ART & PHOTOGRAPHY   

Class Overview

Have you ever wished you could draw people and animals in motion? In this class, learn how to draw people and animals doing all of the fascinating activities they do on a daily basis, with satisfying accuracy.

Learn the techniques that will allow you to portray dynamic movement such as running, jumping, sitting, standing, swimming, flying, with your pencil. Discover how to draw people doing a wide variety of favorite activities such as: skiing, snowboarding, surfing, biking, gymnastics, dancing, figure skating, or rock climbing.

Explore the fascinating field of human and animal anatomy, as well as lighting, shading, proportions, and details. These skills will enable you to make your drawings interesting, dynamic, and lifelike.

Learn how to capture the amazing and diverse action of people and animals in this fascinating class!

Supplies Needed

• Drawing pad (70 lb. or higher)9x12” or 11x14”, whichever size you prefer
• Pencils: 2b, 4b, 6b, 8b
• Large white vinyl eraser
• Blending stomps
• Handheld sharpener (preferably one that can catch pencil shavings)
• Optional: Detail eraser (Tombow Mono Knock 3.8 is a good option)
• Optional: Electric Pencil Sharpener (i.e., School Smart, X-ACTO)

Learning Objectives

• Draw a wide variety of dynamic poses that people, animals, and birds exhibit when they are in motion, such as running, jumping, sitting, standing, swimming, flying, eating, etc.
• Understand the basic anatomy of animals and people, which will help you depict them in various active poses
• Be able to use a variety of the basic skills of graphite pencil drawing, such as blending, details, texturing, light source, shadows, and layering
• Explore the techniques of proportions

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone who would like to learn how to draw people and animals in motion
• People interested in the basics of drawing human and animal anatomy
• Anyone interested in expressing themselves through the medium of drawing
• Anyone who would like to learn many of the basic fundamentals of drawing such as shading, lighting, blending, shadows, details, proportions, etc.
• No prior experience needed; everyone is welcome!

Class Overview

Are you interested in learning how to write a book but need more information and support to get it done and make it a success? Learn the art of publishing your own book, from writing, to editing, design and final publication. This class will include two parts. In Part 1, focus on writing your book and consider all of the questions needed to create excellent content. What is the story you want to tell and how do you tell it? Who is your audience and how do you approach your audience and readers?
 
Learn about storytelling, refining your topics, the editing process, and all of the steps and considerations for writing your book. How do you want the final product to look and feel when it is complete and being held and read? Consider the visual aspects of your book, including layout, illustration, design and your book's cover.
 
In part two, work towards final publication, including choosing a publishing house, book promotion and online retail selling. You can publish your book in your native language, whether it is English, Spanish, Italian, French, Portuguese, Mandarin, Hindi, Farsi and Amharic. Instructor Georgetta Gancarz, explains, "I want students to express themselves in their identity and culture. For me as an artist, freedom of self-expression, including cultural, is necessary to be true and creative."  She has written and published 20 books to date, and also teaches multiple art classes for Continuing Education.

What You Will Need

Students must have access to a laptop or computer and internet access for this class. You will need to install some free writing programs on your device.  

Learning Objectives

• Understand the steps needed to write a book
• Gain skills in thinking about your audience and future readers
• Acquire knowledge in executing your book, including topics such as: storyline, creating chapters, choosing a title, referencing and documenting sources, and editing
• Gain knowledge in creating the visual aspect of a book, including design, layout, illustrations

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone interested in publishing a book.
   

Class Overview

This class is for anyone who is ready to be their own boss. Come to class and we will workshop your business idea and develop the basic tools of starting a business plan. 

In class, we will talk through how to start your small product-based business in a sustainable way. Learn about pricing and marketing strategies, and common pitfalls to avoid. Gain an understanding about key ideas such as how to know when to seek outside production, or add employees. 

Learn how to run a business without it running you. Enjoy guidance from people with extensive business experience eager to pass on what they have learned to new entrepreneurs.  This class will teach you how to start scrappy and lean – and how to stay that way. 

Supplies Needed 

Bring your computer, notebook, and a product idea for your business. You will also need a way to download and print pdf worksheets.

