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Pierre Finkelstein has been teaching decorative painting all over the world since 1987. In addition to teaching individual students, he has demonstrated, taught and developed teaching curriculums for private organizations, businesses, and unions. Formerly located in NYC, the Pierre Finkelstein Institute of Decorative Painting's in-person school in now located in Brooklyn, NY.
Pierre Finkelstein is dedicated to teaching faux finishing techniques using the latest mediums and technology available. He teaches the efficient techniques that he uses on his own jobs in his NYC business, Grand Illusion Decorative Painting Inc. He shares his experiences with the students in an open forum and bases his information on real jobsite situations. Pierre Finkelstein is dedicated to teaching the tradition of fine European decorative painting.
His classes are designed to efficiently give a comprehensive explanation of the following elements of decorative painting:
- Faux Marble
- Woodgraining
- Trompe l'oeil
- Glazing
- Gilding
- Ornament
- Sign Painting
- Patina
- Plaster
- Stencil
- Stonework
- Scenic Painting
- Cold Metallization with MIDAS Metall®
- Using the HV'Art Lacquer Paint System
Standard teaching procedure:
- Instruction on the correct use of color
- Correct hand positioning and hand movement with the brushes
- How to properly hold and use tools
- An explanation of the characteristics of marble types, wood essence, and all other natural finishes
- A series of drawings performed as practice exercises
- Overview of technical information including different types of glazes, (oil vs. water)
- Preparing your own glaze with any available products, (oil, acrylic, etc.)
Courses
Sign up for online courses with Pierre Finkelstein. Click here for more information
View our latest in-person courses! Click here
For the latest news regarding our upcoming classes, check out our calendar. Click here.
Call for requests!
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional, Pierre will break down the techniques clearly so you will be able to learn. Please fill out this Survey if you are interested in Online or In Person training with Pierre Finkelstein. Please send us an email with your requests for the specific classes and ideal location.
***DEPOSIT ONLY, BALANCE DUE PRIOR TO CLASS
Woodgraining Class with Pierre Finkelstein
January 14-16 / 2.5 days / 8:30AM-6PM (ends at 1:30PM on half days)
Cost $1,450 ($300 deposit required)
Pierre Finkelstein will lecture, demonstrate, and lead students into gaining a greater perspective and comfort level when Woodgraining. Students will learn how to create realistic Woodgrain like Mahogany, Walnut, Burl, Pine, Oak, Straight Graining, Bird’s Eye Maple and more.
First, students will learn technology, recognizing and understanding wood patterns, preparation, base painting, and glaze mixing. Then students will move to small painting drills to isolate the most common woodgrain patterns and veining. Finally, students will complete 4 to 5 of their own samples of painted wood.
From Walnut to Feather Mahogany, if you are ready to take your Woodgraining skills to the next level, this class is for you. From beginner to seasoned veteran, all students will improve skills. This class will fill up very fast.
Reserve Today! The space is limited so act fast. The price for the 2.5-day class is $1,450, which includes instruction and basic brush kit.
*We require a $300 deposit to lock in your spot. The remaining balance must be paid prior to class.
*It is STRONGLY ENCOURAGED to complete the Online Veining Fundamentals course prior to the class. Please reach out for special discount for this course for students Click Here
Any questions regarding out classes, check out our FAQ or contact info@fauxbrushes.com
