students understand interior spaces of organic or human form by introducing 

students to the tools of structural study. A morning linear exercise using line to explore space is paired with an 

afternoon long pose. The exercises are done with inanimate objects, increasing in complexity, whereas the figure is the 

afternoon endeavor. Students draw and paint the portrait to determine how principles of structural seeing interface 

with the enigmatic human head and ultimately are incorporated into a more comprehensive working method. Longpose 

drawing and/or painting is the preferred context for exploring the course material, as a structural grasp manifests 

itself into the chaos of paint handling via controlled subtlety. 2 Credit Hours

Course Title: Mentorship 

Instructor: Studio Incamminati Instructors 

Location: Instructor’s Studios 

Time: Fridays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. 

Course Description: Mentorship gives Level Three students an opportunity to apply all the principles learned into 

several completed paintings, guided by an instructor in his or her private studio. Students learn to take control of the 

painting with simple composition, and build the painting starting with a grisaille until satisfied with the proportions 

and basic drawing. Students learn how each stage is a stepping stone from the previous layer. The instructor guides 

the student towards completed paintings that may be used for studio exhibitions. Students gain the experience of 

working in a different instructor’s studio every six or seven weeks, thus benefiting from the perspective of several artistic 

viewpoints. Both student and mentor learn from this process. 2 Credit Hours 

Level Four/Fourth year students: 

Course Title: The Portrait III 

Instructor: Leona Shanks 

Location: Level Four Studio 


Course Description: The purpose is to complete four portrait paintings over the course of the year. Students work out 

problems as they go through all the stages of the painting process. The result is four fully resolved portrait paintings 

ready for showing within a portfolio and/or studio exhibition. 2 Credit Hours 

Course Title: Independent Visual Thesis 


Location: Level Four Artist Studio 

Time: Wednesdays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. 

Fridays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. 

Course Description: Students develop a personal proposal prior to the Fall session for a series of paintings built upon 

a theme in either figurative or still life or both. Proposals must be purposeful and include an in-depth description of 

intent for the series; a timeline, the dimensions of the canvases, all of which must be approved by the instructors. The 

goal is to complete a series paintings for presentation or studio exhibition at the end of the school year. Students 

receive four different mentors throughout the school year who guide and assist them with their Independent Visual 

Thesis. 3 Credit Hours 

Course Title: Figure Painting: Color III 

Instructor: Lea Colie Wight and Stephen Early 


Time: Tuesdays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. (Wight) 

Thursdays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. (Early) 

Course Description: This course provide the opportunity for students to develop paintings over the course of several 

weeks. Guidance and critiques are provided as well as specific suggestions for areas of study designed to address the 

specific needs of each student. This course provides opportunity for the personal growth and development of each 

painter’s artistic identity. Level Four artists are encouraged to work as a team in setting the poses. 5 Credit Hours 


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Spring 2013 Courses 

Second semester: January 28, 2013–June 14, 2013 

Level One/First year students: 

Course Title: Structural Drawing and the Plaster Cast 



Time: Mondays, 9 a.m.–noon 

Course Description: This course is designed to give students a solid foundation in structural drawing of both the live 

model and the plaster cast. Students begin by drawing simple geometric solids, including the cube, cylinder, and sphere. 

The goal is to learn both linear perspective and structural drawing. The cube is the object that most effectively represents 

concepts of perspective. These exercises first focus on line drawing and later on value delineation. Through the study 

of basic forms, students transition into cast drawing more easily. This course emphasizes the three-dimensional, spatial, 

geometric, and structural approaches to thinking and problem solving. 1 Credit Hour 

Course Title: Figure Drawing: Charcoal II 



Time: Mondays, 12:45 p.m.–3:45 p.m. 

Course Description: This course is designed to heighten the student’s awareness and understanding of the head and 

figure’s structure. At the beginning of the semester, the student works from long poses, implementing specific concepts 

learned. As the semester progresses, poses are limited to one session per drawing, challenging students to prioritize what 

is essential to make a well-constructed head and figure drawing. Light and shadow are not approached tonally, in 

imitation of nature’s value range. Rather, the student takes a non-literal approach to light and shadow, while maximizing 

the illusion of three-dimensional form. Specific class exercises are given to support these goals. 1 Credit Hour 

Course Title: Figure Drawing: Charcoal II 

Instructor: Natalie Italiano and Stephen Early 


Time: Tuesdays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. (Italiano) 

Thursdays, 9 a.m.–noon (Early) 

Course Description: This course builds upon the foundational skills taught in fall figure courses. Lessons continue to 

focus on depicting the figure’s gesture, basic anatomical landmarks, and light and shadow masses. Students learn to see 

various planes of the human form. By addressing large plane changes before smaller ones, students learn to draw the 

figure simply at first, only later including complexities of form and value. The figure’s gesture is captured with straight 

lines, which helps students relate angles and adjust proportional relationships. Students gain increased familiarity with 

charcoal as a medium, further developing their ability to create the illusion of mass on toned paper. By blocking-in 

dark shapes and wiping out light shapes, students transition naturally into painting. For the first 20 to 40 minutes 

of every class, students work from short poses and draw gestures. Poses increase in length throughout the morning. 

Longer poses are provided in the afternoons. As the semester progresses, students work from increasingly longer poses, 

including all-day poses. 3 Credit Hours

Course Title: Introduction to Painting: Open Grisaille 



Time: Wednesdays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. (9 weeks) 

Course Description: This course introduces students to working in paint, specifically in grisaille. Students use a tonal 

grisaille paint mixture of burnt sienna, French ultramarine blue, and titanium white. As students become familiar with 

paint as a medium, they follow the same principles of drawing learned in charcoal classes. 

Students first focus on painting the gesture of the figure. The goal is to capture the main, energetic movements of 

the pose. Once the poses lengthen, students depict the major anatomical landmarks of the figure and adjust basic 

proportions. Working rapidly, yet carefully, students then proceed to block-in major shadow masses. These flat, graphic 

shapes are adjusted for accuracy. Later in the semester, students devote more attention to values, painting the human 

form in three-dimensions. 2 Credit Hours 

Course Title: Introduction to Painting: Color Study 



Time: Wednesdays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. (10 weeks) 

Course Description: This course introduces students to the use of color in painting. By painting simple objects, 

such as boxes, students begin their first color studies. In these exercises, the aim is to see color as the effect of light on 

form. Students relate colors to one another, pushing the effect of light as opposed to the local color of objects. Using 

artificial light, students complete several simple studies, gaining familiarity with Studio Incamminati’s full-color 

palette. Fundamental skills, including the depiction of accurate proportions and values, are important in color study. 

Students also continue to use methods, such as abstraction and blocking-in, to paint simple shapes and planes with 

color. 2 Credit Hours 

Course Title: Still Life: Charcoal II 

Instructor: Joseph Dolderer 



Course Description: The purpose of this course is to use the practice of still life drawing to teach students to assess, 

analyze, and see accurate shapes, both in negative and positive space. The portrayal of proper proportions is emphasized, 

as well as the development of compositions that utilize design and movement. This course also explores tonal 

relationships, which give the illusion of depth and perspective in a drawing. Students begin by working from still life 

setups lit to show a strong separation between light and shadow. With the instructor’s assistance, students take turns 

setting up still life. Throughout the semester, both classwork and homework focuses on simplifying forms into accurate, 

graphic shapes of light and shadow. 2 Credit Hours 


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Level Two/Second year students: 

Course Title: Color Study: The Figure II 

Instructor: Ja Fang Lu 



Course Description: In this course, students learn to see and paint the effect of light on the human form and 

surrounding space. They develop a keen understanding of how color relationships work. With a series of short studies, 

students begin painting the figure with simple, abstract shapes. These studies focus on basic color relationships, 

including those between the figure and its environment. Once students become proficient at this stage, they further 

develop the figure and maintain color relationships throughout the entire composition. 

