Reviews of Virtual Art Academy courses

"I had bought the beginner program and it was so good that I immediately bought the full program. I was not disappointed as the full Program is simply amazing. I'm not a complete beginner but dabble in oil painting sometimes. I have never taken any art classes or instruction. Recently I have started taking it more seriously and knew I needed help. VAA is what I needed. The Program is very comprehensive, easy to understand and suitable for all levels. I have read and re-read the whole program for the past one and half months. Have started doing some of the exercises too. What I really like is how the course is divided into smaller sections, so that when you have problems in certain aspects of your painting you can refer to a particular section without having to look for it. The other thing I really like is how all the text is supported by so many examples. It really helps you understand what Barry is talking about. I also liked the Notan and Observation course a lot. Overall I absolutely love it and cannot thank Barry enough for putting this program together. On a side note,I took my first workshop last week and was apprehensive if I would understand what the instructor was talking about,values..temperature etc .. Well, I could understand everything thanks to the program and as each day of the workshop went by, I began more confident. The other artists in the workshop were very surprised to hear that it was my first workshop as my work was not reflective of that. So,I'm very happy with the course and would highly recommend it to anybody as it's one of it's kind. Thank you so much once again!"
.........Priya, USA, April 27, 2010

"I purchased this program about 8 months ago.  I have been studying and applying the lessons for the past six months,  I try to paint everyday now.  My work has improved as evidenced by the juried shows I am getting into.  I recently won 1st place in a large regional show.  Up to then, I had an one honorable mention in 12 years. I have been painting for 12 years now and my progress was inch by inch.  The course work has improved my art by leaps and bounds! 
Its nice to win something, but I get my satisfaction and enjoyment in just painting better today than I did yesterday."..........Edward, July 22, 2010

"I do not regret having bought the full program. This program gives me a pathway to paint correctly and this is the way that I need to move forward because until now I worked on my random thoughts which does not provide results. Now when I sit to work, I do not ask myself what to do. I do my assignments and I see a big difference when I do a painting. The modules are clear and comprehensive even for someone who is not a native English speaker."..........Lewis, July 1, 2010

"The VAA program is excellent in its detail and nature of progression. I have chosen Barry's intermediate route through the program and this is how I know that I can 'feel the progression of skills and confidence', plus enthusiasm generated by being active in the 'virtual learning environment' online and experiencing peer assessment. Although I have painted throughout my life I have never studied art theory and Barry's fine detailed study guides really help me a lot. I draw up mind maps for the theory and follow the guidelines to the 'point' i.e. doing the number of studies suggested rather than just the number required for submission online. I just love each and every day knowing that I am going to learn something new and acquire new painting/drawing skills."
.........Christine, June 10, 2010

"I am so pleased I found you, and was able to get your program! At first sight it gives a lot of do's and don'ts which I hopefully will be able to apply in my work. From a very rapid and superficial reading of the material I already look at things differently ad see lots of things which were alwyas there but I was not paying attention. Still at the beginning of a path which I do not know where it will take me, but I am pleased I had the chance to try."
.........Zully, Israel, June 8, 2010

"I have been busy reading and viewing the videos! There is so much to learn - it will take me the rest of my life to get through the full course but what a wonderful way to spend my twilight years! I love the fact that the course is structured so well and that I can work at my own pace."
.........Villoo, UK, May 15, 2010

"I have just started my journey with the Virtual Art Academy and so far I find it very exciting and useful. I feel that the beginner program offers exactly what I need to learn. It is very structured and focused. That makes it easier for me to study"
.........Ilze, Brazil, April 11, 2010

"Thank you so much for the videos. They have taught me so much. Each lesson is a very condensed learning tool. I have no problems in the download, viewing or understanding the lessons. I plan on purchasing more courses in the future. I keep reviewing all the first lesson\'s information until it has become second nature to my thinking. It is a marvelous way to learn. He is a great teacher and I enjoy his painting theories very much."
.........Maria, USA, April 7, 2010

"Thank you very much for the art course I just purchased from Virtual Art Academy. I am very happy with my purchase and have been reading and re reading the course materials. I absolutely love the videos. I like that I could download them to my computer to watch again and again. Barry has a wonderful *common sense* way of teaching that I find easy to follow. He makes what can be *overwhelming* subjects for me, very interesting. I work in pastels and watercolours, but find the information goes across the board for the most part. I am not signed up for his full program, and only able to purchase portions of his course, but what I have purchased are like wonderful gifts guided by the angels of artistic teaching. I was happy to have had Barry cross my pathway of learning."
.........Paula, Canada, March 26, 2010

