 At Silver Brush Limited, our mission has always been to support artists in every step of their creative journey. That’s why we’re excited to introduce the Silver Essentials Line—a collection of thoughtfully designed brush care and accessory products that enhance the way you create, whether you’re working in the studio, painting en plein air, or on the go. A Collection Tailored for Artists Everywhere The Silver Essentials line offers a range of practical, travel-friendly products that solve everyday challenges for artists. Whether you're a watercolorist, acrylic painter, or just someone who loves to create, we’ve got you covered.
Designed with Artists in Mind What sets the Silver Essentials line apart is its focus on versatility and convenience. The collapsible design makes these products perfect for plein air painters or artists on the go, while the silicone material ensures durability and easy cleaning. Whether you’re painting in your studio, on a hiking trail, or at a riverside, these products keep your tools organized and your process smooth. It’s important to note that these products are designed specifically for use with water-based media. While perfect for watercolor and acrylic paints, they are not intended for use with solvents—keeping your tools safe and ensuring long-lasting performance. Why It Matters At Silver Brush, we believe that the right tools can make all the difference in your creative process. The Silver Essentials line is about offering you the freedom to focus on what you do best—creating beautiful art. Whether you're at home, in the field, or teaching your students, these products are here to make your life easier. Wherever your art takes you, the Silver Essentials line will be right there to support you.
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 For Dorrie Rifkin, teaching art isn’t about technique alone—it’s about empowering students to find their voice. As a watercolor artist and educator, Dorrie has spent years encouraging her students to embrace their individuality and turn their passions into art. Dorrie’s journey started young. At just four years old, she joined an art class at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. “I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t painting,” she says. While her career began in graphic design, painting was always her first love. Over time, her passion for learning and creativity led her to teaching—a role she quickly fell in love with. “I don’t want my students to copy my style,” Dorrie explains. Instead, she encourages them to bring their own stories, passions, and perspectives to the canvas. For her, teaching is about fostering originality and helping students unlock their unique creative potential. This philosophy has brought Dorrie some unforgettable moments in the classroom. She recalls one student who didn’t speak English. Using Google Translate, Dorrie found a way to connect, bridging the language gap and helping the student feel at home in the class. “Her passion infected both me and my class,” Dorrie shares. It’s moments like these that remind her why teaching is so rewarding. As an artist, Dorrie’s tool of choice is the Black Velvet® 3000S Round, size 18. “No matter how big the brush, it still has a small point,” she says, adding that patience is key to mastering any tool. For her students, she offers simple but profound advice: “Take the time to get comfortable with your tools, and they’ll reward you.” Dorrie’s teaching style also emphasizes preparation. “Use a sketchbook,” she says. “Thumbnail sketches and notes are invaluable before tackling a big painting or teaching a class.” It’s advice that speaks to her belief in balancing spontaneity with intentionality—a lesson both educators and artists can take to heart. As Dorrie continues to teach both in-person and online, her goal remains the same: to inspire her students to create art that feels authentic to them. “When I see a student using their own photos and developing their own style, that’s when I know I’ve done my job.” Want to connect with Dorrie or learn more about her work? Visit her website to explore her classes, artwork, and upcoming projects. Whether in her New Jersey studio or online classes, Dorrie is proof that teaching art is about more than brushes and paints—it’s about helping others see the world through their own unique lens. Facebook: @dorrierifkin
designer making bridal gowns and purses. As a young child, Ana went to art classes where she was introduced to pencils, acrylics, pastel and oil. In addition, she grew up in a family of designers, artists, architects, and writers who encouraged her to develop her skills.
Ana Sofía’s art is influenced heavily by nature and the wonders around her. Growing up on her family ranch in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, she was free to discover while surrounded by animals, crops, and trails. “My childhood made me connect with nature and until this day, every time I need to recharge, I go to the sea to free-dive, or the jungle and explore.” After one particular free diving session, Ana Sofía started her “Ocean Dreams” series where she represents the ocean and reefs in a very colorful and peaceful way.
This is where all the great things have happened. So I encourage you to get out of the comfort zone as much as possible. If it makes you anxious, it’s probably good. The best is when I’m on the other side watching what made me scared.”
Currently, Ana Sofía is working on a series for exhibition next year and mural projects in her local community. Instagram @anasofiacastanon Facebook: @anasofiacastanonart www.anasofiacastanon.com
“A school of this caliber must not be underestimated as a place simply to take painting lessons—it is a guild of evolving artistic tactics and a conservatory of timeless figurative practice. As the new artistic leader, I am gratified to be at the vanguard of the conversation.” In addition to his new position, Dan taught a controlled palette life painting class over the summer at the Art Students League of New York and a class entitled Musculoskeletal Gross Anatomy for the Figurative Artist at Weill Cornell College of Medicine.
For the last 10 years, Dan has been using Silver Brush LTD® Grand Prix® long and extra long filberts and Silverstone® filberts to create his art because “they are simply the best brushes available,” he says. “I started painting when I was 11 years old. My dad bought me a simple acrylic set and told me that I could work with his oils—but only after I had mastered the ‘preparatory’ acrylic media, using only water as medium.” One of Dan’s favorite techniques to use in his artwork is the “color spot” technique used by Edwin Dickinson, who learned it from Charles W. Hawthorne and William Merritt Chase. The general idea is that the artist puts one stroke of color next to another, next to another and so on to create an image. This technique is seen clearly in much of Dan’s art.
you can look back upon with contentment for having echoed your heart and not contorting your authentic vision to suit someone else’s style.”
To learn more about Dan, visit his website: www.danthompsonart.com You can also follow Dan on facebook and instagram |
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