Testimonials...
Although I was only in this class for a few months, the one hour a day I had to create art was possibly my favorite hour of my day, even after being loaded with assignments and stressed with school, I knew that after lunch I would be able to go to art class and have an hour in my 24 hours a day to simply draw, paint, color- whatever I chose to do, and sit and be in peace with my art, no other worries but expressing myself through the art, and the only words I would hear during that hour was the wonderful music that would be played. I am so glad that I got to participate in this class and I'm excited for advanced art next year!"
sent on June 7, 2023
Being in Mr. Black's class has really allowed me to let go of being perfect or not. Creating art for school is abundantly different than creating for myself or social media. There isn’t really a standard for how well I have to perform when I'm at school; at least it doesn’t feel like it, compared to social media. In art class, however, I can let go. This allowed me to really improve this year, in my opinion. To be able to copy from a still life, or whatever I see, and put it onto paper helped me tons, and I definitely feel an improvement with my art.
Mr. Black’s enthusiasm also makes me feel safe and welcome there. You can tell he has a real love for art and knows what it can do. Sometimes I see types of art explained, like surrealism, and I see it get lost on my peers. I see that he is working so hard to help people see why art is so important to our world and I hope he knows I see him and I see the love he has for his students. Thanks to him I discovered more about myself as well and got into a new medium. I just bought a watercolor set today !"
sent on June 6, 2023
So blessed to know you and grow in life. You gave me a therapy I can never repay you for. Art is my escape & love. Seeing art in a different way, Listening to music (in class) & enjoying the Rhythm. You're the best!!! You have taught me so much. I appreciate you and hope you have a blessed year changing lives." - Jami, former student
sent on October 20, 2022
This was my first time taking a summer school class and it was much better than I had imagined it to be. This class helped me be productive during times where there isn’t much that I can do at home. It gave me a reason to push myself and test my own creativity. This led to me having a new appreciation for art and the people that make it. It also led me to like making my own art a lot more. The class was very fun and I appreciated all of the assignments that not only taught me basic understandings of art and honed my skills, but were also fun to create. This class made me want to do art on my own time and push myself to display what’s in my mind. Most of all I like the atmosphere of the online class. We were taught the basic principle of what we were doing and then most of the time we could do the projects in our own way and style, which was super cool. The music while working was a nice touch and made me feel productive. Mr. Black was very understanding, good at teaching, patient and overall a very funny person to be taught by. Overall I had a very good summer school experience while taking this class and I hope that others are much like it."
sent on July 9, 2020
My time in this art class has been very fun and educational. I have learned in many ways how to improve my art skills. Although stippling was time-consuming it has taught me how I can shade in pen and create something beautiful. Learning about touch shadows helped my watercolor paintings and pencil drawings to have more definition of the objects. Learning how to make a variety of different colors with red, yellow, and blue amazed me. Also, learning monochromatic scales with just two colors was very surprising; when I created the monochromatic still life, it made me want to do more monochromatic pieces. Having projects like the movie poster, album cover design, and book cover design was a very creative process. Mr. Black has been very helpful and funny in making this class upbeat, while also learning new techniques during this time, and I’m glad I was able to take this class for my freshman year this summer."
sent on July 10, 2020
I want to thank you for making this summer school course thoroughly enjoyable. Even though we had to attend virtually, it was quite a good experience and I’m really happy I chose to take this class. Your energy is still very present and captured through the computer screen, I wish we could’ve taken this class in person but it was still great having you as my art teacher. Thank you SO much!"
sent on July 10, 2020
Overall, these few weeks in summer school have been a great experience for me. I started the class having no interest in art at all, but soon began to see that there is so much that you can do with art and it’s much more than just drawing. This class was truly very fun and definitely the most enjoyable class I have taken. Not to mention you are for sure the coolest, most kind teacher I have ever had. I love that you always have a positive attitude even when something went wrong (technology/internet connection). You never failed to make me smile especially when you would turn on some music and sing and dance. It just always put me in a good mood. Hopefully when we go back to school I can see you in the halls and say hi. Thank you for an amazing class, Mr. Black!"
sent on July 10, 2020
I’m glad I took this art class; I had a bunch of fun learning art. I think Mr. Black does a fantastic job at teaching us and making it fun and interesting at the same time. I learned many different ways of art. From shading to watercolor, to drawing faces to stipple, and shading with ink. I also learned how to use CANVAS, which is gonna benefit me for when we go back to school, since we are going to be using that [online platform].