"I am going through your Beginner Program right now and absolutely love it. It has been an absolute pleasure reading all the basics. Everything a beginner needs to know is there in the program. It has been assembled very well and very easy to read and understand. I would highly recommend it to anyone. I have quite a few books on oil painting but they do not cover all the information that is in the course. Even though I am not a complete beginner, it has helped me so much to understand the basics and strengthen my foundation. I will definitely buy the upgrade course next. Thank you so much for developing such an incredible program."
.........Priya, USA, March 14, 2010

"I own numerous books by artists such as Emile Gruppe, Richard Schmid, Edgar Payne, Kevin Macpherson, etc. These are wonderful books I would not want to part with. I copied some of the paintings in the books and my copies came out extremely well. But whenever I tried to create my own compositions I ran into a brick wall of frustration. I was finding myself lost in the woods every time I tried to take a shortcut. I finally decided that I needed to build from a foundation that only a structured art course could give me. I knew I needed thorough, disciplined, intense training. After much research, I discovered the Virtual Art Academy and purchased the full course in December 2009. I am so glad I did. This course is wonderful. It is concise and easy to understand, but best of all are the assignments which are giving me the experience I so desperately needed. Uploading the finished assignments to the Virtual Art Academy Member Website gives me a feeling of actual progress and interacting with other members is a big plus. Yes, I would read my excellent books and say to myself, “I know how to do this; I don’t need to waste time practicing that, I’ll keep reading and discover the secret to success from these masters.” It’s easier and more fun to read anyway isn’t it? It’s especially nice because it keeps you from going to the easel where you may be forced to face up to your mistakes again. Well, enough of that. I’ve got work to do now – my next assignment in the Notan course. Thank you, Barry John Raybould, for putting me on a path with a clear view of the lake from the deep, dark recesses of the woods."
.........Cindy, USA, March 3, 2010

"The program is phenomenal. I have taken several art classes before but they were run by artists with no educational knowledge. This program is logical, comprehensive and very easy to follow."
.........Iwona, Canada, February 28, 2010

"I am so glad I enrolled, as it has given me a more organized approach to my painting. I did some courses before, but not such an exhaustive program, so I am following The Learning Path - Full Program route. I am doing everything from scratch, even though I have been painting for a while. This way I thought I will not take anything for granted, but will definitely get better in my painting. I am enjoying the challenge of the course and am glad we are asked to do so many pieces in some assignments, as I hope to be doing them concurrently. I was glad to have the overview, so that I know how the pieces of the course fit in together."
.........Geeta, USA, February 15, 2010

"I just wanted to let you know that I love the Virtual Art Academy course. I don't think there is another course that has as much detail and is as well organized as your course."
.........Maureen, USA, February 9, 2010

"I have reviewed the course, and I think it is fabulous. I wish I could have taken it years ago. I've taken many courses and workshops over a lifetime but I've never felt like more than a novice. If I can complete this course, I believe I will be well on my way to becoming a lower lever master."
.........Robbie, USA, January 5, 2010

"I absolutely adore your Full Program. I have completely downloaded all the classes and printed out a few courses to read and highlight. In fact, I feel very organized. And the videos are so fantastic. The simplicity in which Barry explains technique – it amazes me. How I wish I could devote my full time to your program. I may not be an active member just yet – in terms of you hearing from me and seeing some of my work, but that will come. I am in the background, studying and taking it all in. And what surprises me is that you are writing to me personally. I just assumed this was a “non personal” enterprise – but I am learning it is not and it makes me feel like I could seriously be a part of an art community – something that I have always wanted but never could achieve due to life events. So, please know you are doing an excellent job."
.........Emmi, USA, January 1, 2010

"The Virtual Art Academy Program is excellent. There are so many times, while reading, that I said wow. I’ve got so many books but none of them is so complete. I think I’m going to put them aside for a while. I wasn’t sure which learning path I should take so I start from the beginning. I believe I’m going to learn many thinks from all these assignments. The Online Campus is an excellent idea too. This is the first time I can upload my work for other fellow artists to see and say their opinion and discuss art issues with people from all over the world."
.........Demetris, Cyprus, December 18, 2009

