Working artist. Guest instructor. Available in-studio, on location, and across the country.
Private lessons and small group workshops held at Kayley's Palmer, Alaska studio. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine your technique, sessions are tailored to where you are.
Bring Kayley to your location. She's available to teach at art guilds, retreat centers, colleges, camps, and private events. Previous engagements include Northstar Bible College and workshops across Alaska — now booking nationally.
Paint the last frontier. Artists travel from around the world to experience Alaska's light, landscapes, and wildlife — Kayley brings that world to life on canvas, and invites you to as well. Intimate groups. Unforgettable setting.
Her Approach
Kayley began teaching at 14 — the same age she started competing and winning at the Alaska State Fair. She's spent four years developing an approach that meets students where they are, not where a curriculum says they should be.
Her classes focus on traditional realism in oil and pastel. She teaches observation — how to truly see light, shadow, color, and form before you ever touch the canvas. Students of all ages and skill levels have learned under her instruction, from young beginners to experienced artists looking to push further.
She doesn't just demonstrate and step back. She works alongside her students, painting through the same problems they're solving in real time.
What Students Say
My daughter took Kayley's painting class because she wanted to become a better artist and drawer; Elsie loved all the techniques she learned from her. The 3 hours flew by and she could have painted longer. The way Kayley instructs allows kids or adults, beginners or skilled artists, to be successful and challenged all at the same time. Highly recommend her!
My daughter LOVES art classes with Kayley. Her expertise, creativity, and kindness are always evident. My 11-year-old loves being able to pick her painting subjects and Kayley's gentle instruction. My daughter has blossomed in her painting skills. Kayley's lessons are the highlight of her week!
Kayley has a sweet way of making learning seem effortless by assisting her students when they need help, while at the same time giving them time to explore their own artistic talents. She is drama free and charges a reasonable rate. She's a good communicator and is understanding about last minute cancellations. She is trustworthy and kind. Plus she's an excellent artist! So excited for this opportunity for my son to learn to paint. 🫶🏻
Kayley Smith is a wonderful and talented teacher, letting you paint independently while skillfully teaching you techniques and giving tips on how to improve. Nice and relaxed, no pressure, and always encouraging. We also appreciate her affordability and that the lessons are 3 hour chunks so that you make great progress on your work each time.
Kayley is a great teacher! She is very knowledgeable and interacts well with her students!
10/10 would recommend for people/groups wanting to learn to paint. Kayley is a fantastic teacher who will go step by step and teach you how to do the process.
An absolutely transformative experience! Kayley is a gifted artist and teacher who breaks down complex techniques into simple, actionable steps. It's clear her sole goal is to help her students succeed. I learned a lot from her class!
Our daughter has made amazing progress while taking lessons from Kayley. Kayley has been a great teacher!
Whether you're looking for private lessons, want to bring Kayley to your organization, or are interested in an Alaska workshop experience — reach out and let's talk. All pricing is based on format, location, and group size.
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