Thank you Mr. Black, for being a great teacher."
sent on July 10, 2020
Summer school has definitely been interesting this year, considering the situation we are in, and doing it online. The summer school experience was nice and pretty simple. I do wish that summer school actually was at school because my friends who have taken it in the school year and last year for summer school tell me the fun activities and additional projects that are usually done, so it is unfortunate we all missed out. Mr. Black, you are also super nice and funny and I love watching you jam out to your awesome DJ music, and jamming out with you, even though it is on a computer screen. You also look insanely like my favorite uncle who passed away in December 2019 and it honestly just gives me really good vibes."
sent on July 10, 2020
This class has been super fun and I have enjoyed it very much. I'm going to miss it and Mr. Black. He is an amazing, funny teacher that has actually made me want to paint and draw. I know it was online but he still managed to make seem like if we were right there in the classroom. I hope I can get another class with him."
sent on July 10, 2020
Dear Mr Black, I hope one day we could meet you in person. You were so passionate, motivational. amazing and enthusiastic in your online Art class. I am so happy that my son took your class. He invested his Summer in a great class. He had fun and he learned so much about art. You did an excellent job. "
sent on July 10, 2020
This awesome class has definitely made me learn to appreciate art more. Mr. Black has taught me a lot, how to shade, how to properly use watercolor, etc. I learned other stuff too though, like that art isn't just something to make your room look pretty or something to do when one gets bored. Mr. Black taught me that art is much more than that, that many people use it to express themselves, to show how or what they feel, what goals they might have, or maybe even to send a powerful message. From the bottom of my heart, thank you Mr. Black, for letting me experience this awesome, wonderful course."
sent on July 10, 2020
My experience in this art class has been incredible. I particularly appreciate the individual comments when turning in art. I feel that the environment Mr. Black has created is safe and because of his happy attitude students really get to enjoy themselves. The music he plays during direct instruction is helpful in creating that environment. Overall my experience in this art class has been phenomenal."
sent on July 10, 2020
Although I don’t want to specialize in art, I definitely can use art in the medical field. Me, wanting to be a nurse when I’m older, I can use art to help a patient's narrative of his/her symptoms. It also can make children feel more comfortable and happy in the hospital. All in all I have learned so much in this class that I can use in the future and just for fun, too. I’ve never really have been “artistic” and Mr. Black really helped me with drawing and really helped me learn so much. Mr. Black has really brought such a great, positive vibe to this class and made it seem as normal as he could in this not-normal time. Thank you Mr. Black, for always being so happy and making this summer school experience amazing! I truly loved being in your class because of your energetic and positive personality. Thank you again and I hope to see you during the school year!!!"
sent on July 10, 2020
This class was fun and I learned a lot more about art and myself in general. This class inspired a passion within me that I did not know I had. All of the different types of mediums and techniques to make art were really interesting to me. Also, the way we communicated online and made art together using technology made it very informative, as we had abundant resources provided by our teacher, and could always ask for help, even outside of school hours."
sent on July 10, 2020
Thank you so much for being an awesome teacher Mr. Black. I loved the class and definitely learned a lot! I feel a lot more confident in my artistic abilities now."
sent on July 10, 2020
I just wanted to thank you for all the work and effort you put into this class. I had fun and really enjoyed this class in this short time period. It was a nice way to pass the time in quarantine."
sent on July 9, 2020
I had a great time with Mr. Black during summer school 2020. I initially was so stressed about this class because art has never been my forte. However, Mr. Black's persistent smile, support, encouragement, help, and advice has helped me thrive in this class. There were many times I felt discouraged as I felt I could not complete a task that was assigned. Yet, Mr. Black sent encouraging messages in the Zoom group chat during our Direct Instruction, took time to look over our work and tell us what to do more or less, and understood that we were not all professional artists. I am deeply saddened that I do not attend San Dimas High School and will not see Mr. Black as often. However, it has been a pleasure and an honor to work under him and learn from him."
sent on July 9, 2020
I would be more than happy to explain my time being taught by Mr. Black. I have learned so much about art and the art world that I have never even thought existed before and that is all thanks to him. I have also had actual fun in a class that I haven't experienced since my elementary days. Even with lag and disconnection, (online course), Mr. Black still comes back into class every day with a smiling face and it is so encouraging to see that. His positive attitude is a huge factor in my performance in this class. He truly cares about his students and I love it. Mr. Black easily, and I truly mean easily, makes it to one of, if not the best, teacher I have ever had. I am so fortunate to get such an amazing teacher in such troubling times. Thank you Mr. Black, for coming in everyday with the same encouraging smiling face."
sent on July 9, 2020
Art is not just some habit that people like to do, it’s a way for artists to express their feelings, their work and what they are trying to advocate to the public, to make changes in their moods and actions. Art challenges society because it tests what people know.
