I have never had a comfort level or particular talent for painting. Rather, curiosity had brought me to Andrew’s initial workshop. Andrew’s approach is unique and innovative. His incredible talent as a painter is obvious, but it’s equally matched by his talent as a teacher. Through his method, I have learned how to get out of my head to better navigate my inner-critic and enjoy the experience of being creative while staying in the present moment. I have been astonished by what I’ve been able to produce and learn. In fact, I’ve been so impressed with the results, that I’ve continued my painting journey through Andrew’s workshops for over two years! I would highly recommend his classes to anyone – whether you’re a first-time painter like myself, or a seasoned artist looking for a novel way to hone your skills.

With just a few hours of experiential instruction, I have gone from drawing stick figures to painting still lifes, landscapes, and portraits. Andrew has taught me to see things completely differently as I approach my paintings. He approaches the work with humour, humility, and concrete skills that have allowed my desired subject to emerge from the canvas. I look forward to my weekly classes and I am hooked.

Andrew's instruction helped me grow so much as an artist - I'm no longer afraid to call myself one! He gives great feedback, insightful suggestions and his exercises are so helpful for getting out of my head and being present while I paint.

Before taking Shotsy's classes, I had never participated in a formal art class and often joked that I couldn't draw my way out of a paper bag. However, Shotsy's incredible talent, guidance, patience, and gentle tone have completely transformed my perspective and skills. Thanks to his teaching, I've unlocked a world of creativity I never knew I possessed. I highly recommend his classes to anyone looking to discover their artistic potential.

Before I joined Andrew’s class, scout’s honor, everything I ever even drew (let alone paint!), looked like a fish. A lamp, a house, a garden – it just didn’t matter. I was convinced I lacked all creative expression in the visual arts. Then with his empowering instruction and clear but sensitive guidance, I painted this in less than 4 classes! I still can’t believe it’s not paint by numbers and that I painted it. He is awesome, beyond patient, and can teach anyone how to paint.

As someone who has never believed she could paint, Shotsy's art classes have made me reconsider! Shotsy's patient instruction and his clear explanations of technique and process have made it possible for me to access my inner artist. In addition to his impressive level of skill and knowledge, Shotsy has a passionate commitment to helping people learn how to express themselves through painting. Highly recommend!

I recently commissioned Andrew to bring a vintage black and white photograph of my parents’ engagement to life by painting it in colour! I was truly amazed at the likeness! His keen attention to detail was incredibly accurate. My siblings and I were thoroughly delighted with the finished painting. Andrew’s work is truly impressive and I would highly recommend him to paint a portrait for you too! It’s a wonderfully rich and meaningful way to bring past and current memories to life! It would make an extraordinary gift too!

Andrew offers up an easy-going, fun, and welcoming space which lends to a lovely feeling of community. Andrew’s instruction is super-informative with many helpful tips. Andrew’s teaching style is encouraging, which has helped me overcome obstacles that impeded my self-confidence and belief that I could paint. His clever, psychologically-derived insights got me out of my own way and as a result, unlocked my creativity and self-trust (which have been helpful both in art and in life). I like that he offers on-going six-week workshops, giving me a sense of momentum and a chance to apply what I’ve learned in previous sessions, which in turn, help me notice my own growth as an artist each week. I highly recommend Andrew’s classes and workshops ...where paint of art meets paint with heart!