Atelier Dojo - Austin, Texas

Daniel D (cakstx)

A great place for figure drawing sessions. I go to the afternoon sessions and the facilities are great. The studio is kept at a comfortable temperature and set up specifically for drawing. The lighting for the model is consistent and bright. Sessions are run efficiently and the variety of models are great.

Jorge Molina

Atelier Dojo is an awesome resource for beginner and experienced artists alike. Founded by some of Austin’s most reputable contemporary painters, Dojo provides the ideal studio space for any artist to gain academic drawing and painting instruction.

I have taken several classes with the instructors on staff, and also plan on taking workshops with scheduled guest artists in the near future.

I highly recommend Dojo to any artist who is serious about learning the skills and techniques of today’s master painters.

James McNally

I can't say enough good things about Atelier Dojo. I had been looking for something like this in Austin for a while now and I'm so glad it is available. The classes are long enough (eight weeks), and the instruction detailed enough, to really see improvement. And the ability to attend open figure drawing sessions throughout the week is invaluable. The set up for the sessions is great - space, lighting, easels, models, etc. - and the folks that run the sessions are all friendly and incredibly helpful. I would recommend Atelier Dojo to anyone looking to improve or practice their skills and connect with a friendly community of Austin artists.

Karla N

As both a student, and an art model here, I find this to be one of the best places in Austin to build art skills that translate (with practice) to being able to draw things from life more easily.

The foundations classes are well-placed, and the instructors are patient, professional, Ave offer quality feedback in a way that's encouraging.

I LOVE taking classes and coming to the open drawing/painting sessions. (You don't have to be a student to come to the open sessions).

There's plenty of room, good lighting, and better temperature control than other places where I've previously drawn live models.

Madeleine Tilin

I've enjoyed all three classes I've taken at Atelier Dojo since they opened this past summer. The instruction has been first rate. It's also a great way to be immersed in a group of others who are either learning a craft for the first time or who have been doing it for years. Though I've been in visual communication for a long time, I'm new to painting and drawing. I've learned so much even in talking to other more seasoned students of the methods taught here. I've also dropped in for open studio. If you don't have access to a live model, this is a wonderful way to go and they offer open studios a few times a week. Atelier Dojo is a great place to whet your creative appetite and keep feeding it!

Dwight Benignus

This is simply the best place I have found in Austin to learn how to do figure painting/drawing/sculpture. The instructors are internationally renowned and teach a combination of old world methods from European masters to modern methods of painting.

Each instructor has had decades of experience, some with experience from the European ateliers while some have forged their own career path in the world of painting. They all have a different style and I recommend learning from all of them if you can.

There are figure painting/drawing open studios several days a week with a live model, which is something that is hard to find in Austin. Whether you are a beginner hobbyist, or someone who is looking to refine their skills to become a professional, this is the place for you.

Zachary Bezuidenhout

I took the cast drawing class and figure drawing class. I've got to say that is was some of the best instructing that I have ever gotten. The instructors are very helpful when it comes to how to approach your work on your piece and their criticism is ALWAYS constructive.
The environment is very welcoming with a variety students and people. It's easy to talk to anyone and feel like you're part of a community of artists who wish to improve and strive for excellence.

If you're thinking of taking classes here then do it! Don't think twice about it!

Peter G

I have only learned about the Dojo within the last year. I am currently taking my third class at the Dojo. The teachers at the Dojo are incredible. Each is very supportive and committed at helping students grow as individual artists. Danny Grant is an incredible teacher and has help me make significant breakthroughs in my technique. Karen Offutt could be my new favorite person. Her comprehensive method makes painting a joy. The open studio's on Friday's and Saturday's are a great place to network and be inspired by other artist. I cannot say enough great things about how the entire staff welcomes everyone no matter your artistic experience. If you are looking for a great place to expand your artistic repertoire, sign up for a class as soon as you can. You will not regret it.