CoCo Zentner Art

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Inspiration Behind the Figure Studies Collection

Inspiration Behind My Upcoming Collection: The Figure Studies

I’ll never forget my first figure painting class. I was sixteen studying at Parson’s New School of Design in NYC during a summer stint. At first, I was somewhat shocked that it was part of my curriculum since I was so young; but, I quickly fell in love with the complexity of the human figure.

Painting the figure is one of the most challenging ways to learn how to hone in on learning the elements of creating a successful piece of art. You are trying to capture the light, shapes, perspective, and proportions accurately during a short period. Simply put, life drawing trains the eye to see things that are difficult to see in a photograph and has been a method to teach artists for hundreds of years.

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During COVID, I ached for a creative community that just couldn’t be achieved virtually. Thankfully, I have been attending a figure painting class for the past few months in a COVID-distanced manner. It has rejuvenated me as an artist. I didn’t realize how much I missed meeting with other artists, kindly being able to criticize each other’s work, and paint for hours on end listening to soft jazz music. It’s become the getaway place that I have desperately yearned for.

I am so excited to share this robust series that varies between compositions and color palettes. To learn more about this body of work (that will be released on February 4, 2021), sign up to be a VIP Studio Insider to receive exclusive early access before the general public.

*If you are wanting to better your artistic skills, I challenge you to paint or draw from life (it doesn’t have to be the human figure). Grab some fruit lying around on your kitchen counter and a coffee mug and create a still life!


A glimpse at some of the artwork I’ve created from life in my teenage years. . .


Paintings That Influenced This Series


Our Winter Wants:

What we are eating: 

  • We have been cooking away out of this cookbook lately, & I love every. single. dish (pro-tip: If you don't have this pan, this has also become a favorite staple in our kitchen).

What we are watching: 

  • I binged Bridgerton way too quickly and am now on to the second season of this home makeover show. Have you watched either? Would love to know your thoughts!

What we are listening to:

  • If you follow me on Instagram, you know that I love to discuss my favorite audiobooks & current reads. I've listened to almost every episode of Paloma Contreras' podcast, so if you love design & decor, add this to your listens.


Want to know what I’m up to on the every day? Follow along on Instagram at @cocozentner_art or on my Pinterest page. I love to post what inspires me, behind the scenes of my painting process, and my pup, Maudie!

Until next time,


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To see more about what inspires CoCo, check-out her Instagram page at @cocozentner_art!