Learning Objectives

• Avoid the pitfalls that most new entrepreneurs face
• Have the confidence and resources to strike out on your own with your product based business idea
• Outline a business plan that has been workshopped
• Develop a business that is sustainable

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone who has a business idea that would like to turn it into their day job
• People with a product in mind who would like guidance developing a business plan
• New entrepreneurs who would like support building a more sustainable business model

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 the colored pencil, 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!

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

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 9 x 12", no larger 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 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 (optional, a Tombow Mono Knock 3.8 is best for drawing and erasing small lines- can be ordered online or places like Blick.) - or pink eraser on 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)
• 24 to 72 (or more) colored pencil set: Prismacolor Recommended- Because they blend much better than other brands (*** You don’t need it for this beginner’s class, but it's good to have a set if you would like to take a higher-level class in the future.)

Learning Objectives

• Learn the various uses for the tools and supplies of 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 an ability to use proportions
• Represent three-dimensional objects and scenes using simple perspective
• Utilize light and dark details
• Maximize the use of value, contrast, line, mark making, and details to draw with expression

Who Might Enjoy 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

Course Overview

Unleash your creativity through fantasy and science fiction art! Learn to draw and paint science fiction and fantasy creatures! Explore the anatomy and proportions of fantasy creatures in order to capture their essence.

Discover how you can depict creatures in action. We will also focus on learning how to draw three dimensionally, using light, shadow, detail, and color to make fantasy creature drawings and paintings come to life!

You’ll learn to combine these skills to depict a variety of creatures, such as: dragons, dinosaurs, mecha, kaiju, treants, robots, trolls, shape-shifters, cyborgs, mutants, insectoids and animal- and multi- creature hybrids! We will also explore how to depict all of the amazing things they do: running, flying, battling foes, rescuing heroes, breathing fire, and more!

Supplies Needed

(Updated: July 2022)

Drawing:

• Pencils (Graphite):
  • 2B pencil
  • 4B pencil
  • 6B pencil
  • (Optional) 8B
  • (Optional) Woodless Pencil (6B or 8B)
• 70 lb. or higher Drawing Paper Pad - either 9"x12" or 11"x14"
• White vinyl eraser
• Blending Stomps (or paper towel/ tissues for blending if you can't find these for first day)
• Pencil Sharpener (preferably with shaving collector)
• Mechanical Eraser, (Tombow Mono Knock 3.8) or pink eraser on back of pencil (for detail erasing and drawing white lines on gray areas)

Painting:

• Small collection of Brushes- a 1/4" filbert brush, a 3/8" filbert brush, and a 1/2" filbert brush, and detail brushes: Small #1 round, and/or a 1/4-inch angle brush
• Jar or large plastic cup or container (like Yogurt or Peanut Butter Jar) for water
• Paper Towels
• Watercolor Paper Pad (8.5x11", 9x12", 11x14", or 11"x15") (120 lb. or higher)
• Disposable paper palette pad (i.e., Strathmore, Canson, etc.)- 9x 12 or 12x16 (12x16 better because it has more room)
• If you'd like a palette that keeps the paints wet between sessions, (optional), you can get a 12x16 stay wet palette, or another good option which you can find online which is cheaper/ better is the: "Hipiwe a4 file box (recommended)" (i.e. on Amazon) (If you get either "stay- wet" type palette, you'd still need a "disposable paper palette" (above) to put the paints on, inside of the "stay wet palette")
• (optional) paper plates for additional paint mixing
• (optional) Acrylic Matte Medium 
• (optional) Spray bottle for keeping paints wet
• (optional) Small table easel (optional, depending on if you like drawing/ painting on the table, or drawing/painting upright)
• Paints:
  • Small Inexpensive set of Acrylic Paints 6-12 Colors (at least White, Yellow, Blue, Red, Green, Purple, Orange, Black) (i.e., Liquitex Basics)
  • If you'd like to get the complete range of Acrylics, (instead of the small set), these include: (optional): titanium white, light yellow, medium yellow, medium orange, medium red, magenta, purple, ultramarine blue, phthalo blue, phthalo green, black