Art is very important to me in my future as I can use it as a hobby to make myself at peace and hopefully, with more practice, even sell my own pieces. By practicing art in the future, I will be able to be at harmony with my emotions and express what I am feeling willingly in my art."
sent on July 12, 2019
This summer in art class has been very surprising. Coming into the class I did not know what to expect. I enjoy art and creative expression but a class is completely different than doing doodles in my math notebook. In just the past five weeks I have learned many new skills and techniques that I would have never known otherwise. I would have never been able to do anything like this without the help of this class. It taught me how to better draw facial details and use different values. Another way this class has benefited me is introducing me to graphic design. I really enjoyed making movie posters, candy wrappers and travel flyers and it made me realize I may consider a career in this type of art in the future. Being able to use technology helped me with these projects and many others by giving me access to ideas and information on other artists. Overall the last five weeks in this class has taught me a lot and introduced me to many new things and I am so glad I took it."
sent on July 11, 2019
Thanks to my parents and teacher Mr. Black for constantly supporting my development as an artist, Thank you to my wife for all her patience; support; and spaghetti-love you, To my childhood friends from SD; thanks for all the memories that inspired much of what I put into this game."
- Adam Ybarra, Class of 2008, Concept Artist, "Borderlands 3" by Gearbox, 2019
Dear Mr. Black, I am so very happy that my grandson has had the opportunity to learn from you. He has grown so much since starting art with you. His work is remarkable to us and we thank you for your dedication to teaching. Please continue the good work.
- Licensed Educational Psychologist, former teacher and most importantly, grandmother"
sent on May 19, 2019
I just want to say thank you for all you do , you are an Inspiration to our children. You are positive, and the kids love you . They have nothing but good things to say about you. Thank you!"
sent on May 2, 2019
Thanks so much for everything that you do. My daughter has always loved drawing and has the most fun in art class. Thank you for making her high school experience much more meaningful and rewarding. You are a fantastic teacher!"
sent on May 2, 2019
Thank you for being a great teacher to my nephew, he loves your class."
sent on May 2, 2019
Learning to take risks and venture out of my comfort zone when creating art is one of the many things I have learned during this class. Within these five weeks, I have also learned many things about myself. I have always loved the arts, but this class showed me that I could possibly have a future as a designer. I'm not going to lie, when I chose this as my summer school class, it was just to get the credit out of the way. However, reflecting back on these last weeks, I have realized that the knowledge, friendships, and love of art I have gained is something I couldn't have achieved in any other class. I have learned to challenge myself, and that an art piece can always improve."
sent on July 13, 2018
All I want to say is Thank you, Mr.Black, for being a great teacher. I got a lot of experience from this class and it is a
good idea to try different stuff to see what you want to do in life ."
sent on July 13, 2018
I really loved being a part of your class. I came in with the goal of moving to Advanced, and eventually AP Studio. I knew I was going to learn about techniques and all, but I got way more out if this class than just that. From the loud music, organized chaos, potlucks, and being able to see how other people view art, this has been one of the best classes I've ever had. I can't wait to continue this sort of thing for my junior year."
sent on July 13, 2018
This art class was very nice and I enjoyed it. What I liked was how we had the freedom to work on our art projects with no interruptions. There was always music playing and it was very productive. I had a very good experience in the class and I would recommend it to everyone."
sent on July 12, 2018
Now my eyes have opened up to a new world of art. Mr. Black told me I should take another art class because I really understood the watercolor concept. And that’s when I decided I should do my final project in watercolor. Also, at that moment I decided that I would want to do watercolor art as a part time job and a hobby. I really enjoyed creating this piece because it opened my eyes to what technology could help us with in creating new things. How does it help? By putting more that one idea together to create your own artwork. I would like to thank Mt. SAC and Mr. Black for opening my eyes to a whole new art world."