"The video course is just as if I am in a class with Barry. Each video is practical, he shows me how to do an art technique. Besides the videos, each video has reading material so I don't have to transcribe what is said. And there are also assignments provided if I care to do them. I feel very fortunate to have found such good instructions; I am glad I bought the full 20 video series."
.........Swami, USA, December 12, 2009

"I am very happy with the program. It was worth every penny and I have only scratched the surface of the material and support offered. Everything is perfect! I am impressed with the details, the overviews, the format, the examples, and the assignments. I am also impressed with the personal contact and genuine concern for your students. I could go on and on. Thank you for a wonderful program."
.........Anne, USA, December 2, 2009

"I am totally thrilled to have this valuable information at hand thus I do it and study everyday. As a self taught artist I have never had "formal" training and that was a burden... now I follow the structured course and I am so very happy. No frustrations...When I paint I follow the steps as suggested by the course, this makes life so much easier...now I enjoy painting. I have just started on the Unit for Alla Prima painting....I can hardly wait to get my paints going and not to worry about detail...another frustration. I can go on and on with this but as far as I am concerned it IS A MUST PURCHASE for all artists amateur and professionals. We never cease to learn...Why not do it the right way."
.........Georgia, Canada, Nov 5, 2009

"Thanks for your diligence in getting me joined up with The Virtual Art Academy® Campus. It is more than I expected--useful, good looking, fun, educational, and it will draw me out of my artistic isolation."
.........Lowell, USA, Sept 10, 2009

"I just wanted to express my appreciation regarding how well you have organized this material. The way the lessons are broken down, makes it so easy to understand. You have left nothing out, and have included the most difficult to grasp details of painting, such as "setting up the studio" and "how to work en plein air for all mediums"... thank you! Believe me, not one instructor in my four years of college ever got close to helping the students on this level... I've had all kinds of art teachers over the years, but you must truly want your students to succeed, it is clear, by the way you have organized these lesson plans. I just wanted to tell you this, so you would know how much your school has meant to me."
.........Linda, USA, Sept 10, 2009

"I love the layout and ease of accessing the information so that it is easy to go back and find anything. The information seems very comprehensive and logically presented and having similar things repeated in various units as they apply (which saves a lot of cross-referencing) gives continuity, and of course the repetition is good for learning. I have a number of books which provide varying information, some very helpful, but your course puts it all in one place, explains it so that I can understand why something works or not, and makes it easy to find. "
.........Olwen, Australia, Sept 1, 2009

"Wow. Even better than what I expected. So well sequenced, organized & comprehensive.The content is all that I cannot find at workshops, art books & fine art students graduate without the great foundation that this course provides. Am so glad I bought the complete course."
.........Dawn, Australia, Aug 31, 2009

"I love the program and have printed out everything. WHEW! There's a lot of information there. I now have 3 very large binders (Beginners Course and the Drawing Course) of information and lessons to go through. I'm going through them page by page and practicing what is taught. I truly appreciate the way in which it's written. It's very easy to understand and if I do have a problem, I know where to go to get any answers. Thanks again and I look forward to learning more from your program."
.........Christie, USA, Aug 28, 2009

"I want to let you know how happy I am with your courses. Your courses are exactly what I needed, and I had seached for a long time for most comprehensive materials. I am confident to say that your courses are truly unique, honest, and written with so much passion. You are generous in sharing your knowledge and your dedication in helping others is evident. Thanks for giving me great tools and vision to be a better artist. "
.........Jo, USA, August 27, 2009

"Five years ago, I completed two Beginner’s Art Courses at a Community College, which proved to be very beneficial. However, over the next four years, I discovered that it was very difficult to find additional courses or material that would develop and build on those basic fundamentals that I had initially learned. Three months ago, I discovered the Virtual Art Academy. I am very grateful to Mr. Raybould for his diligence, for sharing his knowledge and for providing a very complete program and reference. I believe my progress, since purchasing the program, has helped me to improve more in the last three months, than the past four years! I have much greater confidence and I feel assured that my art skills will continue to progress and expand, because I now have a guide to get me there! I believe that the Virtual Art Academy’s complete program is a very worthwhile investment. "
.........Lori, Canada, July 14, 2009

"This course is truly well run, professionally handled -- and I can only echo the great comments of other students: I am glad, I enrolled in this course!! I got so much out of it already -- lots of explanations, areas to study up on, other artists to learn from. AND I am not at the end of the course, yet. I am getting more and more confident and bold enough to follow my dream -- to become a proficient and sensitive artist. "
.........Erika, USA, July 10, 2009