Learning Objectives

• Depict fantasy creatures through 3D form through light and shadow
• Illustrate motion and action in fantasy creatures
• Have knowledge and skills in the depiction of anatomy and proportions
• Utilize light shadow and geometric objects to depict 3 dimensionalities
• Use color mixing and paint application to depict fantasy creatures in color
• Draw and paint a wide variety of fantasy creatures and characters in dynamic poses
• Illustrate a variety of fantasy creature subject matter 

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone who is interested in enriching their lives with the joy of fantasy creature drawing and painting
• Artists who would like to gain or improve their drawing and painting skills and apply those skills to the subject of fantasy creatures
• Anyone interested in fantasy and science fiction who would like to learn to portray characters and creatures
• People currently drawing fantasy art who would like to improve their realism
• Anyone who would like to gain the foundational skills of painting to apply to any visual art medium in the future

Class Overview

Gardens are a colorful and fascinating study for painting. Enter the miniature world of garden plants and animals as the subject and setting for this fun and rewarding class!

Explore all sorts of unique and interesting birds and animals who live in the garden and discover how you can portray them with paint. Learn painting skills such as blending, texturizing, brush techniques, layering, and color mixing, all of which will enable you to capture the flora and fauna that live in the fascinating and beautiful world of the garden.

Supplies Needed

• Watercolor pad (120 lb. or pound or higher) 9x12” or 11x14”
• Canvases: 9x12”, 11x14”, 12x16”, 14x18”, or 16x20”, whichever sizes you prefer
• Filbert brushes: ¼”, ?”, ½”
• Angle brush: ¼”
• Round brush: #1
• Acrylic paints: Titanium White, Light Yellow, Medium Yellow, Medium Orange, Medium Red, Magenta, Purple, Ultramarine Blue, Phthalo Blue, Phthalo Green, Black
• Disposable paper palette pad: 9x12” or 12x16” – (12x16” is preferable because it has more room) (i.e., Strathmore, Canson, etc.)
• Optional: if you’d like a palette that keeps the paints wet between session, you can get a 12x16” “stay wet palette” or a Hipiwe a4 file box (recommended because it’s cheaper) (find it online); you still need a disposable paper palette (above)
• Optional: paper plates for additional paint mixing
• Optional: acrylic matte medium
• Optional: spray bottle for keeping paints wet
• Optional: small table easel (if you would like painting upright (recommended for larger paintings)
• Water jars
• Paper towels
• Hb, 2b, 4b pencils
• Large white vinyl eraser
• Pencil sharpener (preferably one that can catch the shavings)

Learning Objectives

• Learn to paint animals and plants
• Develop painting skills such as blending, details, texturing, light source, shadows, layering, etc.
• Become familiar with color mixing and color theory such as complementary colors, and color harmony
• Gain a variety of brush handling techniques that will allow you to blend, texturize, and detail your painting, such as wet in wet blending, stippling, dabbing, scumbling, dry brush, and glazing
• Learn the basics of drawing such as proportions

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone who would like to learn how to paint garden birds, animals and plants
• People interested in learning the basic fundamentals of painting, paint brush handling skills, and color mixing
• Anyone seeking a creative outlet and is interested in expressing themselves through painting
• Painters who would like to study a new subject matter and develop their skills
• No experience needed; everyone is welcome!

Class Overview

Supplies Needed

Please have the items listed below ready before the class:

Paper:

Please note: the better the paper, the better your painting experience 

• Arches Watercolor Pad with the black and green cover -- be sure it is not Block! -- any size you choose. 
• Optional if the pad (above) is not available: 1 sheet (or more) of Arches Paper: 140#, 22x30", cold press. 
• NOT recommended: Strathmore yellow cover paper pad

Paint: Transparent watercolor paint set - any brand, except Reeves.

Brushes:

• 1 (one) round pointed #10 synthetic watercolor brush
• 1 (one) sheep hair 2" Hake flat brush
• 1 (one) small cheap flat synthetic brush, max 1/2"

Learning Objectives

• Create your own holiday cards
• Gain skills in traditional watercolor painting techniques
• Become familiar with watercolor painting tools and materials and how to use them
• Express yourself creatively through watercolor painting and card creation
• Create unique works of art

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone interested in learning watercolor painting techniques
• People who would like to make their own holiday cards
• Anyone wanting to explore their creativity and have time for creative exploration and expression

Class Overview

Get ready for winter holidays by learning how to create festive cards with colored pencils! Explore the colorful and expressive medium of colored pencils as you follow along during an engaging step-by-step demonstration in this hands-on class.