sent on July 12, 2018
My experience in this summer school class was great, thanks to Mr. Black. I have become a way better artist and have a much better understanding and appreciation for art and artists. I feel that I would want a career that relies heavily on art, and that is to be a shoe designer for Nike because I feel that I have some very cool ideas for some shoes. I feel like that career would be very fun and interesting as well because I love shoes and making shoes for people would be so much fun! I think me being a shoe designer, could change the game of art because if I could make it there, then anyone can because i’m not a very good artist. Overall, this was a great class and I definitely enjoyed my time in it!"
sent on July 13, 2018
In this art class, you can learn so much about different people, which has led to some friendships in this class. I enjoyed the environment. The music playing all the time and the happiness and energy you can feel really helped create my favorite artwork. I enjoyed being able to see what other students created and how everyone's work all has the same root, but different stories in each and every piece."
sent on July 12, 2018
In Mr. Black’s art class I learned many new things. I never thought of making a drawing only using dots, or recreating masterpieces. I got to do all of that in this class because of Mr. Black. Summer school this year was amazing with all my friends and an awesome teacher. I hope I’ll be able to take advanced art sometime in the future and learn even more things from Mr. Black."
sent on July 14, 2018
Before entering art class, I was very unsure of how it would go. I thought that I would be stuck in a class with a lot of Picassos and I would be left out and always playing catch up with them. I didn’t know I would love it and look forward to it every morning. Although I was a little scared before waking into D10 for the first time, the biggest blessing in disguise was my teacher, Mr. Black. Who knew that a small individual can have such a big and compassionate heart. It doesn’t matter if he doesn’t have much hair on the top of his head because he does have all of my respect and a little more than that. It’s like he never mentally ages, he’s still got the charm of someone my age. Even though he does look tired and grumpy, he defines “never judge a book by its cover.” He never treated me like some little kid and never treated me like anybody lower than himself, especially not because of my artistic limitations. I was fortunate enough to have him, and I’m humbled by it because he truly is an angel that does the little things to make your day, like putting a candle with your hero in front of you, or playing the music you're into and talking to you about it. Some people making small impacts in your life, but Mr. Black made a crater in me, as a person. He taught me how to become a better artist, but more importantly, he showed me how to be open, not judge, to tolerate even the toughest and most difficult people. Mr. Black is a great example of a person, his upcoming students are lucky and blessed to have him. No, I’m not kissing up to him, if anything I don’t think my words have given him justice, but I thank God for his strangeways and meeting him."
sent on July 12, 2018
The best thing about art this year was the creativity. Being able to make what you want with minimal direction is something I love about art. The freedom and possibilities of art is the most important factor to me. This class not only taught me how to correctly do art but also how to express myself more creatively. Because of this class I believe I will no longer hate doing diagrams of other visual projects because I will now know how to do them creatively and accurately. Thank you, Mr. Black for helping me improve my skills and increase my confidence."
sent on July 13, 2018
I appreciate the time you dedicated to me and my classmates when I was in high school. In hind-sight, I took it for granted. Thank you for cultivating my artistic nature and overseeing a kind/creative classroom. You are 1 in a 1,000,000 sir. I love you a million times over ❤️."
sent on May 9, 2018
I was just browsing your Artsonia website and came across my profile...there it is! My whole portfolio from high school. Instantly I remembered each and every piece up there. Thank you for all of the great memories, for inspiring me to express myself artistically, and for most importantly...being you. You made high school fun, exciting, and somewhere I looked forward to going. You truly are an amazing educator and have left an impact on my life. Thanks a million! I hope to catch up sometime in the near future..."
sent on May 8, 2018
Aloha, Mr. Black ❤️ I just wanted to let you know that you are wonderful and appreciated and that you made art my favorite class to this day. You gave me the freedom to explore and learn and I love you for that. I hope you’re doing well and I hope to connect in the future and catch up."
sent on May 8, 2018
My Son Tyler enjoys your class. Thank you for putting your time into our children and for always encouraging them to do their best!"
sent on May 7, 2018
I am so thankful for all you have done for my student, Emily. Before your class she would never color and she disliked everything to do with coloring, drawing, and painting. But thanks to your wonderful teaching, she now colors and paints at home, so thank you for your time with each student. She enjoys your class and she doesn't like to interact with teachers, but you she will, so thank you."
