Jean Henry School of Art

I would not recommend this art school for beginners. The class leans more toward the intermediate/​advanced level. If you are a beginner, you will be left alone to learn from your mistakes. There are other classes in the city, which are more directed toward beginner levels.

I’ve been going to Jean Henry School of Art for many years now. It’s a great crowd, a fun environment, and the owner, Mike Ritch, is a gifted artist and wonderful teacher. Infinitely patient, he makes everyone feel welcome and works with students to hone their strengths and overcome their weaknesses. Without a doubt, Mike has helped me become a better painter and artist.
Classes are three hours long and there are sessions throughout the week. Sometimes the whole class works on a specific theme, like a still life or in black and white, but often students work on whatever project they want. Each class generally has a critique where students can show their art and get both positive and negative feedback.
If you’ve thought about getting into art, expressing your creative side, or just de-​stress from a sit-​at-​your-​desk-​and-​stare-​at-​a-​computer job, check this place out!

I had been working with oils for a few years, in studios and oil painting classes before I visited the Jean Henry School of Art. It has been almost a year now since I enrolled at the School. In this relatively short period of time, I have gained valuable knowledge and techniques to improve my art. Mike Ritch, a gifted artist and teacher, works well with beginning and seasoned painters. He has impressive art education credentials from Europe and the U.S., he is also passionate about teaching. He uses effective communication skills and teaching tools with students. Besides learning a great deal, I am also having fun. At the School, Mike has created an atmosphere which allows us to go at our own pace, to accelerate, or to slow down as we paint. I admire his paintings, and I notice that he nurtures different styles and different schools of thought in students. Whether you are a beginner, completely new to painting, or an experienced artist, you will enjoy the School.

Want to explore your creative side? Need an outlet to de-​stress? Want an environment that’s no pressure and fun? Well look no further, Jean Henry School of Art is the place to go. I have been with the school since June of 2010 and enjoyed every minute of it. Mike Ritch, our instructor, has a gentle and patient style of teaching absolute beginners to oil painting, (like me), as well as providing constructive critique to seasoned painters. Jean Henry is not just a school but a family/​community of caring and artistic people. It’s a nurturing environment where you can figure out your own personal style.
There are several classes offered during the week, including a night class, perfect for working professionals. Prices are very reasonable (and worth every dime) and Mike stocks all the art supplies you will need in house, which is very convenient! So come on down and get your creative juices flowing at the Jean Henry School of Art!

Thought it was time for an update after three years of being a student of Mike Ritch, the owner of the Jean Henry School of Art. I’ve seen significant improvement in my paintings since working with Mike. He’s patient and knowledgable, and a truly gifted artist himself. He’s encouraged me to try new styles and subjects, and offered help whenever I’ve wanted it. The prices are *extremely* reasonable, and the class sizes small so you can get as much personal attention as you’d like. Great for beginning artists, but many of my classmates have been painting for decades on their own and want a friendly place to paint where they can get helpful feedback. I really enjoy the holiday art show in which students’ work is displayed. Mike sells paint, frames, canvases and other supplies in case I don’t want to make a trip to the store. Parking is also super easy here.

I am a student at the Jean Henry School of Art. Prior to joining the school, I had no formal training — the last time I heard of primary colours was back in in kindergarten! However, after a few projects and under the steady hand of Mike Ritch, I have come to enjoy painting and have produced some quality projects, which I am quite happy about!
The class atmosphere is very supportive and collaborative. Mike is a great instructor and I look forward to attending class every week!

This place is amazing! I just started about two months ago and cannot get enough! The students are extremely welcoming and friendly and the environment is perfect for a three hour painting session. What truly makes the school though, is the teacher, Mike. He is patient, talented, he understands what he is talking about, and is capable of giving constructive criticism. I couldn’t ask for a more ideal place to paint and would recommend this school to anyone.

I have studied oil painting for over 20 years with about 10 teachers and two semesters at CCAC, Oakland. But since I attended Jean Henry School of Art l5 years ago, I stayed and grew. As Jean retired in her eighties, a young and talented British artist Mike Ritch took over about 4 years ago. Not only was he formally trained and graduated from the Art Institute, he also studied in Paris. Actually, the most impressive and valuable is not just his knowledge and skill. It’s his enthusiasm about teaching art and the compassion he shows toward every student, young and old, male or female, experienced or beginners. He also encourages students to develop their own medium and styles. It is a rather small private school with classes of anywhere from 8 to 16. Because of that, close friendships were developed and flourished. On top of learning and practicing painting, it is always a pleasant and enjoyable personal experience by attending the classes every time.
Besides, it is so affordable!

Master Impressionist artist, the late Jean Henry started this school.
Having had decades of attending, I can appreciate the new art teacher’s skill and mastery. Michael is an excellent teacher and artist.
You will find a friendly and fine group of people here. Many long time attendees.

If you’re looking for a place to create oil paintings, this is it. This school has been around for many decades and I’ve been painting here for the last 5 years. Not only have I learned many new painting skills, I have also met so many interesting and talented people, people I would not have otherwise been exposed to. Check it out!