Portraits

About me

Anna Todaro

My art teacher, Jeff Wright, had a profound impact on my life and career path. His inspirational sign above his desk, “Find a job you love and you’ll never have to work a day of your life,” resonated with me deeply, leading me to follow my passion for art and become a high school art teacher myself. His guidance and support opened up new possibilities for me, transforming my academic performance and providing a sense of direction that ultimately influenced my life as a young mother. Art became a transformative force, giving me confidence and independence during a critical time in my life. My journey as a teacher, working with youth for over a decade, is a testament to my dedication and ability to make a positive impact on others through art education.

However, it’s natural for individuals to evolve, and my decision to leave my teaching career to focus on my art and open “Phthalo Blue,” a pop-up art studio, shows my willingness to embrace change and pursue my true passions. The pandemic brought challenges to the educational landscape, and my choice to take a new path is a testament to my adaptability and determination.

Creating a space like “Phthalo Blue,” where like-minded individuals can come together to engage in art, reflects my desire to foster a supportive and enjoyable environment for creative expression. The combination of adult art classes, sip and paints, and discussions around art provides a unique and enriching experience for everyone involved. 

“People living deeply have no fear of death” -Anais Nin

The Vision

Phthalo Blue Pop Up Art Studio

I pop up my art studio like I am Mary Poppins. I offer adult enrichment for like minded folks. I empower, build confidence, and help people make connections through the creation of art. These classes are like mini workshops, or fun team building sessions. I host on a monthly basis at local venues in Buffalo N.Y. Each class is $50 a person and includes: NYS certified art teacher instruction, all arts materials, one drink and a gift from instructor. 

The Mission

Pop-ups Near You!

Art has the power to enrich people’s lives, offering a means of expression, connection, and personal growth. By opening my studio and teaching classes, I am contributing to a community of individuals who appreciate and value the artistic experience.

Pop Ups

Upcoming Pop-ups

NOV

21

Henri Matisse

Casey’s Black Rock, 484 Amherst Street, Buffalo, 14207

December

Plant Still Life with Watercolor

Life is Succulent, 1249 Eggert Rd, Amherst NY 14226

 

January

TBD

Original Paintings

Latest Collection

Art lessons you can do on your own

Create

Magazine Drawing 101

Find a magazine photo that emphasizes texture, value, line and proportion. A face, an animal, clothing apparel, perfume bottles, car, watch, etc. Look for images with elements that have distinct textures, seek images with a wide range of values, images with prominent lines, look for images that showcase interesting proportions.
 
 
 

Color Theory 101

Blending analogous colors can be a wonderful way to explore and express your feelings through art when you’re looking to spread color around and be expressive. Analogous colors are hues that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel, creating a harmonious and seamless transition when blended together.

Photograph your own still life

As with any genre of art, the significance and interpretation of still life paintings can vary widely depending on the artist’s intention and the viewer’s perspective. While the historical roots of still life may have been closely tied to representations of wealth, the contemporary expression of the genre offers a rich and diverse range of possibilities for artists to explore and communicate their artistic vision to the world.

Testimonials

What People say

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Gabrielle Carlo

4/19/2023

That was absolutely amazing!! It was so helpful and special that you painted with us! such a great class. My Aunt Karen was so impressed with your teaching. She learned so much. 

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Briana Hunter

7/18/2023

Hey, I just saw a bunch of people that were at your class and they said that it was the best thing that ever happened to them. I’m so proud of you.

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Charity Huff

7/17/2023

Great idea girlfriend! I am totally stealing this idea for my classes I teach in retirement homes. I love it! (A sculpture lesson inspired by Dali’s melting clocks.)

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Kate Hammer

6/22/2023

….she really needed to get out and meet new people. She’s been going through a lot lately and she was really able to have a good time. Very cathartic thank you, she needed a breather. 

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