The semester begins with short color studies, ranging from 1-3 hours, focused on pigment experimentation and the 

development of accurate color relationships. Students become acquainted with the full-color palette, prioritizing the 

development of basic color shapes, as opposed to the rounding of forms. Later in the semester, students work from 

longer poses, incorporating their understanding of the human form (the drawing) and continuing to adjust and 

improve color relationships. 2 Credit Hours 

Course Title: Still Life: Black and White Painting 


Location: Cast Studio 

Time: Tuesdays, 9 a.m.–noon 

Course Description: In this course, students practice black and white painting in the context of still life, using skills 

they have learned in other closed grisaille painting classes. Students devote the morning to a black and white still life 

painting. In the afternoon, they paint the same setup in color .The black and white study explores the value range and 

relationships. Information gleaned from this type of value study helps the student transition into full-color painting. 

2 Credit Hours 

Course Title: Light Key Color Figure Painting 

Instructor: Dan Thompson 



Course Description: This course will address seeing and the development of color relationships in the human figure 

through direct observation of the model. Light key painting will be explored in a series of attempts to capture and 

modify, in oil, particular kinds of governing light effects which reveal subject matter (as opposed to painting values 

that contain chroma). Colored masses and variations will be investigated by the student in each exercise. Through color 

exercises which demand experimental pigment combinations, the participant’s vision will grow more sensitive to the 

description of light on form. The student should thus make greater strides in contemporary realist figure painting. 

2 Credit Hours

Course Title: Closed Grisaille II 

Instructors: Stephen Early and Darren Kingsley 


Time: Thursdays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. (Early) 

Fridays, 9 a.m.–noon (Kingsley) 

Course Description: This course addresses the principles essential to transforming abstract shapes into form and 

creating a sense of light on the figure. The student depicts a full range of values and develops the ability to make accurate 

value calibrations. An understanding of the full value range allows the student to capture the effect of light on form. 

The course’s focus is on structure, anatomy, proportion, light direction, edge conditions, and abstract movements found 

throughout the figure and composition. These concepts are executed through the application of semi-opaque and 

opaque paint in the light and shadow areas of the figure. The student develops painting skills in scumbling, feathering, 

and texture development. Control of the medium is a priority and essential to achieving the required goals. 

Poses range from 6 - 30 hours. The course consists of value studies of the full-figure, along with in-depth analysis of the 

torso, head, arms, and legs. Each class focuses on a particular exercise which supports the objectives described above. 

There is a demonstration of each assignment. 3 Credit Hours 

Course Title: Graphite Figure Drawing 

Instructors: Darren Kingsley 


Time: Fridays, 12:45 p.m.–3:45 p.m. 

Course Description: This course teaches the student how to push a drawing to a high level of completion. For the 

first few sessions, students work on short, two to three hour block-in drawings. In these studies, students learn to see 

the human form in a linear way, developing the gesture and proportions while maintaining an awareness of the figure 

as a whole. Students then advance to work on long pose drawings. There are a total of two long poses, each lasting 

approximately half of the semester. Each student develops his or her long pose drawing to completion, starting with 

a loose gesture and ending with a highly finished, fully modeled figure drawing. Throughout the drawing process, 

instruction stresses concepts such as gesture, proportion, anatomy, and simple versus complex forms. 2 Credit Hours 


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Level Three/Third year students: 

Course Title: Portrait Painting II 




Course Description: This course serves as a continuation of the first semester of level three portrait painting. In this 

course, students paint from longer poses that range from two to four days. Students continue to work from artificial 

light, practicing duotone starts. As the semester progresses, students begin using the full-color palette, producing more 

fully developed paintings. Instruction emphasizes topics relevant to the middle stages of the painting process, including 

paint handling and layer work. Students continue to address topics such as, proportion, value, color, edges, and the 

basic anatomy of the head. As students gain proficiency in the beginning and middle stages of the painting process, they 

are better prepared for level four assignments, which involve even longer poses. 

Working from artificial light, students paint approximately six two-day portrait studies. Repetitive practice strengthens 

the student’s ability to paint the head and comfortably transition from duotone to full-color studies. At the end of the 

semester, students work from three-day poses, furthering develop values and color under artificial light. Depending on 

students’ progress, portrait studies in natural light may be explored. 2 Credit Hours 

Course Title: Figure Painting II 

Instructor: Natalie Italiano, Dan Thompson, and Leona Shanks 


Time: Tuesdays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. (Italiano) 

Wednesdays, 9:15 a.m.–4 p.m. (Thompson) 

Thursdays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. (Shanks) 

Course Description: This course is designed as a continuation of the fall figure painting course. Poses continue to 

lengthen during the semester, providing additional painting time. Instructors guide students through the opening and 

middle stages of full-color painting. The student brings a level of competency in drawing, values, and color, learned 

in the previous two years of study. These skills are brought together to inform the development of full-color paintings. 

Poses are set in both natural and artificial light. Instruction emphasizes topics such as, paint handling, form building in 

color, atmosphere, and spatial composition. 

The course consists of poses lasting from 48 to 60 hours. There are two poses each day, one in the morning and another 

in the afternoon. This allows for both an artificial and a natural light pose. Before beginning their paintings, students 

are advised to execute studies that investigate both composition and color. Studies serve as helpful reference during the 

painting process. 6 Credit Hours 

Course Title: Mentorship 


Location: Instructor’s Studios 


Course Description: Continuing from the Fall session, Mentorship gives Level Three students an opportunity to apply 

all the principles learned into several completed paintings, guided by an instructor in his or her private studio. Students 

learn to take control of the painting with simple composition, and build the painting starting with a grisaille until 

satisfied with the proportions and basic drawing. Students learn how each stage is a stepping stone from the previous 

layer. The instructor guides the student towards completed paintings that may be used for studio exhibitions. Students

gain the experience of working in a different instructor’s studio every six or seven weeks, thus benefiting from the 

perspective of several artistic viewpoints. Both student and mentor learn from this process. 

2 Credit Hours 

Level Four/ Fourth year students: 

Course Title: Portrait Painting IV 




Course Description: In this course, students have the opportunity to create fully resolved portrait paintings, completing 

two over the course of the semester. Students have time to work through challenges as they progress through all the stages 

of the painting process. Successful portraits completed in this course should be included in student portfolios. 

The semester is divided into two ten-day poses. The first pose is lit in artificial light and the second in natural light. 

Students set the poses with the assistance of the instructor. 2 Credit Hours 

Course Title: Figure Painting: Color IV 

Instructors: Lea Colie Wight and Leona Shanks 


Time: Tuesdays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. (Wight) 

Thursdays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. (Shanks) 

Course Description: In this course, students have the opportunity to develop paintings over the course of several 

weeks. Instructors give critiques, as well as specific suggestions for areas of study based on students’ individual needs. 

This course provides the chance for the personal growth and development of each painter’s artistic identity. Level four 

artists are invited to assist in setting poses. During the semester, students develop the ability to identify weaknesses in 

their own work and create appropriate study plans. This form of self-analysis is essential for the continued growth of 

each artist after completion of the Professional Program. 

There are a total of three poses, each divided into six-week segments and providing approximately 72 hours of painting. 

There are three hours of uninstructed time on Wednesday mornings. The student may work on one or more paintings 

for the entire pose. Three hours of instruction are provided each day of class. 5 Credit Hours 

Course Title: Independent Visual Thesis 


Location: Level Four Artist Studio 

Time: Wednesdays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. 

Fridays, 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. 

