Imitation, invention and expression are the three core components to creating an evocative and believable image. Beginning in the Renaissance, these three concepts were refined and codified into what was to become known as the Humanist movement, which had tremendous influence and impact on the arts.

The main tenant of this philosophy was that Art should be an imitation of nature. By this, they specifically meant “human nature”; not just human nature as it is, but also as it should be. By learning to observe the world in an accurate manner, the student not only learns how to faithfully express a myriad of things in a pictorial manner, they also learn to observe new forms and arrangements that are contained in nature. These observations help to guide and inspire us to newer and more insightful designs. It is this “imitation” that gives them the foundation to build upon. By seeking to understand our ideas and knowledge of the world in a thorough and thoughtful way, the student, through practice, can learn to extrapolate and arrange this information to construct landscapes, machines, and characters that have never existed. This “invention” of conceptual models based upon observed laws serve to make images more powerful by giving them an internal logic and order.

We do not believe in an artificial separation between “commercial artists” and “fine artists." Both must draw on the same techniques and ideas in order to make images that will affect the viewer in a powerful way. And both must start with Nature as their source and inspiration. The essential foundations will be covered with using both traditional and digital media. Idea development will be taught along with classical anatomy. Cast studies will accompany the creation of imaginative worlds. Regardless of the ultimate goals of the student, the valuable foundations will come first, and the curriculum tailored thereafter to their needs.

It is the ConceptArt.Org Atelier’s goal to provide a place where the next generation of artists can come to learn, one-on-one, in a small class setting, from some of the best professionals in the industry. The curriculum is strict, but fluid. The lessons are adapted to the individual’s needs and goals, and his or her level advances according to the skills mastered. There are no semesters, no pass or fail. Students are here to learn along side their instructors, and while the atmosphere is amicable, it is disciplined as well. The Students will be evaluated and their instruction begun accordingly. The program is estimated to take approximately two years, but ultimately, it depends on the student and how quickly they progress.

With the new-fledged interest in concept art and visual design, there is a new generation of artists in need of training. It is a rapidly growing industry, where the standards are high and the rewards rich. In the established school system, the skills necessary to prepare artists to enter the workforce in this highly demanding field just aren’t given enough attention or time to properly mature. Our program is specifically designed to be most effective at preparing artists for the rigors of professional life. Graduates of the ConceptArt.Org Atelier will be provided the tools and skills necessary for a long and fruitful art career, whether that path leads to the entertainment industry or beyond.