Upcoming Classes
Pins, Pendants, Ornaments
Explore the medium of powdered glass fused to metal at high heat to make enameled pins, pendants, or simple ornaments. You will choose from several pre-cut copper shapes and learn basic enameling techniques: cleaning the metal; applying powdered glass (enamels) using several techniques; firing at 1,450 degrees and building up layers of colors and designs. You will leave with several pieces and an understanding of enameling. There will be a short break, so please bring food and drink. Ages 16-Adult
Tuned-In: The Soundtrack of Your Life
Tuned-In... where psychology meets the music you love. Discover what really happens when music crawls inside your head. Two wildly fun, life-changing days with very cool people and intriguing dialogue offer life-altering insights and deep music listening from Bach to Rock. Explore how six human behavior patterns (archetypes) –the victim, wanderer, warrior, caregiver, innocent, and magician–aim to run your life's show. Discover how to choose music to positively direct that show to the outcome you desire. Lunch, refreshments, and supplies are included. Adults
Summer Camps!
Join our exciting theatre and visual art camps perfect for all ages! Kids can dive into musical theatre, acting, dancing, drawing, painting, mixed-media, and more in our vibrant theatre and art camps. New mix and match options! Combine a half-day of theatre with a half-day of art for a full day of creativity and fun. Ages 5-18
La Foret – Art and Acting in the Forest
Enjoy an outstanding arts education with instructors from the Fine Art Center’s Bemis School of Art set in the lush forest at the 400-acre La Foret Conference and Retreat Center. Stretch your imagination! Experience a variety of artistic styles and techniques, including painting, printmaking, and mixed-media art while exploring elements of composition and design. Cultivate your acting skills, voice, movement, and characterization with theatre games, mime, and improvisation. Art and acting will come together on Fridays with a special showcase performance and art exhibit for friends and family. Ages 6-11
Monday-Friday @ 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
June 9-June 13 ($390/$410)
Instructor: Bemis Instructors
Monday-Friday @ 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
June 16-June 20 ($390/$410)
Instructor: Bemis Instructors
Monday-Friday @ 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
June 23-June 27 ($390/$410)
Instructor: Bemis Instructors
Monday-Friday @ 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
July 7-July 11 ($390/$410)
Instructor: Bemis Instructors
Monday-Friday @ 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
July 14-July 18 ($390/$410)
Instructor: Bemis Instructors
Monday-Friday @ 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
July 21-July 25 ($390/$410)
Instructor: Bemis Instructors
Kids Clay Camp
Get ready to shape your imagination at Clay Camp! This hands-on camp is perfect for young artists eager to explore the world of clay and ceramics. Over the week, you will learn techniques to create unique sculptures, functional pieces, and imaginative artworks. At Clay Camp, you will build confidence, develop new skills, and have fun while making lasting friendships. Join us for a week of creativity, exploration, and the joy of working with clay! Ages 9-12
Clay Camp
Dive into the art of ceramics! This immersive camp is designed for teens eager to explore the world of clay and unleash their creativity. You will learn a variety of techniques to create unique sculptures, functional pieces, and artistic expressions. Enhance your skills, build confidence, and connect with fellow young artists in a supportive environment. Join us for a week of creativity, exploration, and the transformative power of working with clay! Ages 12-16
Member Moments: Wheel Throwing Basics
Learn the basics of wheel throwing on a pottery wheel through this hands-on and guided experience that covers the steps of preparing, centering, and throwing clay. This BRAND-NEW series of workshops designed exclusively for our members to experience all the Fine Arts Center has to offer! Member Moments art classes allow our members to get a taste of various art media before diving into a full art class at Bemis School of Art. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, we invite you to discover new skills, express your creativity, and connect with fellow art enthusiasts. Ages 16-Adult
Thursday @ 5:30-7 p.m.
January 9 ($10)
Instructor: Jeremiah Houck
Food + Function: Farm to Fork
Experience a one-of-a-kind evening where local flavors and artisan craftsmanship come together in perfect harmony. Delight in a four-course meal where each course celebrates the best of our local food community, bringing fresh, sustainable ingredients straight from these beloved businesses to your table. The evening also includes presentations from several vendors, who will share insights about their businesses and their sustainability initiatives. The meal will be served on handmade pottery, beautifully crafted by the artists at the Bemis School of Art. Proceeds from this event support of the Bemis School of Art and its programming. Thank you for your support of the arts in our community! Ages 21+
Partner Wheel Throwing
Join a friend or loved one for a unique night of creative excitement in this exciting workshop. You and your partner will learn the basics of wheel-throwing on a pottery wheel through this hands-on, guided experience that covers the steps of preparing, centering, and throwing your very own clay vessel to cherish for years to come. Your handmade creations will be clear-glazed and fired for you to pick up about two weeks after your workshop. Adults
Friday @ 6:30-8:30 p.m.