"I have been looking over the information and I am so pleased. I work full time and I have taken some Art classes at the College but it is very hard to find anything that fits in my schedule. I have also taken non credit classes around the area and have many books but I only get some information from them. The writing is very easy to read - it flows nice. The examples are great. There is more than I expected."
.........Arlene, USA, July 10, 2009

"What You are doing it is unbelievable . In Your program I found everything, I have read many books, but no one gives me so much information. Exercises improve my paintings and now there is the online campus. This is wonderful! "
.........Rima, USA, July 9, 2009

"The material is very well presented and easy to understand - no lengthy explanations but short and condensed paragraphs with a load of very valuable information. Along with plenty of illustrations, this makes it a fun and easy study."
.........Jacqueline, Spain, June 23, 2009

"I have just finished printing it out, and I cannot wait to get started on it. It appears to be thorough, easy to understand, and beautifully presented. I wanted to increase my knowledge of the basics, and I know I landed on my feet with this program."
.........Betsy, USA, June 16, 2009

"In my opinion, your material is the best I have found. It builds the basics, from the ground up, recognizing that there are no short cuts.....Your course puts all the right info into one package, and even more important, it gives me an organized, building block way to get these things into my head, and I have already noticed an improvement in my work,"
.........George, USA, May 5, 2009

"My painting has improved no end, I have plenty of books, but your course has no equal."
.........Bob, Cyprus, May 5, 2009

"This program has given me a far greater appreciation of composition and that in itself is a monumental thing for me and has made me look at everything with a different mindset. I think the videos are an excellent addition to an already excellent program."
.........Michael, USA, May 1 2009

"I bought the complete course & this is the most detailed, complete, easy to understand, comprehensive program out there. He gives you examples on what to do & not do, he actually shows you paintings, notans on the right way & wrong way 2 do it. 4 anyone serious about painting who is on a limited budget, This is worth 10x & more the amount sold for. I wish I would have found this sooner."
.........Xtremely gr8ful student, May 1, 2009

"I have just received your Colour course and am excited by the fact that it contains information I have been trying to access for many years. Many thanks for that. I can see why so many of the comments praise the information contained in each course. No one (except Barry) includes this sort essential content in their courses.(and I have tried lots.)"
.........B. Cox, Canada, April 16, 2009

"Your courses are the best, most comprehensive, and exciting courses I have found anywhere - in books, in class and/or on the internet. Thank you for compiling these for us. I always look forward to your newsletters and putting them into practice."
.........R. Bennett, USA, April 11, 2009

"I love receiving the newsletter. It reinforces the concepts from the complete program."
.........Joanne, USA, April 10, 2009

"As I approach age 80, I find your course to be the most instructive, useful and comprehensive investment I have yet made in support of transitioning my career from yacht designer/builder to full time artist --- I thank you for your effort and commitment to the Art Discipline."
.........Charley, USA, April 8, 2009

"On a more personal note, despite having barely skimmed the surface, I am really enjoying your Virtual Art Academy course. I might add that I can say with certainty that I will learn far more from your course than from my 3 year fine arts degree. Thank you so much for putting it together."
.........Kerry Lymn, Darwin, Australia, February 18, 2009

"This is an in depth, extensive, comprehensive, practical and very revealing treatise on painting and art. I am very happy I bought it."
.........Patricia, Bulgaria, November 5, 2008

"I have just finished printing all the beginning and advanced lessons and I am now overwhelmed. I need to digest the material! Without a doubt, this is the most thorough, well written and illustrated art instruction I have encountered , including personal one-on-one instruction. My compliments to Barry. If only I had known about him 20 years ago I would have saved many wasted dollars spent at school and would now be a much more accomplished amateur artist."
.........Donald, USA, October 28, 2008

"I have bought your full program and also the videos and both bring me forward to make better paintings. So I know on which parts I have to work to improve my work"
.........Karl, October 26, 2008

"I find this video very useful and it is a good supplement to my studies. As you know 10 minutes with a video tells more than 1000 words can say, your comments guide the students to get the focus of the main subject, and then we can let ourselves start to think and practice."
.........Jan, October 26, 2008

"The video explanations were simple to understand, with visuals provided concurrently with the explanations. It was just like attending a live lecture in an art school!. The written notes and the assignments also helped to reinforce what I learnt from the video lectures."
.........Ching, October 25, 2008

"I want to tell you that I am really glad to have bought your learning program. I already benefit from it after only a few weeks of reading and exercising, although I am an absolute beginner and have to translate everything into German."
.........Angelika, Germany, September 11, 2008

