About Academy of Art

Welcome to Academy of Art, where imagination comes to life through the strokes of a brush and the lines of a pencil. Whether your child is just starting their artistic journey or looking to refine their talents, our professional environment is designed to unlock every young artist’s full potential.

We offer expert-led art instruction tailored for children and adults alike. We specialize in immersive drawing and painting courses that blend foundational techniques with free expression. Our programs include instruction in acrylics, watercolor, and charcoal in Florida. Our mission is to nurture creativity, precision, and confidence in every artist we teach.

Our Mission

Academy of Art provides instructional art programs for ages 3 through adult. Our in-depth art curriculum utilizes hands-on, classical-teaching techniques, art history, world cultures and fosters self-expression. We provide students with a non-judgmental environment, ability-appropriate instruction and an atmosphere for creative development and individualism.

Members of NAEA and ACSI

Meet Janessa and Jessica

Janessa and Jessica have pursued their passion for creating and teaching art to the local community for the past 20 years. In 2004 they began an art enrichment program creating a unique instructor-led curriculum for youths and adults. Their instructional program uses a variety of art mediums while incorporating art techniques, art history and art appreciation concepts. Janessa and Jessica have also developed workshops on how to teach their instructor-led curriculum to schools and community programs.

Janessa’s passion for community art advocacy has created many outreach projects for students throughout the Denver Metro Area. Janessa is also a freelance graphic designer and has been a sales representative for various companies, events, and trade shows. She has recently moved to Venice, FL to pursue art for the community in SW Florida and her personal works of oceanic paintings.

Jessica currently teaches private art lessons out of her home studio in Colorado and is an Early Childhood Educator. She has recently obtained her Adult-Learning Certification to continue instructing and developing workshops for educators and community programs. She also has expanded her love for drawing people portraits to pets and has been creating fun and whimsical pet paintings in human-Victorian clothing.

…And yes, they are sisters!

Why Choose Academy of Art?

Academy of art stands out because we go beyond crafts. We are dedicated to teaching the technical foundations of art — how to truly see, observe, and create. From young beginners to mature creatives, our curriculum is structured to grow with the student.

Experienced Instructors: Each of our educators has a strong background in fine arts and child education.
Small Class Sizes: Our intimate class environment allows for individual attention and personalized instruction.
Structured Curriculum: We balance structured lessons with open-ended exploration to keep learning fun and meaningful.
Flexible Scheduling: After-school programs, weekend workshops, and seasonal art camps are available.

Contact Us Today

Jessica Basile – 480-747-5120 (Colorado Office)
Janessa Tamsett – 941-413-0236 (Florida Office)