January 24 ($73 per pair/$88 per pair)
Instructor: Ash Donnelly
Friday @ 6:30-8:30 p.m.
February 7 ($73 per pa/$88 per pair)
Instructor: Ash Donnelly
Friday @ 6:30-8:30 p.m.
February 21 ($73 per pair/$88 per pair)
Instructor: Ash Donnelly
Friday @ 6:30-8:30 p.m.
March 14 ($73 per pair/$88 per pair)
Instructor: Ash Donnelly
Friday @ 6:30-8:30 p.m.
April 11 ($73 per pair/$88 per pair)
Instructor: Ash Donnelly
Pastel Flowers
Pastels are the most intense colors available to art makers. Flowers represent the perfect model. Join us as we combine the two and learn through instructor-led demonstrations and live floral arrangements to create the most colorful artworks imaginable. Ages 16-Adult
Mountain Landscapes and Watercolor Techniques
In this class, you will examine and practice the style of contemporary artist Jen Aranyi, known for drawing simple, abstract mountain ranges and painting skies with watercolors using special techniques. You will also explore the diverse ways to finish the foreground. This will require some drawing skills with pen and ink, but do not let that intimidate you, this class is for everyone! Ages 16-Adult
Intermediate Teen Wheel Throwing
Welcome back to clay! Get ready to unleash your creativity as we dive back into the wonderful world of clay! Learn the techniques and hacks for repeating shapes to make sets and much more . In addition, we will explore exciting new glazing techniques, including wax masking, which allows for stunning layered effects and intricate designs. You will also discover how to use oxides to enhance your projects, adding depth and richness to your glazes. This is a fantastic opportunity to experiment and push the boundaries of your ceramic work. Ages 12-16
Drawing Basics
Expand your drawing knowledge and skills in this condensed course for young artists with little to no experience in drawing. Learn how to take your basic skills to the next level through various lessons and exercises. Assignments will include value studies, contour drawings, proportions, form, and basic perspective using pencil, charcoal, and colored mediums. Ages 12-16
Watercolor Batik
Discover the fascinating process of Batik - layer by layer. In this class, you will create a painting that is a one-of-a-kind surprise, using Kinwashi rice paper, wax, and watercolor paints. This process takes a bit of time and patience, but the outcome is worth it. No experience necessary. There will be a 30-minute lunch break, so please bring food and drink. Ages 16-Adult
Art of Traditional Darkroom
Take your black and white darkroom skills to the next level with instruction in film processing, printing with contrast filters, split-filter printing, and cropping/positioning your compositions for artful presentations. We will explore additional techniques that will advance your printmaking efforts and help you to craft fine art prints with a deep dive into honing your burning and dodging skills. You will be encouraged to expand your individual creative vision through added camera skills, and composition instruction. By the end of our eight weeks together, each student will have made a portfolio of beautiful prints that will inspire them to consider entering their work into local exhibitions and photography contests. Ages 16-Adult
Intermediate Drawing
Build your skills while doing deep dives into line, proportion, shading, and design. Get experience with various drawing techniques and mediums. Take this class to start revealing your unique "voice.” Adults
Personalized Pottery
Make your mark! Join us to make your own handbuilt dishes. We will use letter stamps and texture tools to create one-of-a-kind personalized pottery. Colorful glazes will be used to enhance your pottery. Ages 6-9
Jewelry Design and Production
Join us for an exciting exploration of advanced jewelry design! In this workshop, we will delve into the intricate world of wax modeling and lost-wax casting, allowing you to create stunning pieces of jewelry from start to finish. You will learn essential techniques for designing intricate patterns and shapes in wax, setting the stage for beautiful castings. Discover a range of production techniques, including tool selection and usage, to ensure you feel confident in your craftsmanship. You will gain insight into the investment process, where we discuss materials and equipment that can enhance your jewelry-making practice. Casting will be at a downtown Colorado Springs studio location. Ages 16-Adult
Virtual: Military Artistic Healing
Discover the techniques to inspire creative skills and gain greater self–awareness. Explore possibilities, develop your creativity, and gain personal insight through working with a variety of mediums. Learn therapeutic techniques to heal from past trauma issues. Adults
Teen Wheel Throwing
Learn how to make cups, bowls, and vases on the potter's wheel. Trimming and glazing techniques will be demonstrated to get you to the final steps of completion. Learn, practice, and complete your own pottery pieces to enjoy on your table or shelves! Ages 12-16
Handbuilding and Decorating Tableware
This workshop will guide you through the exciting process of creating functional pottery, using techniques that emphasize your unique style and creativity. You will discover how to shape and form your pieces with precision and flair. Once your foundational pieces are complete, we will dive into the world of surface decoration, where you will learn to use underglaze transfers to add vibrant colors and intricate designs to your tableware. These techniques will allow you to personalize each item, transforming them into stunning works of art. Ages 16-Adult
Beginning Drawing
Learning to draw is the best way to light-up and connect the intuitive to the cognitive. You will experience various fascinating exercises, and even improve your coordination. Most of all, you will learn to "see" like an artist. Adults
Beginning Micro Torch Jewelry Soldering
This class is your chance to learn an easy and economical entry into jewelry soldering! A micro torch is a small "creme brulee" style butane torch. You will learn how to fuse and ball silver and make a simple ring and pendant using basic soldering methods, as well as several types of solder and soldering. You will be surprised at what you can create with just a few simple tools! Please note, students need to wear eye protection (eyeglasses work), closed-toe shoes, no loose sleeves, and long hair must be tied back. Ages 16-Adult
