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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Trimester Programme

Academic drawing & painting courses, able to accommodate part-time or full-time study schedules. Currently DARA's most comprehensive level of education.

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Workshops

Compact master classes led by visiting international artists, designed to bring your artistic practice to the next level.

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Summer Bootcamps

An intensive orientation to the classical methods taught at DARA, offered during evenings & weekends in the summer season.

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Open Studio Sketch

Opportunities to draw or paint the model from life, with both long poses and short poses available. 

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​Upcoming Events

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LECTURE | 15 MAY

Join Zoran Arizanovic for a practical overview of classical techniques and materials, from encaustic painting to egg tempera in The Classical Tradition: Materials & Techniques of the Ancient World

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LECTURE | 29 MAY

Join visiting artist Fleur Sille for an immersive journey through John Singer Sargent's Capri Paintings

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OPEN DAY | 5 JULY

Come and see where the inspiration happens! Next Open Day: 5 July

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In the Studio