In-Person Classes   

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 woodblock 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.

This class is part of our Broadway Hill Club offerings in Spring 2024, designed for older students and offered during the daytime on diverse topics, though students of all ages are welcome.

Supplies Needed (Students must bring the items listed below to the class)

• 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)
• 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 ever wanted to make unique and functional cups and bowls from clay? Enjoy an introduction to pottery using a pottery wheel in a local ceramics studio.

Designed for beginners, this class offers hands-on experience in the fundamentals of wheel throwing from start to finish. Enjoy guidance from a local artist in pottery fundamentals including centering, shaping, trimming, and glazing your own pots. The class will cover a variety of vessels including cylinders, bowls, and other functional vessels. Enjoy the thrill of seeing your own pieces after they have been fired and glazed!

By the end of class, you will have learned the basic skills in throwing your own pots and have your own lasting and useful creations to take home with you.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the fundamentals of working on the pottery wheel and the ceramic process.
• Make functional forms including cylinders, bowls, vases, and more.
• Be familiar with the necessary movements and techniques for working on the potter's wheel as well as glazing.
• Be confident in creating functional forms from raw clay and carrying it through the process to a finished product. 

Who Might Want to Take this Class?

• Anyone interested in making functional art
• People who want to understand the ceramic process 
• Anyone who wants to work in clay to create functional vessels
• Everyone who would like to gain skills in working on the potter's wheel

Class Overview

Have you ever wanted to make unique and functional cups and bowls from clay? Enjoy an introduction to pottery using a pottery wheel in a local ceramics studio.

Designed for beginners, this class offers hands-on experience in the fundamentals of wheel throwing from start to finish. Enjoy guidance from a local artist in pottery fundamentals including centering, shaping, trimming, and glazing your own pots. The class will cover a variety of vessels including cylinders, bowls, and other functional vessels. Enjoy the thrill of seeing your own pieces after they have been fired and glazed!

By the end of class, you will have learned the basic skills in throwing your own pots and have your own lasting and useful creations to take home with you.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the fundamentals of working on the pottery wheel and the ceramic process.
• Make functional forms including cylinders, bowls, vases, and more.
• Be familiar with the necessary movements and techniques for working on the potter's wheel as well as glazing.
• Be confident in creating functional forms from raw clay and carrying it through the process to a finished product. 

Who Might Want to Take this Class?

• Anyone interested in making functional art
• People who want to understand the ceramic process 
• Anyone who wants to work in clay to create functional vessels
• Everyone who would like to gain skills in working on the potter's wheel

Class Overview

Chi Kung (also spelled “qigong”) is an ancient health-giving exercise that began in the stone age in China. Combining breathing and movement, it acts like an internal massage for the organs of the body while strengthening the limbs and the spine. "Chi" is translated as breath, and "kung" means exercise.

In this class, learn the 18 movements of Chi Kung and the Swimming Dragon exercise. These are beautiful movements that feel good in the body. This practice can offer many benefits such as focus, balance, relaxation, strengthening, stretching, mindfulness, and overall well-being. The history of Chi Kung includes Chinese medicine, Taoism, martial arts, Confucianism, and Buddhism. All will be discussed to provide a greater understanding and appreciation of this practice.

This gentle exercise is geared to seniors, and anyone who wants to support good health. People who wish to extend the length and quality of their functional life will benefit.

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.

Please wear comfortable clothes that you can move in.

Learning Objectives

• The history and background of Chi Kung
• 18 movements of Chi Kung
• Swimming Dragon exercise
• Improve your flexibility and balance

Who Should Take This Class?

• Individuals seeking a low-impact exercise routine
• Anyone interested in improving their flexibility and balance
• People interested in developing their focus, relaxation, and overall wellness
• Seniors wanting a supportive exercise class
• No experience is necessary; 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

Learn how to draw what you see! This class is a great next step after the Drawing and Sketching class or another introductory drawing class, though no prior experience is needed. 