sent on May 17, 2017
Thank you very much for your dedication to teaching my son to see that he can be artistic. I can see his progress and I'm enjoying seeing his projects. Keep up the good work. Thank you."
sent on May 17, 2017
Dear Mr. Black, I'm so thankful to you for all that you do for my son Jeremy. He loves your class. I'm so proud of the work he has done and how you bring out his creativity. I'm excited to go to the [art show] this Sunday. Thank you again and please continue to be the best teacher. Sincerely, Brenda"
sent on May 16, 2017
Thank you for all your hard work you put into the art classes at San Dimas High School. I know my son, Ezekiel is really enjoying having you as a teacher and appreciates your guidance."
received on 5/23/2016
I want to thank you so very much for all that you do, thank you for giving your time to the Reed program and making Ceejay feel as though she was a special student. You have been a mentor to my daughter; you have helped her become confident in her abilities and you’ve inspired her to follow her passion and most importantly you have encouraged her to dream big."
received on 5/17/2016
Thank you for inspiring the kids to use their talents, and taking the time to post the drawings online. Instead of being on their phones all the time, they get to use their hands to draw. Thank you."
received on 5/16/2016
Thank you for being an amazing teacher to both my son Tommy and Kayli!"
received on 5/17/2016
Thank you for all you do for our kids! Isaac really enjoys your class and I love being able to see his art online!"
received on 5/17/2016
Dear Mr. Black, Thank you for all the support and motivation you give your students! My daughter enjoys your class and has gained better self-confidence in her artwork and her ability to enhance her skills. Tatiana also stated she likes that you enjoy their classic rock and pop music!! =) Thank You for all you do!!"
received on 5/17/2016
Thanks Mr. Black for using Artsonia for your students. Some of my family members have viewed Shiloh's work and have bought some items. We also have bought a couple of items. Looking forward to seeing more."
received on 5/17/2016
Mr. Black you are an awesome teacher! Thank you for all the work you put into the nurturing and developing skills in the talent of all our kids.
sent on May 15, 2015
You have awakened a passion in my son that I hadn't seen in a long time. You tore him away from his video games and through [art] have breathed new life into my young man at such a trivial moment in his life. He speaks so highly of you and I cannot begin to thank you enough!! :) Keep up the good work. Sincerely, Gretchan"
sent on May 14, 2015
Great projects!!! Your teaching has produced some really great artists! Love stumbling upon great artists and the teachers behind them. I am a 6th - 12th grade art teacher at a private Christian school."
sent on November 8, 2010
Hey good job Mr. Black! I like how you just let your students express themselves! - Ernest"
sent on March 4, 2010
Hello Mr. Black, I am Adam's mom, (class '08), and I just viewed the murals your students did at the SD maintenance yard...they're awesome! Congratulations. Also, you are very dedicated to your art profession on the Artsonia museum website. Jane"
sent on September 5, 2009
I would like to thank you for having Kyle in your class. I know he enjoys art and I wish he could have shown more of his hidden talent. Great job Mr. Black :-)"
sent on June 4, 2009
You have a wonderful art department! I was wondering if you could help me! I am trying to get an AP Art Class going at my High school. I would love to hear about some of your projects. Thanks, Amy"
sent on August 9, 2008
You are one of the best and SDHS is blessed to have you as a teacher. Keep challenging and teaching the SAINTS."
sent on February 19, 2008
Wow! Great teacher and quite a looker!!"
sent on July 8, 2006
Artists are truly "gifted" people with special talents. You have truly inspired my son Adam in finding joy in doing his artwork(s). His dot value art project is AWESOME. We are blessed to have you as his art teacher! Sincerely, Jane"
sent on December 13, 2005
Mister Black you freaking rock my socks!!"
sent on October 21, 2005
This teacher is awesome. --Nam"
sent on September 6, 2005
WOW!!!! Keep up the good work."
sent from former student, Aja on February 3, 2005
I'm so glad to see that students are still benefiting from the skills of the best teacher I've ever known. Looks like you have a truly talented group of kids. Always wishing you the best in everything you do."
sent from Debbie on January 22, 2005
I am very grateful Amy has a teacher that helps her as much as you do. You are to be commended for helping young artists this way."
received on 12/10/2004