June’s Palo Verde Artists artist of the month is actually a class of beginning art students taught by Ruth Little.

Little chose to display the artwork of her beginning drawing and watercolor students because their art is such a fine example of how quickly beginners can achieve the understanding and skills to create. Most of the students have had only 8-10 months of classes with Little. At the club’s recent art show, several of the students received first, second, third place and honorable mention awards.

Little is a self-taught artist and teacher. Even though she never received a college art degree, she has spent years developing her artistic knowledge, skills and techniques. She has been an art instructor for the Department of Education of Guam, the University of Hawaii, Daniel Smith Arts and, since 2013, an instructor for Palo Verde Artists, where she is currently in charge of the education program for the club. She has learned to teach by not only introducing general drawing and painting basics, but also by listening to each student. The personal interests and talents of each student influence Little’s teaching approach.

Her beginning students are active members of Palo Verde Artists. Their artwork is currently on display in the showcase outside the Palo Verde Artists club room on the second level of Sundial Recreation Center, 14801 N. 103rd Ave. The gallery inside the club room is open to the public for viewing the work of the art students and other club members.

Membership in Palo Verde Artists is $10 per year and is open to Recreation Centers of Sun City cardholders only. Visit paloverdeartists.com for more information.