This review is based on my experience with the instructional classes at the studio. I'm not an artist but I strive to live in touch with creativity. For a long time, I've made art but struggled with feeling like what I was doing was really creative. Michael, the owner and instructor at the studio, has transformed the way I think about the creative process through the avenue of figure drawing. His classes are the most meaningful part of my week. If you're looking for an instructional class focused on technique for drawing more accurately, this may not be the right place for you. Instead, the classes offer a new connected way of living--engaged with beauty both around you and internal to you. So much of the class is about unlearning not just how you draw but also how you value the creative process. It is the most challenging class I've ever taken and there's no amount of brute force I can apply to get it other than trusting the process and the instructor. Nonetheless, as frustrating as it is, there's nothing else I do that is more rewarding. It takes a lot of effort to strip away your aesthetic value system to get at the core of what you find beautiful, but if the result is a more meaningful existence, then that investment is priceless. Some practical aspects of the instructional sessions. Michael strives to provide only the best models to inspire you not to capture their poses but to feel something in yourself. The medium is stick charcoal and newsprint is available cheaply at the studio. The class is a lengthy commitment of 20 weeks of three-hour sessions but is highly structured and builds on successive lessons. Michael also allows you to make-up classes. Although there is a high upfront cost, for the hours of instruction and model time spread out over the weeks, it's a steal. read more

Excellent in all ways: location, furniture, back up supplies, equipment, atmosphere and, especially, the models.

23rd Street - Michael's studio is the best. Amazing models and a wonderful cohort of artist dedicated to drawing the human figure. A great place fospace for careful observation. His class is also unique. More about intrinsic creativity and uncovering and releasing your biases and conventions. Some "drawing" instruction but that's not the focus. Taught me to see what I was really doing and changed the way I draw. Robert Irwin said "Seeing if forgetting the name of the thing one sees." Come to forget labels and names - learn to see again. The negative reviews are from folks who didn't understand what Michael is trying to teach. Just had the wrong expectations which is odd since he is very clear that his is not a traditional drawing class. I can't recommend the 23rd Street Studio more highly. read more

23rd Street Studio - The Studio. - Art Schools Near Me - San Francisco, California

This class is so much more than a drawing class, if you take the instructional class, that is. If you want to learn how to "draw well," which to you means you draw things in a way that looks realistic and is just a copy of what you see, then do NOT take this class. If you want to open yourself up to seeing the world differently, to become more in tune with how you experience it and develop your own unique taste in creative expression, then you should DEFINITELY take this class. Michael is a master at showing you how to deconstruct perception -- how you see and react to what you see. He then goes on to guide you through exercises and methods to keep you engaged with your experience and your expression. He does this over a course of 6 months, through a curriculum he has adjusted and fine tuned for the 30+ years he has taught here. This is an incredible class that, if you let it, could change the way you think about creativity, art, and your life. Michael takes this class seriously. If you take it and take it seriously too, then I promise you will get so much out of it. If you don't, you will probably get frustrated. Though if you're not interested in the instructional class, the non-instructional class is great too! It's the best figure drawing space -- the studio is cozy and intimate and Michael does as much as he can to make students comfortable. I also really appreciate how well he treats the models. He prioritizes their comfort and safety, and always lets them choose the music too. It's awesome. Whenever I hear that any of my friends want to take an art class, I recommend this one strongly. If life feels dreary and uninspiring, or if you want to tune back in with your inner artist child (when you DGAF what anyone thought of how you did visual expression) then take this class. Do it. read more

Michael's drawing studio is a wonderful place to focus on the craft, explore personal artistic expressions, and feel connected with an intimate community. I've been going to the non-instructional drawing sessions for a year. It's been the best decision I've made outside of my 9 to 5 professional life. Michael is a wonderful host. He's welcoming, friendly, and detailed oriented. The drawing sessions are always well run and organized. I also loved that in the non-instructional sessions, people draw or paint using a wide range of mediums, from charcoal, watercolor, pastels, to Sumi ink. It's always inspiring seeing the creations of others in the same room. Highly recommend to get on the studio mailing lists and drop in. read more

