ART & PHOTOGRAPHY   

Class Overview

Acrylic painting can provide a lifetime of enjoyment. Learn how to express yourself using the vibrant colors of this delightful paint. 

Discover how to use the basic techniques of acrylic painting: blending, texturizing, brush handling, detailing, stippling, glazing, wet in wet, and alla prima. Learn about color mixing, complementary colors, warm and cool, hue, value, intensity, and proportions. 

You will be surprised how quickly your skills will improve by observing the instructor and painting along, during step-by-step class presentations. The format will make it easy to get started and build upon what you learn, gaining new techniques and putting them directly into practice. As you develop these skills, you’ll find them becoming second nature. Enjoy the satisfying ability to represent the world around you in liquid colors, as you create unique works of art.

Supplies Needed

Palette

• 1 disposable palette pad 9x12” or 12x16” (or paper plates for the first day)

Brushes

• Long-handled brushes (white nylon or brown taklon bristles) are preferable – you can use short-handled brushes if you already have them
• Rounds: #1 or #2 - (1/16" or 1/32" wide) 
• Filbert brushes: 2-3 at least
• A small and a large: 1/8", 1/4", 3/8", 1/2"
• Flat - 1" wide
• Angle brush (optional): small - 1/4" wide, or less  

Canvases

• 2-4 canvases in size like 11x14”, 12x16”, 14x18”, or 16x20” – depending on preference and availability (students often like to start with smaller canvases and then go up in canvas size as the class goes on)
• One 9x12” watercolor pad, 120 lb for practices and exercises (or 3-5 sheets of watercolor paper

Paints & Colors

• Examples of brands, student-grade: Liquitex Basics, Galeria, Grumbacher Academy, Utrecht, Pebeo
• Titanium white, any light yellow (examples: Cadmium Yellow Light Hue, Acra or Hansa Yellow Light, Light Yellow, or Lemon Yellow), any medium yellow (Cadmium Yellow Medium Hue, Acra or Hansa Yellow Medium, or Medium Yellow), any medium red: (cadmium red medium hue, Acra or Hansa red medium, or medium Rred), magenta, ultramarine blue, phthalo blue, mars black
• Optional Colors (but very useful): any medium orange: (cadmium orange medium hue, Acra or Hansa orange medium, or medium orange), dioxazine purple, phthalo green, burnt sienna, burnt umber 

Other items:

• Water jars: (glass or plastic, such as peanut butter, yogurt, cottage cheese, etc or large plastic cups or containers
• Paper towels
• 2b or HB pencil
• White vinyl eraser (or pink pearl)
• Sharpener (preferably with shavings catcher)
• Optional: palette knives (plastic or metal) 

Learning Objectives

• Color mixing: proportions, hue, value, intensity, complementary colors, and warm/cool
• Using color schemes to add extra interest to your paintings: monochromatic, analogous, complementary, split complementary, and triadic
• Techniques such as blending, texturizing, and detailing; might include stippling, glazing, washes, alla prima, dry brushing, impasto, swirling and dabbing, etc.
• Various painting styles such as realistic, impressionistic, abstract, etc.
• Ability to paint a variety of subject matter such as animals, plants, landscapes, still life, etc.
• Represent 3-dimensional form in painting, in both black and white and in color, by using value, contrast, light, and shadow 
• Atmospheric perspective makes entire scenes and landscapes appear more 3 dimensional, with the illusion of depth and space
• Apply proportion and perspective to your paintings

Who Might Enjoy This Class 

• Anyone who is interested in enriching their lives with the joy of painting
• People who would like to gain or improve their painting skills and apply those skills to paint a variety of subject matter
• Anyone who would like to learn to express themselves through the medium of painting
• Budding artists who would like to gain the foundational skills of painting to apply to any visual art medium 
• No experience is needed; everyone is welcome

Class Overview

Explore the creative, rewarding, fun art of block printing! This class will teach you how to use linocut to create prints.

Learn the basic skills and techniques of wood block carving and experience the rewarding feeling you get by peeling off a piece of paper printed with your original art! Make multiple copies for greeting cards, gifts, fabric, and decor. Block printing is an ancient art with roots in many cultures that can provide inspiration. Block prints have a unique and artistic look. If you are not good at designing or drawing? Don’t worry! We have several design options for you. 

Use your creativity and curiosity with carving and printing your own one-of-a-kind art! This class is for everybody, from complete beginners, to experienced carvers and artists. 

Supplies Needed

• Personal safety equipment (thumb guard and/or resistant gloves)
• One clear acrylic sheet plexiglass 8" x 12" (Recommended: YSTIME 8" x 12" Clear Acrylic Sheet Plexiglass Plastic Sheet for Crafts Transparent Acrylic Board with Protective Paper for Craft, Windows, Frame, DIY Display Projects)
• Super value block printing starter kit (Recommended: Speedball Super Value Block Printing Starter Kit – Includes Ink, Brayer, Lino Handle and Cutters, Speedy-Carve)

Learning Objectives

• Become familiar with block carving and printing basics
• Be familiar with how to design and print
• Be confident in handling carving equipment safely for a small project

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone curious and interested in trying printmaking and carving
• People who enjoy crafting and making things by hand
• Anyone who would like to do a small creative project with like-minded people
• People who like to draw and would like to translate their drawings to prints
• Everyone is welcome, no experience needed

Class Overview

Have you explored or defined your style in photography? Color correction is the best way to make your photos stand out and differentiate your style of photography. You can make skin tones look real, skies more intense, and images look more in-focus naturally. 
 