Improve your eye-hand coordination and other essential skills that will take your drawing to the next level. We will practice drawing a variety of chosen objects that have been carefully chosen to aid you in building your drawing and observation skills and abilities. 

Develop your perception, focus, and a myriad of drawing skills in this enjoyable hands-on class experience.

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

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

Learning Objectives

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

• Practice and improve upon your skills under the guidance of an expert
• Explore fundamental drawing techniques 
• Learn about different style approaches
• Represent 3-dimensional space and objects through the use of drawing techniques

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
• Anyone interested in a creative outlet - no previous art experience required
• Some drawing experience is helpful but not necessary

Class Overview

Are you an au pair wanting to improve your US English skills? Improve your language skills while getting to know other au pairs and building a sense of community among au pairs in the Seattle region.

This class is led by a trained English as a second language (ESL) instructor who will help you improve your speaking, listening, vocabulary, and grammar skills. Through group conversations, student-centered grammar practice, informal presentations, field trips, and lots of vocabulary and listening activities, you'll gain more fluency and confidence. Mistakes are encouraged!

Learn American slang and cultural traditions, as well as Seattle customs and lifestyle. Topics include Seattle neighborhoods, American culture, cheap travel, and events around the Seattle area. Enjoy educational, social, and cultural experiences with other au pairs who are living and working in the Seattle area. 

Learning Objectives

• Feel more confident in using and understanding U.S. English
• Practice conversation skills for both work and social situations in the U.S.
• Improve listening and comprehension skills.
• Learn grammar structures that improve communication with others in speaking and writing
• Use English to share ideas and collaborate with other au pairs in the Seattle area

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Au pairs, nannies, or anyone interested in improving their U.S. English language skills

Prerequisite

• Intermediate English or above; you should be able to participate in group conversations about everyday topics.

Class Overview

Whether captain or crew, there are essential knots and line-handling skills that every boater should know that you will learn in this class. Line-handling skills are important to docking, transiting the locks, or even “Mediterranean mooring” on your next bareboat charter. Becoming good at these skills will make you a more competent boater.

In this class, you can learn how to handle dock lines safely, even under load. Discover the best way to store lines so they are always neat and immediately ready to use and which knots are appropriate to use in various situations, and learn how to tie the most essential boating knots. You will have a chance to practice these skills.

We will also discuss how to communicate effectively between the person at the helm and the person handling lines, which is a key to success for safe boating. 

Learning Objectives

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

• handle dock lines safely, even under load
• store lines so they are always neat and immediately ready to use
• throw a line effectively
• communicate effectively between the person at the helm and the person handling lines
• recognize the appropriate knot to use in various situations
• put a line on/off a cleat without stepping off the boat
• tie the most essential boating knots, including the bowline, clove hitch, round turn and two half hitches, stopper knot, reef knot, locking cleat hitch, cow hitch, and rolling hitch

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

• Recreational boaters
• Anyone interested in learning about knots and line handling

Class Overview

Express your ideas with fashion illustration! Learn to draw the fashion figure and represent clothing on the body accurately. 

In this class, explore different techniques using various media and stylization. Fashion illustration is a great creative outlet for anyone interested in art, fashion, drawing, or just having fun in a relaxed, low-pressure environment.  If you have a more serious interest in fashion illustration, this is an opportunity to enhance your skills and portfolio. 

We will start by drawing simple shapes, then progress to drawing figures, and then clothing. You will be able to practice drawing figures in various poses. Over time, you will be able to build skills in line quality, color, and composition to create a finished drawing.

The instructor will demonstrate skills, then students will practice them with individual guidance from the instructor. The course includes hand-outs for student reference. Drawing experience is helpful but not necessary. 

Bring any kind of pencil and paper to draw on. You will receive a list of suggested materials to purchase on the first day.

Supplies Needed

Click here to see the supply list.

