Frequently Asked Questions about ISS
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I only paint occasionally, Is ISS too advanced for me?
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I want to learn to paint like ____, can you teach me?
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Is it confusing to be taught by 5 instructors?
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What will I be doing on any given day?
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I work with oils, is ISS for me?
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Can we paint in our rooms at the Sagebrush Inn?
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Other than my paint supplies, what else should I bring with me?
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What else is there to do or see around Taos?
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Where can I find more information about this workshop?
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When should we plan on arriving in Taos, and is attending orientation required?
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Please explain how is ISS different from other workshops?
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How is the classroom set up at ISS?
I only paint occasionally, Is ISS too advanced for me?
That you paint only occasionally suggests that painting is not as personally fulfilling for you as it could potentially be. ISS is focused on making art personal to each artist and may be the experience that will help you find a more rewarding reason to paint more enthusiastically.
I want to learn to paint like ____, can you teach me?
The philosophy of ISS is to help you find a way of painting that is uniquely yours and does not mimic other artists. While we certainly are influenced by other artists and their styles, the real art must come from inside us.
Is it confusing to be taught by 5 instructors?
Most ISS students find it to be a more rewarding experience than taking a workshop from a single teacher. The 5 ISS instructors do have differences in their approach to painting and teaching, but agree on a core philosophy about art. This allows you to find the approach that best works for you.
What will I be doing on any given day?
ISS has an open, flexible format that lets you decide how you want to learn. For an overview of the daily events at ISS take a look at our schedule. The schedule will also be printed in your binder that you will receive at check in.
I work with oils, is ISS for me?
We have had a few students paint in oils but only if they can eliminate all odor. Perhaps a better solution is to paint in an oil technique using acrylics.
Can we paint in our rooms at the Sagebrush Inn?
Yes. However, most students find it easier to paint in the studio which is open from 7AM to 11PM.
Other than my paint supplies, what else should I bring with me?
Reference materials such as photos, sketches, etc. Comfortable shoes, moisturizing lotion, and an open heart and mind. Once you have registered our registrar will send you information about "Art Supplies and Source Material" and other helpful info.
What else is there to do or see around Taos?
Taos is a beautiful area that features a variety of areas of interest. Take a look at our Area Attractions page to see a sampling of what is in the area. Also, when you check in for the seminar you will receive a 3-ring binder with information about the surrounding area.
Where can I find more information about this workshop?
If after reading through the website you still have questions, please contact our registrar.
When should we plan on arriving in Taos, and is attending orientation required?
Plan on arriving the day before classes start so you have time to settle in. The orientation is held at 9:00 am on the first day of classes, and everyone is encouraged to attend.
Please explain how is ISS different from other workshops?
There are many things that make ISS a uniquely special painting workshop. Obviously, having five instructors rather than one adds a new dimension to the learning process, but the most important difference is the focus on content rather than technique. Read what the instructors have to say about ISS.
How is the classroom set up at ISS?
The studio is setup in a large conference hall at the Sagebrush Inn. All students will have a 4 feet x 6 feet table to themselves. Also in the same room are chairs for everyone to watch morning and afternoon slide programs and demonstrations.