Hey guys, in this review, I share my experience with oil painting and using the Evolve Artist Academy.
At the end of the post, you will get a coupon code for $100 OFF of the full course. Enjoy!!
I think Evolve Artist Academy program is an amazing investment for beginner artists who didn’t have a chance to go to an art school and want to make realistic art. And based on my experience, I also think it is suitable for advanced and professional artists (digital art, etc.) who want to expand their horizons and improve their art skills. The step-by-step methodical approach and the quality of art materials provided make it a valuable learning experience. However, if you’re not willing or able to invest the time and effort into the assignments and exercises, this program may not be for you.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ➕ Highest-quality art supplies | ➖ Time and effort commitment may not be for everyone |
| ➕ Almost 100% student success rate | ➖ Oil paints may be a tricky medium to master for some |
| ➕ Step-by-step methodical approach | |
| ➕ Super engaged founder and instructors | |
| ➕ Super active student community | |
| ➕ Price compared to art school (Click here to get $100 off with coupon code “artsideoflife”) |
Join Evolve Artist program here
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My Evolve Artist Program Video Review
Watch my Evolve Artist Program Review on Youtube
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Why Did I Decide to Try Evolve Artist?
As you may know, I usually do digital art using my iPad and Procreate, but I wanted to explore traditional mediums and learn more about oil painting. I believe it’s important to have a foundation in traditional techniques, even when working digitally.
One of the main reasons I chose the Evolve Artist Academy program is because they have over 30 years of experience in teaching art.
After seeing the amazing artworks created by other artists who went through the program, I decided to give it a try.
Students Before and After Progress
See the progress of some of the students below.
I believe in constantly expanding our skills and never stopping the learning process, and these students are the best example!!
Free Training from Kevin and the Evolve Artist Academy team
What Will You Learn in Evolve Artist Program?
The program provides various exercises that help you improve your art skills.
Overall, there are 8 blocks of instructional videos and exercises that methodically lead you to learn to make realistic art from beginner to professional artist. It’s a journey that will take your art to new heights and help you discover the artist within.
And you will be getting 4 boxes of art supplies for each of the two blocks.
I got art supplies for Blocks 1 & 2 and access to the Block 1 videos and exercises.
Evolve Foundation Blocks 1 – 4
Block 1: Value & Form
In this block, you’ll discover how to bring your art to life by mastering the control of value and edge.
These exercises focus on using simple shapes, values, and colors. They guide you step-by-step and provide clear instructions to achieve the desired results. I found these exercises to be crucial in understanding color and creating realistic art.
What I appreciate about the Evolve Artist program is that it allows you to work at your own pace. The pre-recorded instructional videos give you the flexibility to watch them whenever you want and complete the exercises at your own time. This approach helps you create precise brush strokes and achieve the desired outcomes.
I found the exercises on creating sharp edges and controlling brush strokes especially helpful. These techniques are crucial for realistic paintings with high levels of detail. The videos explain different brush techniques and provide demonstrations, allowing you to practice and improve your skills.
The Evolve Artist program also offers insights on approaching larger artworks and avoiding paint drying issues. These tips were valuable and something I hadn’t considered before.
Although I enjoy loose shapes and playing with colors, I found the exercises on precise brush strokes and gradients to be valuable. They challenged me to focus on control and precision, which are important skills to develop.
Block 2: Proportional Drawing
In this block, you’ll gain the skills to create accurate and proportional drawings from real-life references.
By honing your skills in Block 1, you’ll be equipped to take those foundations and turn them into incredible original paintings. It’s all about building on what you’ve learned and applying it to create stunning artwork from scratch.
Block 3: Painting in Color
Once you have a strong grasp of painting techniques, you’ll start gradually integrating the third and final element: color.
This process is designed to be a smooth and natural progression from your existing skills.
With each step, you’ll find yourself seamlessly incorporating color into your artwork, as if it were an innate extension of your rapidly growing abilities.
Block 4: Direct Painting
This is the exciting part where everything comes together!