I never thought I'd find myself in a drawing class where I learn more about myself than I do about "drawing". This class is out of sight. Michael's passion, wit, and honesty are out of sight. I cannot recommend this enough to anyone and everyone. But whenever I try to get a friend to come along, they always get hung up because they don't see themselves as people who draw. This class is not about learning how to draw. It is about using drawing as a context and opportunity to explore our creative potential. It's not easy, but it can be quite fun and rewarding once you start to relax and open up. I am astonished when I look at my personal evolution over the past 16 months, and I cannot wait to see what happens next. I feel as if I could let anything happen ;) read more

I've been attending the non-instructional sessions for the past 12 weeks. The studio is great. There's plenty of benches, table top space, and easels to choose from. It's clean and well lit. You can borrow a board and buy newsprint easily. The models are all fantastic. Cannot recommend this studio more if you enjoy figure drawing. read more

I first started drawing at the 23rd Street Studio back in January, 2012. After taking the course five times, I left to find myself as an artist. I'm by no means successful, as an artist or otherwise, but I feel content with what I've put into life. I've danced five or six nights a week for many of those years, and helped bring a small five person medical-tech startup to series B. I traveled abroad in my acroyoga training. In the course of my dance training, I became close to how another side of America lived -- a side without a college education -- and in that way, brought back, from a distance, to the sacrifices my parents made to get me to where I am. I have a therapist now, and a therapy group too, after all the shenanigans I've been through. For those of you who are Asian and male, I've had a sexual empowerment coach -- no small thing to take a shot at if you're one of us. I've found myself revisiting the studio, after going forth through the world -- coming back to all these paradoxes that've entailed the creative process. *How do we hold critical depth in a supportive environment?* How do we reconcile the learning and development of technique, but without becoming slave to it? -- without becoming automatons to control, routine, and structure? *What is connection anyway?* Why is it so elusive? Alain de Botton once noted that we aren't happy because we seek what is familiar, and avoid what is uncomfortable. And then somehow, with charcoal and newsprint, all these things play out on the page. We draw, we draw from life, we make an etched record that only you (as the maker of your own marks and drawings) can really, truly understand. It is etched in a way that cannot be covered over or lied to because the creative process cannot be so easily subverted. Michael teaches this class with charcoal and newsprint, not merely to make it simple and accessible, but to peel it all back to its raw and free essence. How can we be happy? How do we hold with the inner critic? And what do we hold back? What would you hold back from your loved ones, and what would you let go in front of strangers, or in writing, or on the blank sheet of paper? What is it that grasping for programs, rules, and answers? How can we come back into the world after it has worn us down? *What is real??* It's a deep and layered class that's taught at the 23rd Street Studio, but it is a master class that's somehow sublimely easy to set oneself into -- one worth journeying or re-journeying at the various inflections of our creative endeavor. But for deity's sake, don't take this class if you only want to learn how to draw! read more

Just what I was looking for. Michael's studio creates an environment that allows me to explore and create without feeling self-conscious. No matter how much experience I have, I alway feel a little intimidated when walking into a new studio. The lighting and models are excellent, the space well maintained and inviting. In addition to sessions with shorter poses about once a month there is a session with long poses which I always try to attend. The rule about no cell phones is a good one. No model should have to worry about being surreptitiously photographed. Any artist who has a problem with that policy needs to rethink their priorities. read more

My experience was identical to review by Beth. I was exhausted by Michael's excessive talking and his lacerating "instruction." Very disappointed bcause I now live in the neighborhood. The space and models get 5 stars read more

I took the 22-week drawing class and had mixed feelings. I ended up not finishing the 22 weeks because I felt a bit of dread continuing to go on Sunday afternoons. I wanted to write a review because I know there were several people in my class who had similar feelings and thought potential students should be aware of alternative takes on the experience. Michael is a great artist and brings in talented models and plays great music. Many of his exercises in the drawing class are useful. They helped me work on my processes for being creative and break old habits. However, the class, which lasts 22 weeks, became painful to attend after a while. He was trying to break people of their old habits of sketching and outlining, which we all understood. But he often did this by screaming at us and belittling us. In beginning I could understand his approach. As the class went on, though, his manner was not helpful. I remember one particular day when he berated us for almost 40 minutes about how we weren't finding our inner creativity to draw and were following old habits. Well, someone yelling at you for 40 minutes certainly won't help. It made me feel like he was using shock treatment therapy to help us be creative. Hello! He also clearly showed favoritism towards certain students and a dislike for others, which many teachers do. You can tell where I was on that scale. ;} Either way, I would check out the class first before paying the full $500. I know several students stopped going (me being one of them) and probably didn't get their money back. I didn't bother asking so I don't know if he gives refunds if you end up not liking the teaching methodology. I would ask to pay for each session as you go along just in case you end up like me, dreading spending your Sunday afternoons in his class. read more

