Don’t aim for one great painting. Instead, train for many.

I’m looking for a small group of painters to try out a series of self-guided painting exercises I’m working on. They are designed to help you practice drawing, value, and color — without the pressure. Your feedback will help me create a better and more polished set.

Spots are limited. Sign up now.

What you’ll get

• Four simple painting exercises designed to help you practice drawing, value, and color

• Step-by-step written instructions and process images

• Video demonstrations and/or lectures

• Reference photos (use mine or set up your own)

Why it matters

Many painters stay stuck in their growth because they treat every piece like it has to be Instagram-worthy. This can lead to mediocre work and mounting frustration — and I see it over and over again with my students. The sooner you can loosen your grip and let go of the outcome, the work gets better and so does the experience doing it. My goal for you is to show up and do the reps regardless of the outcome, so you can become a better painter.

What to expect

• The first lesson drops in October 2025

• The remaining exercises will be released through the end of the year

• You’ll have access to them through January 31, 2025

FAQ

How will I receive the lessons?

I’ll use the platform that I use with my coaching students: Notion. After you sign up, you’ll be invited to create an account on the platform and added to your own page, which is where the exercises will be dropped when they are ready.

What is the format?

This is a self-guided series of exercises that you’ll complete on your own time, at your own pace. I’ll reach out periodically to ask for your feedback and see images of your work. While it’s not a class or a workshop, you will have the ability to ask me questions and get light feedback via the commenting feature in the Notion platform.

What if I’ve never painted before?

This could be an amazing way to get started. I’d love to have you try these out.

Do I have to paint in oil?

While I’ll be teaching these in oil, you don’t have to paint in oil in order to complete them. I’d love to see how you complete them with a different medium.

Do I have to paint still life?

You can complete these exercises with any subject matter that interests you — still life, portrait, figure, and even landscape. I’d love to see what you come up with.

For any other questions, send me an email at sarah@sarahcalandro.com.