Learn a variety of basic techniques to bring out the best in your colored pencils and make use of the vibrant colors readily available. This is an opportunity to explore color and learn some fundamental drawing skills that you can build upon for future card making, drawing, and other creative endeavors.

You’ll be able to create cards for whichever holidays you would like. By the end of the class, you will have developed new skills and created art that you can proudly share with loved ones for the holidays.

Supplies Needed

• Drawing pad (70 lb. or higher): 9 x 12” or 11 x 14”, whichever size you’d prefer for your drawings
• Hb or 2b pencil
• Large white vinyl eraser
• Handheld sharpener (preferably one that can catch pencil shavings)
• Set of at least 24 to 36 colored pencils (if you plan on doing more colored pencils in the future, a set of 48, 72 or higher - Prismacolor colored pencils are recommended), but for this class, a set of 24-36 colored pencils (preferably 36) of any brand will work fine!
• Pad of 9 x 12” watercolor paper (smooth is better) 120 lb. or higher
• Scissors
• Optional: colorless blender pencil (i.e., by Prismacolor)
• Optional: detail eraser (Tombow Mono Knock 3.8)
• Optional: electric pencil sharpener (i.e., School Smart, X-ACTO)

Learning Objectives

• Basic techniques of colored pencils
• Colored pencil skills such as blending, details, texturing, light source, shadows, layering,
• 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.
• Basic drawing skills such as proportion

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone who would like to learn to use the beautiful, colorful, portable, fun medium of colored pencils
• People interested in creating winter- and holiday- themed cards
• Anyone interested in learning about and exploring color
• People with experience using colored pencils but would like to develop their skills
• No prior experience needed; everyone is welcome!

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

Are you perplexed by your digital camera and all the settings and buttons? Do you wish your photographs looked better? Learn how to get much more out of your camera in this rewarding hands-on class.

Explore what the automatic settings can do for your photographs - and what they can’t. Learn how to go far beyond “automatic” and make your photographs more memorable and evocative. We will explore the different settings, giving you time to practice and share your results.

This hybrid (online and in person) class will meet in person to photograph together, and to allow one-on-one tutorials on location with your own camera. If you are beginning your photography journey with a digital camera, get ready for a fun learning experience with your camera.

Supplies Needed

• A digital camera, anything from point-and-shoot, to digital SLR, to mirrorless.
• A computer so you can attend online classes via Zoom, and post your photographs to the internet using flickr.com for sharing and for feedback.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the foundation of photography
• Demystify most of the settings on your camera, including Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority and Manual Exposure
• Know when to use automatic, and when not to
• Have a comfort level working with a variety of the settings on your camera
• Understand white balance and histograms and why they matter
• Adopt a primary setting for the bulk of your future photography
• Create better photographs
• Better capture the photo opportunities in front of your lens

Who Might Enjoy This Class

Anyone who wants to get more out of their digital camera - whether a brand-new camera or one that you have owned but don’t understand well

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

Have you ever wanted to be able to paint dramatic, exciting, colorful pictures of the natural world around you? If so, then you’ll love this class!

Learn how to paint a variety of landscape subjects such as mountains, trees, seascapes, deserts, waterfalls, national parks, and more. In this class, you’ll develop a wide variety of painting skills such as blending, texturizing, brush techniques, layering, and color mixing. You’ll be able to put these skills into practice, enabling you to paint a wide variety of beautiful landscapes.

The skills and techniques you learn will be an excellent foundation for future painting.

