Upcoming Classes
Explorations in Art for Au Pairs Spring 2027
This experience is exclusively for au pairs to earn their credit hours. Join us through a journey of creativity and exploration. Discover a variety of materials, techniques, and projects to include ceramics, painting, movement, gallery experiences, photography, and a few surprises. We’ll tour the galleries of the Fine Arts Center for inspiration and discussion. Some projects will be make-and-take, others will need to be picked up at a later time. Additional projects will be required before and after class in order to receive a certificate of completion for 36 hours/3 credits. Supplies will be provided. Adults
Bemis Community Printshop: Block Printed Zines
In this class, students will learn the ins and outs of linoleum block-printing, and will apply those skills to create an 8-page mini-zine that they can share with friends and family. This workshop will span over two classes. In the first class, students will learn how to prepare and transfer their designs and how to safely carve linoleum. There will then be time allotted to start carving. During the second weekend, students will learn how to print, fold, and assemble their zines. Every student will come away with at least ten copies of their zines, and one copy of each other student's zine. Supplies will be provided. Ages 16-Adult
Bemis Community Printshop: Block Printmaking
Please join us for a lively fun day learning how to do block-printmaking. We will be transferring an image to a linoleum block then carving and printing. We will walk away with multiple prints using 1-3 colors. Please bring a sack lunch for 12-12:30 p.m. for a lunch break. There is a material fee of $25 due to the instructor on the first day of class. Adults
The Artist’s Way: Drawing Basics
Join us on a drawing journey through compositional elements, contour line drawing, understanding negative spaces, mark making, and the basics of color. You will experience a number of different mediums including pencil, charcoal, pen and ink, and colored pencils. Subjects will include still life, plants, and landscapes. There is a material fee of $25 due to the instructor on the first day of class. Ages 16-Adult
Beloved Birds in Watercolor
Birds are some of the most diverse and charming subjects to paint. Whether the main subject or an addition to your painting, these creatures can give life and breadth to a composition. Each variety has its own unique personality and characteristics. We will simplify the individuality using basic techniques and a bit of whimsy. We will take a short break for lunch, so please bring something to eat. Supply list online. Ages 16-Adult
Wheel Thrown Alternative Firing
Have an itch to try something new? Join us as we learn how to fire pottery with raku glazes and/or horsehair. If you wish to do horsehair pottery, you will learn how to apply terra sigillata, a refined slip typically colored with pigments. There are many applications that are possible with this slip, and this is a great introduction to applying this specific technology to our work. A multitude of forms will be explored with the possibility of trying naked raku if time permits. Supply list online. Ages 16-Adult
Craft Lab: Kawandi Quilting
Recycled fabrics stitched with simple quilting techniques to make one-of-a-kind table centerpiece. Inspired by the traditional Kawandi style, the piece is built layer by layer, allowing colors, textures, and patterns from repurposed textiles to emerge organically. Each stitch adds character and history, turning discarded fabric into a functional work of art that celebrates sustainability and craftsmanship. There is a material fee of $10 due to the instructor on the first day of class. Ages 16-Adult
Brick Stitch Beaded Earrings
Join us for an introduction to off-loom bead weaving and make beaded earrings using the Brick Stitch method. You will learn about patterns and colors, beading needles, and beading thread using size 8 and size 11 seed beads to construct your earrings. You will also learn how to increase and decrease in the Brick Stitch Method. Finishing techniques vary and will be discussed in class. Together, we will explore the many different ways these beaded earrings can be made and give you the knowledge and freedom to create many more earrings going forward. Bring small, sharp scissors if you have them. There is a material fee of $10 due to the instructor on the first day of class. Ages 16-Adult
Partners in Art: Toddler’s Paint! Messy Fingers
Your toddler will unleash their inner creativity in this sensory-based art class! We'll use tempera paint on hands and fingers to spread, slap, squish, push, and pull paint across slippery paper. They will also have the option to paint with feathers and leaves. Get ready to get messy! Supplies will be provided. Ages 2-4 with participating adult
Painting Birds in Acrylic Paint
Join us for an introduction to acrylic painting. You will compose a painting of your favorite bird or choose to paint one demonstrated by the instructor. You will learn how to block out shapes, sketch and outline, 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 paintings going forward! Supply list online. Ages 16-Adult
How to Make a Watercolor Paint Itself
Experimenting is one of the great joys of watercolor. Let's allow our curiosity to lead the way and discover a new approach to this already unpredictable medium. No drawing, no rules! Lay it and leave it or discover new ways to manipulate the paint. All these discoveries will make you loosen up and become a better painter. We will take a short break for lunch, so please bring something to eat. Supply list online. Ages 16-Adult
Frozen Pond Ceramic Glaze
Have fun learning beautiful ceramic glaze possibilities! We will be making hand-built plate forms to glaze in the "frozen pond" method. Fun combinations of glaze colorants will be introduced to complete a set of finished frozen pond- styled pieces. Come learn the technique and share some fun with clay. Supply list online. Ages 16-Adult
Red Hot Poppies in Watercolor
Let's suggest, through our painting, that these little sparklers are hot to the touch! Create poppies by using undiluted paint to damp paper for a stunning bleed with the deepest, darkest tones. Maybe you prefer hot yellow, brilliant gold, vibrant white, or blue-violet. Whatever your choice, the same principals apply and you will learn the secrets! We will take a short break for lunch, so please bring something to eat. Supply list online. Ages 16-Adult
