I’ve always believed every child has a unique spark that lights them up and makes them shine. For my daughter, it’s her love for art. So, when I stumbled upon Ms. Deb’s one-on-one art lessons at DKW Art Gallery in Marion (thanks to a friend’s post on IG), I knew we had to try it.
Finding Ms. Deb and DKW Art Gallery & Studio
Ms. Deb isn’t just any art teacher; she’s a gem. Born in Ireland, with her art displayed across the globe, she’s got the experience and the heart to make a real difference in her students’ lives. She’s been an artist for over 35 years and runs the gallery with her husband, Mark. They create a warm, welcoming environment where local talent can truly shine.
The Magic of One-on-One Lessons
What drew me to Ms. Deb’s classes was her unique approach. She doesn’t just teach art; she teaches kids how to find their artistic voice. Deb’s lessons cover everything from color contract to light and form, but she emphasizes developing a personal style. She doesn’t want her students to paint like her or anyone else; she wants them to find their own path.
This was perfect for my daughter. She’s always had a wild imagination, and I wanted her to learn how to express it in her own way, not just copy someone else’s work.
With each class, our daughter is learning different art techniques and it’s amazing when she comes home and teaches me about them, too! So far she’s been doing a lot of work with acrylic paint and has learned about:
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- Wet on Wet
- Perspective
- Stippling
- Glazing
- Highlights
- Shadowing
- Tinting
- Midtones
- Base coat
- Cool and warm tones
- Color theory
- Liner brush
A Private, Personalized Experience
Each session is an hour long and tailored to the student’s interests and needs. This means my daughter gets the undivided attention she needs to grow as an artist. In a private setting, she feels free to explore and create without the pressure of keeping up with a group. It’s her time to shine and focus on what she loves most.
Beyond the Brushstrokes
Art is about more than just painting a pretty picture. It’s about expressing emotions, exploring new ideas, and finding joy in creation. Ms. Deb understands this deeply. Her goal is to help her students reach their full potential and enjoy every step of their artistic journey.
The DKW Art Gallery Community
What makes this experience even more remarkable is the community at DKW Art Gallery. Deb and Mark have created a space where artists of all ages and backgrounds can unite, share their work, and support each other. The gallery is a hub of creativity and inspiration, Whether through art events, classes, or just a casual cup of coffee among the beautiful artwork.
Watching My Daughter Thrive
Since starting her lessons with Ms. Deb, my daughter has blossomed. She’s more confident in her abilities and more excited about art, and she’s even started teaching me a thing or two about color theory!
I love that she comes home and applies what she’s been learning to different paintings she’s working on at home. I was SO proud of her for feeling comfortable enough to take her canvas to Ms. Deb and ask for feedback. For a six-year-old, this made me incredibly proud!
Not only that, but she now picks up a pencil and her sketchbook instead of reaching for the nearest device. She loves showing others what she’s learning and sharing her new skills and excitement with family and friends.
Ms. Deb also teaches little tidbits along the way – did you know that the trunk of a tree isn’t brown…it’s gray!
Plus, I love that our daughter is learning things she can do at home without fancy tools.
Why It’s Worth It
Enrolling my daughter in one-on-one art lessons with Ms. Deb at DKW Art Gallery has been one of our best decisions. It’s not just about learning to paint; it’s about discovering who she is and what she’s capable of. It’s about giving her the tools and the confidence to express herself and enjoy creativity.
So, if you have a little artist at home or are just looking for a way to encourage your child’s creativity, I highly recommend checking out Ms. Deb’s classes. Who knows? You might just discover a hidden talent or spark a lifelong passion. And as a mom, there’s nothing more rewarding than that.
Learn More
DKW Art Gallery & Studio, located in Marion, Iowa, is a unique and personal space curated by Deb and Mark Weiser. With over 35 years of artistic experience, Deb showcases various mediums, highlighting local artists’ talent. Mark, the Gallery Manager, adds his own touch with his Irish art. Together, they offer a range of art events, classes, and contests, making the gallery a vibrant community hub.
DKW Art Gallery prides itself on being nontraditional, focusing on local talent that rivals national artists. The pieces range from soft fabrics to strong stone and metal, each designed to enhance any space, whether a cozy living room or a corporate office. Deb’s business, design, and art expertise ensures that each piece perfectly matches the desired atmosphere. Visitors are always welcome to stop by, enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, and immerse themselves in the beautiful artwork.