Learning Objectives

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

• Draw a figure with classic 8 head and 9 head fashion illustration proportions
• Draw figures in various poses
• Represent key anatomical parts and facial features
• Apply line quality and value to your drawing
• Represent clothing on the body
• Apply color and background to your drawing

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

• Anyone interested in fashion or illustration. 
• Drawing experience is helpful but not necessary.

Class Overview

Are you interested in practicing conversational French in a casual, meet-up style conversation group? This online class will allow you to get to know other people while practicing French at the same time. You will build your vocabulary in French by talking about common interests, travel, food, and culture. You will learn common phrases and idiomatic expressions that allow you to express your feelings and thoughts. In the online format, we will be able to separate into smaller groups, then come together as a larger group.  

Learning Objectives

• improve French conversational skills and fluency Build vocabulary
• learn practical expressions and phrases
• meet new people interested in French culture

Recommended Textbook

None

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

• Students who wish to improve basic conversational skills and fluency in French
• Anyone who would like to learn colloquial expressions and idiomatic phrases used by native speakers
• People who are planning to visit a French-speaking country in the future
• Those who would like to practice casual French conversation in a friendly learning environment
   

Class Overview

Sixty-five years after the beginning of the Space Age, there is a new resurgence to develop the resources of the domain that John Kennedy called “this new ocean.” Explore the history of the first space age and what it portends for the second, in this fascinating class.

The exploration of space is now a global phenomenon, with many new players, both nation-states and commercial entities. Learn about the history and accomplishments of humanity’s movement into space thus far. We will also read and discuss news and scientific reports on new discoveries in the space sciences. Bring your curiosity and critical thinking skills to the class. 

Expand your knowledge in astronomy and planetary science in an engaging environment. This class is an opportunity to discover ways to participate as citizen scientists and educated public citizens in the ongoing exploration of space.

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

• Develop knowledge in astronomy and planetary science
• Gain an understanding in the accomplishments of humanity’s movement into space
• Critically read news and scientific reports on new discoveries in the space sciences
• Discover opportunities to participate as citizen scientists in space exploration

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

• People who are curious about the universe and astronomy 
• Anyone interested in the issues around humanity becoming a space-faring species
• Life-long learners and explorers
• No experience is needed -- everyone is welcome!

Class Overview

Are you interested in the German speaking world? Enjoy this interactive class guaranteed to enhance your knowledge of the German language and culture, as well as travel experiences. 

The focus of this class is on acquiring basic German language skills in combination with essential information about the culture and everyday life. Learn about typical travel situations like meeting people, shopping, reserving a hotel room, eating out, and traveling around, etc. You will have plenty of opportunities to practice speaking and understanding German as well as to inquire about the aspects that matter to you. Depending on your interests, the class will focus on specific regions of the German-speaking world. 

Learn how to communicate at an elementary level in German, and enjoy a cultural experience, whether you are planning to travel or not. 

Learning Objectives

• Simple German grammar to communicate at an elementary level
• Vocabulary to enable basic conversations in everyday situations
• The basics of German pronunciation to insure being understood 
• Familiarity with culture and everyday life in German-speaking countries
• Understanding of German-speaking regions that you are interested in 

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

• Beginners of German 
• Anyone who is planning on traveling to a German-speaking country
• Everybody who is interested in the German-speaking countries and cultures
• People who are interested in learning a second language 
• No experience needed!

Class Overview

Do you admire the paintings of the Impressionists? Learn their unique brushstrokes and methods to make your own beautiful paintings with step-by-step guidance from a professional artist. 

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. 

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

Create your own unique painting masterpieces. No painting experience or formal art training is needed, just a willingness to learn.

Your painting instructor is a professional teacher and working artist in both the US and Italy, who has exhibited in museums and galleries worldwide.

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

Recreational boaters, learn how to use the popular Navionics Mobile Boating Navigation App for both guiding your route, as well as monitoring your boat at anchor in this practical class. 

