PREVIEW: FALL 2025
OCTOBER 13 - DECEMBER 7, 2025
REGISTRATION TIMELINE
Early Registration: August 25 - September 1, 2025
(Open to Summer 2025 students - note: a unique password will be emailed directly to the student email address ALH has on file)
General registration: September 2 - October 5, 2025
Late registration: Begins on October 6 (additional non-refundable late fee of $15 per class and/or workshop)
Course Schedule: October 13 - December 7, 2025 (unless noted otherwise). Note: no classes will be held November 24 - 30, 2025.
Make-up week: December 8 - 14, 2025
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All school registration can be made online or over the phone during our office hours.
For step-by-step instructions to register online, click here.
Online: Register here at www.artleaguehouston.org/classes
Phone: Students may register by calling Art League Houston at 713-523-9530 ext. 2 & 3 during regular office hours: Monday – Thursday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Only credit card payment will be accepted over the phone.
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All classes have a recommended list of materials that students are responsible for purchasing.
Materials lists can be viewed by visiting the following page: www.artleaguehouston.org/materials
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Are you an ALH member? Membership provides a $35 discount off each class/workshop. To confirm your membership status call 713-523-9530 ext. 2 or 3 during regular office hours: Monday – Thursday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
To sign up for a membership, please visit the Membership section of our website. Note: memberships are valid for one year from the date purchased and are non-refundable.
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Have class credit? Learn how to apply it to your next registration by going to: https://www.artleaguehouston.org/class-credit
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Withdrawals: Refunds or class credits will only be issued for students who officially withdraw. All refunds are subject to a $100 (for 6-7 week classes) or $60 (workshops) registration and processing fee. Unless a course is officially canceled by ALH, registrations are considered final as of 6 days prior to the workshop start date or at the start of the school quarter for classes. All additional fees are non-refundable. Students must file a course drop form to file a withdrawal or transfer from a course (drop forms can be filed HERE).
Transfers: Students may request to transfer from one course to another before the second session of the class, but students are responsible for any additional model or material fees involved in the course.
Transfer forms can be filed HERE.
ART LEAGUE SCHOOL POLICIES:
Before registering for any class, students must carefully read the Art League School policies. Please review terms and conditions before registering, which are subject to change, by visiting:
https://www.artleaguehouston.org/school-policies
Please note:
The Art League School offers adult studio courses exclusively for individuals aged 17 and above.
FALL 2025 CLASSES & WORKSHOPS
Flexible Access is a program focused on providing a continuing education opportunities through pay-what-you-can visual art courses for ages 17 and up. This program is part of a larger initiative to prioritize arts access and equity taking place at the ALH school.
Flexible Access es un programa enfocado en brindar oportunidades de educación continua a traves de cursos de arte en lo cual puedes pagar-con-lo-que-puedas para edades de 17 años en adelante. Este programa parte de una iniciativa más amplia para priorizar el acceso a las artes y la equidad que se lleva a cabo en la escuela ALH.
PLEASE NOTE: All Flexible Access classes will open for registration starting Tuesday, September 2nd, at 9:00 AM
Printing Like a Painter: Monotypes (FA-1) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Gaby Hurtado-Ramos
All Levels
Wednesday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 15 - November 5
4 weeks
$320 public / Pay-What-You-Can
Studio 1
Monotypes are one-of-a-kind prints —using similar tools and processes of traditional multiples, monotypes leave a single, yet lasting impression. In this 4-week course, we will cover a variety of methods to make unique monotype prints. Participants will learn how to operate an etching press as well as print methods you can do from home. We will learn techniques including: trace-monotype, stencils, ghost prints, split-fountain inking, and painterly marks. Using non-toxic ink, we will understand how to modify ink to the desired consistency for different print applications. Students will come away with a series of unique prints. Painters, printmakers, and beyond are all welcome.
