Artists Magazine asked, “What’s an art book that’s on your reading list this year?” Seven artists answered, including Costa Vavagiakis. During this challenging time, I chose to return to two enduring classic essays: Junichiro Tanizaki’s “In Praise of Shadows” and John Ruskin’s “On Art and Life.” Both delve into the desire to maintain cultural identity … Read More
Drawing from sculpture is a centuries-old learning method for artists. Studies drawn from major works of sculpture offer a direct approach to understanding the power of expression and form. In addition to the technical value of the skills gained through this process, one is exposed to the choices made by the hand of the master. … Read More
I’ve invited my longtime student Stephanie Markel to compare her experiences studying art at a school and in a private studio, or as they say, “in real life,” and now virtually, on a digital platform. Stephanie has been a student of mine at the Art Students League and has also studied with me privately. A … Read More
On the evening of March 11, the Art Students League announced that, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the school would close indefinitely. I was teaching my evening painting class when the word came down. We were all in shock; it was like all the air let out of a balloon. The students were revving up … Read More
Copying master drawings is a rewarding way to improve your drawing skills. When you copy a drawing by a highly skilled artist, you are exposed to the artist’s techniques, as well as to their thought process. Copying teaches you how a master faces and solves fundamental drawing problems. You get a deep, rich understanding of … Read More
Hosted by Rosetta Sciacca with Instructor Costa Vavagiakis Trip Overview Rosetta Sciacca and Sicily Artist Retreats invite you to paint in Sicily. Sicily Artist Retreats organizes intensive 10-day programs led by renowned artists in a variety of disciplines, including painting, drawing, and sculpture. Join acclaimed artist Costa Vavagiakis for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to paint in Western Sicily. Explore Greek … Read More
Join Costa Vavagiakis for a painting workshop in Marsala, Sicily. Explore Greek temples, Norman castles, and colorful seaside towns in the historic heart of the Mediterranean. We will paint en plein air along ancient salt flats, picturesque seascapes, and at suggestive historic sites. While in Sicily, we will explore the cuisine, culture, and traditions of one of the … Read More
The League of Masters, Past + Present: Works by the Art Students League Teachers and Students celebrates the League’s continuing tradition of supporting artists, exhibiting significant works by past League masters such as Hans Hofmann, Burgoyne Diller, and Will Barnet, and shifts forward to focus on the diversity and talent of more than twenty-five contemporary … Read More
The Annual Instructors’ Exhibition at the Art Students League of New York Since the late nineteenth century, The Art Students League of New York has launched its fall exhibition season with a presentation of work by current instructors. Notable teachers who have taken part in this historic tradition include Peggy Bacon, Thomas Hart Benton, William … Read More
Artists Magazine asked, “If you could’ve witnessed the creation of one artwork, what would it be?” Twelve artists answered, including Costa Vavagiakis. One of the reasons The Art of Painting intrigues me is that it’s one of the few Vermeers I haven’t seen in person. We on the East Coast have the opportunity to see … Read More