FROM TENNIS COURTS TO ART STUDIOS: MY JOURNEY

For years, I had the privilege of being the Tennis Director at Eagle Tennis Club in Eagle. Teaching tennis taught me something valuable: anyone can learn a new skill with the right guidance, patience, and practice. The key is breaking down complex movements into simple, manageable steps and creating a supportive environment where people feel safe to try, fail, and improve.

When the club was sold and I found myself at a crossroads, I realized I had an opportunity to pursue my other lifelong passion - art. The transition from coaching tennis to teaching art may seem unusual, but to me, it makes perfect sense. Both require dedication, practice, and a willingness to be imperfect as you learn.

THE BIRTH OF GILDED LIGHT STUDIO

I named the studio "Gilded Light" as a tribute to the masters who inspire my work - particularly John Singer Sargent and Rembrandt. These artists were masters of capturing light and creating paintings that seemed to glow from within. The name also reflects my teaching philosophy: I want to help illuminate the artistic potential that exists within everyone.

Classical painting techniques have been refined over centuries, and they work. My goal is to make these timeless methods accessible to modern students, whether you're picking up a brush for the first time at 25 or returning to art after decades away at 65.

TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

I believe:

- Everyone has creative potential, regardless of "natural talent"

- Art should be joyful and exploratory, not stressful

- Technique can be taught; personal style emerges naturally

- Small class sizes and patient instruction make all the difference

- The process matters as much as the product

- There are no mistakes in art, only discoveries

WHY BROWN BEARD BREWING?

When looking for a home for Gilded Light Studio, I wanted something different from a traditional classroom. Brown Beard Brewing offered the perfect atmosphere - creative, welcoming, and community-focused. The relaxed brewery setting helps students feel less intimidated and more open to experimentation.

WHAT I TEACH

My classes focus on classical painting techniques using watercolor and Gouache. I teach the fundamentals - color theory, composition, value, brush techniques - through hands-on practice with supportive guidance. Each class is designed to be accessible for beginners while offering depth for those with more experience.

Whether you dream of painting Idaho's mountains, capturing the play of light on water, or creating the great plains, I'll give you the skills and confidence to make it happen.

JOIN ME

I'd be honored to be part of your creative journey. Whether you come to one class or become a regular, you'll find a welcoming community and patient instruction at Gilded Light Studio.

Let's paint something beautiful together.

- Michael Zitterkopf