Photographers have different styles to get different results. For example, if you are a night photographer, you might use white balance to emphasize the blue side, to enhance the sky and contrast with the stars. If you are a wedding photographer, you may prefer your images to be on the warmer side, to emphasize skin tones and create a more inviting image. Sport photographers might want higher contrast in their images, to enhance the action of the sport, while a portrait photographer might prefer to diminish contrast, to hide imperfections on the skin of the subject. 

If you are not aware that you are altering the reality of the color to achieve a specific mood in your image, you could spend hours trying to figure out how to achieve a different mood. This class will help you learn how to consider color ahead of time and be better equipped to get the image you want. 
When you get the correct color on an image, the image has better: quality, contrast, focus, and impact. It is also easier to edit and get creative with the editing.

Supplies Needed

It is recommended to have Lightroom, or Camera RAW, and/or Photoshop installed on your personal computer. 

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to: 

• Understand the process of tonality, color and saturation 
• Master the best tool in Lightroom and Photoshop (Curves) 
• Work in multiple color spaces: RGB/CMYK/LAB
• Create a WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get) match for your monitor and prints 

Who Might Enjoy This Class? 

• Any photographer, designer and artist that works with color in the digital age and would like to be more knowledgeable and get better results
• Anyone who would like to print photos or images 
• People who want to master color, in any way and any platform 
• All levels are welcome

Class Overview

Drawing with colored pencils and oil pastels is a wonderful way to bring color and life to your artwork. Color brings a whole new level of vitality and beauty to art, pencils and pastels are easy to use with great results.

Create artwork with colors similar to painting! Learn specific techniques for each media, colored pencils and oil pastels. Gain experience with a wide variety of color drawing techniques and learn how to attain good results bursting with color. 

Follow the instructor in a step-by-step instruction in building basic skills and then apply what you’ve learned to a variety of inspiring subjects. Get comfortable with the art of drawing in color, and you will be bringing home beautiful works of art before the class is done.  

Supplies Needed

View the supply list. 

Learning Objectives

• The basics of drawing: contrast, value, lighting, highlights, midtones, shadows, proportions, etc.
• The basics of color drawing, including: color, color schemes, hue, value, intensity of color, color layering and blending, details, etc.
• The unique and wonderful properties of each color drawing media, colored pencils and oil pastels.
• Make the most of the supplies for these media
• Apply these beautiful media in a variety of inspiring subjects, including landscapes, animals, plants, flowers, and still lives.
• Create a variety of beautiful, inspiring, colorful drawings to enjoy or display in your home!

​​​​​​​

Who Might Enjoy This Class 

• Anyone interested in exploring color
• People who like to draw and would like to add color to their drawings
• Anyone interested in gaining experience using colored pencils and oil pastels to produce beautiful artwork
• Artists or art students who would like to explore these portable, easy to use, colorful medium
• No experience needed; everyone is welcome!

Class Overview

Have you always wanted to learn how to draw, or do you have you some drawing experience that you'd like to build upon? Join us!

This class is excellent for both beginning and intermediate students who want to improve their fundamental drawing and observation skills. Learn how to draw using a simple graphite pencil. Explore line, value, space, perspective and composition. Enjoy guidance of a professional artist and learn approaches to drawing that will help you get better with just a bit of practice.

Join a community of fellow art students and give yourself time to learn, practice and develop these rewarding skills that can give you endless hours of fun and satisfaction. No previous art experience is needed.

Supplies Needed

• Graphite pencil (HB or 2B)
• Sketchbook (no smaller than 9 x 12", no larger than 11 x 15")

Learning Objectives

• Explore fundamental drawing techniques
• Learn about different style approaches
• Practice and improve upon your skills under the guidance of an expert

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Budding artists
• Working artists that would like to practice their drawing skills
• Designers who would like to improve their ability to sketch
• No previous art experience required

Class Overview

Drawing is the basis of all visual art, and it can provide a lifetime of enjoyment. In this class for beginners, increase your imagination, creativity, and perception through the practice of drawing!

Learn the fundamentals of drawing: light, shadow, proportions, details, perspective, and three-dimensionality. Practice drawing many subjects including animals, nature, people, and still life.

You’ll be surprised how quickly your skills will improve by observing and drawing along with a step-by-step class presentation! This process will make it easy to understand and put these techniques into practice.

Once you learn these skills, you’ll find them becoming second nature. This practice will greatly increase your ability to represent the world around you with a pencil or pen.

