Chad Smith's (b.1970) most influential instruction came through private full-time atelier study with Douglas Flynt via Jacob Collins and the Water Street Atelier. Smith has studied plein air and studio landscape painting with Marc Hanson and previously studied classical academic drawing and painting concepts with Frank Covino, Don Maitz and David Meo. Smith has also studied figure and animal drawing with famed Disney animator and teacher Glenn Vilppu and Joe Weatherly. 

In addition to commissioned studio work, Smith now spends his time applying classical atelier training outdoors "en plein air."