PREVIEW: FALL 2026

OCtober 12 - December 6, 2026

REGISTRATION TIMELINE

• Early Registration: August 17 - 23, 2026

  (Open to Summer 2026 students - note: a unique password will be emailed directly to the student email address ALH has on file)

• General Registration: August 24 - October 4, 2026

• Late Registration: Begins on October 5, 2026 (additional non-refundable late fee of $15 per class and/or workshop)

• Course Schedule: October 12 - December 6, 2026 (unless noted otherwise). No classes will be held the week of November 23-29.

• Make-up week: December 7 - 13, 2026

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 18 and above.

Archive Building into Practice: Image Transfer Techniques (FA-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Aliyah Cydonia Scobey

All Levels
Wednesday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 14 - November 18
6 weeks
$395 public / Pay-What-You-Can

Studio 3

In this class, we will be learning what archive building looks like and how it can “transfer” to artmaking. We will learn from the greats like Romare Bearden, Zora Neale Hurston and Saidaya Hartman on how they use images and bias archives to tell an improved and more historically accurate story. 

We will learn image transfer processes like cyanotype and matte medium transfers, compiling those techniques to create a zine. We will use the images and text found in our research and in our processes. 

How do you want to create a new reality for the people or situation you're uplifting?

PLEASE NOTE: All Flexible Access classes will open for registration starting Monday, August 24th at 9:00 AM

Papel Vivo: Transforming Fibers (FA-2) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP

Instructor - Maru Aponte

All Levels
Sunday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
November 8 - 22
3 weeks
$235 public / Pay-What-You-Can

Studio 1

Paper is one of the most ordinary materials in our everyday lives, yet it contains stories, histories, and memories. In many parts of Latin America, paper has long functioned as a material for celebration, storytelling, ritual, and visual expression. In this introductory workshop, participants will learn the fundamentals of handmade papermaking using traditional mold-and-deckle techniques while transforming recycled paper into beautiful new sheets. 

Through layering, color, texture, and collage, we will explore how discarded materials can become unique surfaces for future drawing, painting, or sculpture. Rather than thinking of paper as simply a support, we will approach it as an artistic medium in its own right.

PLEASE NOTE: All Flexible Access classes will open for registration starting Monday, August 24th at 9:00 AM

Jewelry Construction (S-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Mary Rogers

All Levels
Tuesday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 12 - November 30 (No class Nov 23)
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.

Handbuilding Fundamentals (S-2) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Nancy Rios

All Levels
Tuesday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 13 - December 1 (No class Nov 24)
7 weeks
$495 public / $460 member

Studio 1

In this class, you will learn hand-building construction techniques. Students will create various functional pottery forms using pinching, soft slab, and coil. Nancy will work closely with each student to strengthen their fundamental skills and provide personalized feedback. This course will allow you to fine-tune the basic techniques in hand building. All levels are welcome!

Textile Techniques for Jewelry and Small Sculpture (S-3)| IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Martha Ferguson

Intermediate / Advanced
Wednesday mornings, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
October 14 - November 18
6 weeks
$415 public / $380 member

Studio 1

Textile techniques are traditionally worked with fibers such as linen, cotton and silk. However, they can also be applied to metal. Textile techniques offer the opportunity to work in new ways with the familiar forms of sheet and wire. With these techniques, one can explore pattern, texture, structure and scale. In this workshop students will have the opportunity to explore a variety of textile techniques and incorporate them into a piece of jewelry or small sculpture.

Pots for Plants (S-4) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP

Instructor - Nancy Rios

All Levels
Sunday afternoon, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 18
1 day
$195 public / $160 member

Studio 1

Make a new home for your plant friends with Nancy Rios. She will guide you how to apply handbuilding techniques to bring your creations to life. Beginner friendly, open to all levels.

Photo in Relief: Photo-based Linocuts (PR-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Gaby Hurtado-Ramos

Intermediate
Tuesday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 13 - December 1 (No class Nov 24)
7 weeks
$465 public / $430 member

Studio 1

Transform a personal photograph into a hand carved linocut print. In this workshop, you will learn how to prepare your photo image file using Photoshop, transfer a laser print to a linoleum block, carve your image, and print an edition of your photograph using an etching press. Relief printing is made when you take the negative space out of a block and the positive space that remains is what is printed. Newspapers use different halftone effects to translate midtones in an image using only binary printing areas (black and white). Using this same technique, you will carve an image that will share both digital and hand-made qualities. Adobe Photoshop required.

