Classes and Events
Exclusive New York City
Studio Workshop
October 29-31, 2025
New York, New York
$6,500 (includes lunch and dinner each day)
limited to 3 students - FULL
This exclusive three day workshop will take place at Neal’s studio in the historic National Arts Club in Gramercy Park, just off Park Avenue in Manhattan. His studio was formerly occupied by Everett Raymond Kinstler and his teacher before him, Frank Vincent DuMond. DuMond not only taught Kinstler, but also Georgia O’Keeffe, Norman Rockwell, and James Montgomery Flagg. Neal is only the third artist to occupy the space in over 100 years. With a class limit of three, students will receive personalized, one-on-one instruction as they paint from a live model. Painting time will be balanced with outings to museums and dinners at private New York City clubs with spectacular art collections. Together, you will paint and learn as you draw inspiration from the spirits of Frank DuMond and Ray Kinstler and the dozens of other great artists who have made The National Arts Club their home and studio.
Email shannon@michaelshaneneal.com to sign up.
Using Reference Material as a Tool
November 7-9, 2025
Nashville, Tennessee
$1,495 (includes box lunch each day)
limited to 10 students - 1 spot left!
A three day workshop dedicated to the study of and use of reference material for painting the portrait including photos, oil sketches, and thumbnail sketches. Students will learn the basics of photographing their subjects using iphone/smart phone cameras. An in-depth discussion of their digital capabilities will be explored. Posing, lighting techniques, and composing figures will be covered in-depth. Using modern technology will be demonstrated including the use of digital monitors and printed photos. Basic Photoshop techniques will also be covered to improve the quality of your reference. Students will paint from live models and photographs, alternating between the two. Exercises will strengthen your understanding of how to use photo reference materials, oil sketches, and pencil sketches as tools to create finished works. Techniques, methods, and principles for oil painting on canvas will also be studied. Question and answer periods to conclude each day. The class will be conducted in Neal’s private Nashville studio and his teaching studio located on the property. Box lunches will be served each day. Limited to 10 students.
Email shannon@michaelshaneneal.com to sign up.