Course Description: Level Four students develop a personal proposal for a series of paintings built upon a theme. The 

theme may be based on figurative work, still life, or both. Proposals are purposeful and include an in-depth description 

of the intent of the series. Students compose and create paintings and preliminary studies independently, with the 

guidance of mentors. By the end of the school year, each student produces a series of at least five completed paintings 

for in-studio exhibition and presentation to the school. 3 Credit Hours 


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Program Application 

Studio Incamminati welcomes applications from those who seek to inspire others through their art and teaching. Similarly, 

we seek students who demonstrate talent and the desire to learn. 

The Full-time Professional Program is a highly selective, intensive course of study. Entrance to this highly competitive 

program is primarily based on artistic merit, as determined by a portfolio review and application. Promising candidates are 

then invited to the studio for an interview. 

Early Decision is an option available for applicants with strong qualifications and who have selected Studio Incamminati 

as their first choice to study. Candidates for Early Decision can apply anytime after December 1 for the following academic 

year. Applicants will receive acceptance notification within 30 days of interview. If accepted, a non-refundable deposit of 

$500 is required to secure registration. 

Because of its unique curriculum, Studio Incamminati does not accept transfer credits from other educational institutions. 

2012 – 2013 Admissions Schedule 

Early Decision Application: December 1, 2012–March 15, 2013 

Open House: Saturday, March 16, 2013, 12:30–4 p.m./Sunday, March 17, 2013, 12:30–4 p.m. 

Application deadline: May 15, 2013 

Decisions mailed to applicants: June 1, 2013 

Reply from applicant due: June 20, 2013 

2012-2013 Scholarship Schedule 

Applications due: May 31, 2013 

Decisions mailed to applicants: June 10, 2013 

Reply from applicant due: June 20, 2013 

For more information and to apply, visit www.StudioIncamminati.org/apply 

Application Fees 

A $25 non-refundable fee is required to process applications. 

Non-Discrimination Policy 

Studio Incamminati does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, or disability in any 

admissions, education program, activities, or employment practices. This policy is in accordance with the state and federal 

laws, including Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the 

Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. 

Tuition 

$6,000 per semester includes 24/7 key access to studio, discounts on Evening and Weekend Programs, and complimentary 

admittance to lectures, demonstrations and Studio Incamminati weekly Open Studio sessions with live models. 

Supplies cost not included in tuition. An on-site store is available with all needed supplies for students enrolled in the 

Professional Program. Supply lists are included in course syllabi provided before each semester.

Payment and Fees 

Payment is due 30 days before the first class day of each semester. Payment may be made by Visa, MasterCard, American 

Express, Discover, check, or money order. A one-time new student non-refundable registration deposit of $500 is due upon 

acceptance in the Professional Program. In addition, an Installment Payment Plan is available for all Professional Program 

students in good standing beginning with the second semester of the first year. For information on the plan, call 215-592-7910. 

No refunds after 30 days of the semester start. For more information on the plan, visit www.StudioIncamminati.org/payment 

Policies and Guidelines 

In our continuing efforts to provide a clear understanding of studio practices and protocol, the Policies and Guidelines 

document is available at www.StudioIncamminati.org/policies 

Studio Incamminati Scholarships 

Studio Incamminati offers a limited amount of individual scholarships—from $2,000 to $4,000 annually—to students 

considering enrollment in the Full-time Professional Program. Overall criteria for the successful applicant include quality 

of work, artistic potential, dedication and commitment to becoming an artist and demonstrated financial need. Scholarship 

money is applied only to tuition, not for materials, housing or any other expenses. For more information and to apply visit 

www.StudioIncamminati.org/scholarships 

Grants and Scholarships Resources 

Financial support may be available from a number of sources. Visit www.StudioIncamminati.org/grants for a list of resource links. 

Attendance/Withdrawals/Termination 

Studio Incamminati reserves the right to require the withdrawal of any student whose educational development is unsatisfactory 

or whose conduct is deemed harmful to the Studio by the administration. Students are required to be present at least 90% 

of their approved schedule. Students who do meet these attendance requirements will receive written notification from the 

administration. If poor attendance continues, students will be asked to repeat classes, or a full year of the program, or be dismissed 

from Studio Incamminati. Student tardiness will be recorded and prorated as absences. Students who are dismissed, or required 

to withdraw, may be re-instated with the approval of administration and faculty. Students who are dismissed from the Fulltime 

or Part-time Professional Program for unsatisfactory progress must re-apply through the standard application process. 

Leave of Absence 

Leaves of Absence for students in good standing must be mutually agreed upon by administration, faculty and student. 

Makeup Classes 

Students who miss required class time must consult with their instructors on action plan to make up the missed work to meet 

class requirements. Instructors will determine the work to be made up. 

Teaching Fellows Program 

The Teaching Fellows Program allows Studio Incamminati students who have successfully completed the Professional 

Program and Teacher Training Program to continue working toward personal artistic and professional goals while in a 

mutually beneficial relationship with the school. In exchange for teaching courses, mentoring other students and other duties, 

Teaching Fellows receive studio space, pay for instruction, and other benefits. This is a one-year program with an option to 

re-apply annually. 


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PART-TIME PROFESSIONAL PROGRAM 

The Part-time Professional Program features the same award-winning instructors, rigorous Nelson Shanks-designed 

curriculum and dynamic atelier studio setting of the renowned full-time program. But, it is constructed to fit individual 

schedules and financial situations. Students receive a Certificate of Merit after successfully completing the program. 

Curriculum 

Students progress through the Professional Program curriculum two or three days per week. Students begin the 

program by taking one figure course and one still life (two days) or two figure courses and one still life (three days) per 

semester. Like the full-time program, the Part-Time Professional Program is based on the student’s progression from 

Charcoal Drawing through to Grisaille, Color Studies and Completed Painting. 

Program Application 

Admission to the Part-time Professional Program is based on a written application and portfolio review. Advancement 

within the program moves at the student’s pace and is initiated by the student at semester’s end. Advancement is 

competency-based and subject to a portfolio review by Studio Incamminati faculty. 

For more information and to apply, visit www.StudioIncamminati.org/part_program 

Application Fees 

A $25 non-refundable fee is required to process applications. 

Non-Discrimination Policy 

Studio Incamminati does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, or disability in 

any admissions, education program, activities, or employment practices. This policy is in accordance with the state and 

federal laws, including Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 

and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

Tuition 

Two program options offer scheduling and payment flexibility: 

Two days per week, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. : $3,000 for 20-week semester 

Three days per week, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. : $4,200 for 20-week semester 

Four days per week, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. : $5,200 for 20-week semester 

Supplies cost not included in tuition. Supply lists are included in course syllabi provided before each semester. 

Payment and Fees 

Payment is due 30 days before the first class day of each semester. Payment may be made by Visa, MasterCard, American 

Express, Discover, check, or money order. A one-time new student non-refundable registration deposit of $500 is due 

upon acceptance in the Professional Program. In addition, an Installment Payment Plan is available for all Professional 

Program students in good standing beginning with the second semester of the first year. For information on the plan, 

call 215-592-7910. No refunds after 30 days of the semester start. 

For more information on the plan, visit www.StudioIncamminati.org/payment 





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CONTINUING EDUCATION 

Evening and weekend courses are based on the techniques and philosophy taught in our Professional Program. Specific 

elements are extracted from our curriculum and aimed at practicing artists as well as promising artists at all levels of 

experience. Portfolio review and application is not required. These programs allow participants to focus on particular 

areas of skill development. 

