Student Testimonials: Testimonial Request: Dear friends, former students: I am trying to build up my reputation as an art teacher for my studio’s success. If I taught you well, helped you, or wrote you a letter of recommendation, could you please post a comment explaining how I helped you here? These comments will give evidence to a future client that I can help them succeed as an artist and/or student. Thank You!  Courtney Trainer Teaching might even be the greatest of the arts since the medium is the human mind and spirit -John Steinbeck In looking at my life and my years as a student in all subjects, Mr. Paine can be found in a very small handful of teachers who I really feel had a lasting impact on my life. In my four years at NKHS, I took 5 classes with Mr. Paine. He was my teacher in everything from Art History to Painting to Independent Study. He was my mentor for my senior project, lending me the insight, criticism, and even books that helped me create a project that I was beyond proud to present as the culmination of my high school learning.  Mr. Paine goes above and beyond by not only being exceptional at teaching his students the technical skills that will make them great, but also by respecting his students viewpoints, ideas, stories, and backgrounds. Mr. Paine's passion for teaching and learning and art is inescapable and to be honest, quite contagious. If what John Steinbeck says is the truth, Mr. Paine is truly a master of the arts. Katie Lieb From my first foundations class in high school, all the way up to my senior year AP Art Class, Mr. Paine has been the one to push me to succeed in art. The dedication and effort he put in to not only inspire me to succeed, but everyone else in the art classes at NKHS is that to be admired. Although I wasn’t fortunate to be in his class my junior or senior year, I still felt as if he was my teacher. He was the one I knew I could turn to whenever I had a question about a piece and give me his honest opinion as to what needed work. He truly wanted us to all learn the foundations and the proper way to create art, so that we had a solid bases and knowledge to go forth in our art education. Every class was fun and exciting, because of Mr. Paines enthusiasm and high energy. I can honestly say, that it is because of him, I know I learned the right way to create art, and that my love for art grew into what it is today. Erica Lush I was lucky to have had Mr. Paine as a teacher all four years of high school. I came into high school already enthusiastic about art and with his continuous support, advice and humor I found myself becoming increasingly more competent and loving it even more. I was very shy as a freshman but that didn't stop him from teaching me; his sense of humor and endless encouragement were undoubtedly reasons for my development as an artist and a student. He pushed me to experiment with and even come to love mediums I normally shied away from, and he helped me to develop confidence in my drawings so that I was able to make a solid first effort before going back to pick on details. I remember my senior year sitting down to draw a portrait of a classmate, and in one hour I had completed one of my better works and was able to submit it in my AP portfolio. Mr. Paine has helped me so much just by being an effective and tenacious teacher; I would not be where I am today without his help. Nathan Christie As I approach my graduation from Parsons, I think that it's fair to say that, while I've worked hard to get here, it was Amos Paine's efforts that put me in a position to do that. At very least, my admission to college was a direct result of his instruction in high school. While not everyone was made to be an artist, Amos has always striven to teach every student. Those who are bound for great things will find constant challenge and growth; those who are struggling will find constant encouragement. I never knew Amos to be an overly stern instructor, but neither have I witnessed a case where he needed to be. Order, motivation, and progress are maintained in the same course. Where humor and an energetic nature fail, and this is rare case, respect has always been commanded through a genuine application of his own efforts. If ever there is a student who cannot benefit from Mr. Paine's tutelage, it will be for some reason far outside the abilities or intentions of the instructor. Jason Michael Kerbel Mr Paine has the best job in the world. He does what he loves to do; teach and create art. I never enjoyed an art class until I took Foundations of Art with him. I liked his teaching methods so much I took Drawing 1 the next year. He actually inspired me to take an Art class in college. And about after two weeks I dropped it, it was miserable for me. It wasn't Art that I enjoyed so much for those two years but Mr Paine's way of teaching Art. Alysia Wilkinson Never in my life will I