Art school by mail
The nostalgia! Art School by Mail, also known as "Art Instruction Schools" or "Correspondence Art Schools," was a popular way for people to learn art techniques and skills through mail-order courses in the mid-20th century. Here's a brief overview:
History: Art School by Mail was founded in 1914 by Robert Beverly Hale, an American artist and educator. The school's initial goal was to provide affordable art education to people who couldn't attend traditional art schools or colleges. The program was designed to be self-paced, with students receiving lessons and materials through the mail.
Courses: The school offered a range of courses, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and illustration. Students could choose from beginner to advanced levels, and courses were designed to be completed at their own pace. The curriculum covered various techniques, such as perspective, anatomy, color theory, and composition.
Materials: Students received a package of materials with each lesson, which included:
- Instructional booklets or manuals
- Art supplies, such as paints, brushes, canvases, or paper
- Printed examples or demonstrations of the techniques being taught
Teaching style: The school's teaching style was based on the "step-by-step" approach, where students were guided through each lesson with detailed instructions and illustrations. This method allowed students to learn at their own pace and build their skills gradually.
Popularity: Art School by Mail became incredibly popular in the mid-20th century, with millions of students enrolling in courses. The school's success was largely due to its accessibility, affordability, and the fact that students could learn from the comfort of their own homes.
Legacy: Although Art School by Mail is no longer in operation, its legacy lives on. Many artists and illustrators who learned through the program have gone on to achieve success in their careers. The school's approach to teaching art has also influenced the development of online art courses and educational resources.
Interesting fact: Art School by Mail was one of the first companies to use television to promote its courses. In the 1950s and 1960s, the school aired television commercials featuring famous artists, such as Norman Rockwell and Charles Schulz, promoting the program.
While Art School by Mail is no longer available, there are many online art courses and resources available today that offer similar instruction and guidance.