"I spent four years at art college studying graphics and advertising many years ago. Art history and drawing and painting were a part of the course, but not fine art. If the visual poetry and music units had been available all those years ago I think it would have helped all aspects of my art work. Thanks to Barry for making a subject I found difficult to grasp so much clearer for me."
.........Laura, September 8, 2008

"Thank you thank you for your course. I have self-studied with the best of them and your course fills in all the gaps including answering questions on some topics on form hue changes that i never got a chance to ask Charles Sovek prior to his passing away. I have read more books (many on your respected list) than anyone. I did not follow my dream to get my BFA and MFA.....but, now (20 years later) I have a second chance because of a supportive husband and, in large part, your course. I love all the concise yet, completeness. It gives you the big picture of each course topic and then goes into the details and all the possible options. My brain gets it! Even arenas which are review - I enjoy because I always get a nugget or two of helpful insights and tips (which is pretty much all I get these days from 3-day workshops with world-respected artist teachers. Also, my brain loves the organized nature of how the material is presented."
.........Kathy, September 1, 2008

"Thanks again for the best courses on art I have ever taken. (Attended two art schools...your courses are much better than any other education I have received.) Virtual Art Academy is a great pleasure to work with."
.........Barbara, August 30, 2008

"I have attended two art schools, but did not stick with it because I was not learning what I really wanted to learn. (That was back in the 1980s) Since then, I have been buying books like there is no tomorrow, and trying to teach myself how to paint up to the standards I picture in my mind. I have had only very slow and limited success. It has been expensive, defeating and exhausting. Your courses are the best thing that has ever happened to me. I have learned more in several days than in years of genuine hard work. I do not have all the courses yet, but the ones I do have are the most important things I have ever owned. In only a few days I have obtained visible results. The rewards from your courses are too extensive to describe. Thank you for your exceptional contribution to artists and to the arts! I spend every spare moment on these courses, and I feel renewed enthusiasm."
.........Barbara, August 12, 2008

"I was thrilled to receive your newsletter this morning. Having started painting again after 40 years at the age of 64 I am devouring every bit of information I can get and your info really is awesome. The brushstrokes just make so much sense and the colour part really is helping me."
.........Lucia, July 24, 2008

"Your recent Part 1 and Part 2 Newsletters was a great improvement. Yours is by far the very best online Art websites/programs. I am impressed by the depth of information provided."
.........Alvin, July 21, 2008

"I LOVE the Virtual Art Academy. The materials are very readable and well organized and I look forward to going into my studio and working on each lesson."
.........Mary Kay, July 14, 2008

"So far the courses have been a tremendous help. So much information and different approaches to getting the lessons down! Its great. Some of the most comprehensive info I have ever come across!!!"
.........Gretchen, May 15, 2008

"The Virtual Art Academy is the best all-around training for the self-motivated artist who is dedicated to becoming an excellent painter."
.........Marilyn, November 15, 2007

"As a beginning painter, I have looked for information in many places. I have found your information to be the best. Very complete and very well presented."
.........Paul, October 23, 2007

"i just want to thank you very much for this opportunity, without which I may have never have been able to take lessons.. I work full time, have always had a passion for art, but our university art school here has instructors who think hanging dead animals in trees is art. They are prolific, well known and touted as wonderful, but I disagree. I am a lot more classical in my likes, and really there is nothing here for me. I have struggled with what talent I have and mere creative energy, which has won me prizes in some pretty big contests, but I always had to work so hard for so long that it is difficult to be prolific. With just a few of your lessons I created very nice paintings in a few hours which previously would have taken me weeks! So thank you, I am sure making these lessons has been a great undertaking!"
.........Lori, September 27, 2007

"I would like to say how pleased I am with my purchases. The units are really interesting, very informative, and I have learnt a lot already. I have looked a several other art instruction courses, and I must say that they do not even come close to the quality of your courses."
.........Pauline, August 28, 2007

"I have been using the beginner package for over 2 years and I love the quality of these courses, the excellent explanations and the easy to read notes. I know I am a slow learner but I love every minute I spend with the assignments. I am doing absolutely all the learning assignments and cannot wait to finish and get the upgrade for the master course. I have to thank virtual academy not only for the great material but also for the fantastic support they have provided me over the 2 years."
.........Graciela, August 21, 2007