Painting Big
For the artistic kid who wants to go big, we will each have the opportunity to create one large painting using acrylic paints! We will learn how to plan a composition and color scheme, execute a sketch, use acrylics appropriately, and refine your final piece. On the final day, we will have an “art show” of our works of art for the parents. Ages 6-9
Ceramics on the Wall
Focusing on the wall tile and plaque format, students are invited to create a clay form that hangs on the wall, or not! Work from a picture or your imagination while learning to create in clay using slabs, special building tricks, decorative carving techniques in combination with glaze and slip layering. Adults
Basics of Charcoals
In this class, you will be taught the basics of drawing using charcoal on paper. You will be shown how to effectively use line, value, composition, linear perspective, and negative/positive space through understandable lessons to train both your eye and hand. With practice and easily comprehensible instruction, you will leave the class with a greater understanding of how to translate the 3D world to 2D drawings on paper. Adults
Wheel Throwing Jars
In this course you will learn how to refine your skills in order to create a variety of new forms. The focus of this class will be centered around refining throwing skills, exploring new vessel shapes, and making closed form and regular jars. Ages 16-Adult
Introduction to Painting
Learn how to mix colors. You will study basic color theory, value, temperature, and key. If you are ready to apply color in your art, then this class will give you the tools to do so. We will use gouache as our medium to keep it easy and minimize cost. Adults
Plaster Cloth Sculptures
In this inspiring art class, students will learn to sculpt human forms using plaster cloth, taking inspiration from the iconic works of artist Alberto Giacometti. Known for his elongated, textured figures, Giacometti’s sculptures evoke both movement and emotion, and students will explore these techniques while creating their own unique interpretations. Starting with simple wire armatures, they’ll build up the human form with plaster cloth, focusing on proportion and surface texture to capture the expressive qualities of Giacometti’s style. By the end of the class, each student will have a dynamic sculpture to take home, reflecting both creativity and mastery of the medium. Ages 12-16
Sculpting with Clay
Have you always wanted to build a sculpture but just aren’t sure where to start? Start here! Build an animal, small bust, or even an abstract expression from your imagination in this handbuilding class. Learn to form with a combination of techniques, what it means to hollow out, different approaches to the ceramic surface, and more as you are guided through the process of clay. Adults
Black and White Darkroom
Join us in the darkroom to explore silver-process black and white film photography. You will learn how to develop film and create handcrafted gelatin-silver prints from your negatives. You will explore the many creative options, from camerawork to finished print, while developing an enhanced understanding of exposure, depth of field, lighting, and composition. Ages 16-Adult
Beginning Wheel Throwing
Explore the fundamentals of making pottery in this perfect introduction to the medium. Centering, throwing, trimming, and glazing will be the core focus, with an emphasis on learning how to create fundamental forms: bowls and cylinders. You will also explore additional techniques such as making mug handles. Ages 16-Adult
Piercing and Carving
Experience the excitement of creating your own designs for piercing and carving a handbuilt or thrown form. Create a slab vase, a thrown bowl, sphere, or cylinder. Learn to easily transfer your design onto a three-dimensional form and control clay hydration for the perfect surface to pierce and carve. Functional or not, the piercing and textural possibilities are endless! Glazing for pierced and carved surfaces will be taught. Ages 16-Adult
Dirty Dyeing with Fiber Reactive and Acid Dye
You will be introduced to the fundamentals of coloring fabric and wool skeins with a dye bath. The process allows for a free and flexible approach to color while teaching the step-by-step method of safely handling synthetic dyes. This serves as an excellent primer to immersion dyeing. There might be a brief intermission, so please bring snacks and beverages to maintain energy levels. Ages 16-Adult
Carolingian Calligraphy
Expand your calligraphic repertoire with the Carolingian style book hand. You will learn to write in this historic lower-case style, along with compatible scripts to use as initial letters, using chisel-edged pens. We will work with spacing, layout, rhythm, and simple illuminated lettering in creating finished pieces. Ages 16-Adult
Clay Beaded and Bejeweled
Design and make stylish jewels and adornments out of clay in this workshop-style class! Beads, pendants, attachments, and ideas on how to glaze your creations will be the focus while learning the magical medium of clay. The last class will be dedicated to stringing, attaching, or chain popping your creations! Ages 16-Adult
Enameling: Exploring Color Tones
Explore color nuances through mixing or layering and firing a limited selection of opaque and transparent enamels. You will develop your own palette of subtle tones to use in contrast with bright splashes of color. We will explore color in glass fused to metal both to render natural subjects and to express and evoke emotion. Ages 16-Adult
Beginning Teen Wheel Throwing
We will explore the fundamentals of making pottery and provide the perfect introduction to this medium. Centering, throwing, trimming, and glazing will be the core focus, with an emphasis on learning how to create fundamental forms: bowls and cylinders. Ages 14-17
Intro to Acrylic Techniques
This course also covers the basics of acrylic painting including materials needed, color mixing, pigment choice, brush-handling, and palette-knife techniques. Emphasis is not on producing a finished work of art, but on developing basic skills through practice and repetition. No prior knowledge or experience in the medium is needed or expected. Ages 16-Adult
Introduction to Oil Painting