This program has limited seating. For Flexible Access courses, ALH requires students to attend 70% of the scheduled classes. Failure to do so will place the student in a 6-month waitlist for future Flexible Access courses. Membership discounts are not applicable to Flexible Access courses.
Mini Nicho-Shrine in Clay (FA-2) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Nancy Rios
All Levels
Sunday afternoon, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
November 9
1 Day
$160 public / Pay-What-You-Can
Studio 1
Celebrate Mexican Folk Art by creating your own clay nicho. A small decorative shrine perfect for honoring a loved one or displaying a special object. In this 3-hour workshop, you will learn slab-building techniques, creative embellishment, and texturing methods to craft a one-of-a-kind piece. All materials and tools are provided; no experience necessary.
This program has limited seating. For Flexible Access courses, ALH requires students to attend 70% of the scheduled classes. Failure to do so will place the student in a 6-month waitlist for future Flexible Access courses. Membership discounts are not applicable to Flexible Access courses.
DIY Zinemaking: Make By Any Means Necessary (FA-3) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Gaby Hurtado-Ramos
All Levels
Saturday, 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
December 6
1 Day
$195 public / Pay-What-You-Can
Studio 1
Zines can be instructive, humorous, serious, political, text-based, illustrative, and all sorts of combinations in-between. Zines are self-published small-run books that take many forms. In this workshop we will be covering the basics of handmade booklets with an emphasis on accessibility so that you can apply skills and ideas to future zines with whatever tools you have available. Writing, drawing, collage, and conceptual-based booklets will be covered, but participants are welcome to make any kind of zine they desire. A combination of one-page zines and pamphlet stitch booklets will be demonstrated using standard letter-sized copy paper. Participants will make zines that they can later make copies of on their own at their local printer, office, or copy machine. Methods and preparation for both black and white and color printing will also be covered.
This program has limited seating. For Flexible Access courses, ALH requires students to attend 70% of the scheduled classes. Failure to do so will place the student in a 6-month waitlist for future Flexible Access courses. Membership discounts are not applicable to Flexible Access courses.
Jewelry Construction (S-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Mary Rogers
All Levels
Monday evenings, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
October 13 - December 1
7 weeks
$485 public / $450 member
Studio 1
This class covers jewelry construction techniques including: piercing, drilling, soldering, riveting, forging reticulation and roller printing as well as hydraulic forming. Advanced topics may include granulation, jewelry rendering, and blanking. In this class there is a strong emphasis on problem solving which helps students develop a personal design vocabulary. Multi-level classes allow new students to see a variety of advanced techniques and applications. Individualized instruction allows students to progress at their own pace.
Intro to Handbuilding (S-2) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Nancy Rios
All Levels
Tuesday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 14 - December 2 (No class November 25)
7 weeks
$495 public / $460 member
Studio 1
In this class, you will learn hand-building construction techniques. Students will create a variety of functional or sculptural pottery forms using methods such as pinching, soft slab, and coil. Nancy will work closely with each student to strengthen their foundational skills and provide personalized feedback. This course will allow you to fine-tune the basic techniques in handbuilding. All levels are welcome!
Linocut Printmaking (PR-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Alexander Squier
All Levels
Sunday mornings, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
October 19 - December 7 (No class November 30)
7 weeks
$470 public / $435 member
Studio 1
“Linocut”, also known as linoleum block printing, has a rich history over the last century and remains an extremely versatile and popular technique for artists today. This course will introduce students to the fundamentals, including different design strategies in black and white, how to transfer and safely and effectively carve the block using different tools, and how to print an edition using Art League’s motorized printing press, and by hand. The course will also include demos on “jigsaw printing” and monoprinting methods. No prior printmaking experience is necessary. Oil-based printing inks, initial linoleum blocks, and newsprint will be provided for the class. Advanced students are encouraged to pursue more ambitious projects using the press.
