Mastery Program Open Enrollment FAQ's
Open enrollment closes at midnight on the 3rd of each month. Afterward, if you didn't enroll, you will continue on the waitlist and sign up during the next registration period the following month from the 1st - 3rd.
If you did register for the Mastery Program, congratulations! You will receive a series of emails to help you get started!
How to locate your Mastery Program lessons on Milan Art
To see all of the Mastery Program lessons, you'll need to be signed into app.milanart.com. Once you are signed in, you will see a menu on the left, scroll down until you see Mastery Program Library. Under this section you will see Part 1 (Lessons), Part 2, Part 3 and Part 4. These will be the tabs where you will find your lessons. Start in Part 1 and work your way through each lesson in order.
To access group coaching, please scroll further down in the menu to find Mastery Program Coaching, you will then see parts 1 - 4, please post in the group that corolates with the part of the program you are currently working in.
If you are accessing the program and coaching from the Milan Art app, please sign into the app, then click on the Milan Art Logo in the bottom left corner, this will open the menu.
Immediately following registration, you will receive a welcome email with the following important information:
- A video lesson explaining the art supplies you’ll need for the program.
- A video lesson explaining how to prepare your studio.
- The Mastery Program syllabus outlines the entire year's content
Once you have your studio set up and all of your supplies, you are ready to begin the Mastery Program!
You can find your lessons and resources here: Mastery Program
The Mastery Program requires drawing, oil, and mixed media supplies. Here are the supplies you need for each part of the program and an approximate minimum cost.
Here is a comprehensive PDF of all the supplies needed for the Mastery Program including estimated costs:
Mastery Program Art Supplies - PDF
If you would like to view the curated supply kits that are available through our art store, you can view them through the links below.
Milan Art Store links for Part 1:
Milan Art Store links for Part 2:
Most of these supplies will not only last you through the completion of the Mastery Program but well into the start of your career.
The Mastery Program requires drawing, oil, and mixed media supplies. Here are the supplies you need for each part of the program and an approximate minimum cost.
Here is a comprehensive PDF of all the supplies needed for the Mastery Program including estimated costs:
Mastery Program Art Supplies - PDF
If you would like to view the curated supply kits that are available through our art store, you can view them through the links below.
Milan Art Store links for Part 1:
Milan Art Store links for Part 2:
Most of these supplies will not only last you through the completion of the Mastery Program, but well into the start of your career.
No Previous Experience Needed
To join our Mastery Program, you don't need any prior experience or skills. We don't require portfolio submissions either. What we do require is passion, commitment, and hard work. These qualities are essential for your success and will help you thrive in our program.
Start from Scratch
Even if you've never picked up a pencil before, our Mastery Program is designed to guide you from the very basics. Part 1 of the program will teach you everything you need to know to master realism by developing your oil painting and drawing skills first!
Your Path to Success
The Mastery Program is structured to ensure your growth, with each lesson building on the previous one. This methodical approach helps you develop your skills exponentially, setting a solid foundation for your artistic journey.
Support for Beginners
To ensure your success, the Mastery Program includes access to our highly popular Beginner Art Program. This program is perfect for those without previous experience and lays the groundwork for your artistic development in the Mastery Program.
Embark on your artistic journey with us and transform your passion into a professional art career!
If you have questions about how to set up your space to prepare for the Mastery Program, please be sure to sign up on the waitlist https://masteryprogram.com/
You'll receive emails with information on how to join our free Prep-Course, where you will find tips on how to set up with all of your new supplies!
Don't worry if you aren't able to have an exclusively dedicated studio space, you only need a few things to get started:
- Wall space or floor space for your easel, depending on the type.
- Don't be afraid to get creative here! Baskets, shoe boxes, milk crates, reclaimed dressers or cabinets, all make for great affordable (if not free) storage solutions.
- A table for working with liquids and varnishing, the floor is even a great place if you have the space available.
Getting started is the most important step, so don't let anything hold you back!