You’ll be able to apply everything you’ve learned in the three previous Blocks and take your skills to the next level. Get ready to create fully finished works of art that showcase your newfound expertise. It’s an incredible opportunity to showcase your creativity and put all your knowledge into practice. I can’t wait to see what amazing artworks you’ll bring to life!
Evolve Advanced Blocks 5 – 8
Block 5: Vacant shadows
In this block, we take a classical approach that allows you to really dive into the fundamentals of light and edge.
By focusing on these elements, you’ll develop a solid foundation that sets the stage for something really cool: speed painting!
This technique may seem simple, but it’s actually quite impressive and can help you create artwork more quickly. It’s a great way to add some excitement and dynamism to your painting process.
Block 6: Speed Painting
The multi-layered approach to painting can really take your artwork to the next level.
By incorporating multiple layers, you’ll be able to add depth and atmosphere to your pieces, giving them a more realistic and captivating feel. But that’s not all! This technique also comes with a fantastic bonus: it can significantly speed up your painting process. Imagine being able to create more artwork in less time!
Block 7: Puddling
In this block, you’ll be departing from the leaner applications of paint you’ve been working on and exploring a different approach.
You’ll be using heavier impastos and adopting a more relaxed technique. What does that mean? Well, it means you’ll be adding thicker layers of paint to our canvas, giving your artwork a more textured and expressive feel. And here’s the best part: you’ll be mixing colors directly on the canvas itself!
This technique will enhance your control over color and value, allowing you to create even more stunning and nuanced artwork.
Block 8: Master Copies & Advanced Applications
This is the moment where all your hard work and learning in the Evolve Artist program come together.
You’re going to take what you’ve learned so far and apply it to some amazing master copies. What does that mean? Well, you’ll be recreating famous paintings using the techniques you’ve acquired in Evolve Artist Academy. It’s like stepping into the shoes of the great masters themselves!
But that’s not all. You’re not just copying their work; you’re also incorporating their valuable lessons into our own artistic vision. It’s an incredible opportunity to bring together everything you’ve learned and apply it to your own unique ideas and creations. This is where your personal style and expression truly shine!
Free Training from Kevin and the Evolve Artist Academy team
What Art Supplies Will You Get with Evolve Artist Program?
One concern I had with oil painting was the smell of the paints.
However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the paints used in the program are organic and don’t have a strong odor. This is because they are mixed with linseed oil instead of other chemicals.
The Evolve Artist program provides all the necessary tools and materials for each module, saving you the trouble of searching for additional supplies.
The materials provided are of high quality, ensuring a smooth painting experience. I particularly enjoyed unboxing the package and discovering the well-packaged and environmentally conscious materials.
Some of the art supplies you will be getting in the Evolve Artist Program include:
- Old Holland custom oil paint set – since 1664, the finest oil paint in the world!
- High-quality oil paint brushes and palette knife from Old Holland
- High-quality sheets of canvas and palette paper
- Cold-pressed linseed oil with an eye dropper for proper dosage
- Professional photographic references with transfer paper to make lineart
- Practice sheet templates for exercises
- …. and more
The program also includes helpful instructional videos on brush care and cleaning. These tips were new to me and improved my understanding of maintaining brushes in good condition.
Free Training from Kevin and the Evolve Artist Academy team
Evolve Artist Student Community
The program fosters a sense of community through group calls and the ability to see other students’ artwork. This allows you to compare and learn from each other’s progress.
Getting personalized feedback on your assignments is also beneficial for growth and improvement.
You will be getting access to the online community of art instructors and students like you:
- You’ll receive daily support and feedback from your instructor on your assignments. They’ll be there to guide you every step of the way.
- We have live weekly calls where you can ask questions, get clarification, and learn from others in the program. It’s a great opportunity to connect and grow together.
- As part of the program, you’ll gain access to our private Facebook group. This is a space where you can engage with instructors and your fellow students. Share ideas, ask questions, and build a supportive community.
- If you ever need some extra support or have specific concerns, you’ll have the chance to schedule 1-on-1 calls with Kevin and other Evolve instructors. They are here to help you and provide personalized assistance whenever you need it.
Is Evolve Artist Worth it? Should You Get it?
