Frequently Asked Questions for Online Classes

Why should I take an online class?

We think that this format can be even better than the in-person class, for many reasons. Here are a few:
You don’t have to leave your home, pack and carry your supplies, find parking.
Whether we are staying home due to virus rules, or because we have other physical limitations, these days we all need art therapy! When at home, we have way more time than usual. Online classes are a place to learn and grow, be creative, and focus on positive things.
No proximity limitations! Whether you live near Cole Art Studio in the beautiful Puget Sound area, or live in Arizona or Zanzibar, you can take an online class!
Unlike in-person classes, you have the benefit of playing the video portions many times during the week. 
While in-person classes and workshops are not possible, these online classes help support your favorite artist-instructors. For many, workshops are the sole, consistent income, and they are really hurting right now. Your participation is literally helping to put food on their tables, while you are benefiting from their instruction. Win-win!

Does this instructor have experience in online teaching?

All our instructors are taking the plunge – studying up on Zoom, investing in equipment, practicing and taking classes on Best Practices for art instructors. By the time you read this, your instructor will have had many hours of training and experience. They are all in. And we invite you to give it a chance.

What has been the response from students to online classes? 

What do you know?! Students love online classes! They have told us how much they've enjoyed doing art while being home, and enjoy the camaraderie of other students during these live sessions. It turns out that "it's almost like being in the studio" - one of the responses we keep hearing. An online course has been just what their hearts and spirits have needed, especially during quarantine and isolation.  

What will the online class be like?

Each class will vary, as much as instructors themselves and individual classes vary. Some examples follow:
Live teaching with interaction.
Some instructors will also present pre-recorded segments. It is our intention that many of the classes will be recorded, at least in part, and you will be able to watch, pause and replay at will during the week. 
Some instructors will produce modules covering subjects such as: an explanation of your art materials, how to find good resources (photos to paint from), how to set up your room for painting at home, how to set up your palette, as well as how to paint/draw, of course! 
Demos with a camera focused up close on the canvas and palette, so you can clearly see brushwork and color mixing, for example. Step-by-step instruction to teach you the techniques, tips and tricks of how to paint/draw your subject. 
Many instructors will give you instruction from downloadable pages of information, which will be yours to keep. 
You will receive individual feedback on your drawing/painting, just like in the in-person class.  This is done through a variety of means, often via emailed photos, which the instructor will upload and put on their screen to show and tell you their input.
You will also have alive Q & A sessions.  Instructors will periodically pause their instruction time to answer questions from the class, and will demonstrate those answers with a camera focused on their easel so you can see up close how to overcome challenges you may have. 

I'm not sure... can I do a free trial run?

In many cases, the instructor will have a periodic, free 1-hour demo or “Meet & Greet” session, enabling prospective students to try and see if this format works for them. While these are free, you must register to receive the link to the meeting.

What about art supplies?

Most supply lists have been modified to accommodate these times, especially since it can be hard to find specific items, quantities or sizes. Teachers are being very flexible and you can do a lot with whatever you have. Let us know if you are concerned. Usually there are plenty of acceptable alternatives. 

How is my registration fee used?

We know that most people think online classes should be less expensive than in-person classes. Between purchasing equipment, time spent learning technology, converting our curriculum, and communicating to students, our teachers and staff have put in hundreds of unpaid hours into this new format. So in reality, it’s much more expensive to offer online classes. 

What do I need to participate?

You can use Zoom with a phone, tablet, laptop or computer – anything with a microphone and a camera! In general, the larger screens are better. We promise, it’s easier than it sounds and we’re here to help.

Refund Policy

If you cannot attend your class, our cancellation policy is a 90% refund up to and including 14 days before the class. Or you may transfer 100% of your payment to another class or to a credit to a future class at Cole Art Studio. No refunds for cancellations 13 days or less prior to class. 

Any deposit or payment is forfeited and non-refundable within 13 days of class start date. If we have to cancel a class due to low enrollment, you will receive your choice of a 100% refund or you can transfer 100% of your payment to another class, or keep a credit at Cole Art Studio to be applied to another workshop of your choice at any time, without expiration.

How do I register for workshops & classes?  

Please register through our website with our online shopping cart. If you have questions, please email us at ColeArtStudioWorkshops@gmail.com. Or you may call us at 425.697.2787, and we will be happy to assist you with the online registration process. If you need a credit on-file to be applied to a class, you must call us. 

I still have questions!

No problem! Just email us at coleartstudioworkshops@gmail.com