Collage to Screenprints (PR-2) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP

Instructor - Tess Doyle

All Levels
Wednesday mornings, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
October 14 - November 4
4 Weeks
$330 public / $295 member

Studio 2

This workshop introduces the basics of multilayer screenprinting utilizing analog cut-and-paste and collage techniques. Participants will create two-layer color prints on paper. We will focus on gaining a sense of image building through texture, line, and color layering in order to create an edition of prints. Participants should come with a collection of image ideas, mark-making materials, and a readiness to experiment. This workshop emphasizes techniques for creating quick posters, flyers, or fine-art prints on paper.

Print That Shirt! : Screenprinting on T-Shirts (PR-3) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP

Instructor - Gaby Hurtado-Ramos

Beginner / Intermediate
Saturday mornings, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
October 17 - November 7
4 weeks
$330 public / $295 member

Studio 1

It’s time to screenprint on tees! Learn how to transform unique hand-drawn stencils into prints on clothing. In this workshop, you will learn best practices for mark-making to a reproducible screenprint on fabric. We will cover best materials, tools, and techniques for image-making and printing. No photoshop needed in this workshop- embrace an experimental approach that has beautiful possibilities for that hand-drawn look (tracing is ok too). Bring your own t-shirts and leave with colorful and unique apparel.

Introduction to Relief Printmaking (PR-4) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Rafael Gamero

All Levels
Saturday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 17 - December 5 (No class Nov 28)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member

Studio 2

This class introduces the fundamentals of relief printmaking, including image planning, image transfer, carving, hand-printing, and editioning. Students will also explore techniques for creating multi-color prints. After developing an understanding of the printmaking process and various paper types, students will complete at least two projects, producing an edition of 10 prints for each.

Intro to Quilting (T-1) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP

Instructor - Ross Hutchinson

All Levels
Thursday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 15 - November 5
4 weeks
$335 public / $300 member

Studio 3

In this beginner-friendly class, you’ll learn how to create a unique piece of multi-texture embroidered art. Explore creative techniques like incorporating beads, fabric, sequins, metallic thread, and even watercoloring your base fabric to bring your design to life.

This class is all about letting go of perfectionism and embracing the creative process—because just like life, art can be beautifully messy. Each week, you’ll be introduced to a new technique to build onto your piece, guiding you step-by-step from your first stitches to a finished, one-of-a-kind creation.

Growth Comes in Shades: A Multi-Texture Embroidery Class (T-2) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Chelsea Araujo

Beginner / Intermediate
Sunday mornings, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
October 18 - December 6 (No class Nov 29)
7 weeks
$455 public / $420 member

Studio 3

Growth isn't always linear—and neither is creativity. In Growth Comes in Shades, you'll create a vibrant, mixed-media embroidery piece that celebrates personal growth, self-expression, and embracing every season of life. Throughout this beginner- and intermediate-friendly course, you'll learn foundational embroidery stitches while exploring a variety of creative techniques that add depth, texture, and personality to your work.

Using watercolor, decorative hoop embellishments, fabric, felt, beads, sequins, metallic threads, and other mixed-media elements, you'll build your artwork one layer at a time. Each week introduces a new technique, allowing your piece—and your confidence—to grow alongside your skills. Whether you're picking up a needle for the first time or looking to expand your embroidery practice, this course encourages you to embrace color, celebrate progress over perfection, and discover that every shade tells a story.

Perfect for beginner and intermediate stitchers who are ready to create something beautifully unique.

Oil Pastels and Mixed Media (MM-1) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP

Instructor - Nohelia Vargas Bolivar

All Levels
Saturday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 17 - November 7
4 weeks
$325 public / $290 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 four days, students will explore a variety of techniques, including how to combine oil pastels with other media such as watercolor, ink, and acrylic. 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.