Mixed Media for Beginners (MM-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Rafael Gamero
Beginner
Tuesday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 14 - December 2 (No class November 25)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 2
This class centers on the creative process, with an emphasis on experimentation and play. Using materials such as pastels, paint, and collage, you'll explore a variety of techniques that let the act of making guide your work. Prior experience with painting or drawing is welcome but not required—this course encourages both figurative and abstract exploration. The focus is on discovering new approaches, embracing texture, and allowing materials to lead the way, with your final piece serving as a reflection of your creative journey.
Accordion Book Workshop (MM-2) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Heather den Uijl
Beginner / Intermediate
Tuesday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 14 - November 4
4 weeks
$295 public / $260 member
Studio 3
During this four-week workshop students will learn how to create two different styles of accordion books from start to finish. Students will also learn about standard book making materials, what they are used for, and how to use them properly. Each student will have the ability to design their own book from the outside cover, to the inner pages.
Painting with Fabric (MM-3) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Preetika Rajgariah
All Levels
Wednesday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 15 - December 3 (No class November 26)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 3
Textiles tie us altogether in some form or fashion: from family heirlooms that are passed down to a spontaneous thrifting trip that turns someone else's trash into our treasures. In this mixed media course, students will use their own backgrounds as inspiration to create a variety of collaged paintings that highlight the patterns, colors, and textures of different fabrics to explore different, assigned themes. As we work to improve skills in color theory, developing dynamic compositions, and using good craftsmanship, we will also learn about contemporary artists who are working in mixed media practices that highlight fiber as well. Overall, this class fosters a fun and safe environment to explore a range of materials, take chances in the studio, build community, and even preserve memories from our lifetime.
Intro to Paper Marbling (MM-4) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Heather den Uijl
Beginner / Intermediate
Saturday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 18 - November 22 (No class November 8)
5 weeks
$325 public / $290 member
Studio 2
Textiles tie us altogether in some form or fashion: from family heirlooms that are passed down to a spontaneous thrifting trip that turns someone else's trash into our treasures. In this mixed media course, students will use their own backgrounds as inspiration to create a variety of collaged paintings that highlight the patterns, colors, and textures of different fabrics to explore different, assigned themes. As we work to improve skills in color theory, developing dynamic compositions, and using good craftsmanship, we will also learn about contemporary artists who are working in mixed media practices that highlight fiber as well. Overall, this class fosters a fun and safe environment to explore a range of materials, take chances in the studio, build community, and even preserve memories from our lifetime.
Intro to Ink Painting: A Journey of Artistic Meditation (MM-5) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor: Leslie Cuenca
All Levels
Sunday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 19 - December 7 (No class November 30)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 3
The goal of this class is to cultivate mindfulness and inner calm while learning to paint with ink. Using painting as a therapeutic tool for self discovery and emotional release, students will explore different ways of expressing reality and inner dimensions. Activities will include guided meditations focused on grounding and centering, breathing techniques to enhance focus and relaxation, and gentle body movement to make the body comfortable and fluid for painting. We will also cover ink painting preparation and technique to create a beautiful work of art, using brushstrokes to convey emotion and movement. Students will come away with an understanding of the interaction between water, ink and paper, as well as traditional and innovative ink painting principles (simplicity, balance and asymmetry).
Oil Pastels & Mixed Media (MM-6) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor: Nohelia Vargas Bolivar
All Levels
Sunday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 26 + November 2
2 Days
$190 public / $155 member
Studio 1
Oil pastels are a fun and beginner-friendly medium that first appeared in the early 20th century. They’re often described as the perfect bridge between drawing and painting, combining the control of a pencil or crayon with the rich, vibrant color of paint. Soft, blendable, and easy to handle, oil pastels make it simple to experiment with layering, shading, and mixing colors. They work beautifully on almost any surface and can be combined with other materials for exciting results.
Over the course of two days, students will explore a variety of techniques, including how to combine oil pastels with other media such as acrylic and watercolor. Along the way, you’ll discover how versatile and expressive this medium can be—whether you’re just starting out or already have some experience. All levels are welcome.
