We Strive for Excellence in the pursuit of drawing and painting

Derived from the French and Italian academic methods of the 19th century, married with the color of the impressionists, we seek to teach painting and drawing in the contemporary realist tradition to empower students to draw on the knowledge of the old masters to create meaningful works for our own time.

As a student, you will be immersed in a progressive curriculum of study through direct observation of shape, line, and color. By combining coursework with demonstrations and group discussion, students are exposed to an in-depth artistic philosophy alongside the fundamentals of painting and drawing. You will be empowered to create art with mastery and understanding.

Classes to fit your schedule

Register for a month, a semester, or a single class. Mastery takes time - with morning, afternoon, and evening classes, there’s lessons for everyone.

Group and private instruction

Find in-person art classes, from introductory to advanced studies, small groups to private and individual, there are classes in a variety of subjects for beginners and advanced students alike.

build community

find community with likeminded people on a shared journey to become better artists. Join us on museum trips and sketch outings around town.

Our Story and Mission

Founded by Alexander Soukas, Studio Metaxu exists to meet the expressed needs of artists in Denver for the highest quality education in the disciplines of painting and drawing for artists, and the study of the human figure.

Metaxu comes from the Greek meaning “between.” Socrates argues in Plato’s symposium that Eros, or desire itself, is an in-between state the bridges the separation between man and the divine realm. By beholding the beauty of the visual world around us, we see beyond the material to the divine, Eros is aroused, and we seek to bridge the gap separating us, to be in relationship with it. To be an artist is to be in a constant state of Metaxu - to behold and witness beauty, and to move towards it.

Soukas brings a comprehensive knowledge of painting, drawing on an education spanning nearly 10 years studying under some of the top contemporary realists of our time. Alex’s teaching philosophy is deeply influenced by his study and mentorship under Nelson Shanks, a dynamic and integral figure in realism, and education.

Our goal is to provide the best education in the visual arts based on the tried and true principles of the academic tradition. Come visit us in Capitol Hill Denver to find out why our community is so rich. Our community includes students residing in Boulder, Cherry Creek, and the University of Denver.