2012-2013 Evening Programs 

Evening Programs offer artists the opportunity to concentrate on skill development in specific areas of realist drawing 

and painting. Students experience focused study in small, intensive groups led by professional artists. Courses 

and lectures are conducted at Studio Incamminati’s main studios in Center City, Philadelphia. Evening Program 

participants and alumni receive invitations to lectures and special events at Studio Incamminati. Each program runs for 

10 consecutive weeks (except where noted), with one extra week for any make-up days. Enrollment is limited to firstcome, 

first-served. 

Evening Program participants and alumni also receive invitations to lectures and special events at Studio Incamminati. 

All are welcome to join Professional Program artists in Open Studio sessions most Sundays from 1–4 p.m. 

Course Title: Figure Drawing in Graphite 

Instructor: Darren Kingsley 

Time: Mondays, 6 p.m.–9 p.m. 

Dates: Fall 2012 session: Sept. 17–Nov. 19 

Winter 2013 session: Jan. 7–March 18 

Spring 2013 session: April 15–June 24 (No class on May 27, Memorial Day) 

Tuition: $399 

Course Description: The program goal is to offer artists the chance to push a drawing to the highest possible level 

in the time allotted. Students begin with one-hour, block-in drawings for the first day, learning to see the figure as a 

whole and to clearly develop proper proportions and gesture in a linear way. From there, students begin the long pose. 

This drawing is for eight nights and is developed to completion, starting with a loose gesture drawing and progressing 

to a highly finished, fully modelled figure drawing. Proper proportion, beautiful gesture, correct anatomy and an 

understanding of simple and complex forms are stressed throughout. 

Course Title: Portrait Painting Fundamentals 


Time: Tuesdays, 6 p.m.–9 p.m. 



Spring 2013 session: April 16–June 18 

Tuition: $399 

Course Description: A basic painting process—provided and followed in class—gives an ideal platform to further 

explore universal visual principles. Students analyze the subject of portraiture through the following concepts: shape, 

value, color, edges, paint handling and the conceptual understanding of light on form. Students progress from linear 

drawing to blocking-in, tonal painting and finally to full color painting with poses ranging from three hours to 12 

hours. Instruction is given at the students’ easels and through demonstrations and lectures.

Course Title: Alla Prima Painting 

Instructor: Peter Kelsey 

Time: Wednesdays, 6 p.m.–9 p.m. 

Dates: Fall 2012 session: Sept. 19–Dec. 5 (no class Nov. 21) 



Tuition: $399 

Course Description: Alla Prima, also called “direct painting,” translates from the Italian as “at first go.” Characterized 

by expressive, painterly brushwork, Alla Prima paintings are completed wet-on-wet in one session. During each class 

students complete several studies or one portrait. Exercises include both limited and full-color palettes. Concepts 

covered include: anatomical landmarks, basic planes of the head, values, color relationships, edges and paint handling. 

Concepts and methods of figurative painting taught at Studio Incamminati are covered including “grisaille,” “duo tone” 

and color study, and are explained by instructor demonstrations and examples. The goal of Alla Prima painting is to 

achieve a final look in one session and to develop a greater understanding and facility of painting process and editing. 

Course Title: Portrait Painting: Grisaille to Alla Prima 

Instructor: Katya Held 

Time: Thursdays, 6 p.m.–9 p.m. 

Dates: Fall 2012 session: Sept. 20–Nov. 29 (no class Nov. 21, Thanksgiving Day) 

Winter 2013 session: Jan. 10–March 28 (no class March 7) 


Tuition: $399 

Course Description: Students focus on the importance of studying from life. Getting an essence of the likeness, 

determining the most important information and making a simple statement with paint are some of the most difficult 

things in a portrait painting. Students paint from the life model in short and long sessions, focusing on capturing proper 

relationships of shape, value, color, temperature and edge. Students learn to see the portrait as a group of abstract shapes 

while executing grisaille and alla prima paintings. They learn to recognize the structure of the head, the landmarks, abstract 

shape of light and shadow, how light falls across the surface of face and head, value and color shifts while painting wet 

into wet. Instruction is given at students’ easels and through demonstrations. This class is designed all levels of experience. 

Course Title: Color Studies: Still Life and Figure 


Time: Thursdays, 6 p.m.–9 p.m. 

Dates: Fall 2012 session: Sept. 20–Nov. 29 (no class Nov. 21, Thanksgiving Day) 

Winter 2013 session: Jan. 10–March 28 (no class March 7) 


Tuition: $399 

Course Description: When the impressionists took their paint boxes outside to paint, they discovered that the 

shadows are not shades of brown and gray as had been painted by their predecessors. In the fleeting sunsets and sunrises, 

Monet discovered that the same haystack took on different colors and painted it the way he saw it. At its core, one’s 

reaction to color is visceral and intuitive. How can one then systematically study and learn the use of color in painting? 

The best approach is through understanding color relationships. The best way to understand color relationships in the 

context of painting is through doing series of color studies. This course explores the concept, purpose, and process of 


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color study in depth. More importantly, students have the opportunity to do many color studies. Initially, they work 

from the same still life set ups together, so as to observe how they each paint the same set up differently and learn from 

each other. As they understand the process, they move on to setting up their own still life arrangement and working 

from it. 

2011-2012 Day Programs 

Day Programs offer artists whose schedules prohibit taking Evening and Weekend courses the opportunity to 

concentrate on skill development in specific areas of realist drawing and painting. Students experience focused study 

in small, intensive groups led by professional artists. Courses and lectures are conducted at Studio Incamminati’s 

main studios in Center City, Philadelphia. Day Program participants and alumni receive invitations to lectures and 

special events at Studio Incamminati. Two classes are offered on Fridays (morning and afternoon), with each program 

scheduled for 10 weeks and one extra week for any make-up days. Enrollment is limited to first-come, first-served. 

Day Program participants and alumni also receive invitations to lectures and special events at Studio Incamminati. All 

are welcome to join Professional Program artists in Open Studio sessions most Sundays from 1–4 p.m. 

Course Title: Life Drawing 


Time: Fridays, 9 a.m.–noon 




Tuition: $399 

Course Description: The course goal is to develop and strengthen students’ intuition and analytical skills. Students 

learn the principles of drawing through a series of 20-minute and multiple-day poses with the figure. The short poses 

drive students to select and filter information quickly, a process helping them overcome inhibitions that often hinder 

the ability to see clearly and express freely. When they attain proficiency at this stage, they move into the long poses 

where the focus shifts from quick gestural drawings to careful, analytical study of the proportional, value and edge 

relationships in the figure. 

Course Title: Portrait Drawing 


Time: Fridays, 1 p.m.–4 p.m. 




Tuition: $399 

Course Description: This class focuses on three areas that build up students’ understanding and base skills essential for 

portrait drawing: Seeing of abstract shapes. One way to gauge proportions, and ultimately leading to getting the likeness 

of the person, is first to see forms as abstract shapes. This enables students to see and calibrate proportions objectively. 

Handling drawing material. The characteristics of charcoal as a drawing material lend it to mimic the qualities of oil 

paint. Learning to handle charcoal successfully helps ease students into the process of oil painting. Realization of forms. 

After students become proficient in seeing forms as abstract shapes and handling the drawing material, the class focuses 

on using charcoal material to turn abstract shapes into three-dimensional forms describing facial structures. While

everyone in class works toward the same goals, the instructor instructs at each student’s level of experience and needs. 

The class is ongoing and progressive, building on students’ experience throughout the year. 

Registration, Payment and Refund Policies 

for Continuing Education 

To register by mail with check or money order, visit www.studioincamminati.org for printable form or register over 

the phone with VISA, MasterCard, American Express or Discover by calling 215-592-7910. Due to limited class 

space, tuition must be paid in full at time of registration. A $100 fee is applied for cancellation up to the first class. No 

refunds will be issued after the first day of class. Supplies cost not included in tuition. Supply lists are available on a 

downloadable form at www.StudioIncamminati.org 




2012-2013 Emerging Artists Program 

Studio Incamminati’s Emerging Artists program offers a rare opportunity for serious high-school students to learn the 

fundamentals of life drawing and painting in a traditional atelier environment. Through energetic and repetitive studies, 

experienced instructors guide students through the complex, creative process of drawing and painting the human figure. 