Please note: Some tools and materials will be provided by the instructor.
Elements of Nature: Mixed Media Watercolor (MM-7) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Lucinda Cobley
Beginner / Intermediate
Saturday mornings, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
November 8 + 15
2 Days
$175 public / $140 member
Off-site
In this beginner/intermediate mixed media workshop, we will meet in person to draw and paint from nature at a nearby park location. Using a combination of watercolor and watercolor pencil techniques the focus will be on seasonal trees and plants as they change into fall colors. Step-by-step guidance ranges from exploring tonal values in thumbnail sketches, to more detailed studies that use blending and overlays of color, color mixing, wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry techniques. There will also be time to freely explore and experiment with various mixed media approaches including resist techniques and use of mark making tools such as sea sponge, twig, bamboo skewer and other texture making materials provided by the instructor.
Watercolor (W-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Caroline Graham
All Levels
Monday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 13 - December 1 (No class November 24)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 1
Students will explore the vibrancy and transparency of watercolor. The instructor will emphasize color, design, and contrast while working with students on independent projects or assigned exercises. Students will practice how to layer and control the pigment and rescue the white paper while retaining the spontaneous, fresh-looking result. In addition, students will take a look into selected 20th century artists and their work. Previous drawing experience may be required.
Watercolor (W-2) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Caroline Graham
All Levels
Wednesday afternoons, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
October 15 - December 3 (No class November 26)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 2
Students will explore the vibrancy and transparency of watercolor. The instructor will emphasize color, design, and contrast while working with students on independent projects or assigned exercises. Students will practice how to layer and control the pigment and rescue the white paper while retaining the spontaneous, fresh-looking result. In addition, students will take a look into selected 20th century artists and their work. Previous drawing experience may be required.
Painting with Watercolor (W-3) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - John Davis
All Levels
Thursday evenings, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
October 16 - December 4 (No class November 27)
7 weeks
$460 public / $425 member
Studio 1
Learn how to use watercolor in unexpected ways to create bold results. Initial steps in using the medium will focus on value, layering, creating forms and then color relationships. Create a foundation for working and then go beyond traditional watercolor by experimenting with different techniques. Discover how to take advantage of unexpected "mistakes" for your own benefit. Imagery for this course will be mostly representational while encouraging atmospheric effects and the looser side of the medium. Watercolor is vibrant and translucent in nature, has no odor and is affordable.
This class is for All Levels. Previous painting experience is not required, however an understanding in value drawing is helpful.
Classical Figure Drawing in Charcoal (D-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Polly Liu
Intermediate / Advanced
Monday afternoons, 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
October 13 - December 1 (No class November 24)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member + additional live model fee
Studio 2
In this class, students are introduced to French Atelier training to draw the human figure. The method of sight size, a fundamental scale system, is used to reproduce the figure accurately. Students work from a live model focusing on outline, proportion, shadow, shape, and value. The non-refundable model fee is due the first day of class and ranges from $150 - $175 for the whole session depending on class size. Please note: enrollment for this course is limited to 5 students.
Cartooning & Graphic Novels (D-2) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Mike Stovall
All Levels
Monday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 13 - December 1 (No class November 24)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 3
Cartooning is a process, a language and an art form. This class will provide students with the means for creative self-discovery and the exploration of complex ideas through visual, sequential storytelling. Students will record their observations, experiences and memories in their sketchbook and then translate that material into pictographic narratives...some only one panel and some multiple pages. The class is essentially a writing and an art class rolled into one. The class focuses much more on story and process than drawing skills.
Classical Portrait Drawing in Charcoal (D-3) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Polly Liu
Intermediate / Advanced
Tuesday mornings, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
October 14 - December 2 (No class November 25)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member + additional live model fee
Studio 2
In this class, students are introduced to French Atelier training to draw the human portrait. The method of sight size, a fundamental scale system, is used to reproduce portraits accurately. Students work from a live model focusing on outline, proportion, shadow, shape, and value. The non-refundable model fee is due the first day of class and ranges from $150 - $175 for the whole session depending on class size. Please note: enrollment for this course is limited to 5 students.