Join Sophia Hanna for a short crash course in oil painting! This class will cover materials, basic techniques, safety, and a variety of exercises and subjects. You will leave with enough skills to continue learning on your own! Ages 16-Adult
Sense of Place: You Are Here
Further your explorations in enameling through pursuing your visions of where you are - geographically or metaphorically - in this workshop class. You will explore technical, conceptual, and aesthetic challenges as determined by your own project. We will share ideas, expertise, and inspiration through exploring where we are and where we have journeyed (in any sense). Ages 16-Adult
DIY Art Hacks
Join us for a transformative workshop where you will learn to produce five specific art supplies using materials you already have at home! This hands-on experience is designed to inspire creativity while making the most of your existing stockpile. Each week, we will focus on a different supply, teaching you how to repurpose everyday items into essential tools for your artistic practice. The final week you will use your fabricated supplies to create a unique art piece of your own design. Ages 16-Adult
Squiggle Sketch & Short Story
Join this workshop where you will have the opportunity to choose a pre-made squiggle (or create your own) and transform it into a unique art piece. You will receive basic instructions on drafting a short story inspired by your creation and be guided you through the editing process to refine your narrative. Ages 16-Adult
Squiggle Sketch & Short Story
Join us for the opportunity to choose a pre-made squiggle (or create your own) and transform it into a unique art piece. You will receive basic instructions on drafting a short story inspired by your creation and be guided through the editing process to refine your narrative. Ages 9-12
Exploring Watercolor
Discover the unrivaled and endless possibilities of watercolor. Build a repertoire of skills from choosing materials to creating brilliant colors, radiant blends, shadow, and light. No need for natural talent, just the desire to learn the limitless opportunities all while incorporating traditional and experimental methods and having lots of fun along the way. Ages 16-Adult
In-Person: Military Artistic Healing
There are many benefits to using art to express emotions — art can offer a healthy outlet and an alternate way to communicate something that one cannot always put into words, providing a safe containment for emotions that are expressed. Reflecting on art allows for healing and connection. Increase personal management of life stressors by practicing artistic exercises outside of class to help with trauma. Together, we will practice for progress, healing, connection, retreat, creativity, confidence, clarity, and calm. This class includes visits to the Fine Arts Center Museum. Adults
Whimsical Boxes
You will not believe that you can do this! Learn slab construction to handbuild whimsical boxes from textured clay slabs. Move from flat to free-standing using simple measurements and your own handmade flat patterns. Glazing for textured surfaces will be taught. Ages 16-Adult
Whimsical Animal Necklace
You will learn odd count tubular Peyote Stitch to make a whimsical animal necklace from the bottom up. You will be provided with information on how to incorporate design details within the bag body and how to increase and decrease. We will explore creative ways to use the Peyote stitch that will give you the freedom to create your own beaded art that will keep you inspired for a lifetime! There is a material fee of $25 due to the instructor on the first day of class. Ages 16-Adult
Introduction to Abstract Art
Introducing children to abstract art is a wonderful way to encourage creativity and independent thinking. Exploring shapes, colors, and feelings teaches them a unique way to expand their imaginations, something they already gravitate towards in their youth. To experiment with color creates strong building blocks of social-emotional understandings, while also paving a way to understand the emotions embedded in art. Unconventional shape making and layering expands the mind to wonder about things that are different from what they know, to encourage not only learning, but questioning and curiosity. Big words aside, abstraction is so much fun! Ages 9-12
Painting and Collage on Tyvek
We will repurpose this plastic commercial material as a surface for collage with paints, printed papers, tissue papers, and inks. Also, create more sculptural compositional pieces with colorants and a simple heating method. Work with fabric as well as paper weight Tyvek. Adults
Exploring with Gelli® Arts Printing Plates
The Gelli® Plate is the perfect art tool when you are unsure about what to create or you want a bit of mindless creative fun. It is the perfect place to experiment with pattern and paint, and you end up with endless awesome papers for future creative play. You will be shown how to make fine-art-quality prints with inexpensive materials and, by the time you finish this course, you will be equipped with the skills to confidently print on your own! Ages 16-Adult
Drawing Horses
Saddle up! This class will allow you to explore your drawing skills using the charcoal medium. From a photo of your choosing, we will first construct a strong line drawing using the grid method. Next, using a variety of techniques, we will apply dark and light values to render your drawings three-dimensional. Lastly, we will add details to bring your horses to life. Let's run wild and free to see what you can create! Ages 12-16
Draw, Paint, Paste
Join us for an introduction to drawing, printing, and collaging using a variety of materials. You will learn how to create values and textures with pencil, print a simple picture with tempera paint, watercolor paper, and wax paper, as well as collage a picture with a variety of papers and textures. Materials and instruction will be provided to create and empower you to explore many ways to approach art that will last a lifetime. Ages 6-9
Drawing Horses
Saddle up! This class will allow you to explore your drawing skills using the charcoal medium. From a photo of your choosing, we will first construct a strong line drawing using the grid method. Next, using a variety of techniques, we will apply dark and light values to render your drawings three-dimensional. Lastly, we will add details to bring your horses to life. Let's run wild and free to see what you can create! Ages 16-Adult
Make a Valentines Card!