Using various figures, including nude models, the course goal is for students to capture the essence of the human body 

on canvas with knowledge, strength, and understanding. 

The program includes frequent demonstrations by the instructors and an invitation to visit Nelson Shanks’ private 

studio. There, Nelson shows students his works-in-progress and conducts a question-and-answer session. Students are 

also invited to attend Studio Incamminati lectures and events. Class size is limited to 12 students. Portfolio review and 

application is not required. Registration is first-come, first-served. 

Course Title: Emerging Artists 

Time: Saturdays, 1–5 p.m. 

Session A: Oct. 6, 2012–April 21, 2013 

Instructor: Rebecca Tait 

Session B: Oct. 13, 2012–April 28, 2013 

Instructor: Studio Incamminati Instructor (TBA) 

Tuition: $499 

Course Description: A basic painting process—provided and followed in class—gives an ideal platform to further 

explore universal visual principles. Students analyze the subject of portraiture through the following concepts: shape, 

value, color, edges, paint handling and the conceptual understanding of light on form. Students progress from linear 

drawing to blocking-in, tonal painting and finally to full color painting with poses ranging from three hours to 12 

hours. Instruction is given at the students’ easels and through demonstrations and lectures. 


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for Emerging Artists Program 

To register by mail with check or money order, visit www.studioincamminati.org for printable form or register by phone 

with VISA, MasterCard, American Express or Discover by calling 215-592-7910. 

Due to limited class space, tuition must be paid in full at time of registration. A $100 fee is applied for cancellation up 

to the first class. No refunds will be issued after the first day of class. Supplies cost not included in tuition. Supply lists 

are available on a downloadable form at www.StudioIncamminati.org 




2012-2013 Open Studio Sessions 

Artists of all levels can get a taste of the Studio Incamminati experience at our weekly Open Studio sessions. Draw or paint 

from a live model with other artists in a studio setting. Bring your own art supplies; an easel and taboret are provided. 

When: Sundays (except selected dates as noted on the website) 

1 p.m.–4 p.m.; doors open at 12:30 p.m. 

Where: Fifth Floor Studio 

Studio Incamminati 

340 North 12th Street, Philadelphia, PA 

Payment: $12 per each three-hour session, payable at the door; or purchase a 10-visit discount card for $90 ($9 per 

session.) Your card is punched each visit, may be shared and does not expire. 

Note: 

Studio Incamminati is closed on holiday weekends, please visit www.StudioIncamminati.org for a current list of dates

WORKSHOPS 

These one- or two-week intensive programs on diverse subjects are taught by Studio Incamminati teaching fellows, 

visiting instructors and other outstanding artists personally approved by the artistic director. Selected workshops include 

appearances by Founder Nelson Shanks and visits to his personal studio. Offered throughout the year, workshops allow 

artists to build upon their knowledge and skills. Portfolio review and application is not required. 

Fall 2012 / Winter 2013 Workshops 

Course Title: Figure Painting 

Instructor: Lea Colie Wight 

Dates: November 5–9, 2012 

Time: 9 a.m.–4 p.m. 

Tuition: $525 

Held in the Great Falls School of Art, 1144 Walker Rd., Suite D, Great Falls, Virginia 

Course Description: The goal of this week long workshop is to provide the artist with a solid, informative, direct 

approach to painting the figure in color. 

The human figure is one of the most engaging and complex subject matter an artist can undertake. Beginning with an 

energetic and informed gesture the artist is guided through blocking in shadow and light masses, initial color statement 

and development of form. Ideally the artists will come away with their own samples of each skill to use as reference tools. 

The beginning of the week will be devoted to gesture, value and color studies. The final days of the workshop will 

provide the artist with a long pose where the skills introduced will be brought together in a developed figure painting 

The principles covered in this workshop can be applied to still life and landscape painting as well as figure and portraiture. 

Course Title: Form Painting with the Figure 


Dates: January 21–25 


Tuition: $550 

Course Description: Learn the principles essential to transform abstract flat shapes into fully dimensional forms 

and create a sense of light on the figure. Students concentrate on painting the figure with a full range of values and 

developing the ability to make accurate value calibrations. The focus is on structure, anatomy, proportion, light direction, 

edge conditions, abstract movements through the figure, composition and an understanding of form on the figure. 

These concepts are executed through an application of opaque and semi-opaque paint in the light and shadow areas. 

This also enables the student to develop painting skills such as scumbling, feathering, and texture. Control of the paint 

is a priority and is essential to achieving required goals. 

Course Title: Still Life 

Instructors: TBA 



Tuition: $550 

Course Description: Composition, color, movement through the picture plane, value relationships, drawing, all come 

together in the informed still life painting. Painting from life under controlled artificial light in Studio Incamminati’s 

still life studio, students do preliminary exercises leading up to the full color still life painting. 


27

28 

WORKSHOPS 

Course Title: Painting the Portrait 




Tuition: $525 

Held in the Historic Santaella Cigar Factory, 1906 North Armenia Ave., Tampa, Florida 

Course Description: The purpose of this workshop is to study the building stages of creating a portrait painting from 

life. By following a basic process, students more closely examine each stage and its correlating visual principles. Students 

start with a grisaille to capture the gesture and use Bargue drawing-type thinking to study the proportions of the head. 

Then, flesh tones are added to develop a fuller value range and begin building the illusion of light on form. 

Color, along with a basic color theory, is woven into this process entering the middle stages of the painting and working 

towards completion. In addition, students study the use of edges, focal points, and the concept of larger-to-smaller 

relationships, anatomical landmarks and paint handling. The class starts with short-pose head studies progressing 

toward two-one day portrait paintings. Students finish with a greater understanding and ability with the exercises and 

also integrating them into one cohesive painting process in order to paint the portrait. 


for Winter Workshops 

To register by mail with check or money order, visit www.studioincamminati.org for printable form or register over the 

phone with VISA, MasterCard, American Express or Discover by calling 215-592-7910. 

A deposit is due December 1, 2012, balance due January 1, 2013. Due to limited class spaces, tuition is non-refundable. 

A credit for the balance of tuition may be issued up to 30 days before the first workshop class. No credit will be issued 

after that time. After January 1, 2013, registration is first-come first-served with full tuition due at time of registration. 

Supplies cost not included in tuition. Supply lists are available on a downloadable form at www.StudioIncamminati.org 



document is available at www.StudioIncamminati.org/policies

Summer 2013 Workshops 

Course Title: The Art of Still Life 

Instructor: Carlo Russo 

Dates: June 17–21 


Tuition: $550 

Course Description: In this workshop, students set up and paint individual still life arrangements. The instructor 

discusses sight sizing technique, composition, a color “story” or theme, how to choose the right objects, and how to 

determine the best canvas size and shape. After the final arrangement is set, the student completes a pencil drawing of 

the still life and then transfer it to the canvas. When painting, students begin with a thin wash and move to thicker 

paint over the next few days on to a finished painting. The instructor does daily demonstrations for a more thorough 

understanding of the process and techniques involved. All levels are welcome. 