Once we have received full payment for the Mastery Program you'll receive LIFETIME ACCESS, including any future updates to the content.
*Please note that if you are on the monthly installment plan, you will receive Lifetime Access after your last payment has been made and your balance owed is zero. If your plan is canceled before your balance is paid, you will loose access to the program content.
YES!!! The Mastery Program encourages artistic individuality and the exploration of various styles.
The Mastery Program teaches a process of building foundational skills, exploration of various styles and mediums, and self-discovery that prepares you for creating your own process and unique style.
Whether you're drawn to realism, abstraction, impressionism, abstract realism, expressionism, L-theory, or a hybrid of these or others not mentioned, our program is designed to support your growth in the direction that resonates most deeply with you. It's all fair game once you've built that rock-solid skills foundation. From there, you'll immerse yourself in what calls to your soul!
You've chosen to pursue your dream of being an artist, and we're thrilled to help you bring that dream to life!
Doubting Your Abilities or Skills
We encourage you to reach out to the group coaching community and share what's on your mind. The best way to overcome negative self-talk (lies we tell ourselves), is to put it out there and talk it out. If anyone can understand what you are going through, it's your fellow artists and coaches. Feel free to ask for support and encouragement whenever you need it.
Needing a Break
There are break weeks built into the program that you can utilize. You also have lifetime access to the program so if you feel you need extra breaks or to slow down, you have the ability to go at your own pace.
We would like to encourage you to think about the commitment you made to yourself and the reasons why. Think about where you can be in 1 year, 3 years, 5 years from now. The commitment you make now will effect your future self. Make decisions from a place of strength and not in your weakest moments.
If you have any questions, please email info@milanart.com
Many of the graduates from this program are experiencing great success and selling their work consistently.
We have found that all the graduates who continue to paint consistently (40 hours per week) and are dedicated to promoting their branded, and creating their best work are having success.
The students who graduate and have not applied what they have learned towards their career are not experiencing the success that they have the potential for.
The Mastery Program is an incredible learning experience and gives you all the information you need to build a cohesive body of work and create a strong brand, a library of marketing collateral and a successful plan to promote yourself and your art. All of the information is here, but you MUST do the work consistently over time to find success in your career.
These would be the substitutes needed:
- Safflower oil - to replace solvent - For cleaning your brush
- Solvent free fluid - to replace the solvent and linseed oil mixture that you create in week 1.
- Also can be used like Galkyd lite for glazing and creating drips
- Solvent free gel - Similar to Galkyd gel but without the solvent. Works great for glazing and adding to your paint to speed up the drying process.
We're so excited for you to join the Mastery Program and don't want you to delay your journey, so we have an open enrollment period each month from the 1st through the 3rd.
We highly suggest signing up for the waitlist so that you can get exclusive access to the free pre-course that we have created. It will have all the information you need to purchase supplies, build an easel, and set up your studio in preparation for all of the drawings and paintings that you will create. You'll also receive emails reminding you that registration will be opening soon shortly before it begins, so you can be ready to go!
You can join the waitlist here: https://masteryprogram.com/
Although the Mastery Program is designed to be completed within one year, the lessons are all online, allowing you to progress at your own pace. You also have lifetime access to the program, so you can revisit the material whenever you need it.
The Mastery Program includes group coaching sessions that complement the four parts of the curriculum, but your journey is entirely self-directed. There's no pressure to keep pace with others, allowing you to embrace the learning process in a way that suits you best.
The Mastery Program is designed to be completed in one year, with 1 week of orientation and 52 weeks of lessons.
We have included break weeks with light content to allow time for making up lessons or catching up to the intended pace. This is for anyone determined to finish within one year.
We recognize that everyone's lifestyle or goals are different, and you may need extra time to complete the program. We've now added lifetime access to the program, allowing you to go at your own pace through the pre-recorded lessons.
Group coaching is also now included for 2 years, so you have extra time to work through the program with the support of the coaching team!
Will I fall behind in the Mastery Program?
How many hours per week should I dedicate to the program?