Discover the enchanting art of Iris Paperfolding while creating unique Valentine's Day cards! This engaging workshop will teach you the fundamentals of this beautiful paper art form, which combines simple folding techniques with vibrant colors and intricate designs. As you immerse yourself in the process, you will be guided step-by-step through the creation of two stunning cards, perfect for expressing your love and appreciation this Valentine’s Day. Ages 16-Adult
Fundamentals of Drawing
In this fun and creative class, young artists will build a strong foundation in the essentials of drawing. We'll cover key skills such as line work, proportion, perspective, composition and the use of shading and highlights. Students will apply these techniques in illustration-focused projects including drawing from still life, practicing and creating self-portraits, and designing abstract artwork that creatively incorporates their name. Throughout the course, students will learn how to observe and break down complex objects into basic shapes, allowing them to approach any subject with confidence. They'll also get the chance to explore personal interests by choosing their own subjects to draw. This class is perfect for building fundamental drawing skills, boosting creativity, and fostering a love for illustration! Ages 9-12
Date Night: Paint Your Partner
Celebrate your love this Valentine's weekend at this fun and connected workshop! You will begin with blind contour drawings to loosen up and bring the laughter, then you will progress to adding watercolor. No prior painting experience needed - just bring your love and a sense of adventure! Create a beautiful keepsake of your beloved. Adults
Winter Wonderland Acrylic Painting
Let's make this Valentines Day special with a fun-filled acrylic painting class! This class will be instructed step-by-step so everyone can enjoy. The inspiration for this painting will be a snowy winter wonderland. Grab your gal pals, your special someone, or just come out and learn some new painting skills! Adults
Date Night with Gelli® Arts Printing Plates
Come join us for a fun date night class in which we will create a colorful Valentine's card with your own unique touch! Gelli plates are a versatile method of mono-printing without a press using a reusable soft printing plate. It is great for making prints from plants, leaves, stencils, found objects, and more. Ages 16-Adult
Partners in Art: Child of Mine Paint Date
Parent and child come for an after-Valentine’s Day paint date! The duo will create acrylic paintings that can be combined to make one big painting or hung separately in two paintings to remember the fun of the day. Ages 9+ with participating adult
Introduction to Drawing Techniques
In this class, you will explore different techniques for drawing to get yourself familiar with the materials and get those creative juices flowing for when you’re stuck in a drawing rut! You will practice continuous line contours, blind contours, negative space, value scales, and more. This class will provide a fresh perspective on how to work with drawing materials. Ages 16-Adult
Let The Clay Speak
Do you want to learn how to work better with clay or develop more advanced techniques? Then, this is the class for you! This course is open to intermediate and advanced level students. You will learn new techniques to create more advanced forms. You will also have the chance to pursue hand building, sculptural work, and/or a combination of these methods. Ages 16-Adult
Phone Filmmaking: Editing Made Easy
Do you have too many videos on your phone, creating more digital clutter that you know what to do with? In this class, you will learn how to edit directly on your phone, turning hundreds (if not thousands!) of video clips into professional looking home movies! Adults
Make It Happen
Do you want to learn how to work better with clay or develop more advanced techniques? Then, this is the class for you! This course is open to intermediate and advanced level students. You will learn new techniques to create more advanced forms. You will also have the chance to pursue hand building, sculptural work, and/or a combination of these methods. Ages 16-Adult
Folded Greeting Card Surprise
Discover the joy of creating personalized greeting cards in this fun and interactive workshop. You will be guided through a simple folding technique that will allow for a secret sketch within your card design. You will also learn to make custom envelopes. Ages 16-Adult
Art & Movement Workshop
Join us as we learn about incorporating movement into our artistic practices! We will learn various techniques to move the body that inspire new processes and ways of making. This class will use movement to engage the hands, feet, and heart into our making. All bodies and expertise are welcome. Students that may need extra assistance due to mobility issues should reach out far in advance so we can make special accommodations. Ages 12-16
Pottery Planter
