SUMMER SEMESTER 2024

Adult Painting & Drawing Classes

Artist taking an online art class

7039 Introduction to Pastel
Instructor: Mark de Mos
Mondays, 6:30–9 PM
In this introductory pastel class, students will learn to use the expressive and colorful medium of pastel sticks to their full potential. Over the course of the semester, students will gain techniques such as color mixing and blending, while working on simple paintings, still lifes, and subject matter of their own choice.
6 session(s): 7/15–8/19
Tuition: member $210, non-member $230

7058 NEW! Abstract Painting for All Artists
Instructor: Cynthia Dubin
Mondays, 6:30–9 PM
In this class, students will have the opportunity to explore the potential of abstract painting through different techniques, concepts, and mediums introduced to them. The instructor will present examples of abstract art from history such as Kandinsky to inspire student’s creativity. The class will begin with small drawing exercises to experiment with the deconstruction of representational forms and pull from new sources. Then, students will be encouraged to approach their canvas with a no-sketch approach for their abstract painting.
6 session(s): 7/15–8/19
Tuition: member $210, non-member $230

7045 Plein Air Painting
Instructor: Duane Lutsko
Tuesdays, 4–6:30 PM
Throughout history, the dramatic potential of changing light and those expressive possibilities have captivated artists such as Whistler, Van Gogh, Ryder, and Turner. In this course, students will explore painting techniques for capturing light and atmosphere in the plein air landscape. The inherent simplicity of this approach offers unique opportunities for success with quick studies, as well as with more extended compositions. After mastering the basics of depicting form through value, students will explore the nuances of color palettes and paint applications to render the emotive qualities of the landscape. Outside assignments will challenge the student to explore different light situations throughout the day. The class will travel to various local painting sites to work outdoors. In case of inclement weather, the class will take place indoors at the Visual Arts Center as scheduled. The recommended paint medium for this course is oil paint, but all media are welcome. The French-style Julian easel is also recommended.
6 session(s): 7/16–8/20
Tuition: member $210, non-member $230

7046 Drawing the Figure with Confidence
Instructor: Joel Tidey
Tuesdays, 7–9:30 PM
Figure it out! Learn to simplify the complex nature of drawing the human form by getting familiar with basic anatomy to better understand the figure. Because our poses are short, you will be able to focus on how to initiate a figure drawing through basic structuring. Repetition and practice are key elements in expressing yourself with confidence. Please note: This class uses both female and male life (nude) models. Students under 18 years of age must have written permission from a parent or guardian to participate.
6 session(s): 7/16–8/20
Tuition: member $210, non-member $230
Materials fee: $46

7056 NEW! Expressive Portraiture
Instructor: Duane Lutsko
Tuesdays, 7–9:30 PM
This class will encourage students to explore expressive brushwork as an additive component to portraiture. Projects will focus on working from direct observation and using active mark-making to capture the character of the model. Students will learn about the two fundamental aspects of color: mixing and color interaction.
6 session(s): 7/16–8/20
Tuition: member $210, non-member $230
Materials fee: $46

7048 Watercolor: Pure & Simple
Instructor: Mark de Mos
Wednesdays, 6:30–9 PM
Create loose, expressive watercolor works based on weekly demonstrations that focus on specific concepts. Work from your own original reference photos and/or sketches or from a reference provided by the instructor.
6 session(s): 7/17–8/21
Tuition: member $210, non-member $230

7049 Exploring Painterly Painting
Instructor: Duane Lutsko
Wednesdays, 6:30–9 PM
This class will challenge painters to loosen up and explore the potential of painterly painting. Through a variety of projects, students will be encouraged to be spontaneous and incorporate expressive mark-making into their own paintings. Also, students will learn about the advantages of painting from direct observation.
6 session(s): 7/17–8/21
Tuition: member $210, non-member $230

7057 Water-Soluble Graphite Figure Paintings
Instructor: Joel Tidey
Wednesdays, 7–9:30 PM
Students will be working with water-soluble graphite to represent the figure through line and tone. This medium is similar to using black watercolor paint or even gouache. Working with shades of gray is one of the best training techniques to gain confidence in painting. During each class, students will work from a live model. An emphasis will be placed on breaking down the human form into simple tonal shapes to create contrast and three-dimensional modeling. Students will be able to explore expressive and gestural paintings where they are free to work in a realistic or exaggerated manner. Experimental techniques will be an important aspect to help to bring life and energy into the work. This is a great introduction for anyone interested in oil painting. Please note: This class uses both female and male life (nude) models. Students under 18 years of age must have written permission from a parent or guardian to participate.
6 session(s): 7/17–8/21
Tuition: member $210, non-member $230
Materials fee: $46

7052 Painting from Photographs
Instructor: Mary Jean Canziani
Thursdays, 6:30–9 PM
We will take some of our favorite photos and give them new life in paint on canvas. Go beyond reproducing a photograph and discover possibilities that will allow you to enhance the image of your choice. First, make a sketch in order to identify basic shapes and elements in the photo, then discuss how to create a balanced composition by trying different things in your drawing. Design choices such as arranging items differently or altering colors will allow you to create a painting that is personalized and unique.
6 session(s): 7/18–8/22
Tuition: member $210, non-member $230

7053 Draw & Paint Everything with Confidence
Instructor: Stephen Yavorski
Thursdays, 6:30–9 PM
Build and sharpen foundational skills that will help you become more proficient and self-sufficient artist. Subjects include, but are not limited to mastering perspective and understanding composition, gaining control over darks and lights, and breaking down complex forms into simple shapes. Beginning students will start with drawing to gain confidence in rendering compositions successfully. Returning students can continue to sharpen their drawing skills and advance into working with color media such as oils, acrylic, watercolor, etc. if desired.
6 session(s): 7/18–8/22
Tuition: member $210, non-member $230