Become familiar with using the Navionics app's basic features, including zooming and icons. Gain experience creating a route, as well as using data for tides and currents. We'll also discuss some of the limitations of relying solely on your mobile device for navigation. 
 
Please come prepared by installing the Navionics Boating app on your tablet or smartphone. You can bring the Navionics “Boating HD Marine & Lakes” 2-week free trial version available on both App Store and Google Play. Then decide later if you want to purchase it or the Navionics “US & Canada” upgrade version.

Learning Objectives

• Use the Navionics app's basic features, including zooming and icons
• Create a route automatically and manually
• Edit an existing route
• Access tide and current data

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

• Recreational boaters interested in learning how to use the Navionics Boating app for guiding your route and monitoring your boat
• Boaters with some experience using Navionics but wanting to deepen their understanding and get their questions answered 

Class Overview

Gain confidence speaking Italian! Develop skills using common Italian phrases, expressions, and language with correct grammar and syntax in this beginning conversation class. Each week, explore practical topics in conversation with your classmates. Typical topics include traveling, shopping, telling time, making reservations, finding your way around, managing money and dealing with unexpected situations. In the context of these practical conversations, we'll also review key grammar concepts and vocabulary.

Learning Objectives

• improved your ability to use basic grammar and vocabulary (present and simple past tenses, reflexive verbs, basic irregular verbs, articles, prepositional and adverbial phrases, and numbers to 10,000)
• learn 500+ new words
• improve your conversational comprehension
• increased your confidence in conversation when sharing information, clarifying and explaining, asking for help, offering a service, and more

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

Prerequisite: Italian Level 2 or 3, or the equivalent (check with the instructor if you’re not sure)

• Italian language students interested in improving their conversation and comprehension skills
• Students planning on travelling to Italy in the near future
• Language students looking for a language-intense learning environment

Class Overview

What do knots and beers have in common? Plenty! There is a dizzying variety of both and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. 

When it comes to knots, knowing what kinds are out there and when to use which one can make the difference between smooth sailing and rough times. And when it comes to beer...the same holds true! 

Join our resident rope wrangler Danny Blanchard and Figurehead Brewing Brewmaster Bob Monroe as they join forces to untangle the world of knots and brews. At the end of class you’ll have the chance to put your new found skills to use and win a prize worth winning.

Learning Objectives

• Learn how to tie the five knots every boater should know and when to use them
• Meet a local master brewer, taste five different craft beers, and learn how to pick the best beer for every occasion

Who Might Enjoy This Class? 

*** This class is limited to those 21 and older.

• Recreational boaters
• Anyone interested in learning how to tie knots (while enjoying brews)

Class Overview

What do knots and beers have in common? Plenty! There is a dizzying variety of both and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. 

When it comes to knots, knowing what kinds are out there and when to use which one can make the difference between smooth sailing and rough times. And when it comes to beer...the same holds true! 

Join our resident rope wrangler Danny Blanchard and Figurehead Brewing Brewmaster Bob Monroe as they join forces to untangle the world of knots and brews. At the end of class you’ll have the chance to put your new found skills to use and win a prize worth winning.

Learning Objectives

• Learn how to tie the five knots every boater should know and when to use them
• Meet a local master brewer, taste five different craft beers, and learn how to pick the best beer for every occasion

Who Might Enjoy This Class? 

*** This class is limited to those 21 and older.

• Recreational boaters
• Anyone interested in learning how to tie knots (while enjoying brews)

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

A bit anxious about your boat's electrical systems? Want to be more confident diving into them? This three-session class will cover both the basic theory and the beginner hands-on practical skills that you'll need to start working on your boat's electrical systems.  

The majority of the class time will be spent using tools or equipment, and you'll have plenty of time to ask questions of the instructor (no homework!). This will be project-based learning, and by the end of the class each student will have individually installed and tested AC and DC electrical systems on their own training board.