Supplies Needed

• Pencils (graphite):
  • 2B pencil
  • 4B pencil
  • 6B pencil
  • 8B (Optional)
  • Woodless Pencil (6B or 8B) optional
• Drawing paper pad - either 9"x12" or 11"x14"
• White vinyl eraser
• Mechanical eraser, or pink eraser on the back of pencil (for detail erasing and drawing white lines on gray areas)
• 3-4 (variety sizes) Paper blending stomps (or paper towel/ tissues for blending, if you can't find these for first day)
• Pencil sharpener (preferably with shaving collector)
• Set of colored pencils (24 to 48)

Learning Outcomes

• Learn the various uses for the tools and supplies for drawing
• Draw representational objects and scenes
• Represent 3-dimensional space through the use of light, shadow, and detail
• Learn various blending techniques
• Draw 3-dimensional objects -- the building blocks of all other drawings
• Combine three-dimensional objects to make more complex drawings
• Expand your use and understanding of form and line
• Gain a good understanding and ability to use proportions
• Represent three-dimensional objects and scenes using a simple perspective
• Utilize light and dark details
• Maximize the use of value, contrast, line, mark making, and details to draw with expression

Who Should Take this Class?

• Anyone interested in learning the joy of drawing
• People who would like to improve their drawing skills
• Anyone who would like to learn to express themselves through drawing
• Everyone who would like to gain the foundational skills of drawing to apply to any visual art medium in the future

Class Overview

Increase your imagination, creativity, and perception through the practice of drawing! Drawing is the fundamental basis of all visual art, and it can provide a lifetime of enjoyment. Get started drawing in this engaging class geared for seniors, but open to all ages.

Discover the fundamental concepts of drawing such as light, shadow, proportions, details, and perspective. Learn how to draw many subjects including animals, nature, people, and “still life” objects. Explore how you can use a pencil to create an image that looks like it has three dimensions.

You’ll be surprised how quickly your skills will improve by observing the instructor and drawing along in a step-by-step method. Class presentations make it easy to learn and put the techniques into practice. Once you learn these skills, you will find they start to become second nature. Increase your ability to represent the world around you!

This class is part of our Broadway Hill Club offerings, designed for older students and offered during the daytime on diverse topics, though students of all ages are welcome.

Supplies Needed

• Pencils (graphite): 2B, 4B, 6B; optional: 8B; optional: woodless pencil (6B or 8B) 
• Drawing paper pad - either 9"x12" or 11"x14"
• White vinyl eraser
• Mechanical eraser, or pink eraser on the back of common pencils (for detail erasing and drawing white lines on gray areas)
• Paper blending stomps, 3-4 in a variety of sizes;  (or you can use paper towel or tissues if you can't find these for the first day)
• Pencil sharpener (preferably with shaving collector)
• Set of colored pencils (24 to 48)

Learning Objectives

• Explore the various uses for drawing tools and supplies 
• Draw representational objects and scenes
• Represent 3-dimensional space through the use of light, shadow, and detail
• Become familiar with blending techniques
• Accurately draw 3-dimensional objects, the building blocks of all other drawings
• Combine 3-dimensional objects to make more complex drawings
• Expand your use and understanding of form and line
• Be able to draw proportions accurately 
• Represent 3-dimensional objects and scenes using simple perspective
• Utilize light and dark details
• Maximize the use of value, contrast, line, marks, and details to draw with expression

Who Might Enjoy This Class 

• Anyone who is interested in enriching their lives with the joy of drawing
• People who would like to gain or improve their drawing skills and apply those skills to draw a variety of subjects
• Anyone wanting to develop new skills to express themselves
• People who would like to gain foundational drawing skills to support any other visual art medium
• No experience is needed -- everyone is welcome!

Class Overview

Have you ever wanted to draw in color? Colored pencils are a wonderful medium that combines the detail you can get in drawing, with the vibrant colors available in painting. In this class, learn the basic skills of colored pencils, and apply them to create beautiful, finished colored pencil drawings.

By developing skills and techniques with colored pencils, you can add a whole new dimension to your art exploration. They are easy to use, portable, and these days you can easily find a wide and exciting variety of colors. Colored pencils allow you to capture the vibrancy, detail, and colors in your subjects, whenever and wherever you wish. Begin a creative and rewarding adventure in the dynamic medium of colored pencils!

This class is part of our Broadway Hill Club offerings, designed for older students and offered during the daytime on diverse topics, though students of all ages are welcome.

Supplies Needed

• Drawing pad (70 lb. or higher): 9x12” or 11x14”, whichever size you’d prefer
• Graphite pencils: HB, 2B, and 4B
• Large white vinyl eraser
• Handheld sharpener (preferably one that can catch pencil shavings)
• Set of at least 36 colored pencils (set of 48, 72 or higher is recommended); Prismacolor colored pencils brand is recommended since they blend better than many other brands
• Colorless blender pencil (Prismacolor is a good option)
• Optional: detail eraser (Tombow Mono Knock 3.8 is one good option)
• Optional: electric pencil sharpener (i.e., School Smart, X-ACTO)

Learning Objectives

• Use a variety of the basic techniques of colored pencil
• Be able to use skills such as blending, details, texturing, light source, shadows, layering, etc.
• Understand many of the principles of color such as: color mixing, color relationships, use of complementary colors, warm and cool colors, light and dark colors, pure and neutral colors, etc.
• Be able to apply the basics of drawing such as proportions to your artwork as well.