Course Title: Oil Painting: The Figure 




Tuition: $550 

Course Description: The workshop begins with one-minute gestures with the figure. It moves on to starting a the 

grisaille of the painting using burnt sienna, ultramarine blue and some flake white. The grisaille is completed on the 

first day and, on the second day, students lay in the color day with a palette knife. The figure is broken down into flat 

shapes of light and shadow using color to key the light. Following this stage, the shapes are broken down into smaller 

shapes without losing the light and shadow patterns. Students are encouraged to continue using the palette knife until 

the shapes can only be managed with a paint brush. With the palette knife, the colors are more strongly stated and the 

painting has a better chance to stay together. This workshop is designed for all levels, especially for the student seeking 

to develop a painting in a cohesive manner. 

Course Title: Emerging Artists, Portraiture in Color Study 

Instructor: Rebecca Tait and Jason Espey 



Tuition: $399 

Course Description: This workshop focuses on the anatomy of the human head, neck, and shoulders, as students 

explore in-depth bones and muscles that affect the portrait artist’s work. Human skulls also are used as students explore 

all stages of portraiture from posing the model to sketching studies and painting in oil from a live model. Principles of 

color theory are taught as artists are trained to “see,” not ‘think,” color and learn the warm and cool effects of light and 

its value relationships. By combining this colorist approach with understanding of head structure, young artists gain a 

solid foundation in oil Portraiture. 


29

30 

WORKSHOPS 

Course Title: Intensive Painting 

Instructors: Lea Colie Wight with Studio Incamminati Instructors 

Dates: July 15–26 


Tuition: $1,200 

Course Description: Experience the progressive study of Studio Incamminati’s Professional Program in a concentrated 

form. Students gain an understanding of open and closed grisailles, color studies in various conditions and developing a 

figure in color. 

An evening demonstration by Nelson Shanks, as well as a dinner at his estate and a visit to his private studio, gives 

students the chance to view his works in progress and ask questions. 

Course Title: Form Painting with the Figure 


Dates: July 29–August 2 


Tuition: $650 

Course Description: Learn the principles essential to transform abstract flat shapes into fully dimensional forms 

and create a sense of light on the figure. Students concentrate on painting the figure with a full range of values and 

developing the ability to make accurate value calibrations. The focus is on structure, anatomy, proportion, light 

direction, edge conditions, abstract movements through the figure, composition and an understanding of form on the 

figure. These concepts are executed through an application of opaque and semi-opaque paint in the light and shadow 

areas. This also enables the student to develop painting skills such as scumbling, feathering, and texture. Control of the 

paint is a priority and is essential to achieving required goals. 

Course Title: Still Life 


Dates: July 29–August 2 


Tuition: $550 

Course Description: This workshop explores the building stages of a painting from start to finish. The constant subject 

and light source, make still life deal for this type of study. The first day, students set up individual still life arrangements 

and execute painting thumbnails to determine the composition. Day two, students begin their final painting which they 

have four days to develop. For 90 minutes at the start of each class, the instructor works on a demo painting. For the 

rest of the course, he teaches at the students’ easels. The first painting stage consists of the initial grisaille where drawing 

and proportion are strictly observed. Subsequent stages move into the full color block-in where abstract value and color 

relationships are established and adjusted. 

The larger-to-smaller shape principle is observed as students move through this process. In addition, class discussions 

center on the concept of light on form, establishing value and color parameters, edge development, paint handling, 

focal points, and determining when a work is considered complete. Students leave with a completed painting, enhanced 

skills and a deeper understanding of essential concepts. Beginner, intermediate and advanced painters are welcome. 

Some basic experience is beneficial.

Course Title: Structural Drawing: A Three Dimensional Approach 

Instructors: Dan Thompson 

Dates: August 5–9 


Tuition: $699 

Course Description: This course has been designed for students of figure drawing and painting in order to improve 

their structural knowledge. Its main objective is to equate modeling in paint or graphite to modeling in clay. The 

workshop is conducted in the following way: During sessions one and two and three, students will sculpt structural 

forms from the skull and model in the morning, while drawing the portrait in the afternoon. Sessions four and five will 

be all portrait drawing. Since the knowledge presented in this course is applicable to all parts of the drawing language, a 

single pose from session one through five will be used. By sculpting, drawing and extrapolating concepts of inner figure, 

the use of structural analysis should enable the student to rapidly develop a tactile sense of the finish. 

Course Title: Advanced Portrait 




Tuition: $699 


form. This workshop is for experienced painters who work closely with instructors as they move through all the stages 

of developing a painting. Students review fundamental concepts with experienced instructors who offer personal 

instruction and guidance through all stages. Students are taught to understand the importance of relating planes of 

value and relating the main color masses. In addition, students learn how to build on these fundamentals through the 

stages of a painting. Students progress from strong “block-in” to developing specific areas of the painting. Instructors 

also emphasize understanding the effects of light and color on the human form as well as modeling values with color. 

On the first day, students will work with shorter poses. During the final four days, students get a total of 24 hours of 

long-pose portrait work. These longer poses enable students to put workshop stages and concepts into practice. 

Course Title: Advanced Figure 




Tuition: $699 


form. This workshop is for experienced painters who work closely with instructors as they move through all the stages 

of developing a painting. Students review fundamental concepts with experienced instructors who offer personal 

instruction and guidance through all stages. Students are taught to understand the importance of relating planes of 

value and relating the main color masses. In addition, students learn how to build on these fundamentals through the 

stages of a painting. Students progress from strong “block-in” to developing specific areas of the painting. Instructors 

also emphasize understanding the effects of light and color on the human form as well as modeling values with color. 

On the first day, students will work with shorter poses. During the final four days, students get a total of 24 hours of 

long-pose figure work. These longer poses enable students to put workshop stages and concepts into practice. 


31

32 

WORKSHOPS 


for Summer Workshops 



A deposit is due May 1, 2013, balance due June 1, 2013. Due to limited class spaces, tuition is non-refundable. A credit 

for the balance of tuition may be issued up to 30 days before the first workshop class. No credit will be issued after that 

time. After June 1, 2013 registration is first-come first-served with full tuition due at time of registration. Supplies cost 

not included in tuition. Supply lists are available on a downloadable form at www.StudioIncamminati.org 




2013 Art Educators Workshops 

The Art Educators Workshops are aimed at teaching the tenets of realist art, and Studio Incamminati methods, to 

secondary school teachers. The workshops are open to all teachers and middle and high-school teachers are encouraged 

to apply. Portfolio review and application is not required. The content addresses Pennsylvania Academic and National 

Standards for Art Education and teachers can earn 30 hours of Pennsylvania Department of Education Act 48 credits. 

New Jersey teachers can earn New Jersey Continuing Education Credits. Studio Incamminati also offers customdesigned 

educator workshops taught at the teachers’ site. 

Course Title: Portrait Painting 


Dates: July 8–12 


Tuition: $550 

$350 for Art Educators Course Description: 

This workshop begins with short studies analyzing the structure of the human head, providing the student with a 

foundation for portrait painting. Basic concepts and methods of figurative painting taught at Studio Incamminati are 

covered including the monochromatic “grisaille”, value thumbnails, “duo-tone” limited palette studies and color studies. 

Concepts covered include: understanding the structure of the head in simplified planes, anatomical landmarks, value 

relationships, color relationships, edges and paint handling. Students paint in a direct or “alla prima” method, utilizing 

both a limited and a full color palette, and complete one to two portrait studies each day, culminating in an all-day 

portrait the last day. The instructor demonstrates concepts daily. Artists and art educators of all levels are welcome to 

attend this workshop. Experience in drawing is helpful but not required.

Course Title: Still Life Painting: Developing a Color Study 




Tuition: $550 

$350 for Art Educators 

Course Description: “Color Study” is an exhilarating method of learning to see color as the effect of light on form. 