Create a beautiful one-of-a-kind handmade planter for your garden! You will learn essential handbuilding techniques that will allow you to craft a unique 12-inch planter tailored to your style. We’ll explore various handbuilding techniques, including pinching, coiling, and slab construction, giving you the freedom to express your creativity. As we work, you will also discover a variety of glazing options to add vibrant colors and textures to your planter, ensuring it stands out in your garden. Ages 16-Adult
Color, Texture, and Surface Design
In this class, you will work with surfaces of boards and various weighted papers for image transfers and Gelli® plate monoprints. These, along with paints, pastels, glazes, inks, blending materials, and more, will create your fabulous compositions. Create colorful and textural designs on paper with an historic process of pasting paper. Adults
Micro Torch Bezel Soldering
Join us as we learn to elevate our micro torch skills! This hands-on experience is perfect for those looking to enhance their jewelry-making techniques. You will be guided through creating a simple ring from start to finish. Begin by selecting a stone, provided by the instructor, ensuring you have the perfect centerpiece for your design. Next, you will dive into the fundamentals of making a bezel—a vital skill for securely setting your stone. You will learn essential techniques for shaping, soldering, and refining your bezel, all while gaining confidence in using the micro torch. You will go home with a beautiful handmade ring! Ages 16-Adult
Recreate Your Favorite Color
Discover the art of dyeing cotton fabric using a dye bath. This is a technical workshop, so bring your pencil and notebook to learn the mathematical equations necessary to replicate dye bath colors accurately. Discover how to prepare a dye bath, mix stock solutions, and achieve various shades of the same color. The class is ideal for yarn dyers, including weavers, knitters, and spinners, as well as fabric users like quilters, garment makers, and surface designers who wish to create distinctive colors. We will take a quick break for lunch, so be sure to bring something to eat and drink. Adults
Safari Animal Drawing
Join us for a visual tour of some of the most interesting safari animals! You will learn various elements of art and principles of design to bring your imagination to life. You will focus not only on animal portraits but also full body proportions and safari landscapes, all while exploring multiple mediums like watercolor and pastel! Ages 6-9
Beyond the Secret Garden
An art journal bound in class together will be used to create pages of mixed media art. Inspired by the garden, techniques we will explore include photo image transfer, magnified flower painting in the style of Georgia O'Keeffe, abstract interpretation of florals, painted rice papers for collage, and stenciled fabric with stitching embellishments. Designed to encourage discovery of your personal style and creative expression, this class is all about playing with mixed media. Ages 16-Adult
Partners in Art: Who’s Your Hero?
Who are your personal heroes? Join us for these 3 classes where you will get to play with a variety of materials and ideas to create your own special multi-media project portraying someone, or even a pet that you love and adore. Each parent and child will have the opportunity to work together on one or more projects, or each their own if they wish. Together we will explore the many ways that multiple materials can be made into treasured works of art that will be loved for a lifetime. Ages 6-16 with participating adult
Drawing with Contour Lines
Contour drawing is a fabulous technique to build confidence, develop observational skills, and help students simplify objects to their basic shapes and lines. You will learn the basics of blind, continuous, and simple line drawing in this class. Ages 16-Adult
Beginners Wall Hanging Macrame
Dive into the art of macramé! In this engaging workshop, we will explore the fundamentals of this beautiful textile craft. You will learn up to three essential knots that serve as the building blocks for a variety of macramé projects. As you master these techniques, you will gain the confidence to create your own unique designs, whether it’s wall hangings, plant hangers, or decorative pieces. This class will require standing most of the time, please wear comfortable and supportive shoes. Ages 16-Adult
Squiggle Sketch & Short Story
Join this workshop where you will have the opportunity to choose a pre-made squiggle (or create your own) and transform it into a unique art piece. You will receive basic instructions on drafting a short story inspired by your creation and be guided through the editing process to refine your narrative. Ages 6-9
Draw, Paint, Paste
Join us for an introduction to drawing, printing, and collaging using a variety of materials. You will learn how to create values and textures with pencil, print a simple picture with tempera paint, watercolor paper, and wax paper, and collage a picture with a variety of papers and textures. Materials and instruction will be provided to students to create and empower them to explore many ways to approach art that will last a lifetime. Ages 9-12