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone interested in a beautiful, colorful, fun medium
• People who like to draw and would like to easily add color in detail
• Anyone who would love a great, portable color travel medium
• Artists who would like to learn the basics of color and value to bring an extra dimension to their artwork
• No prior experience or skill needed; everyone is welcome!

Class Overview

Do you love making photographs? Do you ever wish your photographs were better? A key first step is going beyond the Auto Exposure setting on any camera along with just knowing your tool better. Discover creative alternatives and what they can deliver in your photographs. Explore how to get more out of your camera, from handling to settings to improve your experience and results. Learn how to use a checklist of what to consider every time you go out to make new photographs. We will use Zoom for live sessions and Flickr for sharing the assignments for feedback both outside of and during our Zoom meetings.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, you will:

• be familiar with how to use much more creative settings on your camera, including Aperture and Shutter Priority
• understand what these settings can do
• be much more comfortable with your camera and what it has to offer

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

• Anyone who has a passion for photography
• People with any digital camera that has more than just the Auto Exposure settings who have not fully explored it

Class Overview

Do you admire the paintings of the Impressionists? Learn their unique brushstroke method to make your own beautiful paintings! 

Discover how lines of color can make a complete and memorable painting. Explore textures, color theory, the impressionist color wheel, composition, space, light and shadow, texture and movement. 

Learn about tools, materials and techniques. Enjoy class discussions about art history and impressionist artists. Immerse yourself in landscapes, figures and still life. 

We will paint landscapes, still lives and figures, and explore originality. Enjoy using what you learn to make your own unique painting masterpiece. A museum trip will be incorporated into the course, if possible. 

Your painting instructor is a professional teacher and working artist in both the US and Italy, who has exhibited in museums and galleries worldwide. No painting experience or formal art training is needed, just a willingness to learn.

Supplies Needed

Click here to see the supply list.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the tools and techniques to paint in the style of the Impressionist painters. 
• Apply texture and impressionist colors to your paintings for personal expression. 
• Use observation, linear perspective, and originality to explore composition, color, space, light and shadow in textures. 
• Express different ways to observe and document art by developing an art vocabulary. 
• Understand art as a form of personal expression.
• Create a unique finished painting using the impressionist style.

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone who wants to learn how to paint.
• Painting students or painters who would like to improve their painting skills. 
• People interested in Impressionist painting and would like to learn to paint in this style. 
   

Class Overview

Start telling your life story! In this class, gain the support and motivation to get started, and continue to move forward, writing the story of your life. 

From ideas to notes, to messy first drafts and the final polish, we'll cover the basics of writing. Learn how to find and develop your own unique voice, and how to discover your story through writing. Explore the tools of the trade, some of which memoirists borrow from fiction writers, others from journalists, and still others from poets.

This class will provide you with time and focus for writing together in class. You will also be expected to write between classes, in order to develop your practice, although there will be no fixed amount of writing required. Sharing will be encouraged but is always optional. Learn and practice the art of giving and receiving supportive, insightful feedback.

There will be handouts and/or reading suggestions offered in class.

Learning Objectives

• Overcome fears about writing and get started
• Find your voice and learn to write comfortably and confidently as yourself
• Discover your story through writing
• Learn to treat your writing seriously and with respect
• Think, observe, interview, and read as a writer
• Become comfortable sharing your writing with others

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• This class is for anyone who wants to write about their lives
• Open to writers at all levels
• No experience is needed; everyone is welcome!

Class Overview

Would you like to move from drawing stick figures to actual figures? In this class, you will get personalized guidance and help to hone your observation skills.
Improve your drawing and sketching skills by drawing live models under the guidance of a skilled artist.
If you'd like to work on drawing proportions, structure, and movement of the human figure, this class is for you!

*** Course fee includes model fees for all sessions.

Supplies Needed

• 18” x 24” sketch pad
• Mechanical pencil (0.7 or 0.5mm) with B or 2B graphite

Learning Objectives

• Learn the basics of proportion and structure
• Practice techniques for capturing movement
• Work on drawings under the guidance of an expert

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

• Students interested in improving their human figure drawing skills
• Those seeking an enhancement of their ability to accurately draw proportion, structure, and movement

Class Overview

Have you ever played with long exposures in your photography, but didn’t get the results you wanted? Discover how to artistically capture the essence of movement in your photography, creating magnificent images that will delight you and everyone who sees them.

Long-exposure photography uses slow shutter speeds to bring stationary elements into sharp focus, while moving elements become blurred. Learn the technical requirements and open up an exciting realm of creativity in your images.

Learn how to adjust your camera settings, including your shutter release and exposure times, for a variety of effects. Experiment with lenses, filters, and polarizers, equipment that can be game changers in your photography. Combine the technical aspects with stunning compositions, and enjoy unique, artistic, memorable effects.

From stopping the action of flowing water to car trails, or the famous Seattle Wheel,  learn how to create mystical images by using long exposures.

Supplies Needed

You can find these supplies at a local photography store or online:

• • Neutral density (ND) filter, from $50 to $100 depending on the lens
  • Polarizer, from $50 to $100 depending on the lens
  • Step up rings, $20

Learning Objectives

• • Know how to use step-up rings for different-size lenses
  • Be comfortable using a polarizer filter, knowing when to use it and not to use it
  • Use a neutral-density filter
  • Understand how to use your shutter release for different effects
  • Be familiar with how and when to use long exposure times
  • Understand the advantages and differences between ND filters and polarizers

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

Prerequisites: In order to participate fully in this class, students should be familiar with the three basic controls of a camera: aperture, shutter speed, and ISO.