I am a student at 23rd St. Studio, and so this is a review of Michael's class, as opposed to the non-instructional figure drawing sessions. That said, Michael has a knack for finding beautiful and dynamic models (usually dancers), and the space itself is cozy, so I don't doubt the free drawing sessions are worth their relatively modest price. Put simply, I whole-heartedly recommend Michael's class, with the caveat that it's not for everyone. Fortunately Michael feels the same way, and encourages drop-ins. If you're on the fence, consider that the class is currently $475 for 22 weeks, which would be a good deal for that caliber figure modeling without instruction (materials costs are trivial). Lacking in Michael's instruction is any formalized system of drafting. Though the class welcomes beginners, you will never compose a figure using simple geometric shapes or learn to eyeball proportions with a pencil. Rather, Michael believes the best art comes from a more instinctual place, akin to "being in the zone" as an athlete. He points out that our eyes scan and process tremendous amounts of information faster than we can consciously process it, and that to do so is to disrupt our innate ability to resolve things like proportions, and also that over-thinking impedes our emotional connection to the drawing and subject. At least, this is my take on Michael's philosophy. Michael's artwork--which draws many students to his class--is a combination of hyper-realistic drafting and Pollack-esque abstraction. His work is powerful, and more importantly doesn't adhere to a particular formula (though he has a distinctive voice). Though Michael has decades of experience as an artist, I am convinced his class is a shortcut to creating realistic and expressive drawings, provided you are willing to put up with some initial frustration (it's easier, after all, to work using a system of clearly defined rules). read more

I was quite surprised by a poor review of 23rd Street Studios on 7-26-2015. The reviewer said that he was told that the policy is no earbuds , and that the drawing station was dirty. Regarding ear buds, the owner has put in place the rule about cell phones and ear buds because the models have requested it. There have been occurrences (especially in art school settings and other venues) of students or other attendees surreptitiously taking photos of the models. I am the organizer for another drawing group, and we also have a similar rule regarding cell phones. Generally, most people have their music on their cell phones, so the owner at 23rd St Studios is simply taking precautions to ensure that the model is not photographed on the sly. He is very fair and consistent in applying the rule. In order to get the best models to work at a studio, the models need to feel comfortable and safe. This is why I believe the cell phone/earbud music rule is appropriate. A reviewer said that the cost is too high...I have been to numerous drawing groups in the area, and his fee is very comparable to other groups. This rate is necessary if you want to afford to book experienced and imaginative, dynamic models. I've been coming to 23rd Street Studios for several years, and it is one of the best drawing studios around. I find that it is much cleaner than the other venues where I have drawn. I have never found dirt, charcoal or grime on the drawing surfaces. Michael, the owner, also supplies drawing boards of all sizes, well lit drawing stations, and every spot in the room has a good view of the model stand. The models are top notch, creative and hardworking. I've recommended this venue to many of my artist friends and acquaintances. read more

I've only been once, but I'll review it anyway! The guy who runs it, Michael, is an incredible, incredible draftsman. His work is so unique, and he makes it look effortless. Overall, I actually was impressed with a lot of the people who were there. But really, you don't go to look at other people's work, so you? I just want to go, put on my headphones, draw, and be left alone. This was a little too 'cozy' to do that. Everyone seemed to know one another really well, making me feel very much like an outsider. The model rocked, she had such a great muscular body. But I found the poses too short. Then in the middle, we took a break and went into the kitchen to sit around and eat cookies or something. I'm sorry, but for the price (which was the highest one I've ever paid) I expect to draw A LOT more than we did. And the music... we listened to some kind of Andean flute music or something. The whole experience was a little too hippy-dippy for me. I found that Michael talked to me like I was a child when I had to do something like ask where the bathroom was. I mean, I'm not psychic. So 3 stars. Not a terrible place, just not what I was looking for. read more

