Learning to See.

Every great painting begins long before the first brushstroke.  It begins with learning to see. The way light changes a mountain at sunset or the subtle color shifts created by atmosphere. These are the principles that have shaped my own work, and they're the foundation for everything I teach.
Whether you're just beginning or refining years of experience, my goal is simple: to help you see the landscape more deeply—and paint it with greater confidence.

Explore the Programs

Choose the learning experience that best fits your goals—from ongoing mentorship with live sessions and critiques to self-guided workshops you can complete at your own pace.

Learn from an Award-Winning Artist

Dave Santillanes is a professional landscape painter and member of the Cowboy Artists of America, Plein Air Painters of America and a signature member of Oil Painters of America. His work has been exhibited in many of the nation's premier western art shows.  Through years of teaching workshops, mentoring artists, and studying the western landscape, Dave has developed an approachable way of teaching that combines solid fundamentals with a deep appreciation for atmosphere, light, and design.
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"Winter Light", 32x24 inches Oil on Panel
Testimonials

What students have to say about Dave

David Marsh

Arizona
Thanks a million, Dave. As a former professor, I mean what I say regarding your extraordinary teaching ability and slide-shows (which require different, but overlapping skills). You make a lot of difficult concepts accessible.

Greg Baker

Dave, Your Online Art Lessons are the best I have ever had. Priceless. My artwork has improved dramatically after only one month of studying with you.

Susan Lyon, OPA

North carolina
Dave is very patient and easy to be with. I was impressed with his ability to show how to break down the scene, giving us easy steps to follow. I have always shied away from painting landscapes, but he has inspired me to practice them because of his easy to follow approach.

Kathy Anderson, OPAM

Connecticut
Dave is a master of atmosphere and depth in his beautiful landscapes, and I was so happy to find that he’s also an amazing teacher. He prepared a very informative digital presentation which I got so much out of, and he’s generous and articulate while doing a demo, or critiquing our work.
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