Supplies Needed

• Watercolor pad (120 lb. or pound or higher): 9x12” or 11x14”
• Canvases: 9x12”, 11x14”, 12x16”, 14x18”, or 16x20”, whichever sizes you prefer
• Filbert brushes: ¼”, ?”, ½”
• Angle brush: ¼”
• Round brush: #1
• Acrylic paints: Titanium White, Light Yellow, Medium Yellow, Medium Orange, Medium Red, Magenta, Purple, Ultramarine Blue, Phthalo Blue, Phthalo Green, Black
• Disposable paper palette pad (i.e., Strathmore, Canson, etc.): 9x12” or 12x16” (12x16” is preferable because it has more room)
• Optional: If you’d like a palette that keeps the paints wet between sessions, you can get a 12x16” “stay wet palette” or a Hipiwe a4 file box (recommended); you still need a disposable paper palette (above)
• Optional: Paper plates for additional paint mixing
• Optional: Acrylic matte medium
• Optional: Spray bottle for keeping paints wet
• Optional: Small table easel (if you’d like painting upright, recommended for larger paintings)
• Water jars
• Paper towels
• Pencils: HB, 2b, 4b
• Large white vinyl eraser
• Pencil sharpener (preferably one that can catch the shavings)

Learning Objectives

• Paint the beautiful and awe-inspiring natural landscapes
• Develop painting skills such as blending, details, texturing, light source, shadows, layering, etc.
• Become familiar with color mixing, complementary colors, and color harmony
• Gain a variety of brush handling techniques that will allow you to blend, texturize, and detail your painting, such as wet in wet blending, stippling, dabbing, scumbling, dry brush, glazing, etc.
• Learn the basics of drawing such as accurately depicting proportions

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone interested in learning how to paint landscapes
• People who would like to learn many of the fundamentals of painting, color mixing and brush handling
• Anyone seeking a creative outlet and is interested in expressing themselves through painting
• Painters who would like to learn a new subject matter in painting
• No experience necessary; everyone is welcome!

Class Overview

Would you like to explore new techniques, perspectives and images in your photography? Macro photography can help you gain exciting new perspectives that will transform your photos and activate your imagination and passion for photography.

Macro photography is extreme close-up photography, usually of very small subjects and living organisms like insects, in which the size of the subject in the photograph appears larger than life size. Skills for macro photography can be acquired with practice. In this class you we will explore what defines macro photography, how to find subjects, factors such as texture, color and contrast, and best practices for setting up your shots. We will also review equipment and technical considerations such as depth of field, aperture and light.

By taking this class, you will visualize the photos that you can take differently and can determine what level of precision you are striving for and how to achieve it. Learn to see light and images in a new way, as you never have before. Make your photos artistic and creative, qualifying as fine art or abstract images.

Learning Objectives

• Define macro photography 
• Understand best practices of how-to setup a macro shot
• Find subject matters (textures, colors, contrast) 
• Be familiar with the equipment and how close each piece of equipment can get you of your subject
• Understand depth of field, understand which aperture is the best to capture the feeling of the image 
• Know how to used light, in a close-up scenario: Were you position your light, what type of light is critical for macro photography

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

• Anyone interested in textures and color in photography 
• Abstract art enthusiasts 
• Basic photographers looking to understand the limitation of your lenses / camera 
• People seeking a new creative challenge and perspective that captures your imagination
• All levels in photography are welcome thought it is helpful that you have a basic knowledge of your camera 

Class Overview

Would you like to learn how to paint? Learn painting fundamentals in a fun interactive class! Enjoy individual instruction and supportive feedback while learning to create beautiful works of art. 

Learn about paints, brushes and other materials, and how to use them. Discover color theory and how to mix colors to get the results you want. Explore perspective, shadows, light, and form, and how to use them to create a realistic effect in your painting. 

Enjoy exercises that will help you build your skills. Topics include painting landscapes, still lives, animals, portraits and abstraction. You will also be able to explore originality in art, and paint from photographs, memory and your imagination. Learn new techniques or further develop skills you already have and to get to the next level. 

The instructor is a professional artist with international experience and works in museums. 

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 and texture.
• Develop techniques such as blending, glazing, color mixing
• Learn to use materials effectively and safely
• Express different ways to document art by developing an art vocabulary.
• Understand art as a form of personal expression.

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• People who want to paint and learn painting fundamentals
• Anyone interested in learning about color, delve into art, and have a creative outlet
• Beginner to advanced artists and art students
• Artists or art students interested in learning how to use materials and techniques for painting
• Anyone interested in participating in a painting community, receiving critiques of their works
• No experience is needed; everyone is welcome!

