Thomas Nash as a Teacher
 It
is Nash's exposure to so many varied approaches
to realistic painting (see Background) that makes him uniquely qualified to help
other artists who might be struggling to reconcile what
at times would appear to be contradictory advice. While
still busy with portrait commissions in the late seventies
Nash began teaching classes one day a week by popular
demand, in his studio in Atlanta. He found that not only
did he enjoy it, but also that it was very good for him,
sharpening his mind and helping him to see what areas
of his own painting needed attention. 'I am very proud
that some of these same students from over twenty five
years ago are today good friends and successful artists
in their own right.'
In the early 80's Nash conducted a series of workshops,
which included an informative workbook for all the participants.
He then focused on his own work for nearly ten more years
before returning to teaching in 1993 with a series of
groundbreaking workshops throughout the USA. He was a
pioneer in using video cameras to allow the class to see
the palette and the painting simultaneously on television
screens, even for groups as small as twenty people. He
wore a cordless microphone as he assisted artists throughout
the painting room, so that others might benefit from common
challenges. At the same time, he was sensitive enough
to use the mute button when the advice was more personal.
The hand made, hundred-page book that all Nash workshop
participants received has to this day never been published.
It is not uncommon for Nash to hear from one of those
artists that they still turn to 'the book'. Many have
gone on to win honors and major commissions of their own.
Recognized as a strong proponent and champion of portraiture,
Nash is often asked to speak at portrait painting seminars
and conventions. Numerous invitations have led him to
twice show his work on stage at New York's famous Carnegie
Hall and to demonstrate the art of portrait painting
to standing room only audiences at the Art Student's
League of New York and in other forums. On October
15th of 2005, after a long absence from teaching, Nash
will conduct a one-day painting Academy for the Portrait Society of America in
Norcross, Georgia.
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