Our Studio, Mission & Method
Learning for many ages and skill levels:
Squak Art Studio is the perfect place for anyone to study art. Our curriculum is tiered according to the age group and experience of each student, starting at 7 years old. Every project focuses on new techniques and subject matter, and is designed to build on previous challenges in order to help artists become well-rounded and skilled.
Our lesson plan is structured but flexible, allowing students to reach set goals while still being creative and original. We chart artists' progress through many techniques, media and movements.
Instruction from experienced artists:
Founder and head instructor Jason Liekhus has been coaching artists in drawing and painting since 2010, in both the Seattle and San Francisco Bay areas. Having studied fine art at the Academy of Art University, he is trained in such areas as color theory, composition, anatomy, and art history. Since graduating Magna Cum Laude in 2008, he has familiarized himself with many genres in painting and drawing. Pacific Northwest scenes and wildlife painting are common themes in his work.
Instructor Aarika McGinnis is a local artist and teacher with roots in Washington's Snoqualmie Valley. Her areas of expertise include acrylics, colored pencil, illustration, landscape, and figure painting. She holds a BFA in fine and studio arts, having graduated from Washington State University in 2014. She most recently taught graphic design at Redmond High School for 5 years. Since becoming a parent in 2021 she has delved into illustration for children's books with an emphasis on neuro-diversity.
Our staff are well versed in many areas of instruction include landscape, portrait, figure, still life, realism, surrealism, impressionism, cartooning, and abstraction. Instruction is given in acrylic, watercolor, oil paints, pastel, charcoal, graphite, and colored pencil.
Weekly classes in a welcoming space:
Workshops at Squak Art Studio run on a weekly schedule, meaning you can develop your art without interruption. Our studio is a friendly, comfortable work space with a rich supply of art materials and inspiration. Children learn to be both creative and socially supportive in our group classes. Adults and teenagers will find the studio a great place to unwind with friends over a cup of tea and a gripping project.
In addition to teaching technique, Squak Art Studio encourages dialogues about art and concept. Younger students are taught the value of constructive input. Experienced artists learn to analyze their work and gain new levels of insight.