have an art teacher like Mr. Paine. I had him starting at foundations of art all the way to AP art my senior year of high school. I learned so much from him, and without his help I know that I would not be where I am today. Mr. Paine made everything easy to understand, and would always give me great examples and advice on pieces I was having trouble with. His criticism was always thoughtful and helpful too. Though it is obvious he has a great knowledge and education in art, what really makes him stand out above other teachers is his personality. No matter how frustrated any of his students would become, he would always help them out with a smile on his face, and usually a clever joke as well. It is thanks to Mr. Paine that I am attending the New England School of Art and Design at suffolk university, and to all of his help in assisting me in assembling my portfolio. He is truly one of a kind, and has no doubt had a positive effect on every one of his students. Emily Coble Mr. Paine genuinely cares about his students. Whenever I had a question in his class, or even when I wasn't in his class, he would help with enthusiasm. He is attentive to all of his students and makes even the shyest kid smile from his jokes. I find myself teaching my friends with his methods because they are so effective. Mr. Paine is an inspiring teacher with a great sense of humor and an ability to teach art in a way that makes sense. Kate Dexter Mr. Paine was my art teacher for four consecutive years at North Kingstown High School, and is, by far, the best teacher I've ever had. Not only is he a talented artist and a gifted teacher, but also a genuine and kind person - the kind of person that students look forward to working with. His never ending humor and optimistic attitude kept students motivated and excited about classwork, and he never failed to put a smile on a person's face. Mr. Paine teaches his students by getting down to their level; by actually sitting down and drawing with a student so that it was more of a team effort than a formal lecture. He always encouraged our individuality and creativity as students, and gave constant constructive criticism to ensure our improvement and success. Without Mr. Paine's guidance, support and knowledge, I am absolutely certain that I would not be the artist that I am today. Sarah Croak My senior year was an absolute crazy mess. Mr. Paine was there to help and support me throughout all of it, especially when i was submitting my portfolio to various schools and scholarship programs. Now I am currently a student at the San Francisco Art Institute, and the techniques he has taught me have definitely helped me to approach my classes with ease. He is an incredibly thought provoking and influential teacher, approaching his teaching method with humor and honesty. Mr. Paine is honestly my favorite art teacher who i've had the pleasure of working with. Rick Owens I may not have been in any of Mr. Paine's classes while I was at NK, but he helped me continue building my skills after school at art club, as well before school. In my senior year, I honestly didn't think I was going to be able to get much help with my art, as i was not able to take any classes, However, Mr. Paine helped me to improve my artwork, and keep my interest in my art. And for that I thank him. Trent McMaster  Over the last 4 years my knowledge and understanding has grown considerably when it comes to Art, I owe it all to Mr. Paine, He showed me many techniques, and forms within my own Artistic realm. I would have never have known this potential even existed without his guidance and patience, as i am a very stubborn student sometimes. Even though i was a procrastinator, Mr Paine stuck with me and kept me under his wing so that i could realize my talent, my potential as an artist. He's a rare type of mentor, one that always sticks with you and will try his hardest to aid you in any way possible. As well as encourage you to spread in any direction you may grow. Tori Brown As a former high school student of Mr. Paine's and a current Industrial Design student at The Cleveland Institute of Art, the foundation, technical skills and mind set that I graduated with set me off on the right foot. Mr. Paine is a very supportive teacher who takes his work and, most importantly, his students' work seriously. He pushes his students in a positive way, providing constructive criticism and a smile. I can honestly say his teaching is invaluable, and it will stick with you. Laura Young To be perfectly frank, I am a student with an ego. Constructive criticism reaches me with no small amount of difficulty; and no teacher gives constructive criticism as thoughtfully as Mr. Paine. Throughout my art classes I fought against his lessons, but after just a few times it became no more than a show. It became quite clear that Mr. Paine made an effort to understand me as a