RALSTON, Neb. (KMTV) — "I shut my eyes in order to see."
Artist Debra Joy Groesser says if a person who thinks they have no artistic talent tunes into her virtual classes, even those with with no experience can follow along and create something all their own.
Known for her oil paintings, Groesser is taking her talents online and giving free art virtual classes.
"It's really in learning how to see, when the lightbulb goes on, people realize they can draw," Groesser said. "If they have the passion for it and the willingness to learn and let go of your fear."
She is on week five, lesson nine currently and says she will be giving the free lessons until the end of May.
"I knew parents were having a hard time trying to find things to entertain the kids," she said. "Art is always such a wonderful option and so important for kids to help them with self expression."
She says the lessons start very basic and grow from there. She is looking to appeal to a wide range of people, and despite her experience and world travel, this opportunity has opened even her eyes and given her a bit of a surprise.
"The surprising thing is, I started this for kids, " Groesser said. "Some of my former students that I had 25 years ago are doing it with their kids, so I am getting to inspire a second generation of kids."
Sitting quiet and empty right now on 77th St. in Downtown Ralston, Groesser's gallery on a normal day has artists showcases, painting workshops, classes and even offers original woodworking inside the shop.
She says she misses interacting face-to-face with students, but this new opportunity is one she may continue once this is all over.
Her next class is this Thursday at 11am. Tune in to her live on Facebook.