• • Beginner to intermediate photographers
  • Anyone who is interested in landscape photography
  • Photographers interested in controlling time better in their photography
  • People who would like to use their cameras more creatively

Class Overview

Would you love to paint but don’t know where to begin? Or have you dabbled in painting and you’d like to get good at it? Gain an introduction to basic painting skills, using both acrylic and oil paints, in this rewarding class.

In this class, you will learn about paints and materials, and how to use them. Explore the rich topic of color, look at the color wheel, discuss color theory, and experiment with mixing colors to get the results you want.  Learn how to use brushes, palette knives, and other tools and supplies. 

Explore a wide variety of painting topics, including textures, shadows, light, hue, and value. Learn about perspective and proportions.  Explore techniques such as blending, scumbling, alla prima, impasto, chiaroscuro, and sfumato. Learn how to make your own gesso and paints. 

Enjoy exercises that will help you build your skills. We will explore subjects such as landscapes (rural and city), still lives, animals, portraits, and styles such as realism, abstraction, pointillism, expressionism, impressionism, and cubism. You will also be able to explore originality in art and paint from photographs, memory, and imagination. 

Learn new techniques or further develop skills you already have to get to the next level. The instructor is a professional artist with international experience and works in museums.

Supplies Needed

See the supply list.

Learning Objectives

• Be familiar with the tools and techniques to develop a work of art
• Use observation, linear perspective, volume, and originality 
• Explore composition, form, color, tints, tones, gradations, values, space, light, shadow, texture, blending, scumbling, alla prima, impasto, chiaroscuro, sfumato, monochromatic, analogous, complementary, triadic, neutrals and chroma.
• Develop techniques such as blending, glazing, color mixing
• Learn to use materials effectively and safely
• Express different ways to experience art by developing an art vocabulary
• Understand art as a form of personal expression.

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone wanting to learn how to paint
• People who have experience painting but want to improve
• Anyone seeking a creative outlet
• Everyone is welcome; no experience necessary

Optional Textbook

Painting for Everyone, Acrylics, Oils and Watercolors, written by the instructor.

Class Overview

Acrylic painting can provide a lifetime of enjoyment. Learn how to express yourself using the vibrant colors of this delightful paint.

Discover how to use the basic techniques of acrylic painting: blending, texturizing, brush handling, detailing, stippling, glazing, wet in wet, and alla prima. Learn about color mixing, complementary colors, warm and cool, hue, value, intensity, and proportions. 

You will be surprised how quickly your skills will improve by observing the instructor and painting along, during step-by-step class presentations. The format will make it easy to get started and build upon what you learn, gaining new techniques and putting them directly into practice. As you develop these skills, you’ll find them becoming second nature.

Enjoy the satisfying ability to represent the world around you in liquid colors, as you create unique works of art. 

This class is part of our Broadway Hill Club offerings, designed for older students and offered during the daytime on diverse topics, though students of all ages are welcome.

Learning Objectives

• Color mixing: proportions, hue, value, intensity, complementary colors, and warm/cool
• Using color schemes to add extra interest to your paintings: monochromatic, analogous, complementary, split complementary, and triadic
• Techniques such as blending, texturizing, and detailing; might include stippling, glazing, washes, alla prima, dry brushing, impasto, swirling and dabbing, etc.
• Various painting styles such as realistic, impressionistic, abstract, etc.
• Ability to paint a variety of subject matter such as animals, plants, landscapes, still life, etc.
• Represent 3-dimensional form in painting, in both black and white and in color, by using value, contrast, light, and shadow 
• Atmospheric perspective makes entire scenes and landscapes appear more 3 dimensional, with the illusion of depth and space
• Apply proportion and perspective to your paintings

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone who is interested in enriching their lives with the joy of painting 
• People who would like to gain or improve their painting skills and apply those skills to paint a variety of subject matter
• Anyone who would like a creative outlet and learn to express themselves through painting
• Budding artists who would like to gain the foundational skills of painting to apply to any visual art medium 
• Seniors looking for interesting activities to do with other seniors and community members
• People interested in daytime classes
• No experience is necessary; everyone is welcome!

Supplies Needed

PALETTE

• 1 disposable palette pad 9x12” or 12x16” (or paper plates for the first day)

BRUSHES

• Long-handled brushes are preferable – you can use short-handled brushes if you already have them - white nylon or brown taklon bristles
• Round brushes: #1 or #2 - (1/16" or 1/32" wide) 
• Filbert brushes: 2-3 at least
• A small and a large: 1/8", 1/4", 3/8", 1/2"
• Flat: 1" wide
• Angle brush (optional): small - 1/4" wide, or less  

CANVASES

• 2-4 canvases in a size like 11x14”, 12x16”, 14x18”, or 16x20” – depending on preference and availability (students often like to start with smaller canvases and then go up in canvas size as the class goes on)
• One 9x12” watercolor pad, 120 lb for practices and exercises (or 3-5 sheets of watercolor paper)