student, and truly knew what was best for the development of my artistic abilities. He always had that intrinsic ability to look at a student and know plenty about them. His understanding of people through the works they create makes him an outstanding teacher, allowing him to give sincere, honest and effective guidance through any creation. Sarah Hartman Mister Paine is that teacher who will take the time to help you learn what you want to learn. He inspired me to expand whatever I knew about art in general and take it a step further. Without that push, I wouldn't have been drawing and painting like I am today, and I'm so greatful that a teacher like him was there to guide me. He is absolutely hilarious and extremely intelligent. Most definitely the most inspirational and awesome teacher i've ever had. Katie Lynch It's his sincere care and respect for the aspiring artist that makes Mr. Paine the most inspirational and rewarding teacher I have ever had. He makes it his goal to teach you the skills to create what you love, and it is his own celebration and pride in himself which inspires us to express our own individuality. Caia D Mr. Paine has really helped me in many different ways with my art education, giving great constructive criticism and tips on things such as shading and sketching, really anything. Honestly the best art teacher I've ever had. Karina Carlson Mr. Paine has been one of the most inspirational teachers I have had. He encourages and sparks students interests in the art and design field. He has helped me in many ways including the foundations of drawing, in improving my drawing, in painting as well as designing. He had great tips and high energy making the work environment more fun. He helped me develop and improve my skills as an artist and encouraged students to pursue art. He was always a go-to teacher, always willing to help. I enjoyed every class I took with Mr. Paine in high school and learned a lot. He helped me discover two of my favorite mediums to work in, pastels and paint. He never discourages students and offers very helpful advice on improvement. Even at the college level of art and design, I am being re-introduced to information he has shared. I highly recommend Mr. Paine as a teacher. Jeric Rodriguez Mr. Paine is a great art teacher! During my years at NKHS, he's taught me a lot from perspective, shading and highlights to controlling certain mediums and even some tips and tricks on how to draw various objects. He opened my eyes to new ideas, styles, and techniques of drawing. His open-mindedness, creativity, and overall fun and supportive personality made art and art classes all the more enjoyable--even more so than before. His character is definitely as brilliant and awesome as his artwork. He will definitely someone I will never forget. Rosalie Lynch Time spent in Mr. Paine's classroom was never time ill spent. Learning done in a supportive, creative and fun environment is always the best kind of learning. The laughter and fun fuels an incredibly productive and creative space to work in. Making learning art fun, makes you never want to stop. Mr. Paine's classroom definitely taught me to have fun with art, and to never want to stop creating. The helpful, safe environment fosters great work, and makes you grow as an artist. With much confidence, I'd suggest Amos Trout Studio to anyone that asks. Caitlin Elizabeth Gill Mr. Paine was my AP art teacher my senior year of high school. He has molded me to become a true artist. He has been the best art teacher I have had, and has showed me so many different aspects in art. I have learned how to go further observing and creating art pieces, and has helped everyone in my class bring out their unique style. Art is not all about the pen and paper, it is the mind that creates the beauty. Mr. Paine has worked with me and my fellow classmates to create some of our best art works, and I strongly recommend him as a teacher to guide others to become true artists themselves. Kelsey Cooney Mr. Paine is the best teacher in general I have ever had! He is always extremely helpful when it comes to your art work, he gives great constructive criticism and genuinely cares about his students. He was always there for me when I was having difficulties, whether it be with art, school, or my home life. He wants to see his students succeed and encourages his students to never give up. He taught me to be confident in my art work and to take chances, which is one of the most helpful things I learned from him. Mr. Paine is a person I will always remember, and I feel honored to have been one of his students. Mikayla Coble I had the pleasure of having Mr. Paine as an art teacher in both Middle and High School. His skills as an artist, but most of all his sincere respect and interest in his students made his classes inspiring and enjoyable for students of all artistic ability. He