Gage Academy of Art

[Earendil]

HERE (http://www.gageacademy.org/adult/?page=atelier&subpage=atelier_classical) is a program that I'm looking at attending. I'm listening to the founder in a podcast interview, and so far, no poo-pooing of the representational.

I was wondering if anybody else here had heard anything good/bad about the program?

[Firefly]

I took a few classes at the Gage Academy a year and a half ago while it was still the Seattle Academy of Fine Art (SAFA), and yet after it changed from The Academy of Realist Art. Why they change the school's name so often I can't imagine.

I can't honestly recommend the rest of the school but Juliette's program is supposed to be top notch (I didn't take classes from her, so I can't comment on it directly). She is an ARC living master, for whatever that's worth, and has recently published a book on the classical drawing atelier with another one due out soon on the painting atelier.

Juliette is certainly the pride and joy at Gage and the work her students produce is exceptional realism. Personally, I would have been much more interested in Kang-O'Higgins' program as his work is more expressive, but that's just my preference. I would guess that getting into her program is rather difficult now though especially considering the publication of her book. I have a gut feeling that you would be expected to take several other classes at the school before you would be considered. Mind you, that is just a hunch, but based on having been there I can tell you the school is pretty political that way.

[Earendil]

Thanks for the info! It seems I've missed the Fall entry slot, but I was planning on taking this year to get my portfolio to a level that would allow such entry.

[Maxine Schacker]

Earendil, keep a look out for the course breakdown for Max the Mutt's new concept art diploma. I'll post it as soon as we receive government approval. I think it will interest you.

[Eurysaces]

I've taken quite a few classes at SAFA/Gage.. (whatever). I loved everyone of them. After every one of them I came away noticeably better, and with many useful skills to bring to my next drawings/paintings etc. I took Julliette's Analytical drawing class (which is like a mini preview of her atelier) and can only say, the women is amazing. She gives wonderful, informative lectures and doesn't let you slide in critique. She gives specific reasons and suggestions in her critiques.
CAUTION: I don't know what the ateliers are like, I've definately seen young people in the studio spaces reserved for them, but the other classes, especially the day classes are most definately the retired woman art class on the side/they've been meaning to take. The adult classes are not selective. Not a problem in my opinion, but something to keep in mind.
But, all this is said by someone with only a poorly funded, poorly run and poorly supported state university art program to compare to.

if nothing else:
Seattle is super.

[Eurysaces]

the stranger recently did a whole article about the school which is worth looking at.

search "Gage" at www.thestranger.com

[Earendil]

Thank you for the informative article, and your thoughts! Very helpful!