HISTORY & MISSION
Created in 2008, Atelier de Arte Realista do Porto (AARP) was built to fill the void of Classical Art in the city of Porto. AARP aims to provide a space for solid methodology, art made in the classical tradition, fostering a passionate community of artists.
AARP’s guidelines are based on the legacy of the classical art tradition which culminated in the 19th Century French Academies. The traditional methods at AARP are validated by centuries of art-making. AARP believes that in breaking these methods into small and intelligible steps anyone will be able to understand and replicate them. Under a methodology such as this, a non-experienced person can rely on their passion to ensure they reach their desired goals.
Comprehensive studies of an academic nature are paramount to the development of an artist. At the same time, students are also encouraged to find their own vision in the art world through the continuous development of individual observations, sensitivities, and image making.
The ultimate goal of the AARP is to make art.
AARP is also focused on providing a solid sense of community where students can find comfort and friendship. We strongly believe that an overall healthy workplace is imperative to the growth of students as humans and artists.
AARP currently offers night classes from Monday to Thursday, from 18:30 to 21:30. During the day, students are encouraged to work full-time at the studio evolving their practice autonomously. Models are also often booked during non-instructed periods so that students can acquire more experience working from life.
Meet the AARP team
Founder & Main Instructor
Daniel Gamelas
Daniel graduated from The University of Porto in the Department of Fine Arts with a focus in sculpture. He subsequently received an MFA from the New York Academy of Art where he earned “The Complete Sculptor Award'' for excellence. Daniel continued his studies at Grand Central Atelier in New York City where he attended several progressive intensive workshops at GCA and was awarded merit-based scholarship and monitorships.
Daniel’s sculptures and drawings explore the relationships of humans and their idiosyncrasies in the cultural context of a pre-Roman Iberian-Peninsula. His work has been exhibited in solo and group shows in Portugal, Spain and New York. He also has produced public sculptures for exhibition in Portugal. Daniel is the founder of Atelier de Arte Realista do Porto (AARP) and its lead instructor.
Instructor
André Soares
André first specialized in art at the Soares dos Reis in Porto. After pursuing a career in ballroom dancing and achieving the title of National Champion, André decided to follow his passion for drawing and painting at the Porto Atelier. He currently teaches drawing at AARP.