Mixed-Media Quilted Painting (MM-2) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Brynne Henry

Beginner / Intermediate
Sunday mornings, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
October 18 - December 6 (No class Nov 29)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member

Studio 1

This workshop will combine the mediums of acrylic painting and quilting to produce an artwork that straddles the line between textile art and canvas painting. We will create an acrylic painted subject matter that we will sew onto a handmade quilted backing. In this class, you will learn acrylic painting skills, hand sewing skills, and the process of constructing a quilt block to create a work that aligns with contemporary practices in mixed-media.

Watercolor (W-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Caroline Graham

All Levels
Monday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 12 - November 30 (No class Nov 23)
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 evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 14 - December 2 (No class Nov 25)
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.

Painting with Watercolor (W-3) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - John Davis

All Levels
Thursday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 15 - December 3 (No class Nov 26)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 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, odorless, and affordable. 

This class is for all levels. Previous painting experience is not required; however, an understanding of value drawing is helpful.

Intro to Drawing: Graphite & Charcoal (D-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS 

Instructor - John Davis

Beginner / Intermediate
Monday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 12 - November 30 (No class Nov 23)
7 weeks
$455 public / $420 member

Studio 2

This class introduces essential skills for translating 3-dimensional forms onto 2D surfaces. The course covers line quality, volume, texture, perspective, and value. Students learn to draw from observation, focusing on still life and basic forms to build confidence in composition and rendering. Materials will focus on graphite to exercise control, then charcoal for more expressive effects. This class is intended for students with little or no prior drawing experience, or for those who have not drawn in a while and want to sharpen foundational skills in a group setting.

Cartooning & Graphic Novels (D-2) | IN-PERSON CLASS 

Instructor - Mike Stovall

All Levels
Monday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 12 - November 30 (No class Nov 23)
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.

Drawing with Ink (D-3) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Heather den Uijl

Intermediate
Tuesday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 13 - December 1 (No class Nov 24)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member

Studio 3

This seven-week course will explore sumi ink as a drawing material. Through using brushes, pen and nib, and other handmade drawing tools students will expand their drawing practice and learn new ways of mark making. Students will be challenged to think about drawing in new and unconventional ways by utilizing a fluid material as their primary drawing medium. This course is best suited for those who have some drawing experience.

Intermediate Drawing (D-4) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Myke Venable

Intermediate / Advanced
Wednesday mornings, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
October 14 - December 2 (No class Nov 25)
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-5) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Myke Venable

Beginner
Thursday mornings, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
October 15 - December 3 (No class Nov 26)
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.

Intro to Figure Drawing (D-6) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Peter Broz

All Levels
Thursday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 22 - December 10  (No class Nov 26)
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 beginner 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, resulting in more dimensional renderings. 

By the end of the course, students will have acquired a solid foundation in figure drawing, enabling them to depict the human form with greater 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.

Basic Drawing 101 (D-7) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Myke Venable

Beginner
Saturday mornings, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
October 17 - December 5 (No class Nov 28)
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 17 - December 5 (No class Nov 28)
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.

Portraits in Pencil (D-9) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Peter Broz

All Levels
Sunday mornings, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
October 25 - December 13 (No class Nov 29)
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 and exploring 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.

Silverpoint Drawing (D-10) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP

Instructor - Angel Castelán

All Levels
Saturday, 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
November 21
1 day
$195 public / $160 member

Studio 1

Students will learn the foundations of metalpoint, with a focus on silverpoint, while gaining practical experience with the tools, materials, and techniques used to create these distinctive drawings. Through demonstrations and guided exercises, participants will explore mark-making, line quality, and the unique characteristics of drawing with metal on prepared surfaces. Because silverpoint is a slow, deliberate drawing process, students will develop an appreciation for careful observation, intentional mark-making, and the relationship between material and surface.

A major focus of the workshop will be understanding the importance of the drawing surface. Participants will compare different paper types, learn how various grounds affect the quality of the mark, and prepare their own drawing supports using both traditional and contemporary methods. By the end of the workshop, students will have a solid understanding of the foundations of silverpoint, the confidence to prepare their own surfaces, and the skills to continue exploring this unique drawing medium in their own practice.