Inspired by the work of the Impressionists and American artist Henry Hensche, students learn to see beyond an object’s 

local color and understand how the light source influences how we see color. Through a variety of exercises, students 

learn to see and understand color relationships and apply these skills to blocking-in and developing a still life painting 

from the beginning. 


for Art Educators Workshops 



A deposit is due May 1, 2012, balance due June 1, 2012. Due to limited class spaces, tuition is non-refundable. A credit 

for the balance of tuition may be issued up to 30 days before the first workshop class. No credit will be issued after that 

time. After June 1, 2012 registration is first-come first-served with full tuition due at time of registration. Supplies cost 

not included in tuition. Supply lists are available on a downloadable form at www.StudioIncamminati.org 




Studio Incamminati ◆ www.StudioIncamminati.org ◆ 215.592.7910 ◆ 33

34 

PROFESSIONAL PROGRAM FACULTY 

Jon deMartin 

A Studio Incamminati instructor, Jon’s drawings and 

paintings have been exhibited in galleries in New York, 

California and Virginia and have been published in 

American Artist, Art in America, ARTnews and The 

Classicist. His work was included in the book “Star Wars: 

Visions.” He has taught at the New York Academy of 

Art, the Woodstock School of Art, and Parsons The New 

School for Design, as well as the Lyme Academy College 

of Fine Arts. DeMartin studied at the Art Students 

League of New York with Nelson Shanks and Gustav 

Rehberger, as well as independently with noted figure 

artist Michael Aviano. Jon received his B.F.A. from Pratt 

Institute, NY. 

www.JondeMartin.net 

Joseph Dolderer 

Joe, a Studio Incamminati fellow, was among those artists 

whose artwork was selected for a “teaching wall” at the 

University of Arkansas at Fort Smith that is designed to 

demonstrate the painting process to young artists there. He 

has exhibited at The Artists of Studio Incamminati catalog 

exhibitions, Markeim Arts Center, the Philadelphia Youth 

Orchestra gala, the Philadelphia Open Studio Tours 

and auctions at The Union League of Philadelphia, the 

Doylestown Country Club and the Red Cross of Central 

New Jersey. 

Kerry Dunn 

A Studio Incamminati instructor, Kerry won First Prize 

in the 2010 Laumeister Fine Art Competition at the 

Bennington Center for the Arts and received Best in Show 

at the Salmagundi Club’s 2009 annual Juried Painting and 

Sculpture Exhibition for Non-Members. He was awarded a 

Certificate of Excellence in the Portrait Society of America’s 

2009 competition. He earned an Exceptional Merit Award 

from the society in 2007. He was one of four studio artists 

chosen by Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia for Face 

to Face: The Craniofacial Program Portrait Project. He 

was a finalist in the 2008 American Artist Magazine selfportrait 

competition and had work accepted into The 

2008 Biennial: Contemporary American Realism at the 

Fort Wayne Museum. He also won the prestigious Best 

of Ringling award three consecutive years and the 1998 

Marie Zurich Award for Painting. His work and teaching 

methods have been featured in American Artist magazine 

and exhibited in numerous group exhibitions and private 

collections. Kerry joined Studio Incamminati in 2002 after 

studying with Nelson Shanks at the Art Students League in 

New York. He holds a B.F.A. from Ringling School of Art 

and Design, Sarasota, FL. 

www.KerryDunn.com 

Stephen C. Early 

Steve was chosen as one of “12 Artists to Watch in 2012” 

by American Artist magazine. He earned a Certificate of 

Excellence in the Portrait Society of America’s 2010 and 

2008 Portrait Competitions and was one of four studio 

artists chosen by Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia for 

Face to Face: The Craniofacial Program Portrait Project. 

His painting was accepted into the First Annual Scottsdale 

Salon of Fine Art and his drawings were in the Figure 

Now/Exhibition 2011 at Fontebonne University Fine Arts 

Gallery, St. Louis. His art was selected in the book “Star 

Wars: Visions.” Steve, a Studio Incamminati instructor, was 

invited to teach at American Artist magazine’s “Weekend 

with the Masters Intensive: New York City.” He was a 

featured artist in American Painter Video Magazine, Spring 

2011. He has had work in numerous group exhibitions 

and is included many private collections. He has served 

as principal instructor in Nelson Shanks’ Intensive and 

Advanced Painting Workshops at Studio Incamminati; 

Armory Arts Center Workshops in West Palm Beach, FL; 

the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts Workshop, and the 

New York Academy of Fine Arts Workshop. Steve joined 

Studio Incamminati at its 2002 inception and has served 

as Nelson Shanks’ teaching assistant at the Art Students’ 

League in New York. He holds an A.S. degree from the Art 

Institute of Philadelphia. 

www.StephenEarly.com 

Robin Frey 

Robin, a Studio Incamminati instructor, had her work 

juried into Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Clubs 115th 

Annual Juried Exhibition at The National Arts Club 

in 2011. She received an Honor Award in the Portrait

“I envision Studio Incamminati as the place where the highly inspired come to develop their talent and acquire 

knowledge, with the understanding that they will pass on what they have gained to others.” Nelson Shanks 

Society of America’s 2008 Portrait Competition and was 

one of four studio artists chosen by Children’s Hospital of 

Philadelphia for Face to Face: The Craniofacial Program 

Portrait Project. She previously earned a National 

Conference Scholarship from the portrait society. Her 

work is featured in the book “Portrait Painting Atelier: 

Old Master Techniques and Contemporary Applications.” 

She also received the Award of Excellence at the Ridgefield 

Guild of Artists Juried Show, Ridgefield, CT. She has 

exhibited in numerous shows and her work is included 

in many private collections. Robin holds a B.F.A. from 

Eastern Mennonite University. 

Natalie Italiano 

Natalie, whose work was accepted into The Oil Painters 

of America 2011 Eastern Regional Exhibition and Sale, 

is a Studio Incamminati instructor who apprenticed with 

Nelson Shanks. She was awarded a 2009 Portrait Society 

of America Certificate of Excellence and earned a 2005 

Portrait Society of America National Conference 

Scholarship. She received the Recognition Award for 

Contribution to the Arts, Haddonfield, NJ, and earned best 

portrait at the Philadelphia Sketch Club’s 148th annual 

Small Oils Show. Early in her career, she was awarded a 

scholarship to the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. 

She has exhibited at Peter McPhee Fine Arts, The Union 

League of Philadelphia, The Artists of Studio Incamminati 

catalog exhibitions, Markeim Arts Center, the Philadelphia 

Youth Orchestra gala, the Doylestown Country Club and 

for the Red Cross of Central New Jersey and Philadelphia 

Open Studio Tours. Her works are included in many 

private collections. Natalie holds teaching certificates 

from the Moore College of Art and from the Pennsylvania 

Academy of the Fine Arts, and has earned a B.A. degree 

from Rowan University. 

www.NatalieItaliano.com 

Peter Kelsey 

Peter, a Studio Incamminati teaching fellow, also monitors 

Studio Incamminati’s popular weekly Open Studio public 

sessions. His work was juried into the 2011 Laumeister Fine 

Art Competition at the Bennington Center for the Arts, 

Bennington, VT. He has exhibited in The Artists of Studio 

Incamminati catalog exhibition, Markeim Arts Center, the 

Philadelphia Youth Orchestra gala, the Philadelphia Open 

Studio Tours and for auctions at the Doylestown Country 

Club and for the Red Cross of Central New Jersey. His 

work hangs in several private collections. 

www.PeterKelseyArt.com 

Darren Kingsley 

Darren, a Studio Incamminati instructor, won the 2000 

American society of Classical Realism Scholarship and 

was a finalist in American Artist magazine’s Realism 

Today competition. His work was included in the book 

“Star Wars: Visions.” He has participated in exhibitions at 

The Union League of Philadelphia, The Artists of Studio 

Incamminati catalog exhibition, Markeim Arts Center, 

the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra gala, as well as for the 

American Red Cross of Central New Jersey and the 

Daylesford Abbey, Paoli, PA. His work is in many private 

collections including those of Nelson and Leona Shanks. 

www.DarrenKingsley.com 

JaFang Lu 

JaFang, an instructor at Studio Incamminati, studied with 

Nelson Shanks at the Art Students League of New York 

where she was awarded a Merit Scholarship. JaFang has been 

an assistant instructor to Nelson Shanks at the Academy 

of Figurative Art and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine 

Art and has taught at the Maitland Art Center, Orlando, 

FL. She is the winner of the Goodman Short Fiction 

Award, City College of New York and has exhibited at The 

Artists of Studio Incamminati catalog exhibition, Markeim 

Arts Center, the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra gala, The 

Union League of Philadelphia, the American Red Cross 

of Central New Jersey and the Daylesford Abbey, Paoli, 

PA. JaFang holds a B.A. from The City College of New 

York University. 

