1:1 Mentorship
Honest guidance. Personalized feedback. A creative practice that moves forward.
Whether you’re just beginning your painting journey or you’ve been making art for years, every artist reaches moments when they need another pair of experienced eyes.
My mentorship is designed to help you move past creative blocks, strengthen your technical skills, and develop work that feels more authentically your own. Together, we’ll create a space where you can ask questions, experiment, refine your ideas, and build confidence in your artistic voice.
This is not a one-size-fits-all class. It’s mentorship build entirely around you.
Is This Mentorship Right for You?
This is for artists who are ready to grow with thoughtful guidance and honest feedback.
You might be…
Feeling stuck with unfinished paintings.
Struggling with composition, color, or technique.
Looking for direction in a new body of work.
Preparing for exhibitions or building a professional practice.
Searching for your own artistic voice instead of painting like everyone else.
Wanting accountability and encouragement from an experienced working artist.
No matter where you are in your practice, I'll meet you there.
What We’ll Work On
Every session is tailored to your goals. Together, we may explore…
Technical Practice
Color, composition, brushwork, materials, and painting techniques.
Studio Feedback
Paint-over critiques, work reviews, problem-solving, and guidance on works in progress.
Creative Direction
Finding your artistic voice, developing a cohesive body of work, and moving through creative blocks.
Professional Growth
Preparing for exhibitions, portfolio reviews, commissions, and navigating life as a working artist.
Two Ways to Work Together
Online Mentorship
Work with me from anywhere in the world through Zoom sessions. We’ll review your artwork together, discuss your creative goals, and create an action plan you can take back into your studio.
Perfect for artists outside the Bay Area or anyone looking for flexible mentorship from home.
In-Person Mentorship
Join me in the San Francisco Bay Area for hands-on mentorship in your studio or mine. We’ll create together, work directly on technique, and solve challenges in real time while surrounded by your work.
Ideal for artists who want an immersive studio experience.
What Makes My Mentorship Different?
I've spent more than two decades teaching artists while continuing to build my own exhibiting practice.
That means our sessions aren’t only about making a better artwork, they’re about becoming a stronger artist.
I believe in giving feedback that’s honest, encouraging, and practical. I’ll help you understand why something isn’t working and give you tools to move forward with confidence, not perfectionism.
My goal is simple: to help you create work that feels unmistakably yours.
Choose the Level of Support You Need
Single Session $225
Perfect for portfolio feedback, one painting, or working through a specific creative challenge.
5-Session Mentorship $1,015
Build momentum with consistent guidance and accountability over several weeks.
10-Session Mentorship $1,915
A deeper mentorship experience for artists developing a body of work or looking for long-term growth.
Flexible payment options are available.
PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, and Stripe accepted.
Current pricing is available during the inquiry process and reflects the session format and mentorship package.
Testimonials
Victoria S., Artist and Writer
“I came across Debra’s work on a whim and realized she was based in San Francisco. Her work is gorgeous, and I was delighted to see she also offered creative coaching. I was at a sensitive time in work and life, and was looking for someone to help me renew my creative practice. Debra was exactly what I needed.
I have been in the process of exploring different art mediums that resonate, and despite her being an oil painter, her feedback is insightful and effective whether I’m working in watercolor or water-based oil paint. She has a real gift for taking a step back and talking through what a piece needs without ever making you feel judged along the way.
Aside from her incredible technical eye, she has a real gift and warmth of encouragement. She has a passion for art (and life!) that makes you want to keep showing up and keep creating.
I’m grateful to call Debra a mentor and now a friend, and can’t recommend working with her enough.”
Natalie R, Award-Winning Realtor with Compass
“Debra made it so easy for me to ease into oil painting and grow as an artist. She breaks down the materials, techniques, and set up and gives such great demonstrations. I worked in a small group with her for several years and we all grew and learned so much. Now, I have the skills and background to take it to my home studio and continue to evolve in my work.”
Eric G, International Marketing Consultant
“Debra taught me everything I know about painting. It has been an amazing journey, about technique and purpose at the same time. Thank you so much Debra for helping me find the artist deep inside. It’s a life changing gift!”
Marguerite C, Health and Wellness Coach
“Debbie fosters a creative and social environment. She encourages her students to explore their artistic inclinations, while offering guidance that develops skill.”
Gale R, Retired Medical Device Executive
“From the moment I started private lessons with Deb, two years ago, I was hooked. As a first time painter, Deb taught me so much about color and composition while encouraging me to develop my own creative instincts. I will be forever grateful to Deb for expertly guiding me on my journey to discover the wonderful world of oil painting”.
Richard K, COO & Co-Founder Marketing Agency
“I can’t recommend Debra highly enough as a painting instructor. She expertly guided me through the essentials while also allowing me the freedom to explore and express my own creativity. Her teaching style struck the perfect balance between structure and creative freedom, resulting in a truly enriching learning experience.
Let’s Talk About Your Practice
Every mentorship begins with a conversation.
Tell me where you are in your artistic journey, what you’re working on, and what kind of support you’re looking for. I'll recommend the mentorship option that best fits your goals.
I'll respond personally within 72 hours.