I was a excited and a little nervous to do a drop-in to a studio that allowed me to get back into figure drawing. Invited by a friend to participate with a unified group who studied in different mediums from charcoal to chalk, from pencil to digital all from different skill levels. It was three hours of meditative drawing each from 1 minute practice sketches, a few minutes...then twenty minutes to really put forth an effort. The instructor played good music in the background and a comfortable model to focus on different poses. It was a place that I could go to improve upon my own personal skill level. read more

This drawing studio is the Cadillac of studios. The artists are all very kind, polite, and the atmosphere is friendly. Michael upholds high standards to ensure the model's comfort: the music is always the model's choice, there is a generous break in the session for everyone to rest, socialize, have a snack and tell jokes....in this way, Michael is creating community. As a model, I don't have the perspective of the artist in these drawing groups. But I get the sense that artists who enjoy a creative and well maintained art space are happy to abide by rules/reasonable requests. I personally do better work when all agree on the basics during the session: I am more relaxed and offer a much higher quality of poses I consider myself a world-class model, and this is a world-class venue. All that said, tipping should be encouraged. read more

I have been going to this studio for nearly 3 years. The space and lighting are amazing and there is just a warm feeling about the place that really makes you feel at home! The models are all outstanding, all dancers or performers with great stage presence. Michael, the owner, is an inspiring example of a lifetime dedicated to drawings and art and his example keeps me on track with consistently following my personal art research. He also offers hot teas and cakes every session which make it even more enjoyable! Definitely recommend it. P.s. Obviously you cannot have your iPhone out during the sessions in order to protect the models from unauthorized pictures. read more

I came to Michael's studio for the first time shortly after moving to San Francisco. I had a hard time adjusting to the city and everything about it. I remember that night Dountes, one of the fantastic male models, was posing and Michael was playing Philip Glass' Trilogy and Anais Mitchell's Hadestown. Then the break - in Michael's kitchen, over the freshly baked cake and talking to him other students - it all fell like suddenly falling through the rabbit hole and finding myself in a completely different San Francisco, warm, artistic, and beautiful. Since then, I've been drawing at Michael's studio five times per week, in non-instructional and instructional classes, and both are very special. Someone in the reviews said it's a Caddilac of the studios, and I wholeheartedly agree. I have also not seen even the slightest indication of belittling students, favoritism, or anything that would take away from experience. I don't think the studio would flourish for 20+ years if that was anywhere near the truth. read more

This studio has got to be one of the best places in the Bay Area to practice figure drawing. As a former art major, I had been craving a new environment to draw great models, and Michael provides only the best. Along with this roster of world-class models, the 23rd Street Studio offers a roomy drawing space, dramatic lighting, eclectic music, and a long break during which artists are free to chat, review movies, tell dirty jokes, sip tea, and eat cake. ...But... did I mention the models?? Their beauty? Their skills? Their grace? Their unending repertoire of poses? Go for the models, stay for the cake. read more

Michael is a wonderful artist and the models are incredible. The studio's ambiance enables artists to get into their zone and create beautiful artwork. read more

This is my peaceful place. I took Michael's uninstructed course back to back for years until my job became too demanding -- am trying to get it to fit back into my schedule! It kept me sane no matter how crazy a week I was having. Michael's studio, his chosen models, the communal break time... everything is so wonderful, professional, and friendly. Great mix of models, each with their own approach to the figure. I love that the models tend to choose the music that is played; this forces me out of my comfort zone and encourages me to open up to new feelings a new track may illicit through my drawing. I only took one instructed course (while I was deciding which track to sign up for) and it was also outstanding: Michael's approach to teaching figure drawing was exactly what I had been searching for. If you are looking to break bad drawing habits (terrible anime in high school, anyone?) and push yourself hard, this is the place for you. I would recommend 23rd Street Studio to anyone looking to carve out some "me time" and practice their craft. I hope to be back soon. read more