Leona Shanks 

Leona, who co-founded Studio Incamminati with husband 

Nelson, is an instructor at the studio. Her work was juried 

into the 2011 Laumeister Fine Art Competition at the 

Bennington Center for the Arts in 2011. She placed first in 

juried competition of Inspiring Figures: American Women 


35

36 

PROFESSIONAL PROGRAM FACULTY 

and Figurative Art at The Butler Institute of Contemporary 

Art in 2010. In 2009, she was selected one of the top 100 

finalists in the Art Renewal Center’s International ARC 

Salon in the still-life category. She also was a finalist in 

the 2007 competition. An accomplished sculptor, Leona 

won the Edmund Stewardson Award for Sculpture. Her 

paintings have been included in numerous exhibitions and 

her work is included in many private collections. 

www.LeonaShanks.com 

Dan Thompson 

Dan, a Studio Incamminati instructor, has garnered 

numerous awards including: 2001 Grand Prize, the 

American Society of Portrait Artists; Second Place, 

Figurative Category, Art Renewal Center’s 2006 

International ARC Salon; 2005 Ethel Lorraine Bernstein 

Memorial Award, Corcoran College of Art and Design; 

and 2003 Best of Show in Southwest Art magazine’s Artists 

to Watch exhibition. His work was included in the book 

“Star Wars: Visions.” His work has been in The Artists of 

Studio Incamminati catalog exhibition and is included in 

numerous collections including those of Forbes Magazine, 

the University of Maryland, The Portrait Society of Canada, 

and many private collections. Exhibition catalogs featuring 

his work include: “Self Portraits, John Pence Gallery” and 

“The Water Street Atelier,” Meredith Long Gallery. Dan 

Thompson is a founding member of the Grand Central 

Academy in New York and has held teaching positions 

at Parsons The New School for Design, The New York 

Academy of Art, and the Water Street Atelier. He received 

his B.F.A. from the Corcoran School of Art in Washington 

D.C. and his M.F.A. from Graduate School of Figurative 

Art of the The New York Academy of Art. 

www.DanThompsonArt.com 

Lea Colie Wight 

Lea received a 2011 Certificate of Excellence and 2010 and 

2009 Honor Awards from the Portrait Society of America 

as well as several awards from the Greenhouse Gallery of 

Fine Art 2009 Salon International. Her work also was 

accepted into the 2011 Oil Painters of America National 

Exhibition. Lea was selected to teach at American Artist 

magazine’s “Weekend with the Masters Intensive: New 

York City” and she was on the faculty of the 2011 Portrait 

Society of America’s annual conference where she taught 

a drawing workshop and participated in the “face-off ” 

painting event. Her DVD, “Color Essentials: A Painter’s 

Guide with Lea Colie Wight,” was produced by American 

Artist magazine. Her work was included in the exhibition 

“Inspiring Figures: American Women & Figurative Art 

at The Butler Institute of Contemporary Art” as well as 

The Fort Wayne Museum Contemporary Realism 2010 

Biennial. Her work has appeared in many publications 

including an American Artist magazine cover story in 2009 

and in The Artist’s magazine, March 2011. Her drawings 

are included in “Classical Life Drawing Studio: Lessons & 

Teachings in the Art of Figure Drawing” published by the 

Art Students League of New York. A Studio Incamminati 

instructor, she has participated in many group exhibitions. 

Lea, who has been a teaching assistant to Nelson Shanks 

at the Art Students League in New York, has her work 

in many private collections. She earned a B.F.A. from the 

Minneapolis College of Art and Design. 

www.LeaWight.com

STUDIO INCAMMINATI BOARD AND STAFF 

Board of Directors 

Frank Giordano, Chairman 

Edith Magaziner, Secretary 

Louis Scaglione, Treasurer 

James R. Abbott, Ph.D. 

Dr. Romeo S. Abella 

John Chionchio 

Charles Davidson 

Dottie Giordano 

Jane Golden Heriza 

Alvin Holm, A.I.A. 

Albert Baker Knoll 

Peter Madden 

James L. McCabe, Ph.D. 

Marc R. Nicoletti 

Joseph J. Rishel 

Leona Shanks, Co-founder 

Nelson Shanks, Co-founder and Artistic Director 

Ivan Tancredi 

Marc S. Mostovoy, emeritus 

Friends of Studio Incamminati 

Andrew and Deborah Webster, 

Co-Chairs 

Staff 

Jay Pennie, 

Executive Director 

Andrew Yannelli, 

Director of Education Programming 

Bill Wedo, 

Communications Manager 

Coutney Feild, 

Office Manager 

Studio Incamminati is recognized as a nonprofit organization under Chapter 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code. 

Official registration and financial information may be obtained from the PA Department of State by calling toll free, 

within PA 1.800.732.0999. Registration does not imply endorsement. 

Disclaimer 

The information in this catalog is subject to change at any time. This catalog may not be relied upon as a contract. 

Current status of all information therein may be verified by contacting the Studio Incamminati office. 

♦ Revised August 2012 


37

38 

ACADEMIC CALENDAR 

2012 

September 

November 

December 

2013 

January 

March 

April 

May 

June 

6 

17 

21 

22–25 

29 

30 

21–Jan.1 

7 

11 

18 

21–25 

28 

7 

16/17 

21 

22 

8–12 

15 

19 

27 

TBA 

14 

17 

20 

21 

First Day of Professional Program Fall Semester 

Level 1 9 a.m.–3:45 p.m. 

Levels 2, 3 and 4 Noon–3:45 p.m. 

Fall evening programs begin 

Fall Friday day classes begin 

Thanksgiving break (no classes) 

Fall evening programs end 

Fall Friday day classes end 

Holiday break (no classes) 

Winter evening programs begin 

Winter Friday day classes begin 

Fall Semester ends 

Winter workshops TBA 

Spring Semester begins 

Philadelphia Scholars event at Studio Incamminati 

Studio Incamminati Open House 

Winter evening programs end 

Winter Friday day classes end 

Spring break 

Spring evening programs begin 

Spring Friday day classes begin 

Memorial Day (no classes) 

End of Year Artist Exhibition 

Spring Semester ends 

Summer workshops begin 

Spring evening programs end 

Spring Friday day classes end 

** Updated Studio calendars will be posted on the 5th floor student bulletin board.

Studio Incamminati ◆ www.StudioIncamminati.org ◆ 215.592.7910 ◆

011813 

Nelson Shanks, Founder & Artistic Director 

340 N. 12th St. Suite 400 Philadelphia, PA 19107 ■ 215-592-7910 

www.StudioIncamminati.org ■ email: info@studioincamminati.org 

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter and our blog: www.studioincamminati.blogspot.com

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