Dutch Atelier of Realist Art

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Dutch Atelier of Realist Art

Academic education in figurative drawing and painting

DARA is a private vocational fine arts school in Haarlem offering courses in the classical tradition.
2026 Spring Trimester

Registration Open until 1 April

Trimester Dates: 7 April to 21 June 2026

Intensive study in academic drawing and painting, accessible for part-time or full-time study

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2026 Workshop Registration Open

Register for multiple workshops and earn a discount!

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Open Model Sketch

Opportunities to sketch the portrait or figure from life in a structured studio environment, for both students and artists outside the DARA community.

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Next Open Day:
29 March

Come visit our studio, chat with students & instructors, and see what DARA has to offer!

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Oil Painting Materials:
A Practical Guide for Painters

20 March 2026

Join DARA co-founder Thomas Langeveld as he provides a clear and practical foundation in oil painting materials. Perfect for both beginning painters, and seasoned artists seeking to refine your technical skills!

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Welcome to DARA

The Dutch Atelier of Realist Art (DARA) is a unique vocational school in Haarlem dedicated to academic study in drawing and painting. We work fully from life, true to the classical tradition, with a balanced approach that combines observation with conceptual understanding. Our instructors are classically trained professionals, and our teaching methods are rooted in the classical European tradition.

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Latest Studio News

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ARTIST LECTURE

Join DARA co-founder Thomas Langeveld on 20 March for an in-depth discussion on working effectively in oil paint in his upcoming lecture Oil Painting Materials: A Practical Guide for Painters

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