PAINTS

Examples of brands, student-grade: Liquitex Basics, Galeria, Grumbacher Academy, Utrecht, Pebeo

Colors:

Titanium white, any light yellow (examples: cadmium yellow light hue, Acra or Hansa yellow light, light yellow, or lemon yellow), any medium yellow: (cadmium yellow medium hue, Acra or Hansa yellow medium, or medium yellow), any medium red: (cadmium red medium hue, Acra or Hansa red medium, or medium red), magenta, ultramarine blue, phthalo blue, Mars black

Optional (recommeded) Colors:

Any medium orange: (cadmium orange medium hue, Acra or Hansa orange medium, or medium orange), dioxazine purple, phthalo green, burnt sienna, burnt umber 

OTHER SUPPLIES

• Water jars, glass or plastic (such as peanut butter, yogurt, cottage cheese, etc or large plastic cups or containers)
• Paper towels
• Pencil: 2B or HB 
• White vinyl eraser (or pink pearl)
• Sharpener (preferably with shavings catcher)
• Optional: palette knives (plastic or metal) 

Class Overview

Learn how to make beautiful paintings with a palette knife! Explore new ways to express yourself in painting, using an assortment of textural mediums. Without a brush, discover a variety of techniques to create picturesque landscapes, figures, wildlife, and modern art. Explore abstract and realistic styles and experiment with techniques as you create works of art.

Using new tools and techniques can free your imagination to discover new ways of creating art. If you are an experienced painter, explore new approaches in this class.

Your instructor for this class, Georgetta Gancarz, is a professional teacher and artist, who has exhibited in museums and galleries worldwide. If you haven't painted before, this is a great way to get started.

Supplies Needed

Click here to see the supply list. 

Learning Objectives

• Learn the tools and techniques to develop a work of art
• Application of texture in painting for personal expression and creating a finished work
• Use observation, linear perspective, volume and originality to explore composition, form, color, space, light, shadow in texture
• Express different ways to document art by developing an art vocabulary
• Understand art as a form of personal expression

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Budding artists interested in this unique style of expression.
• Experienced artists seeking a new element to their visual art.
• Anyone who wants to create original paintings under the guidance of a professional artist.
• People who would enjoy learning from a variety of media including real-time videoconferencing, written material, colorful photos and videos.
• Students who would like individual critique via email.

Class Overview

Pen and ink have been used for millennia and are still a favorite medium of artists today. These tools have their own personality and can add a unique flair to your drawing style. Learn how to use pen and ink in this fun hands-on class for all levels.

Even though pen and ink are simple tools, controlling the ink, and its permanence of it can be intimidating. In this class, learn the basic steps to get good results from your materials. Explore a variety of pen techniques and practice them to incorporate them into your drawings. Learn about technical pens and brush pens, and practice using dip pens.

We will look at some examples of pen and ink drawings for inspiration. Get ready to “go with the flow” and get creative with ink! 

Supplies Needed

• Pad of paper – Bristol smooth or mixed media
• During the first class, the instructor will bring several dip pens and inks to try; there will be a discussion regarding the other supplies needed to purchase for the class at that time.

Learning Objectives

• Be introduced to basic steps and a variety of pen techniques.
• Practice basic steps and a variety of pen techniques

Who Might Enjoy This Class 

• Anyone interested in learning how to use pen and ink
• People with drawing experience who would like to try a variety of new pens and techniques
• No experience needed; everyone is welcome

Class Overview

In part two of this two-part series, work towards the remaining steps needed to publish your book. Focus on finishing the content of your book, and explore options for promotion, publication, and distribution.
 

This course is taught by Georgetta Gancarz who has written and published over 20 books to date and also teaches art classes for Continuing Education.

Georgetta shares a bit about her motivation: "I created this class because after writing my 20th book, I wanted to give back to the community, helping others to achieve publication, like I have.”

Learning Objectives

Who Might Enjoy This Class

Writers, artists, photographers, and anyone interested in publishing a book.

Class Overview

Are you an artist who would like to sell art, but don’t know how? Get the support and all the information you need in this class. Learn step-by-step how you can sell your artwork, along with related information and helpful resources for artists.
 

There are a variety of ways to get your art into the marketplace today, using modern tools and venues. Discover how to create an online presence for your art and also how to exhibit your art in a gallery. Explore how to curate your presentation, document your pieces, get organized, and present your work effectively.

Learn about other funding options for artists such as grants, scholarships, and fiscal sponsorships, and how to pursue them. Find out about organizations that provide support for artists. Learn about copyright law for digital non-fungible tokens (NFTs).

This class can open the art marketplace for you and your art, giving you a chance to earn some financial reward for your investment in art, and welcome a wider audience to appreciate your work.

Learning Objectives

• Exhibiting your work
• Documenting and organizing your portfolio
• Creating an online presence
• Learning about artist representation
• Free organizations
• Grants, scholarships, and sponsorships

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Artists in any medium who would like to sell their art.
• All levels of experience are welcome.

Optional Textbook

Students can purchase How to Exhibit, Market and Sell Your Art, a textbook written by the instructor.