Supplies Needed

CHOOSE ONE Acrylics or Oils 

You will need six colors of 2 oz. Acrylic tubes.

SEE BELOW FOR COLORS

• Titanium White  (This is a bright white the color of typing paper)
• Primary or Lemon Yellow (This is a yellow the color of a lemon)
• Naphtol Red  (This is a red the color of a fire engine)
• Phthalo Green  (This is a dark green the color of a cucumber) 
• Ultramarine Blue  (This is a dark blue the color of night sky)
• Mars or Ivory Black

 
BRUSHES

Brushes are made from Natural Hair and Synthetic Fibers. Synthetics are popular. Natural Hair adds more texture.

• A GOOD RANGE OF BRUSHES SEE BELOW
• One SMALL Round brush (Comes to a point)
• One Medium Flat Brush (Looks like a square top)
• One Filbert Brush (Great for blending)
• One large WASH brush

Sets

• Brushes can be purchased individually or in sets.
• Sets often have better prices and include a range from small to medium to large.

FOR Acrylic or Oil: YOUR CANVAS

OPTIONS FOR CANVAS TYPES FOR ACRYLICS or OILS
Canvas, Canvas BOARDS OR PANELS

4 Canvases or Canvas Boards
The average size is 9x12

OTHER ITEMS NEEDED FOR ACRYLICS OR OIL

• A Standard Size Palette Knife  
• A Roll of Wax Paper 
• Painters Tape
• Two Plastic or Paper Cups
• A Roll of Paper Towels

ONLY FOR OILS

• A small bottle of Linseed Oil
• A small bottle of Turpenoid (for online students only) 
• For non-toxic options can substitute for vegetable oil for cleaning brush 

Textbook Needed: None

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

Have you ever wanted to be able to draw friends, family, or famous people? If so, this fascinating and satisfying class is for you!

Learn how to bring portraits of people to life by capturing expressions, facial details, and the interesting qualities that are unique to each person. Discover and practice essential techniques such as shading, blending, proportions, choosing details, using light source and shadows, layering, and texturing. Learn how to reliably portray proportions accurately.

Develop handy drawing skills that will allow you to draw beautiful and unique portraits that capture the essence of each person’s personality.

Supplies Needed

• Drawing pad (70 lb. or higher): 9x12” or 11x14”, whichever size you’d prefer
• Pencils: 2b, 4b, 6b, 8b
• Large white vinyl eraser
• Blending stomps
• Handheld sharpener (preferably one that can catch pencil shavings)
• Optional: detail eraser (Tombow Mono Knock 3.8 is a good option)
• Optional: electric pencil sharpener (i.e., School Smart, X-ACTO)

Learning Objectives

• Draw faces that capture details, expressions and the unique qualities found in every person
• Gain basic drawing skills, such as how to determine proportions accurately
• Develop graphite pencil techniques such as blending, details, texturing, light source, shadows, and layering

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone interested in drawing portraits of people
• People who would like to learn fundamentals of drawing
• Artists and people who like to draw, interested in developing their skills and focusing on a new subject matter
• People who’d like a creative outlet and learn to express themselves through drawing
• No experience needed; everyone is welcome!

Class Overview

Between now and New Year’s Day, you’ll probably take a lot of photos. These special holiday photos of parties and gatherings with family and friends often come with two special challenges: insufficient light and large groups of people.

In this class, learn how to get the best results possible when photographing difficult holiday environments so you can take photos that you will treasure. Gain information that will help you be successful in a variety of lighting situations, such as candlelight, a dark background, or a sunny day in the snow. Learn how to assess the light and know how to respond.

We will also discuss and practice posing individuals, or a group of people, to get great photos. You will be able to use your new skills to capture and share fun memories for all holidays and get-togethers in the future.

Supplies Needed

• Cameras: Any digital camera will create good holiday pictures. A phone camera will work fine about half of the time until you face low light and larger groups.
• Flashes: The pop flash on a camera will work okay; however, if you want better quality images, an external flash if recommended.