delivers the most important fundamentals of art and design while still maintaining his infectious enthusiasm and sense of humor. He believes in his students and they rise to meet his high expectations, resulting in an exciting, challenging, fulfilling educational experience. Jake Wigton Mr. Paine, I can say that you are the best art teacher I have ever had. You were the foundation that turned me in the right direction in order to give me progress. I definitely would not be the artist that I am without your teaching. Thanks! Nicole Ethier Mr. Paine is an awesome art teacher and he is so talented too. He encourages creativity and will gladly give you help or advice anytime. He makes art fun and he is so passionate about what he does, and it shows. By far the best art teacher I've had! Sydney K All throughout elementary and middle school I had awful art teachers who were really uninspiring. I was never taught even the basics of drawing, and so I never had an interest in art. Last year I took an introductory art course with Mr. Paine, however, and my eyes were opened to the wonderful world of art. Where I once abhorred family visits to art museums, his class made me never want to leave the galleries. Not only did he teach me to draw, but he taught me to see things in a new and different way... a beautiful way. Everything became art. And I actually ENJOYED drawing, for the first time in my life. Mr. Paine actually taught me to truly appreciate art. Thank you, Mr. Paine. Emily Nalbandian You have encouraged me to pursue art; I was always interested but basically had no faith in myself. You taught me techniques and nudged me in the right directions for each project, and without directly telling me how to perfect my art, you made me learn for myself. You taught us that with practice and concentration, deep down everyone is an artist. You have the perfect "strict but lenient" attitude- we must work, but we have almost complete freedom in what we do. Your teaching is relaxed and silly, making it FUN. You also know how to directly teach each individuals because of your vast knowledge of people; their expression, body language, and what they're thinking. In the future I would love to work for you or take more of your classes. Good luck Mr. Paine, hopefully I'll be seeing you Sarah Steele I am fortunate enough to have known Mr. Paine since I was in 6th grade, and to have had him as an art teacher until graduating from high school. I'm now 20 years old, and still consider Mr. Paine a mentor and friend of mine. During my school years, Mr. Paine was a welcoming and reassuring presence. I was welcome to sit down and work on my art whenever I could, even outside of class time. Although this wasn't exactly his official job, I know I am not alone when I say that Mr. Paine was that one teacher who I could go to for advice (art-related or not), or for help when adolescence was a less than wonderful experience.       Mr. Paine goes above and beyond to help his students in any way he can. He often stayed after school or used his free time during the day to help students with their art or just give students a place to feel welcome and accepted. Unlike many other art teachers I had, Mr. Paine was unafraid to offer real criticism, while always keeping it constructive. Out of the many art teachers I had during high school, he was the only one who showed his own works to students. Many of these works were inspired by surroundings that Mr. Paine and his students shared, which allowed students to see how everyday moments in their own lives could serve as inspiration.     He was especially helpful to me in my senior year of high school, when I was putting together my AP Studio Art portfolio and including artwork in my college applications. Mr. Paine always took time to look at and critique my art, even if the work was not for one of his classes. He even wrote a wonderful letter of recommendation for me when I was putting together college applications. Out of all of the teachers I ever had in school or in art, Mr. Paine stands out because of his overwhelming concern for his students’ growth as artists and people. Clay Haun Mr. Paine helped me sift through a selection of artwork for my portfolio, and due to a couple of select pieces that he chose to put in that I was skeptical about, the colleges that I applied to specifically liked them and pointed them out. Despite the fact that I hadn't originally gone to NK, Mr. Paine was able to see me where I was, and help move me on further in my artistic pursuit. I now currently have chosen art as my professional pursuit. Thank you Mr. Paine. Justin Morrison Amos Paine is a great teacher, and even life mentor. Mr. Paine is one of the wisest person i have ever met. If you are stuck in a rut and figure a way problem he will be able to show you how to approach it with a different light and from angle. T-Paine is also very understanding, and has a great sense of humor. If you are looking for a great teacher of the arts, look no further, you just found the best of the best. Casey Weibust I had Mr. Paine for a teacher in highschool and also joined his art club. I always found myself wandering into Mr. Paine's classroom throughout the day even if i wasn't in the class he was teaching!!! (with permission of course!!)