To complete the Mastery Program in one year, we recommend that you set aside 20 hours each week dedicated to learning and painting.
Each week there will be 1-3 hours of video content to review and 15-20 hours of assignments and exercises. There are periodic breaks strategically built into the program to help you keep on target with your work.
If you intend to work as a full-time artist, we recommend gradually increasing your painting time to 40 hours per week while working on your portfolio.
The Mastery Program lessons are all pre-recorded and available to watch on demand.
The only designated times are for the group coaching zoom meeting in the group coaching program. Each week there will be scheduled meetings at different times, to accommodate time zones and schedules. You are free to join the call that best suites your needs and corresponds with the section of the program you are currently working in.
When you decide to elevate your learning experience from the Beginner Art Program to the Mastery Program, you're eligible for a discount.
If you sign up for the Mastery Program within three months of your initial sign-up for the Beginner Art Program, you can request a special discount of $300.00, the full cost of the Beginner's Program.
If you qualify or have any questions, please email us at info@milanart.com
*only purchases after March 1st, 2024, qualify.
The Mastery Program is designed to be taken as a whole, with each section building upon the previous one to create a cohesive and strategic learning experience.
- Part 1 will help you develop foundational skills in oil painting and drawing, mastering realism.
- Part 2 will allow you to explore mixed media techniques and express your unique artistic voice.
- Part 3 will guide you in creating a cohesive portfolio of 30 paintings that tell your story.
- Part 4 will teach you industry secrets to sell your art, build your brand, and launch your professional art career!
To truly benefit from the Mastery Program, participants must take it in its entirety, as there is no option to take only part of it. Each section of the Mastery Program is crucial for your development and will help you become the artist you were born to be! Step into your destiny and register today!
For more details, feel free to reach out to our artist support team at info@milanart.com.
Once you have registered for the Mastery Program during open enrollment, you will have immediate access to the entire program. You can start working on the lessons, starting in
Part 1, whenever you are ready. They are all pre-recorded so that you can watch at your own pace.
Thank you for your interest in our Mastery Program!
Currently, our courses are available only in English. However, you can translate the course transcripts into your preferred language using tools like Google Translate. This can help you follow the course content more easily until we introduce multilingual options.
We understand the importance of accessible art education and are actively working on offering multilingual options in the future. Thank you for your patience and understanding!
The language of art itself is universal!
You want to join the Mastery Program but aren't sure if you have the time to commit just yet, and you're wondering if you should wait a month?
If you’ve decided to embark on this life-changing artistic journey with us, we recommend stepping into your destiny and registering for the Mastery Program now! While the program is designed to be completed within one year, it’s flexible enough to accommodate your individual pace, allowing you to navigate through the online lessons on your own schedule.
The Mastery Program includes group coaching sessions that complement the four parts of the curriculum, but your journey is entirely self-directed. There's no pressure to keep pace with others, so you can embrace the learning process in a way that suits you best. You can register now and start when you're ready!
Additionally, there is some preparation involved, such as gathering your art supplies, building your easel, and setting up your studio. This lead time can be invaluable for setting yourself up for success in the Mastery Program without feeling rushed, ensuring you're ready to start when the time is right for you.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Mastery Program whenever the time is right, and we're here to support you every step of the way as you embark on this creative adventure!
We recommend the following brands of oil paint:
- Milan Art oil paint
- Gamblin (artist or 1980 student line)
- Winsor & Newton (Artist grade only)
- Charvin
- Rembrandt
You can check out our oil paint selection at our store here: Milan Art Store - Oil Paint.
For a full list of recommended supplies that we don't ship, like solvents and canvas, you can find that here: https://www.milanartstore.com/pages/recommend-products
Mastery Program Student FAQ's
The sources for the Mastery Program lessons are located below the videos with the assignment instructions. The provided link will take you to a corresponding Pinterest board with multiple sources to choose from for that specific lesson.
Please note that we do not provide the exact sources used by the instructor in the lesson. We have found that students learn the techniques better when they are not focused on emulating the movements and brushstrokes of the teacher.
