Frederica Marshall Studio
Frederica Marshall teaches Japanese Sumi-e brush painting, watercolor, drawing, mandala work, and paper clay from her studio at 81 North Deer Isle Road. Private lessons run $50 per hour. Materials are included.
Marshall operates as a working teacher and artist on Deer Isle, offering private instruction in a range of disciplines — Sumi-e being the signature. Sumi-e is the Japanese art of brush painting using black ink on paper or silk, developing the brush control and expressive economy that characterize the form. Marshall teaches it alongside watercolor, drawing, mandala stones and sand painting, paper clay, and open studio sessions for students who want to work on their own projects.
Private classes are available for adults at all levels and for children six and up. The fee is $50 per hour per person, and most art materials are provided (wear clothing that doesn't matter — the ink stains). Sessions can be scheduled to fit calendars on both sides, making it accessible for visitors staying on the island for a week or more.
Marshall also runs occasional public workshops in the broader region. Recent sessions have included free community events — a children's watercolor-marker workshop at the Blue Hill Library, a Tibetan sand painting/mandala workshop at St. Brendan's Church in Deer Isle, and a painting session at the Reversing Falls Sanctuary in Brooksville. These community offerings happen a few times per summer and are often free.
What Visitors Say
"We took an introduction to watercolor painting class with Frederica while on a visit to Deer Isle, Me. In our 2-hour class, she introduced us to various brushes, and painting techniques. Here’s what she helped me create. Frederica made the whole process enjoyable, encouraging us to push ourselves in a very kind and gentle way. We also had a chance to see Fredericas work. Amazing work. A true master of her art.!"
"This gallery has wonderful watercolor and sumi-e paintings for sale, as well as brushes, paper, ink and custom made chops for sumi-e painting. Ms Marshall is a talented teacher who helps students reach their artistic goals with individual or group lessons."
Local Tips
- For private lessons, contact Marshall at (207) 348-2782 or fredericamarshallsensei@gmail.com to schedule.
- Sessions are by arrangement — no drop-in classes.
- The $50/hour rate includes most materials, so bring only yourself.
- Check the website calendar for occasional free community workshops in summer (Blue Hill Library, Deer Isle church events).
- Children's lessons start at age 6.
Connected To
- Deer Isle Artists Association — community gallery that connects the island's artists and occasionally hosts community art programming
- Haystack Mountain School of Crafts — craft education institution on Deer Isle; Marshall's teaching practice reflects the island's deep tradition of craft and art instruction