February 21, 2015

Frank Francese is a well-known and well-published artist, and one of the most-requested instructors here at the Hudson River Valley Art Workshops. Two of Frank’s paintings inspired by his visit to Guatemala in 2014 have recently been honored in national competitions:  One was chosen by the National Watercolor Society to be part of the 2015 traveling exhibition which will be displayed across America.  The second was chosen to be part of the annual American Watercolor Society Exhibition in New York City.

Frank will join us to teach a 5-day Studio Watercolors Workshop this summer, July 12 to 18, 2015.

How long have you been teaching and what got you started teaching?

I have been teaching for 20+ years, cannot remember the exact date when I started. I chose teaching workshops as a way to make a living in the arts and also be able to paint as much as I would like.

What is your favorite part about teaching?

My favorite part of teaching is seeing the students’ eyes light up when they understand watercolor painting.

What would you tell your prospective students are three best reasons for taking a workshop?

The three best reasons for anyone to take a workshop are:

Learn new techniques in applying paint to paper.

Understanding the order in which one must use in achieving a competent painting.

Gain confidence in one’s self!

What are you currently working on in your own art?

I am currently working as always: to achieve what I see in my mind and putting it on paper. I can never achieve what I see, but I never give up!

Where is your art currently being exhibited?

2014-15 National Watercolor Society 94th International Exhibition: San Pedro, Ca. Painting selected for 2015 Travel Show.

148th American Watercolor Society International Exhibition 2015: New York City, NY.

Do you sell your work in any online gallery?

I am showing in no galleries. Cannot find a competent gallery to work with! I want to have complete control of my work. I sell where I teach!

I have had a retail page on my web site: www.ffrancese.com for two years. I have had no sales associated with the web page! I am removing it from my web site.
 

What is your favorite art quote?

My favorite quote: Work….work….work!
 

Describe your studio.

My studio is a complete wreck, very cluttered, messy! But, I know where everything is and can find it quickly! I am at home!
 

Name five of your “can’t do without” tools/products.

A  mind that will look beyond the obvious….a sketch that will guide you…professional material to paint with: paint, brushes, paper…The ability to accept what comes of your painting; I never like what I paint, only after time do I appreciate the work…A commercial mind…the ability to sell your work!