Mentorship

Learn foundational realism in graphite as well as my unique mixed-media pastel and graphite technique, developed and refined by yours truly.

Instruction

My approach to teaching focuses on the individual. This is not a single course, but an opportunity for you to identify your own specific goals and for us to work together to help you along the path to reaching them. I work with individuals at all levels, including both professionals and hobbyists. (There’s so much I get out of working with each and every one of you!!!)
Together, we can explore technical drawing skills as well as the more nuanced facets to a studio practice in the art world today. This includes but is not limited to:

• Foundational drawing skills - the basics

• Hyperrealism in graphite

• Hyperrealism in my unique mixed media PanPastel and Graphite technique

• Concept development and execution

• Best practices in photoshoots and developing your photo reference

• Tips and tricks in Photoshop

• Presentation of finished artworks

• Art Marketing

• Exhibiting: Participation in group shows, competitions, and getting gallery representation

• Building an artist community and supporting your peers (- we’re stronger together!)

• Additional insight from my professional art industry experience

 The choice is yours regarding how we spend our sessions together!

Format:

Sessions are one hour long and are held over Zoom unless otherwise scheduled. If you live in the San Francisco Bay Area and are interested in in-person sessions please reach out to me to discuss!

Everyone’s needs are different. Because of this, I offer multiple routes of how we can work together. See below for all offerings and of course if you have any questions at all please reach out!!

Student Work:

Student Testimonials:

“I reached out to Sara when I was stuck in my artistic practice. Within the first couple of sessions, I experienced many breakthroughs in how I approached drawing. Sara is an outstanding teacher. I gained new insights in every session, and she was patient, encouraging, and motivated me to learn more. I particularly enjoyed her demonstrations; it felt like observing an old master at work. I learned more from her than I did in six years of art school, it has changed my life.” - Zach Meyer, Mentee

“I cannot recommend this workshop enough. Chelsie Murfee and Sara Gallagher are incredible instructors. From the first moments of the first day, the tone was set for the perfect learning environment for every one of their students. They facilitated introductions and connections for each of us, thoroughly discussing the details of the project and meeting each artist where they are, regardless of background or experience level. Their demonstrations were expertly narrated and no detail was overlooked. Sara and Chelsie generously share a wealth of knowledge and techniques they have developed within their respective practices. They make their process accessible to students at every skill level with positivity and encouragement. Even more than the techniques and incredible knowledge shared, the sense of community that these women intentionally built within the workshop setting is invaluable. I have made lasting friendships and meaningful connections from this wonderful experience, and I look forward to another workshop again with these artists in the future.”   - Traci Wright Martin, “Drawing the Self Portrait” workshop student

“In May of 2024 I was fortunate enough to experience a Drawing the Self-Portrait workshop instructed by Chelsea Murfee and Sara Gallagher. It was extraordinary! The studio and gallery space is loaded with charm. The work on the walls was of such a high quality, it proved inspirational. It is located on a town square that looks as if it belongs in Mayberry, complete with a beautiful courthouse and lovely gazebo. The supplies they provided were top quality. The workshop included a personal photoshoot complete with edits and digital images as well as incredible instruction and insights as to the application of both graphite and PanPastel. The girls were AMAZING. Not only are they incredibly talented with tremendous work ethics, they are open, honest, caring and generous to a fault. They are truly the most unselfish artists I have ever met. They worked diligently to create a safe space in which to learn. There was ample time for instruction and work. As an educator of many years, I was so impressed with their ability to connect with each participant on a meaningful level. Each student left the workshop feeling as if they were a success. I know I did. I will forever be grateful and I would recommend them most highly.” - Tracy Bruton, “Drawing the Self Portrait” workshop student

One Private Session:
This session is great for you if you:

• Would like to get a professional eye on your portfolio for honest, thoughtful critique

• Have one very specific technical question about graphite or PanPastel

• Have questions regarding concept development and execution

• Are looking for answers to questions surrounding photoshoots and preparing photo references in Photoshop 

• Are interested in a discussion about the art world as a whole, exhibiting, galleries, competitions, etc.  

• Would like to work with me, but want to test it out once before you commit to a larger package (I get it) ;)

Four Private Sessions (save 17%)
This option is great for you if:

• You’re an artist at any level - from professional to hobbyist - who is looking to strongly enhance your studio practice!

• You’re looking to learn the foundation of my technique and hone in on up to three particular focuses or challenges you’ve had technically with your drawings.

• You’re interested in getting a professional eye on your portfolio for honest, thoughtful critique, conversations about where your work may launch from here, and next steps in establishing yourself in the fine art world. 

• You’re looking to sharpen concept development, execution of photoshoots, and preparation of photo references in Photoshop

• Plus more! Remember, I’m here to work for you - so we will tailor these sessions in any way that suits you best.

COMPLETE DRAWING PACKAGE
12 Private Sessions (save 20%!)
Go through the entire process of your drawing step-by-step, start to finish.

What you’ll get: 

• 12 private sessions with me, scheduled to work for you (sessions last 1 - 1.25 hours)

• Ongoing communications, critique, and guidance via email throughout our entire time working together

• One-on-one guidance through every single step of my unique graphite or mixed media technique (your choice!), with deep understanding of how and why these mediums work the way that they do

• Discussions around broader art practice and art world topics including: concept development and execution, portfolio building, exhibiting, marketing, gallery representation, artist statements, and more

• Overview of photoshop tips and tricks - both for building your photo references, and for use as a tool while drawing

• A completed drawing of your very own

How you know if the Complete Drawing Package is right for you:

• You’re an artist who is ready to seriously transform your drawings! (All skill levels from professional to hobbyists welcome!)

• You love all of the realism you see and you want to create a realistic masterpiece of your own

• You have an existing graphite practice and are excited to bring color into this otherwise black and white medium through my one-of-a-kind mixed media PanPastel and Graphite technique

• You’re interested in getting a professional eye on your portfolio for honest, thoughtful critique, conversations about where your work may launch from there, and next steps in establishing yourself in the fine art world. 

• You’re looking to sharpen concept development, execution of photoshoots, and preparation of photo references in Photoshop

• Plus more! Remember, I’m here to work for you - so we can tailor these sessions in any way that you think is best.

I deeply believe in the benefit of committed, ongoing work tailored to each individual. Curious if working together is right for you?
Set up a free 15-minute phone consultation with me by filling out the form below.

Group Sessions

Sara offers private group sessions online, at her place, or at yours. If you are interested in booking a group session please fill out the form below with more details.

Interested? Write me below with questions or to schedule your 15-minute consultation call today!