Learning Objectives

• Discover the differences between AC and DC power
• Learn to use common marine electrical tools and safety equipment
• Practice using a digital multimeter on AC and DC electrical systems
• Properly select wiring and over-current protection for AC and DC electrical loads
• Properly strip, crimp, and heat-shirink wire connections of carious types
• Secure wiring in engine room and non-engine room spaces using carious methods

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

• Recreational boaters interested in learning more about their boat and feel more self-sufficient in their knowledge and ability
• Boaters wanting to learn about their boat’s electrical systems and gain practical skills and experience working on them
• Anyone wanting to deepen or refresh their knowledge and get their questions answered

Class Description

When it comes to outboard motors, seasons of neglect will lead to major expenses. Learn the basics that every boater should know about both routine maintenance and annual outboard maintenance. 

For about the same cost as an annual dealership service, you'll learn how to take proper care of your outboard motor and keep it in shape so it will start easily. In this class, learn how to perform all of the maintenance items listed below using new parts on running outboard motors. Plan on getting a little dirty in this class! Personal protective equipment is provided. 

This class will focus on four-stroke gasoline engines 20 hp and less. Each student will have their own outboard motor to work on.

Learning Objectives

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

• understand basic anatomy of an outboard motor, plus insights to sourcing parts
• change the motor oil of your boat
• change lower unit gear oil
• inspect, gap, and torque spark plugs
• change a fuel filter
• start a manual choke outboard engine and clear flooding
• fresh-water flush and inspect cooling water flow

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

• Recreational boaters
• Anyone interested in learning how to maintain an outboard motor

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/or watercolor 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 

Immerse yourself in the exhilarating practice of painting outdoors in this special two-session workshop. Create your own unique painting and gain skills so you can continue to paint “plein air” on your own in the future.

Learn about tools, materials and techniques for plein air painting. Explore the landscape color wheel and practices for mixing colors for the outdoors. The first class will be indoors and include a look at art history to appreciate techniques used in plein air painting. The second class will meet at a location outdoors that will be inspiring for painting.

No experience needed, just a willingness to learn. Be sure to dress so you will be comfortable outdoors.

Learning Objectives

• Techniques for plein air painting.
• Materials for painting plein air and how to use them
• Light, shadow, composition, observation, color, style, format and presentation 
• Appreciation of plein air painting by looking at examples in art history 
• Connection to art in an outdoor environment

Who Might Enjoy This Class? 

• Anyone interested in learning the techniques for plein air painting
• Painters interested in focusing on the specific techniques of plein air
• Anyone seeking a new experience to make winter more interesting

Supplies Needed

Paints: acrylics, oils or watercolors – your choice

For Acrylic or Oil

Students must bring canvas, (recommended size 9" x 12"). One new canvas for each session.

Oil painters, will also need Gamsol, and Linseed Oil, or Zest it, and Linseed Oil.

For Watercolor 

Watercolor paper, or a small watercolor pad. One sheet of watercolor paper for each class.

Everyone must bring:

Paints, palette, two cups, a small bottle of water, paint brushes, and a rag. 

A lightweight, aluminum, tripod, foldable, Plein Air easel is recommended. 

Paint Colors:

• Titanium White
• Hansa Yellow, Cadmium, or Lemon Yellow
• Napthol Red
• Phthalo Green, or a Dark Green
• Ultramarine Blue or Prussian Blue
• Raw Sienna
• Mars or Ivory Black
• Optional but recommended, a bright Cerulean Blue

Summer 2024 Meeting Locations:

1. Rose Garden at Woodland Park - Entrance to Rose Garden.
2. In Madison Park - Near Park Bathrooms. Across the street from McGilvra 's restaurant.
3. Volunteer Park - On steps of the Asian Art Museum.
4. South Lake Union - Outside entrance to MOHAI Museum. 
5. Arboretum - At bus stop #11 on East Madison Street and Lake Washington Blvd.
6. Madrona Park -  Lake Washington at the T-Dock.
7. University of Washington - At the Drumheller Fountain.
8. On the steps of the Fremont Google campus, on the WATERFRONT - In Fremont Park, directly facing the canal. 
    