A gem for artists in beautiful Noe Valley. Easy parking or easy access via public transportation. Michael runs a very professional and collegial studio with fantastic models. Always inspiring to draw here. read more

Everything about this space is as good as you can imagine. Comfortable drawing spaces, warm lighting, great models, a nice "homey" atmosphere, classic music from all kinds of genres... If you are looking to get back into drawing from the live model or a perfect space to continue your practice, you've got to give this place a shot! read more

Wonderful (and wonderfully comfortable) drawing furniture of every imaginable kind, beautiful, clear lighting, and great -- really great-- models. Speaking of models, Michael (the proprietor) makes a point of treating models particularly well, which makes for loyalty and professionalism you may not find elsewhere. An example? The model always picks the music. Thus you are as likely to hear Bjork as the Beatles, and you have a good chance of hearing music you've never heard before -- a side benefit, maybe, but models have exposed me to more great music than any other profession I can think of. If you want to stay in a rut, this is not the place to go. But if you want to meet some really interesting -- often very funny-- people (there's a 15 or 20 minute break; not only does Michael provide varied refreshments, but other artists often bring food too), see some really good work, and get exposed to something new, music included, this is THE place to go. read more

Fifty years of devotion to the figure and Michael's life-drawing space far exceeds any other I have attended and I feel blessed every week that I am able to draw here! The models are extraordinary, expressive, powerful, beautiful, spirited; the music quality and range also stellar, sessions are hugely benefited by Michael's background organization and consistency. The lighting on the stage is gorgeous and there are ropes and structures that help the models move into and hold poses that often leave us stunned, moved, grateful and amazed. Michael is also constantly tinkering with the space to make it ever more user-friendly; many stations are equipped with our own personal illumination for our boards, cushions for our seats, extra boards and paper if you need to travel light across town. Any week where I do not get to this studio is an impoverished week; get yourself here. read more

Michael Markowitz isn't really much of a "teacher." He's far more effective and inspiring than that, Michael Markowitz is a catalyst. He's going to kindly ask that you put all of your pretensions and expectations aside, and that you push yourself out of your usual habits. I promise you that if you just trust him, you will grow tremendously. The models are beautiful, as is the studio. You aren't going to find a better figure drawing studio in the state of California, or in the United States for that matter. I came to Michael at the malleable age of 16, and he is the very reason why I was able to get a scholarship to the #1 ranked painting and drawing program in the country. I can tell you from experience that what I learned from Michael's studio will never amount to any number of 3500$ college class that I've taken here. I've walked out of several figure drawing groups here in Chicago, as none of them were as stimulating 23rd street. I know that I am one of many people who have left Michael's studio and felt this way. The way I feel in Michael's class is a kind of intuitive euphoria, something that I can never get to in the dry and sterile environments I've found here. It's been a real privilege to be around such an incredible studio, and an incredible person. I would recommend this class to the young and the old, and certainly either the novice or experienced. read more

I have been taking Michael's figure drawing instruction classes for over 2 years now. I recommend the classes for several reasons which I'll describe below. But first -- there is a review below that has a very unfair assessment of Michael. It describes him as "screaming at us and belittling us." I am certain this is an inconsiderate exaggeration. Michael does what a good teacher should do, he challenges students to grow, he holds students accountable, but he does not belittle or berate his students, nor has he ever come close to screaming at anyone in any of the 66+ classes I've taken there. Michael is a very dedicated and experienced teacher. He is passionate about the creative process and art, and also passionate about teaching. He thrives on encouraging students' curiosity, growth, participation in the class, and the explorations of topics that the class covers. His teaching methods are unorthodox and the classes can seem somewhat difficult to grasp at first, but take it from someone who has stuck with it for several years, my drawings are vastly more interesting than when I started. More importantly though, Michael has helped me cultivate a love for the process of art-making, and for exploring creative expression in all aspects of my life. The studio itself is his home, and it feels like a home. He welcomes us into his kitchen with tea and cakes during every class break, and we sit comfortably discussing topics from art, to creativity, to perception, to beauty, and on and on. My classmates have become my friends, and I look forward to seeing them each week. I've gone to other drawing studios, worked with other teachers, and drawn other models, and few compare to 23rd Street Studio. Michael carefully chooses the models, and they are always inspiring and exciting to draw with dynamic and unique poses. If you want to really explore what is possible for creating art, or even just living a more inspired and curious life then I think you should give Michael's class a chance. You'll need to be a willing student, eager to learn and willing to suspend your disbelief at first. But give him a bit of trust and before long you'll begin to see the wisdom that he's gained in his 20+ years of teaching, and how it can help you become a better artist and even perhaps a better person. read more

