The main focus of the teaching programs is learning to see better, the basis for good realistic drawing and painting.


Students work on their own project at their own speed. Drafting tables are separated to promote better focus. The choice of media includes watercolors, pencil, colored pencils, pastels, oil pastels, pen and ink and acrylics. A large photo reference file is available with everything from animals, landscapes, people to cartoons. Reference material from home is encouraged. Students should draw and paint what is of interest to them. From here, guidance towards better drawing and color theory, is a more enjoyable adventure.


Karen Jerome Skillins has been in her Needham, studio for over twenty two years. She is the illustrator of numerous children’s books, winner of major art awards and an exhibitor in national and international exhibitions. Teaching is also a passion and the studio has been a place for creative minds to expand for over twelve years.


The art programs are for ages 9 to 16. The class size is between five and eight students. In good weather, bikes can be locked to the railing out front.

Karen's Book Reviews



Just Add One Chinese Sister by Patricia McMahon and Conor Clarke McCarthy, Boyds Mills Press, 2005

Publisher's Weekly, March 2005, Jerome chronicles each step of the journal with radiant, soft-focus watercolors that possess a palpable sense of physical and emotional space. 

Student's Library Journal, January 2005, Jerome's imaginative approach to color and style attracts and sustains interest. 

Kirkus, January 2005, Family scenes are highly saturated with vivid color blends and dramatic contrasts between light and dark areas...the playfully warm watercolors and text create images that capture the growing bond of parents and children, brother and sister. Delightful.
Booklist, February 2005, Expressive watercolor artwork, in bright hues, depicts the warm and intense feelings. Adoptive families will welcome this.
Silent Dreams by Dandi Daley Mackall, Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, © 2003
Montreal Anglican Journal, September 2004, Karen Jerome's soft watercolors poignantly capture both the silent movie era and the courage and perseverance of the human spirit.
School Library Journal, April, 2003, The impressionistic watercolor illustrations in many shades of purple and varying degrees of shadow suggest isolation and hardships. Yet, dabs of rich reds, oranges, and yellows suggest that life includes some warmth and comfort.
If Nathan Were Here by Mary Bahr, Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, © 2000
Library Talk!, Nov/Dec 2000 issue, Editor's Pick
The Association of Theological Booksellers, Best Children's Book 2000, 
ForeWord Magazine, Book of the Year Award, 2000
Bluegrass Award Master List Recipient, 2000
Bank Street College, Best Children's Books of the Year
Arkansas Diamond Primary Book Awards, Finalist
School Library Journal, 8/2000
"...The sketchy figures are filled with life and feeling and the warm red and yellow tones promise that sorrow will be overcome, although memories will always last."
Publishers Weekly, 4/3/00
"... Jerome's softly focused watercolor paintings are similarly undefined, inviting youngsters' interpretation without limiting their ability to identify with the character."
Booklist, 4/15/00
"... The bright watercolors have a gentle, shining quality that enhances that book's hopeful message."
Bookpage, 5/2000
"... expressive watercolors tenderly express the sensitive story of children's friendships."
The Colorado Springs Gazette, 5/21/2000
"... soft, warm-toned illustrations offer just the right visual touches to go with the text."
Winston-Salem Journal, 7/2000
"The watercolored illustrations maintain a dreamlike quality as they show Nathan and his friend sharing moments together as well as the sadder, lonely times after his death."

Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)