Hi, I'm Sovana
I've been drawing and painting since I was twelve years old. What started as a way to fill rainy afternoons turned into something I can't imagine living without.
I studied fine arts in college and spent a few years working as an illustrator before I started teaching. The first class I ran was six people around my kitchen table. Now I teach out of a proper studio in Portland, but the feeling is still the same — a small group, some pencils, and a few hours to just make things.
I'm based in Portland, Oregon, where I live with two cats and more houseplants than I can name.
How I teach
My classes are for people who want to make art, not compete at it. I keep groups small — never more than ten — so there's time to sit with people and actually work through things together.
I don't believe in talent. I believe in showing up and being patient with yourself. Most of my students haven't drawn anything since school, and within a few sessions they're making things that genuinely surprise them.
Every class includes all materials, tea, and a lot of encouragement.
What I work with
Watercolor
My first love. Loose, forgiving, and endlessly interesting. Great for landscapes, botanicals, and abstract work.
Charcoal
Expressive and fast. I use it mostly for figure drawing and portraits. It teaches you to see light and shadow.
Ink & Illustration
Precise, permanent, and satisfying. Good for botanical work, pattern-making, and building drawing confidence.
Ready to start making art?
Join a workshop, meet other beginners, and leave with something you made yourself.