I had the good fortune of discovering Michael's teaching studio way back in 1995. Yes, he's been in the same location in Noe Valley offering classes for decades, because he is a very talented artist and instructor - he is a guide to discovering your art. The experience of taking his class is different for everyone, because it depends on what you bring to it and invest in it. For me, it is a difficult process - a practice that is akin to working out at the gym - you may not enjoy every minute of it; some of it is excruciating, but the results of investing in yourself are worth it. I had a very long gap from my first term in 1995 to when I returned to the practice two years ago. I was so grateful to find that Michael still offered his passionate guidance, amazing models (!!!), awesome studio space, eclectic music, and the ritual of gathering everyone in his kitchen for a mid-class break with tea and cake. During the time I was away, I tried several other instructors and non-instruction classes in Santa Cruz and Palo Alto, but found them all to be "this is how to draw" type classes with rigid methodologies, teachers who were bored, and models who were listless and unengaged. Michael's class is the exact opposite - and he encourages you to develop your own style, not to copy him or anyone else. I have read the other reviews for Michael's class, and must point out that I have never observed Michael screaming at or belitting anyone - that would be appalling to me and I wouldn't take a class with an instructor who conducted themselves in such a manner. I have found Michael to respectfully challenge me and engage other students in thoughtful and spirited conversation. Of course, everyone is entitled to their opinion, but to describe his method as "shock treatment" is an extreme exaggeration that paints an innaccurate picture of the class. Lastly, I must also point out that the cost of Michael's class is such a bargain! $500 for the entire term of 22 classes, each 3 hours, is around $25/class! I have also noticed that he is open to people dropping in for a class to give it a try - people at all levels of ability or complete novices. If you are considering it, go for it - I know you will be welcomed! read more

I am grateful for being able to so quickly find a place to draw when visiting San Francisco, however as soon as I arrived the owner quickly pulled me aside and told me that listening to music with earbuds was strictly forbidden -- a first for me in well over 20 studios across the world. Had this been a silent studio during light hours this would have made sense, but it was at 8pm and the owner blasted music and had quite an ego to him. Compound the facts that the drawing stations were quite dirty with charcoal, and a relatively high entrance cost and I am absolutely unable to recommend this location to any serious artist, or really anyone in general. I seriously considered not paying, it was that bad. read more

I have participated in two 22-week instructional courses here and I couldn't recommend them highly enough. They really helped me grow as an artist and a person and to approach the creative process in a more open, responsive way. I completely disagree with the comment that Michael is belittling of his students. On the contrary, Michael is incredibly supportive and CHALLENGES his students to push outside their comfort zones and habits of drawing. This can be difficult at times--real learning and growth always is--but it is well worth the effort. Also, the models here are incredible and extraordinarily generous in what they offer you visually and emotionally. Don't know what I mean? Drop-in on a class and you'll immediately see the difference! read more

Working with Michael in his wonderful atelier is not for the faint of heart. It is for the adventurous and those with a willing curiosity. At every opportunity, Michael will turn your focus away from your "skill" and aim it at your experience of the model and the moment. The ambiance is lovely, the fellow students interesting and very engaged, and the models are of incredible calibre. read more

I have now been attending classes at the Studio for about five years and would like to state for the record that I have never heard Michael scream at or belittle a student or anything close to it. I can't recommend highly enough trying a class here. I can honestly say that taking Michael's classes have changed my life in a very positive way. Michael does not teach drawing but rather encourages you to open up to a new way of seeing and being. Michael is one of the most passionate teachers I have had the pleasure of coming across. read more