"Thanks for your Virtual Art Academy courses - I find their depth and presentation well adapted to satisfying my desire for more complete understanding than I get from most popular books, magazines, and even teachers who can do beautiful work but not explain it well."
........David Kellam Brown, June 8, 2007

"I purchased two of your specials so that I could see your courses. I was so pleased that I immediately purchased the complete Beginner program. I am thrilled and have already begun reading and getting organized. I am confident that I am on my way to building my skills and knowledge. The layout, presentation of material, and the quality/quantity of information are beyond my expectations. I was hesitant to order at first, but I am so happy that I did. I have taken many courses with some very good teachers and have many books. This is a program that I am confident I will be able to "stick with"."
......Jackie, June 5, 2007

"I have just purchased a few weeks ago the Brushwork series. I am very impressed with the quality of the information!! It could be called "what you always wanted to know but couldn't find in any classes."
.....Francine, May 3, 2007

"The instruction units are very helpful and very well planned. I have been doing the small color studies with colored blocks and those studies do help a great deal"
...... Robert, March 13, 2007

"This is such a thorough course - it is like having my own university at home - unfortunately when I went through my BFA program I had very few instructors that would share (or knew what to share) with us. That was more than 30 years ago... Since then I have attended many workshops which were far more informative and were great as a means of working faster and fresher. Your system is really the best way for me. The information is given in an understandable manner."
.....Jane, February 10, 2007

"I can't tell you how impressed I am. I have taken about 20-25 workshops from some of the best but I feel like this program will fill in many of the gaps that I have been missing. I am so thankful to find this."
...... Ellen, January 2, 2007

"Have to tell you I am extremely impressed with the scope and information contained in the course. You obviously went to a lot of work to compile this and it will be a legacy for you!"
...Dee, December 9, 2006

"I am the proud owner/student/artist of your virtual art academy course. I feel that it is the best--very best--investment the I have made for my growth as an artist. I do think that it is so well planned. I have many "how to" art books, but I am also a credentialed teacher, and I know when a teaching tool is well done. I am just so grateful that I found ithe course and purchased the course. I do refer to the lessons often."
....Karlene. November 20, 2006

"In 1986 I was received a BFA from Otis/Parson's Art Institute of Design. I majored in illustration and design, and had an awful time. None of what I learned in school ever added up to anything that helped me do what I wanted to do. And ever since graduating I've been going through life with the nagging feeling that I'd been fleeced, ripped off and conned. I draw well. I always have. And I've spent 20 years making a good living in advertising working as an Art Director. I can draw and I can write and I faked the other stuff. But I've always wanted to paint. I just had no idea how to go about it. When I found your art academy on the web, I felt I'd discovered the education I was expecting to get 20 years ago. Painting makes sense to me now. The ideas and concepts hang together. My work is improving. And I know the more I do the better I'll get."
...Josh. October 20, 2006

"I've spent all today reading the course and am absolutely delighted that I found Virtual Art Academy. I was surfing the net looking for Art Instruction and I feel like I hit the jackpot. Mr Raybould is an outstanding individual. Reading his material, which was written brilliantly, was like having him in my room answering my art questions. I had one of my best days today just reading the course units. Many of my frustrations in painting were because of my lack of painting knowledge."
...Shirley. October 10, 2006

"Congratulations on these courses, they are genuinely very good ... especially compared to other Art Instruction I have found over the years across the world. I have found most Art Courses to have a great deal of filler and short of real constructive advice. These are very useful to actually developing your skills."
...Karl. August 16, 2006

"Thank you so much for this great learning package. I am already printing away and looking forward to alot of fun doing all the assignments. Barry has a gift at explaining concepts that many teachers just don't have."
...Walter. August 4, 2006

"I am loving your Colour Course! It's very informative. Exactly what I was after."
...Kate. July 31, 2006

"I love your work, and just recently purchased your full art course. It looks great! Thank you so much for your excellent course!! It's terrific. Thank you."
.....Judy. July 25, 2006

"Thanks so much. I feel I will get a lot out of the material I have bought. I have bought many books that I read on art from Northlight but this course seems to get down to the nitty gritty of it. I did see Barry's work and that indeed makes me think he knows what he is talking about. Thank you,"
... Dorothy. June 28, 2006

"Just reviewed the Sample Set I ordered yesterday. Loved it. So, here is my order for the complete set. Looking forward to getting started."
...Linda M. June 5, 2006

"Thank you for your great books."
... Gary H. May 13, 2006

"Finally, affordable art instruction. I am looking forward to using your program."
... Lynn B. May 12, 2006

