There are more than 3,000 of them, over a span twenty plus years--300 at a given time. They include internationally-known children's book illustrators, local media celebrities, professionals of every stripe, retirees who've waited a lifetime to nurture their creative interests, young mothers who are escaping children for an afternoon, and people who will go on to make art their careers. Students at the Academy, whatever their interest or future, gain a firm foundation in the classical tradition on which to build a profession or develop an educated approach to art connoisseurship.

NOAFA is as much about the people as it is about the art. "It's a safe place, a refuge," says one student. Mrs. Coleman adds, "The ambiance is incredibly important. People want to be here. It's an island of escape, a second home, a place of camaraderie. We work hard, we're serious and we're appreciative."

The Academy accepts students of varying levels of attainment. Beginners often work alongside more advanced students. Students with degrees in art from other schools enter our studios to perfect skills. Beginners entering the school are encouraged to follow basic direction. An understanding of traditional materials and techniques is a prerequisite to the venture of experimental media. Familiarity with materials such as charcoal and conte crayon precede painting assessment. Students are encouraged to proceed at their own pace.