Basic Drawing 101 (D-4) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Myke Venable
Beginner
Thursday mornings, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
October 16 - December 4 (No class November 27)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 3
This class sets aside time to develop, practice, and refine your drawing skills! Students will explore the fundamentals of drawing through various hands-on activities and class discussions. This class will touch upon observation, shapes, volume, value, line and texture. This class is intended for students with little or no previous drawing experience or those that want to sharpen their fundamental skills.
Portraits in Pencil (D-5) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Peter Broz
All Levels
Thursday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 16 - December 4 (No class November 27)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member + additional live model fee
Studio 2
Depicting the human face has been a subject of fascination for centuries. Even with the development of photography, hand-drawn portraiture continues to be a relevant and expressive form of art. This course is meant to encourage your curiosity and help you better understand the underlying anatomy of the face and how to achieve accurate proportions.
The goal of this 7 week course is to make drawing portraiture less daunting by using systematic methods that encourage students to tackle any obstacles they may encounter. Students can expect individualized feedback throughout the course, as it can be very helpful in the learning process. We will be working from live models in both short and long pose formats. By simplifying the face to its most essential components, students will be able to create a solid foundation with proportions in mind. We will be using both graphite pencil and color pencil on white drawing paper as well as toned paper.
At the end of the course students will be able to more confidently render the face with a clear set of strategies and objectives in mind.
Intermediate Drawing (D-6) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Myke Venable
Intermediate / Advanced
Thursday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 16 - December 4 (No class November 27)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 3
Intermediate Drawing is for the student with some knowledge of shape, volume, value, line and texture. We will work from still life objects, portrait photographs and cover basic linear perspective. The materials for this course will range from graphite pencils, charcoal pencils and Prismacolor on paper. The overall objective of this class is to build a stronger foundation in drawing.
Basic Drawing 101 (D-7) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Myke Venable
Beginner
Saturday mornings, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
October 18 - December 6 (No class November 29)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 3
This class sets aside time to develop, practice, and refine your drawing skills! Students will explore the fundamentals of drawing through various hands-on activities and class discussions. This class will touch upon observation, shapes, volume, value, line and texture. This class is intended for students with little or no previous drawing experience or those that want to sharpen their fundamental skills.
Intermediate Drawing (D-8) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Myke Venable
Intermediate / Advanced
Saturday afternoons, 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM
October 18 - December 6 (No class November 29)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 3
Intermediate Drawing is for the student with some knowledge of shape, volume, value, line and texture. We will work from still life objects, portrait photographs and cover basic linear perspective. The materials for this course will range from graphite pencils, charcoal pencils and Prismacolor on paper. The overall objective of this class is to build a stronger foundation in drawing.
Intro to Figure Drawing (D-9) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Peter Broz
All Levels
Sunday mornings, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
October 19 - December 7 (No class November 30)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member + additional live model fee
Studio 2
Intro to Figure Drawing is a comprehensive course designed to introduce students to the fundamental principles and techniques of drawing the human figure. This course is suitable for beginners and intermediate artists who wish to develop their skills in capturing the human form accurately and expressively. The classes will be centered around working from a live model.
Throughout the course, students will explore various aspects of figure drawing, including anatomy, proportion, gesture, and form. They will learn to observe and analyze the human body, understanding its underlying structure and how it moves. Students will also study the principles of light and shadow, enabling them to create a range of values that create the illusion of form.
By the end of the course, students will have acquired a solid foundation in figure drawing, enabling them to depict the human form with accuracy and expressiveness. They will have developed their understanding of anatomy, proportions, and the principles of light and shadow. Additionally, students will have honed their observational skills, allowing them to capture the essence and gesture of a figure.
