Students

I arrived at Lydia’s studio terrified since I had never painted before. She immediately made us all feel at ease and made learning to paint simple and fun. Her class is both fulfilling and rewarding … and highly recommended!

I have taken painting classes under Lydia’s direction and honestly, I can’t believe the beautiful piece I painted. I look forward to taking more classes with Lydia & would highly recommend her.

I have been privileged to work with Lydia for many years as I pursue skill in painting. Lydia is first and foremost a gifted artist in her own work and a gifted teacher with the ability to focus and guide at every level of ability. She encourages and supports the taking on of new challenges, demonstrating techniques, colour mixing, medium use, brushes and strokes, pallet knife and much more.  Lydia does so with patient caring and celebrates accomplishments in the progression of her students. Importantly, Lydia is an advocate of the arts, introducing artists, styles and giving unselfishly of herself in promoting the arts.

Lydia Panart has been my art teacher for many years.  I began as a true beginner artist in 2009, and she sparked a fire in me that I didn’t know I had.  Lydia has inspired me, coached me, and mentored me in every way that an artist can.  I have taken group classes with her, and I have also had numerous private sessions in my studio at home.  Under her guidance, our artist group has held successful art exhibitions in a private gallery in Toronto in 2014 and 2018. Lydia is a patient and attentive mentor, and an exceptional artist. I feel so fortunate to have met her, and to have been touched by her gifts.

In class art at the Distillery with Lydia has been a joyful experience. Lydia is not only an artist but an educator. She has a wonderful rapport with her students and is gifted in teaching technique, colour or whatever the creative project is. I have had success selling my own paintings because of what Lydia has shared with me.

I was introduced to Lydia as almost a complete beginner.  I had only taken a 6 week Learn to Paint course at a local gallery.  With patience, passion, skill and experience she has gently guided my painting education to the place where I am now actually selling my work! And all of this was done in a spirit of fun and community.  Couldn’t recommend her more highly.

My time spent under the instruction of Lydia has been remarkable. In the process of learning about art and how to create a “masterpiece”, Lydia has taught me so much about technique and more importantly about how to focus my personal creativity into the desired outcome.  The transition to learning online has been seamless and is even more focused than the studio experience.

Lydia is enormously patient, kind and talented – the perfect combination for all of us.

I have attended Lydia’s classes for more than ten years. I keep coming back because not only is Lydia an excellent teacher but she creates a warm and inclusive atmosphere. Her classes are places to learn and laugh and grow. Lydia, always professional, has a vast knowledge about art and technique. Regardless of your level of experience, Lydia is there to motivate, coach and support you. I hope to continue to be a part of Lydia’s classes for many years to come.

Inspirational.  Encouraging.  Whether trying to hone your skills or find them for the first time, a class with Lydia will lead you to unexpected discoveries.  Taught in a welcoming, creative community of artists working at differing levels of experience, her classes are filled with silent contemplation, uproarious laughter and a sense of camaraderie as we are speaking through our paints.

Taking a class with Lydia is always inspiring and a joy to attend. She knows how to motivate her students and always devises programs to meet my individual needs. My zoom classes are very focused and l always learn a lot. I love my classes and each week I can’t wait to take part in my next class.

Lydia is an amazing art teacher. She has the unique ability to guide, inspire and build confidence all at the same time. I always leave Lydia’s class feeling invigorated and encouraged. Looking forward to my next painting lesson.