Folio Academy is now host to another ground-breaking artist! Paul Mann has arrived! Paul Mann is a veteran painter in acrylic and oil paints specializing in themes focused on the Old West. He brings the cowboy spirit to life in dramatic western landscapes, and historically accurate costumes, scenes, and figures. In our new video course “From Thumbnail to Finish,” Paull Mann will teach as he completes his work from beginning to end, bringing his expertise from years of experience, to anyone with a desire to learn.

Paul Mann grew up loving the Old West. Even as a child he remembers being interested, and this led to drawing and recreating it on paper. Now, as an adult, he continues his love of this time period by devoting himself to bringing the authentic Wild West to his canvases. In addition to doing extensive research into cowboy and indian life and lifestyles, Paul collects costumes and handmade clothing, adornments and implements. Finding models in real life, Paul brings his knowledge and passion to the public in his masterfully crafted paintings. Paul says, “I love the art of building a picture, the design, color and value. I love the use of drama and strong lighting with a great story. I continue to relish the research and making and collecting clothing from the 1800’s.” Paul looks up to artists such as Tom Lovell, Frank McCarthy, Howard Terpning and Robert McGinnis; artists from what he calls “the golden age of Illustration – around the 50’s and 60’s.”

In our new coarse “From Thumbnail to Finish,” Paul Mann brings us his process of painting a western scene from beginning to end. From his early sketches and concepting process he starts with an idea and brings it to life in acrylic and oils. He demonstrates his technique by working on several panels, and is thus able to show a painting process which normally takes many hours, in an hour and forty minutes. Paul demonstrates the key stages of layering his painting. Paul is a veteran artist and his final piece reflects how he generously shares his years of experience. Ages 16 up. Approx run time: 100 min