Painting Beyond the Photograph (P-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Laura Lawson
All Levels
Monday mornings, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
October 13 - December 1 (No class November 24)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 1
When painting from life is just not possible and you are moved by a photograph you have taken, it becomes the job of the artist to edit and embellish when creating a painting from that photograph. Often a pitfall of working from photos is that they look contrived or overworked. In this class we will work toward developing your inspiration photos into paintings that maintain excitement without getting bogged down in minute details. Oil and Acrylic Painters are welcome to join us on this journey.
Classical Figure Painting in Oil (P-2) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Polly Liu
Intermediate / Advanced
Monday mornings, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
October 13 - December 1 (No class November 24)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member + additional live model fee
Studio 2
In this class, students begin painting in grisaille – painting executed entirely around monochrome and usually in shades of gray or brown – to eliminate the problems of color and value and to concentrate on accuracy of drawing and the effects of light. The second part of the class utilizes a limited palette, allowing students to explore and understand the harmony and unity of light. The non-refundable model fee is due the first day of class and ranges from $150 - $175 for the whole session depending on class size. Please note: enrollment for this course is limited to 5 students.
Color Abstraction (P-3) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - John Davis
All Levels
Monday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 13 - December 1 (No class November 24)
7 weeks
$460 public / $425 member
Studio 3
Learn how to understand color harmony within a finished abstract painting. Students will manipulate high and low contrasting colors while arranging them into balanced, geometric compositions. This course will focus on color relationships, pictorial space, and fundamental uses of working with acrylic. Paint will be applied in several layers to achieve strong, complex color effects. Additional methods taught will include glazing, textural effects, building the paint surface, discussing materials, and taping.
Acrylic paints are fast-drying, water-soluble, and easy to clean up. It’s also forgiving - if you make a mistake, you can paint over it quickly. Color Abstraction is for all levels. No prior experience is necessary.
Intermediate Acrylic Painting (P-4) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Maureen Lax
Intermediate
Monday evenings, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
October 13 - November 10
5 weeks
$325 public / $290 member
Studio 2
This course is for students who want to dive further into the incredibly versatile world of painting with acrylics! In this class, students will complete a variety of projects that are designed to push you out of your comfort zone and experiment with your creative process, while simultaneously developing your technical skills in composition, color, and mark-making. This class is recommended for students with some painting experience in any medium - students who are new to working with acrylics are also welcome.
Oil Painting: Open Feedback (P-5) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Laura Lawson
All Levels
Tuesday mornings, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
October 14 - December 2 (No class November 25)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 1
This class is tailored to grow your painting skills and help you see as an artist. This is for the representational or impressionistic oil painter. Among topics to be discussed are color harmony, light and shadow, designing mass and shape relationships, working on identifying warms and cools and the impact that can have, brushwork and variety. Laura will sometimes paint from a photograph to demonstrate her process from start to finish. We will also incorporate class and/or individual exercises designed specifically to help you increase your painting skills. You can paint from her photos or your own.
Classical Portrait Painting in Oil (P-6) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Polly Liu
Intermediate / Advanced
Tuesday afternoons, 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
October 14 - December 2 (No class November 25)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member + additional live model fee
Studio 2
In this class, students begin painting in grisaille – painting executed entirely around monochrome and usually in shades of gray or brown – to eliminate the problems of color and value and to concentrate on accuracy of drawing and the effects of light. The second part of the class utilizes a limited palette, allowing students to explore and understand the harmony and unity of light. The non-refundable model fee is due the first day of class and ranges from $150 - $175 for the whole session depending on class size. Please note: enrollment for this course is limited to 5 students.
Landscape Fundamentals (P-7) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Steve Parker
All Levels
Tuesday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 14 - December 2 (No class November 25)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 2
This class is primarily concerned with painting the individual elements of landscape: trees, water, etc. The instructor will demonstrate week-to-week and students will be encouraged to make studies of these essential components necessary in a successful landscape painting. The primary medium is oil, although acrylic and water-based oil paint is accepted.