Color Mixing for Oil Painters (P-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Laura Lawson

All Levels
Monday mornings, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
October 12 - November 30 (No class Nov 23)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member

Studio 2

Color is one of the most powerful—and often most challenging—aspects of painting. In this seven-week course, students will develop confidence by learning how to mix clean, vibrant, and accurate color rather than relying on paint straight from the tube. Through demonstrations, guided exercises, and practical painting assignments, you'll gain a deeper understanding of individual pigments, color temperature, value, chroma, transparency, and opacity, while learning why some color mixtures succeed and others fall flat.

As the course progresses, students will apply these concepts through increasingly complex painting exercises, culminating in a finished painting that reflects a thoughtful and intentional use of color. Ideal for beginning and intermediate oil painters, this class emphasizes practical application over theory, giving students the knowledge and confidence to mix color accurately and make stronger color decisions in every painting they create.

Intermediate Acrylic Painting (P-2) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Maureen Lax

Intermediate
Monday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 12 - November 9
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 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.

Open Feedback: Painting Studio (P-3) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Laura Lawson

All Levels
Tuesday mornings, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
October 13 - December 1 (No class Nov 24)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member

Studio 1

Enhance your painting skills and learn to see the world through the eyes of an artist in this supportive, open-format painting class. Designed for representational and impressionistic painters of all skill levels, this course offers individualized instruction tailored to each student's goals while strengthening the fundamental principles of successful painting. Students are welcome to begin a new work or bring paintings in progress for personalized guidance as they develop a stronger understanding of color harmony, value, light and shadow, composition, color temperature, and expressive brushwork.

This session will include instructor demonstrations, practical problem-solving, and one-on-one coaching to help students overcome challenges and continue growing as painters. Work from the instructor's reference photos or bring your own, allowing you to explore subjects that inspire you while receiving individualized instruction in a supportive studio environment.

Landscape Fundamentals (P-4) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Max Guarnaccia

All Levels
Tuesday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
October 13 - December 1 (No class Nov 24)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member

Studio 2

As landscape painters we are primarily concerned with creating a sense of light and atmosphere within our pictures. While we will focus extensively on the individual elements that constitute the landscape: trees, water, sky, etc, we never lose sight of maintaining the larger effect.

Each week I will present students with what I call a “painting infographic” (see course thumbnail) that will thoroughly demonstrate these micro and macro landscape principles in the form of a project. Each project has a beginner, intermediate and advanced landscape reference based on each week’s theme. Students at all levels of painting proficiency are encouraged to enroll.

Acrylic Painting Foundations (P-5) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - John Davis

Beginner / Intermediate
Wednesday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 14 - December 2 (No class Nov 25)
7 weeks
$460 public / $425 member

Studio 1

Acrylic painting is the simplest way to learn how to paint. Initial steps in understanding the medium will focus on value and how color shapes can inform depth and space. Processes covered include underpainting, blocking, layering, and glazing while working abstractly. Enhance your artistic development by understanding how acrylics function and learning essential techniques via demonstrations and personal critique. Acrylic paints are fast-drying, water-soluble, and easy to clean up.

Landscape Abstraction (P-6) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Max Guarnaccia

All Levels
Wednesday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 14 - December 2 (No class Nov 25)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member

Studio 2

This unique class was born out of the mind of Houston landscape painter and long term Art League instructor Steve Parker. As a friend and student of Steve Parker's I have endeavored to keep his vision alive for this class. Each meeting will focus on a fundamental tenet of successful picturemaking that possesses equal relevance to both the landscape painter and the abstract painter. While each class will have a specific focus and an accompanying project students are encouraged to bring in their own projects and use this as open studio time to challenge their conceptions of representation and abstraction in landscape.

Each lesson will be accompanied by an art book that will encourage art historical and theoretical debate amongst the students.

Demystifying Oil Painting (P-7) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Max Guarnaccia

Beginner / Intermediate
Wednesday evenings, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
October 14 - December 2 (No class Nov 25)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member

Studio 2

This 7-week class is designed to provide beginner level painters a solid foundation in the essential skills needed to build a confident and competent oil painting practice. Students will start by learning about safe studio practices and the basic properties of oil pigments and mediums before advancing to lessons on value, edge, composition, color and painting theory. From there, students will apply these concepts to a variety of traditional motifs including still lifes, landscapes, and portraits. 