"I am very happy with all of the information that I have received so far. The newsletters are great also."
... Robert S. March 3, 2006

"Just wanted to state that I am finding these lessons to be extremely helpful. Although I am currently taking a college painting class I have been feeling frustrated that I am not liking many of my paintings. After reading through and absorbing the Music and Poetry package I went back to a painting that I had considered "finished" even though i was not happy with it. Applying the concepts and techniques from the lessons I evaluated the painting , made some minor (yet major!) changes to the painting and now LOVE it! My son’s girlfriend saw it for the first time last night, fell in love with the painting, told me that she loved the misty, soft quality of the sky and mountains (exactly the concept I was trying to develop but hadn’t shared that with her!). So, now the painting is hers! Thank you to Barry for these most helpful lessons which have already taught me more than my painting class! Thanks, "
... Barbara. October 7, 2005

"Hi Barry, Successfully purchased and downloaded the first three packages. Have just skimmed through the materials. As you know I have read most every book and seen most every video out there on how to paint. You have set a new standard in art instruction. Simple, clean, concise and easy to understand. Really wish I had this available ten years ago. Thanks,"
... Alex

"Absolutely! Anything I can do to help Barry be a great success. After all this thought and hard work he deserves it. Another thing about this course. Barry is such a clear thinker and an excellent writer. I have been so frustrated plowing over and over again through the disorganized prose and writing styles of all those how to paint books. Often left me guessing at what they were trying to say. It was even difficult trying to figure out what an instructor was trying to communicate in class. They pass by your easel for a couple of minutes, say something, then it's back to bad painting again! After I have completed his course, if you like you can set up a link to my website so potential students can see the results of this wonderful unique teaching method in action. Hopefully by then Barry will have helped me win some awards. Blessings"
....Alex

"Barry...Completed two notan units on the train today. Superb instruction!!!"
...Alex

"This is fabulous! Thank you so much - I’ve referred you to another plein air artist here in Oregon - your instruction is incredible. Thanks again."
... Mary Lou, Beaverton, OR, United States."

"You certainly do have permission to quote me. I knew that I was missing the basic tools to enable me to complete a painting completely on my own and have been searching for years - purchasing books and materials trying to get the information that you have single handedly provided in an informative neatly organized manner. . No more searching, you have covered it all! Thank you for taking the time to condense this vital information to enable me to succeed as an artist. Thanks again,"
...Lily, Sunday, August 14, 2005

"Hi Barry, Thanks, I got the attachment for the Visual Poetry & Music Units. I did get the Form units a while back along with the ones on Brushwork. I can’t tell you how much your courses have helped me to understand what it is I’m trying to do. I spent many years in frustration knowing that there was much I needed to know in order to progress, but unable to do it even with the numerous art instruction books that I purchased over the years. In some ways I think certain books did more harm than good because they only gave part of the information needed. In any case, you have presented the information in a clear, concise way, and the assignments are an invaluable tool for learning. I feel confident that with hard work and perseverance, my work will improve. I sincerely hope that if you ever decide to stop the VirtualArtAcademy, you will have your courses published in book form. You have written the quintessential art instruction book, every bit as valuable as Carlson’s Guide To Landscape Painting - maybe even more so because it incorporates every aspect of painting! Every artist out there would benefit from its contents. I wonder if you realize what you have written? I eagerly look forward to any future courses, and hope to be back on track with the assignments soon. Wishing you all the best,"
...Janet

"I have recently recovered from a long illness and am ready to start painting again. And it was with joy that I received your excellent lessons. I am very impressed with the acuity of Mr. Raybould’s observations. These are the clearest, most cogent instructions that I have ever received. This material has given me a kick-start and enables me to start anew with great enthusiasm. Renascence at the age of 80 is an unexpected and wonderful thing. Gratefully,"
...Jode Sumrall

"The module looks superb !"
... B.M., Alicante, Spain.

"The three courses I’ve ordered are so wonderful! Thanks for putting this information together; it’s exactly what I need in my painting right now. You’ve clarified so many points for me already and I’m just beginning to read and do the exercises. I’m sure my painting will see the results."
... A.H., Switzerland.

"I can’t tell you how much I feel I’m gaining in understanding. A light has gone on. Thanks."
... Janet W., Chicago, IL, United States.