For all of the assignments in the Mastery Program, oil and drawing section, there will be sources provided through a Pinterest link that is below the first video for that assignment.
We do not provide the same source that the instructor is using in the video lesson. We have found that students learn better and retain more of their unique qualities as an artist when they don't learn by emulating.
Under the Pinterest link, there should be 5 - 10 sources to choose from and you should choose the one you are most drawn to.
The Mastery Program is broken up into 4 parts and each part has its own textbook.
To access the textbook download:
- Go to Part 1 (2,3 or 4) under the Mastery Program in the menu
- There are 3 tabs at the top - click on Downloads
- Scroll down and the first download is for the Textbook
- Click on the download to begin the process
Depending on your device and settings, it's possible that you won't receive a notice or indication that the download is successful. Before hitting the button multiple times, take a quick look to see if you can find the file in your downloads or the place that your downloads normally go. If not, then try again.
Have trouble logging in? Please make sure you are attempting to log into app.milanart.com/sign_in using the email you used to purchase the Mastery Program.
You may reset your password by using this link: https://app.milanart.com/forgot-password. Be mindful that one only lasts for an hour but you can always get a new one from the link above. Please make sure to check your Spam folder for these emails.
If you have not created an account on Milan Art, you will need to do that before signing in, even if you previously had an account on Art Social or Milan Art Institute.
If you're still experiencing any issues logging in, please reach out to us at info@milanart.com and we'd be happy to assist!
Yes, you can sell these paintings, but you shouldn’t make reproductions of them. Additionally, you should disclose that these works are studies, as they aren’t original creations.
Many students have sold their assignment paintings to friends and family to help raise funds for additional supplies or to help with their monthly installment payments.
In Part 2 of the program, you will learn more about developing your own unique style and voice, below are some of the general rules about using photography as a source.
To create artwork that is uniquely yours, you should:
- Alter the Style: Transform the image into your own artistic voice. This means changing the style significantly, not just making minor adjustments.
- Use Multiple Sources: Combine elements from various source images to create a new, unique composition. This approach reduces the risk of your work being seen as a copy of any single photograph.
- Develop Your Own Style: The Mastery Program at Milan Art Institute emphasizes finding and developing your own voice and style. After building foundational skills, you will work on creating art that reflects your personal vision and style.
By following these guidelines, you can confidently sell your paintings while maintaining artistic integrity and respecting the rights of original photographers.
The format of the Mastery Program now includes group coaching as part of the program's tuition!
If you purchased the Mastery Program before this adjustment February 1st, 2024, group coaching was not included in the price of your tuition. However, students who enrolled under the previous pricing structure have the option to add on group coaching anytime! Here is the link to sign up if you'd like to do so at any point:
Q: How can I access all of the Mastery Program lessons?
To view all of the Mastery Program lessons, ensure you are signed into app.milanart.com. Once signed in:
- You will see a menu on the left side.
- Scroll down until you find the Mastery Program Library.
- Under this section, you will see Part 1 (Lessons), Part 2 (Lessons), Part 3 (Lessons), and Part 4 (Lessons). These four tabs contain all your Mastery Program lessons.
- Begin with Part 1 (Lessons) and proceed through each lesson in order.
Q: How do I access group coaching included in my tuition?
A: If you signed up for the Mastery Program after February 1st, group coaching is included in your tuition. To access group coaching:
- Scroll further down in the menu to find Mastery Program Coaching.
- You will see parts 1 - 4.
- Post in the group that corresponds with the part of the program you are currently working on.
- In the "Events" tab, you will find the available times to choose from for your weekly Zoom call.
Note: If you are accessing the program and coaching from the Milan Art app:
- Sign into the app.
- Click on the Milan Art Logo in the bottom left corner to open the menu.
Happy painting!
If you have purchased the Mastery Program prior to February 1st, 2024, and don't have access to the Mastery Program, it's possible that you have not heard about our move to a new website and app called Milan Art.
