from student Michael Vo

 

"Having Mariana as an instructor, provided me an opportunity to develop my art skills that were merely a hobby for me in my early life to something I could truly enjoy and understand the nuances of. With what I learned from her, I was able to improve my technical art skills as well as develop my creative thinking something that I apply heavily to my other skill set in music, architecture and landscape architecture. More than the ability of making art was the joy it gave me when creating and sharing it with others. There was an experience that I didn’t get anywhere else. That joy of making was something that really stood out for me under her guidance. I am glad that I was able to take those lessons with me onto my career and life goals. I know that Mariana's videos will have a similar effect on others like it did for me. With a grateful heart, Michael Vo "

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From student Lori Dierinzo

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"Mariana's ability to describe texture, color and technique vividly brought art to life for me in an unexpectedly helpful way. Putting in practice similar to that of the artists we studied not only gave me appreciation for their dedication it made me realize that art is talent yes but it's also a process that anyone is capable of if they truly want it. I made works of art that I still cannot believe were my own creation."

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From student Ethan Reid

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“Mariana was the kind of teacher whose encouragement became a building block in my foundation as an artist. I was challenged to do better and reach my fullest potential. She cared about seeing me through my struggles. You always remember those teachers that made you better-“
 

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from student Connie Luciano

 

"Mariana is by far the best art teacher I’ve ever had. I studied the history of painting techniques at Pima College with her and also an advanced portrait painting class at the Drawing Studio. Both classes changed my life. She opened up new worlds for me. She brought to life the history of art, taught the techniques used through time, clearly demonstrated how to do them, and gave wonderful feedback to all of us in class as we learned to apply them. I’m still amazed at the work I was able to produce in her classes. Mariana made learning fun as well as challenging. She helped me gain confidence in myself as an artist, for which I can’t thank her enough."

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from student Lesli Hanby

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"I have had the privilege of taking two college classes with Professor Mariana Carreras, and I must say her skills and knowledge transcend mere instruction. In addition to her impassioned enthusiasm for all aspects of the art world, she clearly, patiently, and precisely presents seemingly complex concepts in detail, and in such a way as to elicit genuine, classic results from her students both new to the art world as well as those with more sophisticated art backgrounds.

Additionally, Mariana’s vast knowledge goes well beyond the art world. Her generous and multidimensional teaching methods demonstrate the relevance of art in just about every aspect of life, be it music, science, history, religion, philosophy, mood, style—you name it."

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from student Tom Scarborough

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"I began taking art classes when I was about 60 years old. Having spent a career immersed left brain activities, jumping into this new world brought a bit of trauma and hesitancy with it. But I was fortunate to encounter people who not only knew their craft, but knew how to communicate with people for whom this was a new and somewhat intimidating adventure.

 

Among these people was Mariana Carreras. As a former teacher, I found her approach to her work (and my learning) right on target. Our sessions were well organized and she always allowed plenty of time for me to verbalize my feelings regarding the task at hand, and was able to interpret what I said, or the marks I put onto paper, and offer suggestions and assistance tailored to my situation. I watched her as she moved around the room, stopping in with each student, assessing her/his level of confidence and competence, and constructing, on the spot, a response which would open the door to deeper thinking and more confidence in one’s approach to the work.

 

Mariana is a great artist. Her work speaks for itself. There are many people who are good artists, but not all of those can effectively communicate with learners in a manner which helps them build personal capacity and the courage to jump in and give something a try, understanding that if it goes south it’s still a valuable learning experience. Mariana is a great teacher as well as a great artist. She understands the craft, and she understands people. Being able to blend these qualities is a real gift, and Mariana does this well. I am very grateful for having had the opportunity to meet and study with Mariana. I still struggle, but I’m getting better. Mariana provided me to tools I need to keep practicing and to continue to improve and enjoy the learning process."

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from student Rebekka Weismantle

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“My experience in Mariana’s classroom helped me grow as a person and develop the knowledge that everyone will develop their abilities if they apply themselves. If a student wants to learn, they can anticipate the challenge to truly understand art and make it their own. Students come away from her classes with an understanding of their own abilities and foundational comprehension that allows learning to continue outside of the classroom.”

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from student Christopher Olivares

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"I think the most memorable quote that was an aha moment for me was when she said that the human figure and portraits are landscapes, with valleys, mountains...and that makes them complex and beautiful! Another one was taking a step back from painting and get a good look at the composition and painting from several feet back (I remember that I always used to focus too much on detail and blending )....I also really enjoyed her lectures, it always felt like a story, and it was so exciting when she walked us through Rembrandt and Caravaggio and other famous painters I grew a lot as an artist taking Mariana's courses and appreciate so much the lessons and sharing of her knowledge, charisma and excitement for painting."

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from  student Mary Smith

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"I loved having Mariana as a teacher. I felt she were very good at helping students improve while also instilling in them the confidence they need to continue practicing art. I believe that takes a special person. I remember getting a B on a project that I thought I did my best on. When I asked her about it she said that she knew I could have done something more difficult. Basically the project I chose was too easy. That really had me thinking that she believed I could do more. It has helped me try to push myself and not just take the easy road. I think she is a wonderful teacher and making her classes available to more people is a great idea! "