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Milan Art Institute3 min read

Go Behind the Scenes: Live Art Class - Three Days of True Transformation

Go Behind the Scenes: Live Art Class - Three Days of True Transformation
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3 Days of Transformation at Let Your Light Shine with Oil

When artists commit to growth, real change happens—fast. That was the promise behind Let Your Light Shine with Oil, a 3-day intensive in Sarasota, Florida. And the transformation that took place in just 72 hours was nothing short of remarkable.

A Bold Step Forward

Artists came from all stages of their journey—some already working professionals, others just beginning to explore oils. What united them was a willingness to be challenged and a drive to improve. Throughout the weekend, students chose complex sources, pushed themselves through frustration, and kept going when the painting got hard. That’s where the breakthroughs happened.

Mary Ambrose, a Mastery Program graduate, summed it up clearly:

Woman sitting in front of rabit painitng Mary Ambrose, Mastery Program graduate

“After the voice section, I came to this workshop and completed this painting… I think this is Mary Ambrose. This is me.”
— Mary Ambrose, Mastery Program graduate

She didn’t just finish a piece—she owned it.

Learning to Paint Light—and Seeing Results

This workshop was about more than technique. Students didn’t just learn how to apply oil paint. They learned how to control value, saturation, and contrast to make their paintings glow.

Emily Brooks, who had never painted in oils before, walked away with her first completed oil painting—and the confidence to continue.

woman in pink sitting in front of yellow bird painting Emily Brooks, Mastery Program student

“Elli guided us step-by-step. I’m walking away proud of what I created and inspired to keep going.” — Emily Brooks, Mastery Program student

Kit Kelly Adenact, who holds both a BFA and a master’s in studio art, called this experience a turning point:

Woman sitting in front of orange humming bird painting Kit Kelly Adenact, Mastery Program student

“I didn’t know I could create a pool of light or make something glow like this. I didn’t know I was capable of that. Now I do—and that’s going to elevate my work.” — Kit Kelly Adenact, Mastery Program student

Honest Feedback. Clear Direction.

One of the most impactful aspects of the workshop was the coaching. Artists received more than encouragement—they got honest, targeted feedback that helped them break through personal barriers.

Kit added:

“Maybe I wasn’t ready to hear it, but I needed to. You hear the truth, and you grow with the truth"

Rather than sugar-coating, the instructors gave students real insight into what was holding them back—and clear strategies for how to move forward.

FREE Guide and Workbook for "Master the 7 Elements of Art" workshop ⬇️

 

The Takeaway: Transformation Through Work

By the end of the weekend, students weren’t just improving their paintings—they were thinking differently about their process. Many gained a deeper understanding of their voice, renewed direction, and the confidence to move forward with clarity.

Kimberly Brayman, a Mastery student who’s been painting for 30 years, described it this way:

“I used to dislike everything I painted. Now I’m proud of my work and seeing growth every week.” — Kimberly Brayman, Mastery Program student

And Kit reflected:

“Yesterday was a hard day… but I knew I had to face it and get to the other side. I saw the light. And now I know I can keep going.”

Ready for Your Own Breakthrough?

These workshops are designed for artists who are ready to grow. Whether you’re just beginning or returning to your practice after years away, this kind of focused instruction and support can create lasting transformation. 

Want to experience it for yourself? Explore Upcoming In-Person Workshops or check out our on-demand on-line classes like "Oil Painting Made Easy". 

🎓 Ready to Become a Professional Artist?
Take your art and your life to the next level with the Milan Mastery Program . Learn from world-renowned artists 🎨, master both classical and contemporary techniques 🖌️, and build a thriving art career doing what you love ❤️.
Apply now and start your journey to artistic mastery today 🚀.

 

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Milan Art Institute
The Milan Art Institute has helped hundreds turn their passion into a profession. Beginners and pros alike come to master skills, learn new techniques, and join a growing community of artists.
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