Learning Objectives

• Take images in low light inside and outside
• Understand the difference between pictures and snapshots
• Determine the depth of field in group photography
• Assess ambient light of a room and outside and know how to respond
• Compose people on a group situation
• Pose one person or a group of people

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone who is interested in taking wonderful images of the holidays to created memories with loved ones
• People who would like to capture better images with large groups of people
• Anyone who would like to improve their ability to take photos in low and difficult lighting
• No experience needed; all levels are welcome, and all cameras are welcome (cellphones are okay if that’s what you have!)

Class Overview

Would you like to write a compelling memoir, essay, or travel article that will fully engage your readers? Learn the art and science of writing creative non-fiction. 

In this class discover how to incorporate elements of fiction into your non-fiction to create a dynamic narrative. Explore how to navigate passages of writing a memoir that might be especially grueling, how to approach an essay from different slants, and how you can write a travel story that will lead readers to pack their bags and go.

Elevate your writing in this fun, supportive, and encouraging class.

Suggested Materials

• No Text is required. However, some books which will be helpful include:
• Philip Lopate's The Art of Personal Essay
• Tristine Rainiers' Your Life as Story
• An article in NY Book Editors, “Tips for Writing a Travel Memoir” 

Learning Objectives

• Understand the meaning of effective creative non-fiction 
• Ability to write creative non-fiction well
• Obtain tools to overcome obstacles such as “writers block” in order to complete your project

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone who wants to learn the how to write engaging non-fiction essays, travel pieces, or memoirs
• Writers who would benefit from new approaches, ideas and inspiration

Class Overview

Have you ever had a friend or family member say you should do more with your art? Have you ever imagined doing business with your art? Explore one of the simplest, least expensive, safest ways to honor - and sustain - that encouragement and make some return on your investment of time and money in your art: turning your art into greeting cards. 
Learn what makes the best greeting cards from 2d and 3d art and how to assemble a greeting card - what you need and where to buy it. Explore the power of going beyond just originals.  Discuss how to photograph your artwork, if it is not already photography, to prepare it and duplicate it.
In this class we will explore pricing, selling online, working with stores and even licensing your art to third parties. The emphasis will be on removing hurdles so you can be making your own cards by the second session. This class is timed to prepare you in plenty of time for the best time of year for greeting cards, the holiday season. Your design will work for all art mediums, 2d and 3d, from painting to photography, ceramics to wood working.

Format: Hybrid

• Day #1 meets in person at Wood Technology Center (2310 S. Lane St, Seattle, WA 98144)
• Day #2 meets on Zoom.

Bring the following items to class

• [Do this before you come to the class] Email 5 photographs of examples of your art as candidates for use on your greeting cards by 10/27 to your instructor to share for feedback in the first class
• 10 samples of your art (not originals!) as small photographic prints, 5x7 inches or smaller, (ideally mat or pearl finish, not glossy)
• 10 scored, blank sheets of card stock (A7, A6 or A2 sized)
• 2-sided tape applicator (Tombo or similar)
• 10 matching or contrasting envelopes (sized to fit your folded card stock and available where you buy your card stock
• 10 clear plastic, self-sealing enclosures (sized to fit your folded card stock and envelope)
• 10 adhesive labels printed with © your name and contact information (email or website) or a rubber stamp

*** The materials we will use to assemble your own greeting cards can be purchased from most craft stores. If you have any question about the materials, please contact your instructor before you make the purchase.

Learning Objectives

• Better select the pieces of your art that are the most suitable for greeting cards
• Make a finished greeting card with your art
• Set an appropriate price for your greeting cards
• Sell your own greeting card directly
• Contact a local store to have them sell your greeting cards
• Understand the ins and outs of selling greeting cards online

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone making art in any medium, 2d and 3d, painting to photography, woodworking to ceramics
• Artists who want to make some return on their investment of time and money in their art
• Anyone who wants to share their art with friends or loved ones
• Artists who love seeing their art out in the world, being enjoyed by and having an impact on others
   

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 and gain inspiration from great works of art.

Learn the basics of traditional watercolor techniques, through lecture, discussion and experience. You will be guided in developing skills and technique 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

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 variety of watercolor techniques 
• Work with various subject matters
• Be familiar with 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