Toward Abstraction in Landscape (P-8) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Steve Parker
Intermediate / Advanced
Wednesday afternoons, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
October 15 - December 3 (No class November 26)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 2
This course is a continuation of "Landscape into Art," but with an emphasis on composing a painting to be non-representational or abstract. There will be plenty of latitude to continue the methods already undertaken in the previous landscape classes as well. The instructor will demonstrate and discuss these approaches as used by current and past masters. This class is offered for all levels, however, students are expected to have a basic knowledge of drawing and composition. The primary medium is oil, although acrylic and water-based oil paint is accepted.
Outdoor Landscape Painting: Plein Air (P-9) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Steve Parker
All Levels
Thursday mornings, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
October 16 - December 4 (No class November 27)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 2 / Off-Site
This 7-week course will explore capturing the outdoors through the act of painting in oil from direct observation. The instructor will demonstrate various techniques involved in making paintings on location such as applying washes of color and blocking in the main shapes in a composition also the types of rendering used in painting trees and skies and other elements necessary in creating direct paintings from nature. Weather permitting, a majority of the course will be meeting outdoors on locations such as the Houston Arboretum and Bear Creek Park. Students are expected to have a formal understanding of basic drawing skills in order to assist with decision making and accuracy.
Landscape into Art (P-10) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Steve Parker
All Levels
Saturday mornings, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
October 18 - December 6 (No class November 29)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 2
Utilizing memory and personal experience, students are encouraged to render their own impressions of the subject. Individual elements of the landscape are explored and demonstrated. The instructor will offer techniques and specific methods in landscape painting. The class includes informal discussions ranging from painting methods to basic color theory. The primary medium is oil, however, acrylic and water-based oil paint is accepted.
Alla Prima Portrait (P-11) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Zach Mendoza
Beginner / Intermediate
Sunday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 19 - December 7 (No class November 30)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member + additional live model fee
Studio 3
In this course, students will learn to paint expressive and accurate portraits using the alla prima approach in oils—painting directly and completing a work in one or two sessions. The focus will be on understanding the structure of the head, capturing light and shadow, mixing convincing flesh tones, and using confident brushwork to convey form and character.
Through demos, guided practice, and live model sessions, students will explore color temperature relationships, edges, composition, and mark-making in the context of wet-into-wet painting. We will also discuss practical strategies for working from life and photographs, brush and palette knife handling, and simplifying complex visual information for stronger paintings.
This class is recommended for intermediate to advanced students with some prior painting experience who wish to improve their speed, accuracy, and confidence in portraiture.
Pet Portrait Workshop (P-12) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Laura Lawson
All Levels
Saturday, 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
October 18
1 Day
$175 public / $140 member
Studio 1
Dive into the art of pet portraiture and bring your beloved pet to life on canvas using the alla prima technique, also known as "direct painting" or "wet-on-wet" oil painting. In this workshop, you'll create an 8x10 portrait of your pet, learning how to capture that unique spark that makes your pet truly your own.
Some drawing and painting experience is recommended, but not required. All are welcome to join and explore this rewarding technique. Whether you’re looking to create a special keepsake for yourself or a unique gift for someone else, this class will guide you through the process of painting a vibrant, lively portrait of your favorite furry subject.
Impressionistic Florals (P-13) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Laura Lawson
All Levels
Saturday, 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
October 25
1 Day
$175 public / $140 member
Studio 1
Let’s Explore Flowers! In this Workshop we will be painting a Loose impressionistic Floral. We will be using the alla prima technique, also known as "direct painting" or “wet-on-wet”. My goal is to teach and equip my students with the tools to break down a subject into big shapes then adding just a few details to round out the painting to bring it to life. We will talk about Design, Value, Drawing and Color. I will demonstrate a painting to help give students a visual example before students choose a floral design provided to create their own. Painting supplies can be reserved for an additional fee directly from the instructor.