At the conclusion of the quarter, students will have gained confidence in oil paint handling, a solid understanding of basic painting fundamentals in still life, landscape and portrait construction, and a clearer sense of direction for their creative development as oil painters.

Painting Plants (P-8) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Peter Broz

All Levels
Thursday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 22 - December 10 (No class Nov 26)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member

Studio 2

This course is for those who would like to explore botanical subjects through painting. The course will not be limited to just one particular approach to painting, but rather encourage each individual artist’s creativity and intentionality. We will be covering various technical considerations such as developing control and confidence with brushwork and how to use painting mediums to achieve desired effects. We will also explore how to practically apply color theory concepts to create stronger, more cohesive works as well as design and conceptual considerations to further strengthen the work.  The class will be project based and is ideal for students who want to improve their skills but also desire the flexibility to bring their own creative ideas to fruition. We will primarily be working from printed reference material and still life subjects. Acrylic paint will be the default medium, but other mediums including oil paints will be allowed for anyone who wishes to use them.

Landscape into Art (P-9) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Max Guarnaccia

All Levels
Saturday mornings, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
October 17 - December 5 (No class Nov 28)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member

Studio 2

Utilizing memory and personal experience, students are encouraged to render their own impressions of the given landscape. Individual elements of the landscape are demonstrated but never at the expense of maintaining the overall unity of the scene. As landscape painters we are focused on creating a sense of light and atmosphere within our rendered worlds. With this in mind I will offer techniques and specific methods that address both the micro (tree, sky, hill) and the macro (light, depth, atmosphere).

The primary medium is oil, however, acrylic and water-based oil paint is accepted.) Each project has a beginner, intermediate and advanced landscape reference based on each week’s theme.

Painting the Figure (P-10) | IN-PERSON CLASS

Instructor - Zach Mendoza

Intermediate
Sunday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 18 - December 6 (No class Nov 29)
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member (+additional live model fee)

Studio 2

This course is designed to strengthen each student's understanding of figurative painting through a balance of traditional academic methods and contemporary approaches. Working primarily from a live model, students will develop observational skills while exploring composition, color, value, edges, and paint handling.

The first half of the course emphasizes academic painting techniques, guiding students through the complete process of developing a sustained figure painting from life. The second half builds upon these fundamentals by encouraging students to develop a more contemporary and personal approach to figurative painting while continuing to work from a sustained live pose. Students will explore abstraction, expressive mark-making, compositional experimentation, and other contemporary painting practices as they begin to cultivate their own artistic voice.

Students of all experience levels are welcome. Individual instruction, demonstrations, and critiques will be provided throughout the course.

Plein Air Painting Workshop (P-11) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP

Instructor - Max Guarnaccia

Intermediate / Advanced
Sunday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 18 - November 8
4 weeks
$310 public / $275 member

OFF-SITE/ Studio 3

This 4-week workshop explores landscape painting in oil through direct observation, emphasizing the unique challenges and rewards of painting outdoors. Students will learn how painting on location differs from studio practice, particularly in responding to changing light, weather, and other variables. Each week students will be introduced to essential plein air painting techniques such as how to situate their easels, blocking in masses, designing light and shadow patterns, and rendering key landscape elements including trees, skies, and atmospheric effects. 

Lessons will include clear instruction to further students’ understanding of compositional and technical approaches to outdoor painting. Weather permitting, all class sessions will take place outdoors at locations such as Hermann Park and Bear Creek Park.

Intro to Ink Painting (P-12) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP

Instructor - Leslie Cuenca

All Levels
Sunday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
October 25 + November 1
2 days
$185 public / $150 member

Studio 1

In this class you will learn the fundamentals of working with ink, including brush handling, ink dilution, line quality and composition. Through guided exercises and tutorials we will explore traditional techniques as well as innovative ink play methods focusing on observation, body movement, relaxation and flow. We will explore a variety of themes: history, symbolism and philosophy of subject matter to create a beautiful composition that is filled with expression. No prior experience is required- just curiosity and a willingness to experiment. All levels welcome.