Safari Animal Drawing
Join us for a visual tour of some of the most interesting safari animals! You will learn various elements of art and principles of design to bring your imagination to life. You will focus not only on animal portraits but also full body proportions and safari landscapes, all while getting to explore multiple mediums like watercolor and pastel! Ages 9-12
Introduction to Enameling on Metal
Explore the ancient art of glass fused to metal! You will learn to prepare copper for enameling, apply brilliant opaque and transparent colors in the form of powdered glass using several techniques, fire your piece for a few minutes, and repeat the process multiple times. You'll leave the class with one or more small tiles, and with an understanding of basic techniques and the many possibilities for enameling. There is a 30-minute lunch break, so please bring food and drink. Ages 16-Adult
Date Night: Captivating Collage
Join us with your date or an artsy friend, to create a unique collaged wall hanging. You will create this one-of-a-kind masterpiece using fabric, yarn, and an assortment of found objects. All materials will be supplied including access to a 20-year collection of buttons! Adults
Watercolor Lemons
In this watercolor class, you will learn how to paint realistic lemons in a bowl with a floral tablecloth background. You will learn how to mix warm and cool tones of yellow paint to create a realistic lemon as well as how to create the lemon rind texture using a simple technique. Finally, you will learn how to produce your own background colors for the tablecloth background. The reference photo and drawing will be emailed to you prior to the class. Please come to the class with the pencil drawing already transferred to your watercolor paper. Adults
Intermediate Pottery for Teens
In this course we will learn how to refine our skills in order to create a variety of new forms. The focus of this class will be centered around refining our throwing skills, exploring new vessel shapes, and making faceted pots. Taking at least one beginning class is required before enrolling in this one. Ages 14-17
Image Transfers with Gelli® Arts Printing Plates
In this class, you will have the opportunity to discover the best method for creating image transfers on the Gelli® Arts Printing Plate! You will review basic Gelli plate techniques, then move on to more advanced methods for the popular method of image transferring. Have fun printing and learning new skills that you can continue to explore long after the class ends. Ages 16-Adult
Personalized Pottery
Make your mark! Join us to make your own handbuilt dishes. We will use letter stamps and texture tools to create one-of-a-kind personalized pottery. Colorful glazes will be used to enhance your pottery. Ages 9-12
Upside Down Boxes
If you can throw a simple thick cylinder, then you are ready! Throw the box upside down, spring-cut the thick bottom and then flip it on a slab, carve, stamp, or attach textures and then cut the lid off. Glazing for textured surfaces will be taught. Ages 16-Adult
Captivating Collage
Create a unique collaged wall hanging. You will create this one-of-a-kind masterpiece using fabric, yarn, and an assortment of found objects. All materials will be supplied including access to a 20-year collection of buttons! Adults
Inspired Postcards
Inspired by Mary Chenoweth, iconic Colorado College Art professor and the woman who carved the wooden doors into Bemis School of Art, let us explore collage through a playful expression of making small postcard-sized art influenced by Mary, Matisse's, and Picasso's work. Gather your stash from travels, or precious papers you have been hanging onto, bring them to the workshop, and transform them into small pieces of art. Ages 16-Adult
Sunday @ 1-4 p.m.
March 23 ($62/$77)
Instructor: Linda Sagastume
Drips, Drops, and Strokes of Color
Dive into new ways of blending and applying color to your fabulous collages. Learn how to layer colorants, achieve visual texture with paints, pastels, spray inks, and more. Blend and resurface magazine sheets, metallic tissue paper and create your own designs papers. Adults
Member Moments: Acrylic Animal Portraits
Join us for an introduction to learning how to paint your favorite animals or pets, and/or imaginary creatures using acrylic paints. This BRAND-NEW series of workshops designed exclusively for our members to experience all the Fine Arts Center has to offer! Member Moments art classes allow our members to get a taste of various art media before diving into a full art class at Bemis School of Art. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, we invite you to discover new skills, express your creativity, and connect with fellow art enthusiasts. Ages 9-Adult
Let’s Make a Flower
Have you ever wanted to learn how to make felted creations? Well, look no further! In this one-day felting class, we will create simple flowers together as we welcome spring! After this class is over, you will have developed new skills of felting in one day! Adults
Sunday @ 9-11 a.m.
