Thousands of individuals have taken the DRSB 5-Day Workshops over the years, in locations across the United States, Europe and Asia. Brian Bomeisler has been the lead instructor since 1998, and as the testimonials below suggest, he is a gifted teacher.
While there are courses taught by others all over the world using the "Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain" method founded by Betty Edwards and first published in her book in 1979, the DRSB Workshops taught by her son, Brian Bomeisler, are the only ones that link so closely to Dr. Edwards' own teaching methods. Brian worked with her when she was teaching, and as a practicing artist himself (www.brianbomeisler.com), he brings his own unique style and skills to the workshops.
I have always loved art but, unfortunately, was one of those folks who just was not born with the "drawing gene." Or so I thought. About six months ago, I read Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain, which really piqued my interest into what would be possible if I tried to develop the skills talked about in the book. I thought it would be wonderful to attend a course based on the book and, luckily, found yours. So, with a little trepidation, I turned up on Day 1 and after an introduction by Brian about the course, we embarked on our first drawing (pre-instruction): the self-portrait. Mine was the archetypal left-brain drawing full of symbols, with my nose and eyes still looking like they did when I drew them as a 12-year-old. Brian put all the students' drawings away until the last day. For the rest of the week, we were immersed in lectures and practical work about lines, negative spaces, perspective, etc., and learned the skills and techniques that all artists use. I looked forward to each day. Although the work was challenging and, at times, a little frustrating, it was amazing to see my skill level improve each day as each of my drawings got progressively better. Then, Day 5 was upon us and our assignment was to do the final drawing: another self-portrait. My husband came to pick me up and Brian asked him to join the class for the final unveiling and critiques of the initial/final self-portraits. When Brian asked him for his thoughts, he said, "I am almost speechless. I would never have believed that such an improvement in five days could happen. I'm stunned." This course completely demystified drawing for me. It is not about having the "drawing gene." It is about learning a new skill, which is challenging; but if you immerse yourself in the experience, with the benefit of Brian's wonderful tutelage, anyone can achieve amazing results. I had a lot of fun, met some wonderful people, and, above all, discovered the joy of actually being able to draw. Kate, DRSB student, St. Augustine, November 2012.
Just wanted to say once again, "Thank you!" for coming to Sedona. When I took your class that year, I was a flight attendant. I took an early retirement this summer and started to look for my next job. I was hired in September as an art illustrator! I was shocked that as a beginner, I would get the job (my boss does not know I am a beginner.) And now, after traveling for a living for almost 39 years, I now work at home! I love drawing and I love being at home; this new job affords me both. Thanks to you (and please extend my thanks to your mother, with whom this all started!). Now I am not just doing a job, but starting my next career: art. You have another success story for your teaching. Beverly S., DRSB student, Sedona workshop 2006.
I am in state of disbelief. Am I the same person who drew those pictures? Stravinsky; a hand; a chair; the angular porch; Matthew's profile; my "before and after" self-portrait! I think "surprise" is a better word to describe my state. Before your class, I was not sure if I should even take it. I wasn't sure if I ought to take a chance; or if it was merely a whim, a waste of money. But once I was there in Santa Barbara, I knew it was worth it. And now that I am home, I really know it was worth it—I was worth it. John M., DRSB student, Santa Barbara 2006.