Overall, I believe the Evolve Artist Academy program is suitable for both beginners and those with prior art experience.
The step-by-step methodical approach and the quality of materials provided make it a valuable learning experience.
However, it’s important to note that the program requires time and dedication. If you’re not willing or able to invest the time and effort into the assignments and exercises, this program may not be for you.
I highly recommend checking out the Evolve Artist Academy if you’re looking to enhance your art skills. I wouldn’t be recommending it if I didn’t believe in its effectiveness.
Give it a try and explore the amazing world of oil painting!
Free Training from Kevin and the Evolve Artist Academy team
Meet Kevin Murphy – The Creator of Evolve Artist Program and Your Instructor
Meet Kevin Murphy, the founder, and creator of Evolve Artist Program, who has been a commercial artist and portrait painter for more than 30 years.
Watch the interview here: Ep.197: How Evolve Artist Program students achieve success with Kevin Murphy
Meet Daniel Folta – The Student of Evolve Artist Program
Meet Daniel Folta, a student of Evolve Artist Program who is now making a living by being a full-time artist and painter.
Watch the interview here: Ep.202: Choosing the right art education with Daniel Folta (Evolve Artist)
How Much Does Evolve Artist Cost?
Evolve Artist program costs $2,500 as a one-time payment or 12 monthly payments of $249 (October 2023). Use my coupon code below to get a special discount!
Although the price seems steep at first glance, it includes a well-designed curriculum that delivers guaranteed results; the highest quality art supplies; access to art instructors to lead you along the way, and an engaged art community of fellow art students.
Join Evolve Artist Program
To join Evolve Artist program, click below and use my coupon code to get a special discount!
Single Payment
What’s included:
- Foundation Blocks 1 – 4 of self-paced videos and exercises
- 2 boxes of highest-quality art supplies
- Daily support and feedback from your instructor
- Weekly calls with instructors and students
- Weekly calls with instructors and students
- Regular study sessions with other students
- 1-on-1 calls with Kevin and other instructors
Why do students go for this one:
- $488 savings
✩ Use coupon code “artsideoflife” to get $100 off the full tuition cost of Evolve!
12 Monthly Payments
What’s included:
- Foundation Blocks 1 – 4 of self-paced videos and exercises
- 2 boxes of highest-quality art supplies
- Daily support and feedback from your instructor
- Weekly calls with instructors and students
- Weekly calls with instructors and students
- Regular study sessions with other students
- 1-on-1 calls with Kevin and other instructors
Why do students go for this one:
- Monthly installments fit all budgets
✩ Use coupon code “artsideoflife” to get $100 off the full tuition cost of Evolve!
FREE Training from Kevin and the Team
If you want to try parts of the program, click on one of the following options:
- Get FREE Masterclass from Kevin, the creator of Evolve Artist Program
- Get FREE Art Skills Blueprint from Kevin, the creator of Evolve Artist Program
- Get a FREE Painting course from Kevin, the creator of Evolve Artist Program
- Get FREE Pro Level Artist roadmap
- Get FREE Oil Painting for Beginners training
- Get FREE Depth & Volume mini-course
Recommended post: Artist’s Guide to Oil Painting for Beginners
Looking for more oil painting supplies? Then check my guides to the best art supplies and art tools for oil painting:
- Essential Oil Painting Supplies for Artists
- Best Oil Paints and Oil Paint Set
- Choosing the Best Oil Paint Brushes
- Choosing the Best Oil Paint Palette
- Choosing the Best Canvas for Oil Painting
- Best Palette Knives and Palette Knife Set
- Choosing the Best Painting Easel
- Best Oil Pastels for Artists
Hi, I am Iva (rhymes with “viva”). I am a full-time self-taught artist behind Art Side of Life® and a Top Teacher on Skillshare. I have 15 years of experience in the creative field as a concept designer, illustrator, art director, and now freelance artist, content creator, and art instructor. My goal is to help you get your creative groove on with Procreate and make awesome art through practical classes, tutorials, Procreate brushes, and guides on art tools, supplies and resources. About me »
