For over two decades, Toby Meyers has been guiding students through the world of painting and drawing at JCC Denver (the J), helping them unlock their artistic potential in new ways. Her students will showcase their best works at the JCC Fine Arts Show, which runs May 22 through June 8 in the Mizel Art Gallery.  

 “I really like to help people so they can go in their own creative direction and do the things that are special to them,” Toby says of teaching watercolor, acrylic, and sketching at the J. “So, I tend to give assignments that are open-ended.” Sometimes that means introducing a famous artist’s work as an example of how to use complementary colors; other times, she may discuss edge shading while showcasing different artists and their various techniques. “I start class by looking at everyone’s work and seeing where they are at and providing feedback. Then, I will give the assignment and talk about what’s going on in the art world with techniques and ideas,” she adds.  

Toby’s journey into teaching art came as a surprise when, as a young mom of two, she took a class at Emily Griffith Technical College, where she met Edith Niblo, a teacher who profoundly influenced her. ““Edith, was so inspiring—she changed my whole life and my family’s life,” Toby recalls. Now, Toby teaches painting and watercolor on Mondays and Tuesdays at the J in 3-hour blocks during the spring and fall sessions. “It’s amazing to see what students create,” Toby beams. “Creativity is innate in everyone—you just have to want to do it.” Personally, Toby prefers painting large abstract, landscape-style acrylic pieces, with her personal favorite being the ocean. “It’s a challenge because the ocean is always moving,” she explains.  

JCC Denver’s art students range widely in age and background, from young adults to seniors. Many return to Toby’s class year after year, like Eppie Garcia, who has been a student of Toby’s since 1991. After approaching the 84-year-old during a class , I was shocked to discover the precise and magical realism Eppie employs in his paintings. “I have been a painter on and off since the 60s,” he says, “I’ve been coming to JCC Denver for about 10-15 years to take Toby’s classes.”.”  

Eppie likes to capture those everyday moments—someone reading the paper, children eating ice cream, a worker going about their job, or even an antique from a flea market—then infusing them with a surreal touch and vibrant colors like oranges and blues. “Toby has a good eye for feedback and critique,” he mentions. “My favorite place to paint is at JCC Denver and it makes me happy to get lost in the flow of it.”  

 Eppie prefers using acrylic paint for its layering capabilities, which allows him to first draw his sketches and then apply multiple coats of paint. Sometimes he will start with a picture in mind, but often, the artist likes to paint, “and just see where it goes.” Even at 84, Eppie is motivated to continue improving his technique. “It all depends on the subject matter,” he says. “Sometimes I don’t finish a piece, but if I really like it, I’ll spend three to four weeks on it.”  

 Toby’s guidance has played a big role in Eppie’s growth as an artist. “She’s got a good eye for feedback and critique,” he says. “If I draw a person and don’t get the proportions right, she’ll spot it right away. She’s great with colors too—if someone’s struggling, she’ll help them work through it.” Eppie’s work will be featured in the upcoming student art show, where he will showcase six original pieces. “I like seeing my paintings up there, talking to people about them, and checking out the other artists’ work,” he says.