Class Overview

Learn how to carve beautiful designs and images on a flat wood panel! Enjoy step-by-step instruction in this interactive hands-on class. 

In five sessions, you will learn all the skills needed to complete a carving of a beautiful flower in wood. This class will start with how to select, use, and sharpen your carving tools. Then you will learn how to prepare your carving board and use your tools, using basic carving techniques. This class is a great next step for students who have taken Wood Carving: Spoons, Wood Carving: Animals, or Wood Carving: Fantasy Animals.

When your project is complete, you will learn how to apply traditional oil finishing. Your original hand-carved art piece will come to life within five sessions. This will be a good foundation for you to gain the skills to do other relief carving projects and enjoy a rewarding hobby. No previous carving knowledge or experience required. Let’s get carving!

Learning Objectives

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

• Obtain basic knowledge of relief carving
• Know how to select and maintain carving tools
• Use basic wood carving techniques and use your tools safely
• Be familiar with how to select wood and tools 
• Carve a flat wood panel with confidence
• Know the basic cuts and techniques

Supplies Needed

Click here to see the supply list.

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

• Anyone interested in learning relief wood carving 
• People with some experience in wood carving, but not relief carving; this class is a great next step for students who have taken Wood Carving: Spoons, Wood Carving: Animals, or Wood Carving: Fantasy Animals!
• Anyone who has tried some relief carving, but has not felt successful or had thorough instruction about proper techniques and would like the structure of a class
• Anyone who would like to try a rewarding new hobby
   

Class Overview

Are you interested in expanding your knowledge of Spanish into the realm of basic conversation? This beginning-level conversation class will give you the opportunity to improve your basic Spanish skills! Learn practical vocabulary in a culturally relevant context, as well as practice speaking with classmates who are at a similar skill level. Learn to introduce yourself, talk about the weather, discuss daily routines, and more. Have fun and gain confidence building your Spanish language skills. No textbook required.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the class you will have:

• learn how to utilize the Spanish vocabulary you may know into informal conversations
• improve your Spanish vocabulary
• practice and hone your pronunciation
• gain confidence in speaking with others in a supportive environment

Who Should Take This Class?

Prerequisite: Two quarters (40 hours) of Spanish studies or equivalent.

• Individuals with a beginner-level understanding of Spanish who would like to expand their conversational skills and meet the prerequisite above.

Class Overview

Advance your real-life conversational Spanish skills using today’s news as your textbook! Intermediate-advanced level Spanish speakers, work on building vocabulary, understanding, and comprehension of both written and spoken language, as well as improving listening and speaking skills. While increasing vocabulary and fluency, review intermediate-advanced grammar concepts. Build real-life communication skills using current news and topics from newspapers, magazines, books, TV/radio shows, etc. This practice will help you communicate with native speakers more smoothly and naturally, in addition to learning about news and culture. Increase your Spanish conversational expressions and fluency as well as improve pronunciation Increase your confidence and conversational skills in exchanging information and ideas on a wide range of real-life stories and news. Develop more advanced and complex sentence structures. In addition to learning to understand the more formal language used in printed materials, enjoy learning common phrases, expressions, and Idioms used by native speakers in daily life. Join this class to increase your Spanish language ability, cultural understanding, and connection to other Spanish students. 

Learning Objectives

• Improve real-life communication skills using current news and topics from newspapers, magazines, books, TV/radio shows, etc.
• Increase your Spanish conversational expressions and fluency as well as improve pronunciation
• Develop more advanced and complex sentence structure
• Be able to use native-like phrases, expressions and Idioms used by native speakers in daily life

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

Prerequisite: minimum of 4 quarters of Spanish or equivalent.