To gain access to the Mastery Program, including all of the new bonus content that has been added, please go to app.milanart.com and create a new account using the same email address that you used to access the program previously.
Once your new account has been created, please email info@milanart.com and request that our Artist Support Team will send you a special link for your account to open access to the Mastery Program. You'll receive a response with the link, instructions, and a short video introducing you to Milan Art.
Mastery Program Mentoring and Coaching
A personal mentor is an amazing resource for you to have throughout the Mastery Program and these are just a few reasons why:
- Questions Answered - having a personal mentor means that when you have a question, you'll get an answer! Our mentors are well-versed in all things Mastery Program. Why? because they've been through it!
- Feedback - Have you ever had the thought "it would be great to know if I'm on the right track"? When starting something new? You will be able to contact your mentor mid-painting/drawing and ask questions and get feedback on your progress.
- Support & Guidance - Sometimes, we artists get stuck or we hit " THE WALL", or we have other things happening in life and it's affecting our artwork. If you find yourself in one of these situations, your mentor will be there with tools to help support you and guide you through it.
- Critique - When you have finished or close to finished artwork, you will send it to your mentor and they will respond with honest and constructive critique. This is a valuable asset to have so that you can evolve as an artist and move beyond your current boundaries.
- Relationship - Your mentor will get to know you over the time that you're in the program, which gives them the unique ability to give you the best advice and feedback based on your unique goals and preferences.
All of our Milan Art mentors are professional artists who currently sell their work and have completed the Mastery Program. Their passion for this program shines through in their dedication to helping students find success in the art, life and business. All mentors are hand-picked by Elli and Dimitra Milan.
After registering for a personal mentoring option, you will receive a questionnaire to fill out. This questionnaire will allow you to request your preferred mentor. If they have spots available, you will be assigned to them.
All of our Milan Art mentors are professional artists who currently sell their work and have completed the Mastery Program. Their passion for this program shines through in their dedication to helping students find success in art, life, and business. Each mentor is hand-picked by Elli and Dimitra Milan.
After registering for a personal mentoring option, you will receive a questionnaire to fill out. Our mentor manager will consider your answers when assigning you to a mentor.
- Two things that are very important when matching you with a mentor are time-zone compatibility and language. We want the best experience possible for students, so making sure you have ample time to connect is an important part of pairing you with a mentor.
All of our Milan Art mentors are professional artists who currently sell their work and have completed the Mastery Program. Their passion for this program shines through in their dedication to helping students find success in the art, life and business. All mentors are hand-picked by Elli and Dimitra Milan.
Our group coaching is a fantastic support system for our Mastery Program students. Through each section of the program, you will have access to our experienced and passionate mentors.
In-group coaching:
- You will have access to multiple mentors who are professional artists and have completed the Mastery Program. Elli & Dimitra have hand-picked every mentor, so you know you are getting the best!
- Each part of the Mastery Program has it's own group that you will be a member of and you can move through the groups at your own pace.
- The group that you are in will have weekly live Zoom calls with a mentor. You can pick the calls that you attend based on where you are in the program.
- In the group feed you can ask questions, post photos of in-process artwork for feedback, or post photos of finished artwork for critique and a mentor will give an in-depth answer for every request.
- Encourage others and be encouraged by your fellow artists by cheering each other on in the group feed. You'll love having a supportive community standing behind you as you work and grow together!
Mastery Program Group Coaching is thoughtfully designed for flexibility, recognizing the unique journey of each artist. Although it follows the Mastery Program's curriculum, it’s not strictly cohort-based. This allows for fluid integration of students at various stages of their learning path. Should you need to pause or slow down, rest assured, you won’t fall behind.
The program includes 4 group coaching sections, each corresponding to a part of the Mastery Program. You can progress through each coaching group section as you advance through the respective part of the program, ensuring that the support you receive is always aligned with your current learning stage.
