• "He has drastically raised the standards and thus the quality of the drawings and paintings that our students produce. At the same time, he has been sincerely compassionate and sensitive toward the difficult challenges that face college students. He demands a great deal from his students. Along with promptness and quality work, he requires that they take pride in themselves for becoming artists. Due to the pressures of society, family and culture, some of our art majors feel that they are becoming artists because of what they lack and not for their strengths. Mr. Larmann instills pride into his students, and they work very diligently for him."
  Steven Ochs, associate professor of art, Southern Arkansas University.

The Process of Teaching Intermediate Students (learning in three-dimensions)

The belief that one will reach their destination is the motivation that compels one to continue a journey. A learner must trust that their work is not in vain before they will invest themselves. By making connections to the world of professionals a journeyman artist can begin to trust in themselves and in the process. The individual development of a student is paramount and the individualized resolution of problems is one of infinite possibilities. I often only listen and offer help in finding a good answer in a universe where every possibility may exist. Rather than advocating a linear process, I expect a student to be global in their search for a good answer. The process of fresco painting was chosen by this student and I guided him through the many layers and constructions that must occur before the image is even painted. Fresco is akin to sculpture because the creation of the working surface takes layers of concrete, hydrated lime and aggregates. ART 340 Painting syllabus

intermediate student work fresco painting

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