This class is for intermediate-advanced Spanish language students who want to improve their conversational skills.
 

Course Overview

Have you ever been enchanted by colorful stained glass illuminated with light shining through it? Learn how to create your own beautiful small pieces of stained glass art in this hands-on class. Enjoy step-by-step guided instruction from an artist who was trained in Europe by a professional stained glass artist. 

To get started on your journey, we will explore materials and safety procedures, and become familiar with the history of the art. Through demonstration and practice, learn about cutting and soldering. As the weeks progress, so will your skills. You can add drawing and painting techniques to your glass. Different shapes will be explored and encouraged.

The class will go on a stained glass art field trip to see examples in a museum and cathedral. Get ready to be inspired and learn from seeing impressive art works.

By the end of class, you will have gained basic skills in stained glass art and go home with mini pieces of stained glass art of your own creation to display in your home, office, or to give as gifts.

Learning Objectives

• Learn safety procedures for making stained glass art. 
• Become familiar with the history of stained glass art.
• Understand the step-by-step process of creating small pieces of stained glass, including basic techniques, and how to use color, balance and symmetry.
• See examples of stained glass art in Seattle.
• Create your own unique pieces of stained glass art.

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

Class is available for anyone who is interested in the history and techniques of making stained glass. 

Supplies Needed

A stained glass art kit can be purchased online, at a craft, or art store. Please bring the following supplies to the first day of class:

• Stained glass
• Soldering iron
• Soldering iron stand (optional)
• Breaker grozer pliers
• Glass cutter
• Running pliers
• Copper foil
• 60/40 solder 
• Fid and burnisher
• Safety brush
• Plastic eye goggles (can get at a hardware store or Dollar Tree)
   

Class Overview

Tai Chi is a health sustaining exercise and a tool for improved body awareness. Practiced by the elderly for balance and circulation and the young for relaxation and martial arts, it is a wonderful holistic activity for all ages.

During this class, you'll learn:

• the Yang Tai Chi short form, which is comprised of 35 individual movements
• Chi Kung, a warm-up exercise and relaxation activity with 18 movements
• elements of Chinese Medical Philosophy, such as Yin/Yang theory and Five Elements transformation
• the basics of Taoist philosophy

We'll focus on learning the entire Yang short form, and you'll receive guidance in developing your own regular practice at home.

Learning Objectives

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

• learn basic warm-up stretches to improve your overall movement
• discover the Yang-style short form of Tai Chi
• practice the Yang-style under the direction of an expert instructor
• gain knowledge about the history and background of Tai Chi

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

• Individuals seeking a low-impact exercise routine
• Anyone interested in improving their coordination and balance
• People interested in developing their focus, relaxation and overall wellness

Class Overview

The works of Shakespeare possess a lasting appeal that seems akin to magic. In fact, modern literature studies in the US often begin with Shakespeare. How and why do the plays and sonnets of this writer have such power? 

In this class, explore Shakespeare, not by studying individual works, but by examining the times, the author, and, most importantly, the literary tools and techniques this wizard used. Consider the fascinating “how” and “why” of the construction of the plays, their patterns, and popularity. We will discuss the rise of England's importance during this Golden Age, and the increasing power of the English language and culture in world trade, religion, and politics. 

Enjoy trying your hand at iambic pentameter (the great building block of Shakespearean language) and do a bit of staging to understand how the physical aspects of Elizabethan theater venues influenced the writing of the plays.

Learn about the community surrounding Shakespeare, actors he knew and lived with, an audience he drank with, and jostled within the crowded smelly dangerous streets of London; and for the Queen.

Discover how to search for, and use, the clues that Shakespeare put into the script to help guide his players into a storytelling style that would fuel adoration in the crowds. The plays reveal his “directions” to casts. 