Class Overview

Have you ever been moved by the beauty of Chinese art? Learn about the unique philosophy and aesthetics of Chinese art while you experience the elegance of Sumi-style watercolor painting and calligraphy. 
 

In the Chinese style, you will learn to not just paint what you see, but paint what you feel. Painting with soul is the fundamental idea of Sumi painting and calligraphy. Learn skills and techniques of Sumi floral and landscape paintings and calligraphy through demos and hands-on individual instruction.
 

We will focus on live flowers, photos of landscapes, and other interesting subjects to inspire us during class. Students are encouraged to bring their own subjects for study to class, as well. Discover the relationship between painting and calligraphy. Learn about the supplies used in this ancient art form, such as the different rice papers and use, bruises, and the special Chinese Hanko, or stamp. 
 

Beginners and longtime continuing students are encouraged to take this engaging hands-on class and learn from a well-known Chinese calligrapher and painter. 

Supplies Needed

Brushes (Paragon brand)

• Best Combination Brush - a must-have; the one brush you need most (ABF-3FB03)
• Jade Bamboo - versatile combination large brush; also known as Magic Brush (ABF-3FB01)
• Rattail Fine Line – a fabulous brush for smooth, fine, long, and delicate lines (ABF-3FB04)
• Northern Wolf - excellent quality but an economical substitute (ABW-4WB02)
• Happy Dot - detail brush (ABD-6DLB2)

Ink & Ink Stone

• Yi De liquid Sumi ink - one bottle (AIB-YD250)
• Jade Purple (AIS-28114) - one dry ink stick; or China Premium - best quality ink stick (AIS-CP101) 
• Paragon - 5” round ink grinding stone with lid (AIS-2ST05)

Papers (PIA Brand)

• Green Line - 10 sheet paper roll 13.5”x 54” each sheet (APS-57P6R)
• 1 Fancy Tracing Paper Pack (APP-25P01)

Accessories

• 12 colors with 12 ml each (ACS-90C12)
• Oriental Fan Shape Palette - porcelain (ABA-PLTF6)
• Ivy wool felt - - beige/white color, 20” x 30” (AFT-FLT01)
• Well brush washer - 3, with blue flower pattern (ABA-BW304)
• Steel paper weight - 2 pieces (ABA-SPWT1)

FOR THE FIRST CLASS

If you don’t have any materials, these are the minimal supplies you will need for the first class:

Sumi Starter Kit (Paragon) 

• 3 brushes (one combination, one student wolf hair brush, and one detail brush)
• One 3.5” x 5” rectangular Ink grinding stone (PIA brand)
• One good quality ink stick (by Paragon) 
• One 10-sheet Green Line paper roll (13.75” x 57” each sheet)
• One Tracing Study Paper Pack
• One 2-well brush washer
• One steel paperweight

RECOMMENDATION FOR ART SUPPLY STORES

• An Artful Touch - (425-823-2336) 12437 116th Ave NE, Kirkland, Washington
• Paragon Art - www.ParagonArt.com, email: ask@paragonart.com

Learning Objectives

• Gain Sumi watercolor skills
• Understand Asian art and philosophy
• Learn a bit about Chinese Hanko (stamp) use and function in paintings

Who Might Enjoy This Class 

• Perfect for beginners as well as ongoing student artists practicing Sumi art
• Artists who want to expand their horizons
• Anyone who wants to practice focus/discipline and relaxation at the same time
• Chinese language students who want to explore Chinese culture, aesthetics, and art

Class Overview

Supplies Needed

Learning Objectives

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

Class Overview

Put your voice to work doing voice overs! Learn how you can use your own speaking voice for commercials, films, videos, and other presentations. In this introductory class, find out how to break into the creative, fulfilling, and potentially lucrative voice over industry. 

Develop some beginner voice techniques that you can use for a variety of outlets. Learn about the business side of doing voice overs, and how to market yourself. Become familiar with the equipment needed and how to set up a studio in your own home. You will also get a chance to explore demos and practice recording your voice during class.

A career doing voice overs can be managed on your own terms, on your own turf, in your own time, and with minimal overhead. Whether you choose to pursue voice overs part-time or full-time, this class will get you started doing voice overs in a unique and successful way.

Learning Objectives

• Understand how to get into the voice over business
• Use some beginner voice techniques
• Understand how to set up a home studio
• Use your voice for TV, commercials, and other outlets

Who Might Enjoy This Class 

• Anyone interested in a career or a side gig doing voice overs
• People who have a role doing voice overs and would like guidance on how to be more successful

Class Overview

Expand your creative expression by learning how to paint with watercolors! During this beginning-level hands-on class, you'll tap into your own inherent creativity through lectures and guided exploration, as well as gain inspiration from great works of art.

Learn the basics of traditional watercolor techniques, through lectures, discussion, and experience. You will be guided in developing skills and techniques with the paint and materials. Explore the use of colors. Discover how to combine watercolor with other media and materials such as ink and graphite.  

In this class, enjoy an introduction to some art history. You will have the chance to work with a variety of subject matters ranging from still life, to examples by master artists, to abstraction, as well as your own imagination. The class will evolve as we go, to meet the individual interests of the students in the class.

