As a high school student, I had an overall bad experience at Baum. I was awarded a state recognized…read morescholarship for three 10 week teen classes at Baum. I was so thrilled, because Baum was supposed to be such a wonderful place, and I couldn't possibly afford the classes otherwise, so my scholarship seemed to be a prayer answered.
I called Baum's office and told them I wanted to register for a course, but the woman there kept insisting my scholarship didn't exist, though I read her the scholarship letter and provided her with proof. Eventually, she somewhat conceded, but then tried telling me my scholarship was only good for a 5 week summer camp course, which was then currently in session and already halfway over!
That was NOT what my scholarship entailed. In fact, my scholarship was worth much more. I was appalled at her treatment of me and my parents. My classes were being paid for BY MY scholarship. I have no idea why she refused to recognize that, even after she had proof.
After many more headaches, several phone calls, and emails to Baum and the foundation I received the scholarship from, eventually I was signed up for my first course.
The class I took was nightmarish. The instructor did not teach, she basically sat back and told us to draw or paint something, giving little or no instruction on fine art technique or process. She wouldn't even let us take home our art, so we could work on it at home. The worst part was, she expected us to have our pieces completed in 1-2 classes! So it felt like we weren't learning or spending much time on a lesson at all!
Additionally, even though the course was supposed to be specifically about learning fine art techniques in painting and drawing, the teacher plainly said, and I quote, "I don't believe I should teach you the traditional techniques, because I want you to develop your own." Well, that would be all fine and dandy, except, that's not what was in the course description, and that is also not what my scholarship was paying for.
I ceased coming after 5 classes because of the mediocrity of that class and the attitude of the teacher. I expected far better. But considering the baffling, unacceptable treatment I received initially, I should not have been surprised at the low quality of the instruction.
I am very disappointed. In the past, I have heard amazing things about the Baum School of Art, but I did not experience any of them in my time there. I have 2 more additional courses available to me, but I am hesitant to take them now. It's almost not worth it if the courses are going to be like the previous one I took. I hate to say that, because I appreciate my scholarship and I came to Baum hoping to learn more about the art I love, but I can't lie. It's such a shame
If you're considering taking a class here, or signing your child up for a class, take some time to consider alternative schools. You'll want your money's worth, and I'm not certain you're going to get it at Baum. And trust me, you won't want to deal with their system. It felt like I was catering to them instead of the other way around.