Thank you for your interest in understanding the distinct advantages and unique aspects of both coaching and mentoring within our program. At the Milan Art Institute, we are dedicated to providing an enriching educational experience that not only fosters artistic skill but also builds a supportive community of like-minded creatives. Here’s a detailed look at what each support structure offers and how they can benefit you throughout your artistic journey:
Group Coaching is included in the Essentials tuition option of the Mastery Program. This format allows you to share your artwork with a community of fellow students and receive feedback from multiple mentors and coaches, all of whom are professional artists who have successfully completed the Mastery Program themselves. Here’s what makes Group Coaching beneficial:
- Community Interaction: You’ll join a dedicated group for each phase of the program, moving at your own pace and engaging with peers.
- Live Interaction: Participate in weekly live Zoom calls with mentors, choosing sessions that align with your current stage in the program.
- Continuous Feedback: Post your artwork—whether in progress or completed—in the group feed to receive detailed critiques and suggestions from our mentors.
- Supportive Network: Encourage and be encouraged by fellow artists, fostering a supportive atmosphere that propels everyone forward.
Personal Mentoring is included in the Accelerator tuition option, offering a more personalized approach along with Group Coaching. With Personal Mentoring, you receive one-on-one guidance from a mentor who understands your unique artistic journey and goals. Here’s what Personal Mentoring includes:
- Direct Answers: Quick, direct responses to your questions anytime, ensuring you have the support you need, when you need it.
- Ongoing Feedback: The ability to reach out to your mentor during your creative process for advice and feedback.
- Personalized Support and Guidance: Whether you’re facing creative blocks or personal challenges affecting your art, your mentor provides tailored tools and support.
- Detailed Critique: Receive in-depth critiques on finished or near-finished pieces, helping you refine your technique and push your boundaries.
- Building a Relationship: Develop a relationship with a mentor who truly gets to know you and can offer customized advice based on your personal artistic aspirations.
Both tuition options are designed to ensure you receive the support, feedback, and guidance necessary to succeed in both art and business, fully backed by a team of mentors chosen personally by Elli & Dimitra Milan for their dedication and success in the arts. Whether through the collaborative environment of Group Coaching or the tailored guidance of Personal Mentoring, you’ll find invaluable resources to help you thrive as an artist in the Mastery Program!
How do I find Group Coaching?
A: To access group coaching, ensure you are signed into app.milanart.com. Once signed in:
- You will see a menu on the left side.
- Scroll down until you find Mastery Program Coaching.
- Under this section, you will see Part 1 (Coaching), Part 2 (Coaching), Parts 3 & 4 (Coaching), and Graduate Group (Coaching) (if applicable). These tabs contain all your Mastery Program Group Coaching sessions. These tabs contain all your Mastery Program Group Coaching sessions. Each part of group coaching corresponds with a part of the Mastery Program, and you can move through each part at your own pace.
Q: How does Group Coaching work?
A:
- Post in the Feed: Post your assignments in the feed corresponding to the section you’re at in the Mastery Program. One of our mentors will respond to your questions.
- Weekly Zoom Call: Bring all your questions, pictures, or links ready for feedback during the weekly check-in!
Q: How do I find my weekly coaching session?
A: You will find the times for your weekly check-in under “Events.” Choose the time and day that works best for you. The Zoom link can also be found under the events tab.
Please note: Only attend one coaching session per week.
If you signed up for the Mastery Program after February 1st, group coaching is included in your tuition. If you did not enroll under this pricing structure, you can sign up for group coaching anytime through this link:
https://masteryprogram.com/personal-artist-mentors
If you are accessing the program and coaching from the Milan Art app:
- Sign into the app.
- Click on the Milan Art Logo in the bottom left corner to open the menu.
Never Alone
Connect and Learn Together!
In The Mastery Program, you'll enjoy group coaching sessions and connect with fellow students globally through our social learning platform, Milan Art (formerly Art Social). This exclusive space fosters collaboration, allowing you to share insights and support each other throughout your artistic journey. Discover artists NEAR you and all over the world to form valuable professional connections. Join the waitlist and become part of a vibrant community committed to artistic growth and collaboration!
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