Walking into Michael's studio feels a little like going through the wardrobe into Narnia. Yes, it's a beautiful house that's been lovingly renovated to make room for a model's stage and art supplies, and yes, it's nicer than anything I will ever be able to afford in San Francisco. But it also feels subtly enchanted. Maybe it's the lighting, which somehow makes everything and everyone look a little more beautiful than usual. Maybe it's the smell of the cake and tea Michael prepares for a break in the middle of each class, or the fantastic models, or the warm and loyal community of artists and students that Michael has cultivated over the years. And surrounding all these things, there's a sense of possibility in the studio that improves my day whenever I walk in. Whether you want to create beautiful artwork, or use the process of creating art to understand something about yourself and your life, you will be supported here. read more

In 15 years of modeling on both coasts and abroad, Markowitz' studio has been the most nourishing, fun, inspiring studio I've worked at. When modeling for his teaching classes, I always get wisdom I can apply to the modeling itself, to the creative process across media, and to Life. Michael creates a space ~ through music, lighting, available props, and a sense of community ~ that brings out the best in models and artists alike. read more

Going to the figure drawing class at this well appointed studio is often the highlight of my week. Michael has honed this process to create the best experience possible for everyone involved. Live models, always good, great music playing in the background, a snack & tea break. Maybe best of all, a room full of kindred spirits completely engaged in their own creative process. Check it out. read more

Love love love love love. What an incredible space to draw and make art in. The models are all great and Michael is an amazing Artist to work with. read more

I truly enjoy studying with Michael Markowitz. While I am in awe of Michael's art, I am also in awe of what I learn about myself when studying with Michael. Michael is an artist with immense passion and talent. I'm very thankful that he opens up his studio, guidance and art to share with others. The studio itself evokes inspiration and community and Michael truly cares about his students, encourages camaraderie, supporting the local arts and causes. I often think of the lessons learned in Michael class and apply them to my art as well as my everyday life -whether its an important decision or even a turn on the ski slopes! For me, Michael's class is like therapy - demanding yet truly rewarding and therapeutic. I especially love the warm baked cake and hot tea breaks, the class discussions, the amazing models and the enhanced relationship I continue to develop with my art as a result of Michael's class. read more

Michael Markowitz is a master drawing teacher. In his studio, equipped with gorgeous music and exquisit models, he creates an atmosphere that compels me to see and draw better than I would anywhere else. His forte is to get me to think and uncover what is blocking my connection to myself and my creativity. I began his figure drawing class as an absolute beginner, expecting to learn the rules of form, composition and perspective. I learned all of this, but only indirectly. His exercises are never laborious or tedious, his exercises taught me to see from levels I did not know existed and, before I knew it, I was making beautiful and original drawings that were deeply connected to myself and the world I live in. I cannot recommend him and his figure drawing studio enough read more

Having drawn and modeled all over North America and Mexico over the last 15years, I can with all honesty say that the 23rd Street Studio has been by far my favorite experience. Michael creates a wonderful, comfortable and creative atmosphere with great music, tasty treats and extremely talented models. I have been drawing and modeling at this studio for 6 years now, mostly in the non-instructional groups, but having sat in on his instructed groups as well, I can testify to the uniqueness and power of Michael's teaching style. I would highly recommend this studio to artists as well as models, and I will continue to be a part of this community as long as I live in the bay area. read more

After approximately 54 weeks of taking classes at 23rd Street I will say that I will always consider myself Michael's student. I started as a total beginner with only one previous art class of 6 weeks under my belt, a lot of fear that "I can't draw", and a basket load of other worries that now when I remember them only serve as proof that fear and worry are better left to the rearview mirror. I learned that in Michaels drawing class. Also I learned to do what pleases me, to change what doesn't and to be my own judge of it. This was not as much a class to learn to draw, although I did learn that too. But what I learned at the lovely 23rd Street studio that was much more valuable was to become an artist. This semester I can't attend because I'll be out of town but I will be back again. Tuesday nights became like a practice, like yoga, that really doesn't need to end. Like another reviewer said its a place where you meet friends that are like minded and have best wishes for everyones progress. The models are amazing (and they pick great music for us), its a great vibe and something I always look forward to as part of my week. Jeesh, I think I need a dropin fix! I highly recommend this class, 5 stars. read more