The Drawing Marathon was founded by artist Graham Nickson in 1988 as part of the curriculum at the New York Studio School of Drawing, Painting & Sculpture. For decades, artists have discovered the transformative power of sustained, intensive work from observation.
Inspired by this tradition, JPA is hosting a four-day Painting Marathon—an immersive studio experience in which participants work from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM each day, painting from the live model as well as a variety of other visual sources.
Through the disciplined practice of looking closely and responding thoughtfully to what is observed, students develop a richer understanding of image-making. Rather than relying on formulas, they learn to construct visual metaphors imbued with mystery, poetry, and meaning—images that emerge from their own unique vision and way of seeing the world.
Group critiques are an essential part of the marathon. These conversations cultivate the ability to analyze, interpret, and articulate artistic decisions while exposing participants to diverse perspectives and approaches. The exchange of ideas becomes another form of studio practice, deepening each artist's understanding of both their own work and the work of others.
By the end of the four days, participants leave with far more than a collection of paintings. They gain a deeper understanding of pictorial language, image construction, and sustained observation—tools that continue to shape their artistic practice long after the marathon has ended.
To preserve the intensive nature of the experience, enrollment is limited to just eight participants. Once the class is full, registration will close.
Tuition
Super Early Bird: $745 (first 3 registrations only)
Early Bird: $795 (through November 30, 2026)
Regular Tuition: $895
A payment plan is available, making it possible to reserve your place now and spread the remaining tuition over several months before the marathon begins.
Registration closes December 15, 2026, or sooner if all eight spots are filled.
If you've been waiting for the right opportunity to immerse yourself in a focused studio practice, this is it. Four uninterrupted days of looking, painting, discussion, and critique can reshape not only the work you make during the marathon, but also the way you approach painting for years to come.
"This school is a great place to not only expand your skill set, but also your ideas about art, no matter your level of experience. Jacob and Misa are great at fostering discussions that lead you to discover what you need to learn, rather than simply telling you what they think is right. I can't wait to return in the future."
— James T.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Because enrollment is limited to just eight participants, each registration reserves a significant portion of the studio's capacity. For that reason, the following cancellation policy applies:
Cancellations made on or before October 31, 2026 will receive a full refund, minus a $50 administrative fee.
Cancellations made between November 1 and November 30, 2026 are eligible for a 50% refund.
No refunds will be issued for cancellations made on or after December 1, 2026, or for participants who withdraw or do not attend the marathon.
If your place can be filled from the waitlist, JPA may, at its discretion, issue a partial or full refund.
If JPA cancels the marathon for any reason, all tuition paid will be refunded in full.
The Drawing Marathon was founded by artist Graham Nickson in 1988 as part of the curriculum at the New York Studio School of Drawing, Painting & Sculpture. For decades, artists have discovered the transformative power of sustained, intensive work from observation.
Inspired by this tradition, JPA is hosting a four-day Painting Marathon—an immersive studio experience in which participants work from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM each day, painting from the live model as well as a variety of other visual sources.
Through the disciplined practice of looking closely and responding thoughtfully to what is observed, students develop a richer understanding of image-making. Rather than relying on formulas, they learn to construct visual metaphors imbued with mystery, poetry, and meaning—images that emerge from their own unique vision and way of seeing the world.
Group critiques are an essential part of the marathon. These conversations cultivate the ability to analyze, interpret, and articulate artistic decisions while exposing participants to diverse perspectives and approaches. The exchange of ideas becomes another form of studio practice, deepening each artist's understanding of both their own work and the work of others.
By the end of the four days, participants leave with far more than a collection of paintings. They gain a deeper understanding of pictorial language, image construction, and sustained observation—tools that continue to shape their artistic practice long after the marathon has ended.
To preserve the intensive nature of the experience, enrollment is limited to just eight participants. Once the class is full, registration will close.
Tuition
Super Early Bird: $745 (first 3 registrations only)
Early Bird: $795 (through November 30, 2026)
Regular Tuition: $895
A payment plan is available, making it possible to reserve your place now and spread the remaining tuition over several months before the marathon begins.
Registration closes December 15, 2026, or sooner if all eight spots are filled.
If you've been waiting for the right opportunity to immerse yourself in a focused studio practice, this is it. Four uninterrupted days of looking, painting, discussion, and critique can reshape not only the work you make during the marathon, but also the way you approach painting for years to come.
"This school is a great place to not only expand your skill set, but also your ideas about art, no matter your level of experience. Jacob and Misa are great at fostering discussions that lead you to discover what you need to learn, rather than simply telling you what they think is right. I can't wait to return in the future."
— James T.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Because enrollment is limited to just eight participants, each registration reserves a significant portion of the studio's capacity. For that reason, the following cancellation policy applies:
Cancellations made on or before October 31, 2026 will receive a full refund, minus a $50 administrative fee.
Cancellations made between November 1 and November 30, 2026 are eligible for a 50% refund.
No refunds will be issued for cancellations made on or after December 1, 2026, or for participants who withdraw or do not attend the marathon.
If your place can be filled from the waitlist, JPA may, at its discretion, issue a partial or full refund.
If JPA cancels the marathon for any reason, all tuition paid will be refunded in full.