"I’ve been painting on my own for a while and thought I was doing okay. Now that I’m taking this course I see so many things I can learn from that will make my work so much better. This is the stuff you can’t get in art school anymore, sadly. There’s no way your paintings can’t improve after this course. That’s how strongly I feel about it."
...Bob Akers., Crystal Lake, IL, United States".

"I cannot say enough about Barry John Raybould’s Virtual Art Academy. The course is a compendium of information for painters, but could be used by artists of other mediums simply for the knowledge base on art principals in general. It is divided into sections around the fundamental areas of value, color, paint application, composition, etc. It is filled with specific information about specific problems. The thing I particularly like about the Virtual Art Academy program is how Barry presents the information. He gives specific steps along with visual examples in every section of the course. I can remember visuals much more easily that text, but when visuals are combined with text in such a logical manner, it is much easier to take in and remember all the information. When I am painting and come across a problem that I need to solve, I often think to myself, Oh, yes, I remember what Barry said about that."

"Painting, in my opinion, is one of the most complex of endeavors and there are so many aspects of it to learn. Barry has obviously spent an enormous amount of time compiling the information from his own experience in workshops and from his own painting. I highly recommend the Virtual Art Academy courses for both beginners and advanced painters who want to really put it all together. ."
... Kathryn Townsend, (artist & author of Working Artist software, www.workingartist.com). Olympia, WA, United States.

"The online self-study course looks fantastic -- it’s presented so professionally; it must be the best, if not the only, of its kind."
...A.P., New York, United States.

"I bought the Master course of the Virtual Art Academy last year and have been slowly working my way through it - painting, thinking, looking. I find it straight forward and practical. It is full of essential information on techniques and materials that you won’t find elsewhere, certainly not scattered at various sites on the internet! My husband is an amateur photographer and also has used concepts from this excellent course. I find the photos of paintings placed throughout the course "worth a thousand words" because as artists we remember things better when we have visualized them. Painting is a complex endeavor! No wonder it is a life-long pursuit. With the help of the logically presented courses in the Virtual Art Academy, you can’t help but make progress in your art work. I highly recommend them."
...Audrey H, France,US

"Hi, Thank you very much, and yes you can quote me anonymously. I would like to purchase the upgrade to the Master Program. I’m very appreciative of the courses that you have put together. I’m a survivor of a poorly designed university art program and am relieved and grateful that you are actually teaching skill and not vague assignments and theory. I highly value the convience of your program and the wealth of correct information that’s there for me to pursue at my own pace. These are courses that I can review and reflect on the rest of my life. And I can build and hone my skills as it fits into my busy schedule. Thank you again and the check is in the mail."
...Thea

"Thank you for your generous courses. I am at a crossroads, at the moment, between moving forward in a new focused direction, or wandering laterally about the barren fields of a "wanna be like x artist". I have had too many superb teachers, and not enough apprentiship with just one master. The structure of my compositions has not had enough attention paid to it and my hoping to cover it’s weakness with details, of course, isn’t satisfying me or my painting peers. I plan to do the exercises of the courses I purchased, Notan painting, and the complete composition and brushstroke units. I feel confident I will solve my "painterly" deficiencies! I trust my website will look entirely different by the end of 6 months study! Wishing you continued success, and many thanks for taking the time to share your vision in this way."
...Carole

"Thanks for taking the time to speak to me by phone and for my order confirmation. I have looked at the newsletter -- the artwork is breathtaking, evoking memories of an earlier time when I lived on the West Coast. Your BJ is, indeed, a master artist. Look forward to delving into the Course material -- the bit on cropping in the Newsletter is enlightening, the upcoming exhibition announcements helpful, and the paintings awesome. Thank you. Sincerely,"
...Catherine

"I have purchased the Beginner package as well as the Notan and Brushwork from the Master Series. I am so very happy with my purchase - finally, information is put together in an easy to absorb format and in a condensed to the point method. No beating around the bush with you! Thank you so much,"
...Lily

"I think your art lessons are wonderful and I have learned so much from them. I will be studying them, probably, for as long as I continue to paint."
...Sue, February 2006 "

"These are the best lessons I have seen on the internet.... and I can do them at my own pace !!! Thank you for all your help... it is great to work with people who understand !!!"
...Ayn, February 2006

"I find your courses really superb in two ways: first they are very complete and comprehensive, and second they go straight to the point, to the essentials. Both my wife and I paint and we both agree that these art instruction courses are one of the best sources of education for people who want to learn to paint in a direct or alla prima style"
...Bernado Martin, Alicante, Spain.