Learning Objectives

Gain a better understanding of:

• the process of how a play gets put together
• the many influences that went into the making of Shakespeare’s plays: politics, and religion. the Ottoman Empire, Commedia del Arte, iambic pentameter, Shakespeare's competition and collaborators
• how Shakespeare's 400-year-old works still influence modern culture
• How plastic Shakespeare’s plays are; there is not just one interpretation.
• The variety of presentation, from solo, to small cast, dance, and opera, etc.

Who Might Enjoy This Class?

• Anyone interested in theater, literature, or Shakespeare 
• Fans of the Renaissance era 
• Actors and performers
• Social scientists and historians
• Come one, come all; 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

• 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

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.

If you'd like to continue your watercolor practice, check out Watercolor Painting - Intermediate.

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

Whittling is a simple and fun hobby that many people all over the world enjoy. In this interactive class, learn all of the basic steps to create a unique piece of art from wood. 
In this class, discover how to select wood for your project, make the basic cuts, and use proper and safe whittling techniques. Enjoy support and guidance from an instructor as you build upon your skills.
We Will 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. By the end of class, you will be able to take home finished art made by your own hands, and skills that you can build upon for years to come.

Supplies Needed

Please bring these items to the first class:

• Whittler’s detail knife / sharpen carving knife (recommended: KN13 Flexcut knife)
• Thumb guard and cut-resistant gloves
• Pencil
• Optional: Leather honing strop with polishing compound (recommended: BeaverCraft leather honing strop with polishing Compound LS2P1SR41 3”x 8” double-sided 

Learning Objectives

• 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

Practice the art of whittling! In this hands-on class, carve and paint your own one-of-a-kind “alebrije” animal figurine, a Mexican folk art tradition from the state of Oaxaca.

Gain inspiration from the brightly colored fantastical creatures from the Oaxacan tradition seen in the animated movie “Coco.” Develop your whittling skills, and your imagination, while making art that you will treasure for years to come. These figurines also make wonderful gifts.  

Learn how to use whittling tools safely and select wood for your project. Gain skills on making basic cuts and use proper whittling techniques. You will also learn how to sharpen and hone your tools to keep them razor-sharp. If you’ve taken carving classes with us before, this will be an opportunity to hone your skills on another project. 

Supplies Needed (Students must bring the items listed below to the class)

• Whittler’s detail knife / sharpen carving knife (Recommended: KN13 Flexcut knife)
• Thumb guard and cut-resistant gloves
• Pencil
• Optional: Leather honing strop with polishing compound (Recommended: BeaverCraft Leather Honing Strop with Polishing Compound LS2P1SR41 3”x 8” double-sided

Learning Objectives

• Obtain knowledge of whittling
• Understand the use of tools
• Carve safely and 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 learning the art of whittling
• People looking for a new hobby, creative outlet, or craft to do with your hands
• Anyone who would like to make small gifts from wood
• Perfect for anyone who has taken our other wood carving classes: Whittling Basics, Wood Carving: Animals, or Wood Carving: Spoons
• Anyone interested in the culture and folk art of southern Mexican / Oaxacan including Spanish language students 

Class Overview

Learn how to carve and create beautiful objects! Gain the basic skills to feel successful and safe carving wood and making your own creations.

During this hands-on class, you will be making two spoons. Get started with the basic skills and safety practices while carving a simple and useful kitchen spoon. Continue to hone your skills as you carve a more decorative "love spoon" -- something often given as a gift. Learn about wood selection, preparing blanks, basic carving techniques, and traditional oil finishing. These skills will help you become prepared for future wood carving projects that you can use in another class or at home.

Stir up your creativity and curiosity with carving your own one-of-a-kind wooden spoons! No previous wood carving experience required.

Supplies Needed 
Students must bring these items to class:

• Sweep gouge No.7 or any carving straight or bent gouge No.7 (see the example here), 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

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

Who Might Enjoy This Class

• Anyone curious and interested in trying wood carving and whittling
• People who love handcrafting
• Anyone who would like to do a small creative project with like-minded people and guidance from an instructor