World Photography Day: A Brief History of Photography’s Origins
Join us for a presentation to discuss photography’s early days in the late 1700s and the early developments in light sensitivity through the beginning of the 20th century that include Eastman Kodak’s innovations and other contributions to the medium. We will discuss major 19th century developments including the first permanent photograph, Louis Daguerre's major announcement that we celebrate today as World Photography Day, and advances in the processes that influenced modern photography trends. Major contributors will be highlighted along with dynamic works that have remained a timeless reminder of the innovation of those who contributed to this ever evolving medium. Ages 16-Adult
Expressive Erasures: Blackout Poetry
Turn ordinary book pages into surprising sayings and layered meanings through this treasure hunt for phrases hiding in plain sight. Scan pages for compelling word combinations, mask the rest, and transform the voids with bold markers, color, collage, or sketches to craft striking visual statements. Blend mindful wordplay with bold mark making for personal insight and creative release in a low pressure, playful setting. Leave with the start to several eye-catching pieces and fresh techniques to keep discovering hidden gems on any page. Please bring a few old, discarded books to use or share with the class. There is a material fee of $5 due to instructor on the first day of class. Ages 16-Adult
Partner Wheel Throwing
Join a friend or loved one for a unique night of creative excitement. 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. Supplies will be provided. Adults
Stack it Up: Intro to Stackable Rings and Bangles
Why wear just one ring or bangle when you can stack two, three, or even more? This workshop honors excess in the form of stackable rings and/or bangles made with copper and brass, focusing on techniques that encourage thoughtful repetition such as stamping, hammer textures, basic forming, sizing, and soldering to create your choice of stackable rings and/or bangles. There is a material fee of $20 due to the instructor on the first day of class. Adults
Wellness: Drawing as Meditation
Discover the meditative power of drawing. We'll combine both representational and expressive drawing through a series of guided exercises to help you find ease and flow. Our subjects will include tranquil landscapes and unique objects found in nature. Supply list online. Ages 16-Adult
Craft Lab: Artful Greeting Cards
Create a unique, small work of art on watercolor card stock that can be used as an inspirational card for giving or keeping! You will play with a variety of materials, ideas, and perhaps inspirational writing to create an original keepsake that will be cherished by the recipient. Unleash your creativity and enjoy a morning of playful drawing and painting. Supplies will be provided. Ages 16-Adult
Foundations of Drawing for Teens
Are you a beginner artist who wants to learn the fundamentals of drawing while exploring your creativity? Join us to develop key skills such as observation, proportion, shading, perspective, and composition. We will combine structured lessons with open-ended projects, encouraging you to experiment with different materials and subjects—from still life and portraits to imaginative concepts. Balances foundational skills with creative challenges to help build confidence and develop your own style. Bring your willingness to learn and express your creativity! Supplies will be provided. Ages 13-16
Introduction to Watercolor
Are you new to watercolor or want to refresh foundational skills? Join us to learn the essential techniques of watercolor painting—from brush control and color mixing to creating washes, textures, and simple compositions. Each class combines demonstrations, hands-on practice, and guided projects. You will leave with a complete small final painting and the confidence to express yourself using watercolors. Supply list online. Ages 16-Adult
Introduction to Oil Painting
We will focus on foundational skills, hands-on practice, and completing at least one finished painting project, while maintaining a manageable pace for beginners. You will gain insight into the fundamentals of oil painting in a supportive, hands-on environment. You’ll learn how to safely handle materials, mix colors, and apply essential techniques that form the backbone of classical and contemporary oil painting. Whether you’re new to art or returning after a break, this class will guide you through creating your own original paintings with confidence. You will complete value studies, color exercise, and at least one oil painting. Supply list online. Ages 16-Adult
Wheel Thrown Sculptures
Whether you want to improve your overall wheel throwing skills in a creative way, or have a design in mind that you’d like to refine, this class will elevate your skills in both throwing and sculpting. Design-centered exercises, projects, and feedback combine to help everyone see clay in both new and familiar ways. Supply list online. Ages 16-Adult
Introduction to Acrylic Painting
Discover the vibrant world of acrylic painting. You'll learn the fundamentals of color mixing, brush techniques, layering, and composition while exploring your own creative voice. Through guided exercises and personal projects, you’ll gain confidence with the medium and develop the skills to start painting with intention and enjoyment. No experience necessary, just curiosity and a willingness to get a little messy! Supply list online. Ages 16-Adult
Sketch Lab
Spark your creativity and build confidence! Explore core drawing techniques—from proportion and shading to perspective and character design—while creating your own unique art pieces. Each session includes guided lessons, creative warm-ups, and time to experiment and finish personal projects. This class is perfect for beginners and young artists who love to draw and want to take their skills to the next level! Supplies will be provided. Ages 9-12
Beginning Wheel Throwing
Join us to learn the fundamentals of wheel-thrown pottery. We will focus on bowls and cylinders while learning the essential techniques for centering, pulling walls, shaping forms, and finishing functional pieces. Through structured demos, individual coaching, and plenty of practice, you will complete a small collection of glazed ceramic pieces. Supply list online. Ages 16-Adult