Jo Crofts

My Art Experience and Teaching Approach
I am an artist specializing in both abstract acrylic painting and hyperrealistic pet portraits using pencil and colored pencil. My work combines expressive creativity with meticulous detail, allowing me to explore both free-flowing and highly structured artistic techniques. With a background in science and art, I take an analytical yet intuitive approach, breaking down complex techniques into easy-to-follow steps.

Teaching Approach
I believe that anyone can learn to create beautiful artwork with the right guidance and a step-by-step, hands-on approach. My lessons focus on progressive learning from any level, ensuring that students build confidence and skill over time without feeling overwhelmed.

Each session will include:

Fundamentals First – Understanding materials, techniques, and composition.
Step-by-Step Guidance – Breaking complex processes into simple, achievable stages.
Draw-Along Experience – Each lesson includes a guided drawing or painting session where students follow along in real-time, creating a finished piece by the end. This ensures that every session results in something tangible to track progress and build confidence.
Hands-on Practice & Feedback – Encouraging personal creativity while providing constructive support.
Flexible Learning Options – Students can choose between live online sessions for real-time interaction or recorded tutorials if they feel more comfortable learning at their own pace.
Mediums Covered:
- Pencil Sketching – Mastering shading, depth, and form.
- Colored Pencil Drawing (Hyperrealism) – Creating lifelike textures, blending techniques, and fine details.
- Acrylic Painting (Abstract) – Exploring expressive, intuitive painting with bold colors and dynamic compositions.

By focusing on practical application and real-time creation, my students will always come away with something they can see, hold, and be proud of. Over time, this will serve as a clear visual record of improvement, helping to build skills, confidence, and artistic identity.