- He always encouraged us to stick to our own personal styles and to CONSTANTLY draw draw draw-I also remember going to an art museum with the art department once and Mr. Paine telling us that he always goes as close to the painting allowed and looks at the painting from the sides to see the different layers (or something like that) or to go up close and try to imagine where the painter was standing-I think about those things every time I go to a museum..ANYWHO I could go on and on about how great of an art teacher Mr. Paine is and was for me..He is always there for us art kids-treating us with respect and kindness- and has a great sense of humor that he always brings to the classroom. Thanks Mr. Paine for all the inspiration and for all you have taught me. Jessica Ellis Mr. Paine is an inspirational and absolutely incredible educator -- I had the opportunity to take his art classes in high school as well attend an after school art club that he supervised. His humor, caring personality, and extensive knowledge of art helped me to learn and expand my talents as a young artist. He is a dedicated instructor; one who will stay late or will otherwise make time for someone who is struggling or needs guidance with their creation(s). I cannot thank Mr. Paine enough for everything he taught me. Kelsey Henshaw I entered high school not caring for art all that well. My last year I wanted to take an art course  and was lucky enough to get into Mr. Paine's Intro and Foundations of Art. I never appreciated  art as much as I do now. Although it was only a semester course, I learned so much. I am not  much of a drawer, painter, or even that artistic, but Mr. Paine's class has made me want to make  myself better and want to do more. I've learned so much and am already better at art because of  Mr. Paine. Its really plain and simple, if I didn't have Mr. Paine as my art teacher for that  semester course, I would not have the mind set I do now. I would not appreciate art or want to  make art as much as I do now. Thank you Mr. Paine for believing in me and helping me so much  throughout the year. I will always remember my favorite art teacher at North Kingstown High  because Mr. Paine cared for art and helping the students more than words can express. Thank  you Mr. Paine for helping me rediscover art. Mary Tente I am not the best at art, but I still love it. And Mr. Paine never belittled me or insulted any of the projects I did for his class. I have never seen Mr. Paine treat any of his student without respect or kindness. He embraces the fact everyone is different and is willing to take the time and sit down with students and help them with any project. It is easy to feel comfortable with Mr. Paine because he is never harsh and can chill with you and make you laugh. Even though would joke around with me I could still take him seriously because he always knew how to help me and place me in a new direction. Mr. Paine is one of the teachers from high school I'm always going to remember in a good way. Eric Cranston Thank you Mr. Paine for being such a great art teacher and great personality. I became an art major because of your classes and your after school art club. I hope all is well in the Paine household. Best regards Aimee Nicole You are such a great artist Mr. Paine! I am so lucky to have had you as a teacher for so many years. Turned out to be a writer, but still paint on the regular :) Your website is kick ass Lindsey Gartland Hey Mr. Paine! I can't even tell you how much I learned from your class! Before your class I didn’t really have an interest in art, but your lessons and projects were so inspiring. Thanks for being an amazing teacher, best wishes to you and your wife, and of course your beautiful daughter! Kristen Kelly Hey Mr. Paine! I'm sure you'll be glad to know that I go to art school in Boston now, and I actually tutor drawing classes now. Your class was amazing and It really fostered my interest in fine art. I'm applying to Pratt for grad school..very excited. Hope all is well with you, Your studio looks great, I hope I can come check it out while I’m home! Hope Jutras Hey Mr. Paine! You definitely made me a better artist but I think this post would become obnoxiously long if I listed everything you taught me. So I'll list shading. You most help me with shading which is great because I kind of sucked at shading before. Anyway, anyone who takes a class taught be you is sure to learn a lot! Thanks for being such a great teacher Mr. Paine! =D