Supplies Needed

Please bring any watercolor supplies you already have, but do not buy anything before the first class. The instructor will review materials on the first day of class.

Learning Objectives

• Learn basic watercolor theory
• Discover how to pair watercolors with other mediums
• Practice painting under the direction of a skilled artist

Who Might Enjoy this Class

• Beginning artists
• More experienced artists who seek to expand their creative expression
• No experience needed; everyone is welcome!

Class Overview

Have you taken watercolor classes or have a basic understanding of watercolor methods?

Continue to develop watercolor techniques and take your painting to the next level in this intermediate class. Explore textural possibilities, colors, and compositional challenges while learning to create a body of artwork. Work with new subject matters and experiment with different watercolor effects. We will examine a variety of techniques used by different artists to find new approaches.

Practice all of the techniques and explore your personal direction in watercolor in this hands-on class.

Supplies Needed

You are welcome to use any watercolor supplies you already have. The instructor can give recommendations if needed.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this class, you will be able to:

• Use a variety of watercolor techniques 
• Work with various subject matters
• Be familiar with a variety of watercolor artists and effects
• Have developed skills using and mixing colors
• Get started creating a personal direction in watercolor

Who Might Enjoy this Class

• Previous experience with watercolor painting is useful such as our Watercolor Painting - Beginning class
• Watercolor painters interested in practicing their art with the guidance of an instructor and developing a body of artwork
• Anyone interested in continuing to develop their watercolor techniques and skills

Class Overview

Whittling is a simple and fun hobby that many people all over the world enjoy. In this interactive class, learn how to use the tools, select wood for your project, make the basic cuts and use proper whittling techniques. Enjoy whittling small animals that you will treasure for years and they also make wonderful gifts. In this class we we also learn how to sharpen and hone your tools to keep them razor sharp. Discover a new interest through this fun, hands on, engaging class! No previous whittling experience required.

Supplies Needed

• Whittler’s detail knife / sharpen carving knife (Recommended: KN13 Flexcut knife)
• Carving gouge set (recommended: Mikisyo Power Grip Carving Tools 7 Piece Set)
• Thumb guard and/or cut resistant gloves
• Leather honing strop with polishing compound (recommended: BeaverCraft Leather Honing Strop with Polishing Compound LS2P1SR41 3”x 8”Double Sided Leather Stropping Kit for Knife Sharpening Vegetable Tanned Leather for Stopping Tools)
• Pencil

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Obtain basic knowledge of whittling
• Understand use of tools
• Whittle with confidence
• Be familiar with how to select woods depending on projects
• Make the basic cuts and techniques
• Understand how to sharpen the tools

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone interested in trying the art of whittling
• People looking for a new hobby, creative outlet or craft to do with your hands
• People who are new in using carving tools
• Anyone who would like to make small animals from wood

Class Overview

Create a beautiful wooden spoon in one sitting! In this workshop, learn the basics of carving a simple kitchen spoon. You will also acquire basic knowledge and techniques of wood carving such as wood selection, preparing blanks, basic carving techniques, and traditional oil finishing.

These skills will help you become prepared for future wood carving projects. Stir up your creativity and curiosity with carving your own one of a kind wooden spoon! No previous wood carving experience required.

Supplies Needed

• Sweep gouge No. 7 or any carving straight or bent gouge No. 7, between 10–12 mm width with a short or long handle (recommended: PFEIL Swiss Made 10 mm Gouge No 7)
• Whittler’s detail knife / sharpen carving knife (recommended: KN13 Flexcut knife)
• Thumb guard and/or cut resistant gloves
• F-Clamp (recommended: Yost Tools F112 12”FClamp)
• Pencil

Learning Objectives

• How to select wood depending on your wood carving project
• Confidence in handling wood carving knives safely for a small project
• Basic knowledge of wood carving
• How to design and carve a spoon

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone curious and interested in trying wood carving and whittling
• People who love hand crafting
• Anyone who would like to do a small creative project with like-minded people

Class Overview

Whether you’re struggling at the beginning, middle, or the end of your story, this class will spark fresh ideas, strengthen your skills, and offer encouragement. Master the practices that strong writers employ so that you, too, can write riveting fiction or memoir.

Throughout the class, we’ll read short pieces, do practice exercises, and share our work in a safe, supportive environment. Learn to write powerful settings, memorable characters, and authentic dialogue in window pane glass clear prose.

The atmosphere of the class will promote discussion and positive feedback and, through small breakout rooms on Zoom, students will connect much more than in a typical online class.

Write Your Masterpiece is an engaging class for writers of fiction and memoir, and promises to be fun, captivating, and informative.

Supplies Needed

Access to a computer and email to write and send documents.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the difference between writing for yourself and writing for readers
• Identify elements of strong writing and learn to employ them
• Work through fear of writing emotionally difficult scenes
• Understand the power of revision
• Be inspired to finish a written piece, whether fiction or memoir
• Connect with other writers and enjoy the support of a community

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone who considered writing creatively at any time in their life
• People who have begun a story (fiction or memoir) but haven’t finished it
• All levels of writers are welcome!

Optional Textbooks & Resources

Bird by Bird by Ann Lamont may prove helpful; an essay you can read from that book is The Shitty First Draft.