April 27 ($51/$66)
Instructor: Melissa Newberry
The Vignette in Watercolor
The vignette style is when a painting gently shades off gradually at the edge, leaving two or more sides of your painting white. This charming ornamental design incorporates the white of your paper with the watercolor. Learn what subjects work best and create some intrigue and magic. There will be a 30-minute lunch break, so please bring food and drink. Ages 16-Adult
Springtime Splendor Acrylic Painting
The beautiful flowers...The smell of fresh rain...Yes! Springtime is here! Join us to bring the springtime colors to life with an exciting acrylic painting class. We will practice many techniques and skills such as how to apply proportion, value, texture, color, and much more. Ages 6-9
How to Draw a Dragon Eye
Have you ever wanted to draw a realistic dragon eye? Learn to bring a dragon eye to life using colored pencils and your imagination! We will begin by exploring the process of sketching a plan, understanding the value scale, and learning the proper techniques for using colored pencils effectively. No prior skills are required—just your enthusiasm and creativity! By the end of the class, you will have a solid foundation in demonstrating value in your colored pencil drawings, empowering you to create stunning lifelike artwork. Join us for a fun and inspiring experience as you unleash your artistic potential! Ages 9-12
How to Draw Your Eye
Have you ever wondered how to draw a more detailed eye? You try and, without fail, it looks like a cartoon eye? In this one-day class, you will learn, step by step, how to draw your own eyes and find the common shapes that are within your eyes. Through this class you will gain basic knowledge of how to draw all eyes, starting with your own! Ages 12-16
Mini Fresco Paintings
Join us for an exploration of painting with tempera paint on a plaster surface, the way the old masters did in the early centuries, but on a smaller scale. You will be provided with the knowledge, tools, and materials to make several or more projects using joint compound, Styrofoam, and tempera paint to produce bright, vibrant pieces. Together we will explore creative ideas to inspire you to create your own works of art that will be treasured for a lifetime. Ages 12-16
Discover Gesture Drawing
Do you love drawing human figures, but have difficulty drawing them in complex poses or showing movement? Join us as we practice sketching proportionate people in more natural, action poses. These classes warm you up with quick gesture drawings, then ease you into longer times. Come ready to pose yourself and have fun! Ages 14-17
Partners in Art: Let’s Make a Flower
Have you ever wanted to learn how to make felted creations? Well, look no further! In this one-day felting class we will create simple flowers together as we welcome spring! By the end of this class you will have developed new skills of felting in one day! Ages 9-12 with participating adult
Beginning Wheel Throwing
Have you always wanted to learn the ancient art of throwing on the potter’s wheel? Embark on a journey into the captivating world of wheel throwing, where you’ll develop fundamental skills in clay handling and pottery creation. From your very first pull of clay to crafting your own unique pieces, you will learn the essential techniques to create beautiful mugs, bowls, and vases. We will also delve into a variety of glazing techniques that will elevate your creations. Discover how to apply glazes creatively to enhance the colors, textures, and finishes of your pottery, making each piece truly one-of-a-kind. Ages 16-Adult
Faceting Pottery
In this course, you’ll refine your pottery skills and dive into exciting new techniques like faceting. Faceting transforms the surface of your pottery by carving it into striking, geometric shapes—adding bold texture and dimension. You’ll also sharpen your throwing skills as we explore these creative methods to craft unique, eye-catching forms. Ages 16-Adult
Live Model Portrait Drawing
This workshop will allow you to practice the traditional method of portrait drawing in charcoal with a live model! The first day we will focus on the line drawing and achieving the correct proportions of the model. The second day will focus on adding shadow and value to render our portraits lifelike. Leave this class with some new skills or sharpen your existing skills for a great weekend of portraiture! Ages 16-Adult
Sense of Place: Painting the Garden
Join us for these two classes where you will get an introduction to acrylic painting and learn how to sketch and compose a painting of our own local Garden of the Gods. You will learn how to block in shapes, and mix colors. Together we will explore creative ways to approach acrylic painting that will inspire and give you the freedom to create your own unique landscape paintings going forward! Ages 16-Adult
Simplifying Figures in Watercolor
Bring your watercolor paintings to life by incorporating a figure or figures. The properly placed figure can suggest movement and action. Lose the fear and learn techniques to create simple shapes quickly and convincingly. The pressure is off. The creativity is on. There will be a 30-minute lunch break, so please bring food and drink. Ages 16-Adult
Still Life Oil Painting
Join us as we develop skills and begin painting in oils with confidence! No matter if you are a beginner or ready to freshen up your painting skills. Using a minimal color pallet, you will learn how to approach painting a still life set up in a clear logical progression. Ages 16-Adult
Pint Size Picasso
Learn through creative play and exploration. Explore a variety of art materials and techniques while learning about famous artists. Gain new skills and confidence through independent decision-making, self expression, and exploration. Ages 6-9
Art Adventures
Embark on a journey filled with creative adventures. The adventure consists of developing painting, drawing and mixed-media creations through problem solving, critical thinking and collaboration. Ages 9-12
Hybridizing Printmaking and Clay: Trading Stories through Tile Making
Join us in this workshop where you will create a set of your own hand made tiles and learn to translate printmaking techniques to transform your clay surface. In this class Dilara will guide attendees on slab building tiles and preparing their surface to transfer a repetitive or large scale image over multiple tiles. Attendees will learn how to utilize printmaking methods on a clay surface through sgraffito and intaglio techniques to create a unique array of tiles that can be puzzled together. Dilara makes these pieces within her own work inspired by Byzantine and Ottoman iconography. She utilizes the tiles as a created artifact, taking rubbings of the tiles resulting in a piece that holds the shadow of the object. Ages 16-Adult