PREVIEW: SUMMER 2026
July 13 - August 30, 2026
REGISTRATION TIMELINE
Early Registration: June 1 - 7, 2026
(Open to Spring 2026 students - note: a unique password will be emailed directly to the student email address ALH has on file)
General Registration: June 8 - July 5, 2026
Late Registration: Begins on July 6, 2026 (additional non-refundable late fee of $15 per class and/or workshop)
Course Schedule: July 13 - August 30, 2026 (unless noted otherwise).
Make-up week: August 31 - September 6, 2026
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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 18 and above.
SUMMER 2026 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 Monday, June 8, at 9:00 AM
Mixed-Media Quilted Painting (FA-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Brynne Henry
All Levels
Tuesday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
July 14 - August 25
7 weeks
$450 public / Pay-What-You-Can
Studio 1
This class 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, sewing skills, and the process of constructing a quilt block to create a work that aligns with contemporary practices in mixed-media.
PLEASE NOTE: All Flexible Access classes will open for registration starting Monday, June 8th at 9:00 AM
Painting with Watercolor (FA-2) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - John Davis
All Levels
Thursday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
July 16 - August 27
7 weeks
$450 public / Pay-What-You-Can
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.
PLEASE NOTE: All Flexible Access classes will open for registration starting Monday, June 8th at 9:00 AM
Exploring Gouache (FA-3) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Heather den Uijl
Beginner / Intermediate
Friday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
July 17 - August 28
7 weeks
$450 public / Pay-What-You-Can
Studio 2
This seven-week class will explore gouache as a painting medium with projects that incorporate a variety of techniques and styles. During this course we will cover the difference between gouache, acrylic, and watercolor as well as how to work with gouache to harness some of its unique abilities such as its opacity, layering abilities, and ways of mark making. Students will also learn the basics of color mixing, how to build a painting, and some basic rendering. Good for beginning and intermediate students.
PLEASE NOTE: All Flexible Access classes will open for registration starting Monday, June 8th at 9:00 AM
Intro to Quilting (FA-4) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Ross Hutchinson
All Levels
Saturday + Sunday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
August 23 + 29 + 30
3 Days
$235 Public / Pay-What-You-Can
Studio 1 + 2
This workshop will introduce students to the basics of quilting, offering a survey of the different types and methods of quilting and basic vocabulary. Together we will plan, design, and finish a quilt square using sewing machines provided by ALH to be made into either a wall hanging or a potholder. The finished quilt square will be between 7-12 inches. There will be fabric scraps provided but students may bring their own materials if they choose. We will cover how to read pattern instructions, layout and design, machine piecing and quilting, binding, and alternate uses or displays. This workshop is open to all levels-- for anyone new to sewing, the artist interested in learning a new medium, or the home quilter looking for new project inspiration.
PLEASE NOTE: All Flexible Access classes will open for registration starting Monday, June 8th at 9:00 AM
Handbuilding Fundamentals (S-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Nancy Rios
All Levels
Tuesday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
July 14 - August 25
7 weeks
$475 public / $440 member
Studio 1
In this class students will be learning hand-building construction techniques and creating a variety of functional pottery forms including mugs, vases, and bowls. Students will also learn about textures, surface patterns, and designs on their pieces. Emphasis will be on good craftsmanship and functional forms. Underglazes and application techniques will be demonstrated, such as sgraffito, inlay & transfers, glaze education, and proper application for a beautifully finished piece.
Mug Making Workshop (S-2) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Nancy Rios
All Levels
Sunday afternoon, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
July 19
1 Day
$175 public / $140 member
Studio 1
It's a beginner-friendly, creative experience focused on crafting a functional art piece for your coffee or tea! In this 3-hour workshop, you'll learn slab-building techniques, creative embellishment, and texturing methods to craft a one-of-a-kind piece. All materials and tools provided; no experience necessary.
Cuttlefish Bone Casting (S-3)| IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Mary Rogers
Intermediate / Advanced
Saturdays, 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
August 15 + 22
2 Days
$345 public / $310 member
Studio 1
This is an introduction to the process of cuttlefishbone casting, a method of gravity casting. Cuttlefishbone is an organic material that is soft enough to carve a negative mold. Once the mold is cut and both sides are marked for alignment, a sprue channel is cut into the material and molten sterling is poured into the negative area. The texture of the soft bone surface is very organic. Once the casting is complete it can be cut, filed, and soldered to create a distinctive piece of jewelry.
This class requires some intermediate jewelry skills such as sawing, filing and basic torch skills. Students will be casting in sterling silver and will need 2-3 ounces of sterling scrap or sterling casting grain. Sterling scrap will be available for purchase from the instructor in ½ ounce packets.
PLEASE NOTE: For safety reasons while casting all students must wear leather shoes.
Fused Glass Workshop (S-4) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Barbara Mueller
Beginner / Intermediate
Saturday + Sunday afternoon, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
August 15 + 16
2 Days
$185 public / $150 member
Studio 2
This two-session workshop focuses on cutting, layering and fusing sheet glass to create functional dishes or focal pieces. In this workshop, you will learn the basics of fusing with sheet glass, designing your own dish or selecting from several provided designs to create either one 10" fused glass dish, two 6" x 6" dishes, or a small panel.
Barb will fire the work in her kilns, then slump it in a mold in a second firing. Dishes will be ready for pickup the following week by appointment at ALH.
No prior glass experience needed. Materials are provided by the instructor for a fee (see materials list for more details).
Ceramic Mask-Making Workshop (S-5) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Nancy Rios
All Levels
Sunday afternoon, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
August 16
1 Day
$175 public / $140 member
Studio 1
Join ceramic artist Nancy Rios for a one-day, hands-on workshop focused on the art of ceramic mask-making. Rooted in both creative exploration and cultural storytelling, this workshop invites participants to shape expressive masks that reflect personal identity, emotion, or imagination. Using hand-building techniques and surface decoration methods, you'll learn how to construct and design your own clay mask from start to finish. Nancy will guide you through form, texture, and symbolism.
Perfect for beginners and experienced makers alike, this workshop offers a space to create meaningful, sculptural works in a supportive and inspiring studio environment.
Stained Glass Workshop (S-6) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Barbara Mueller
Beginner / Intermediate
Saturday + Sunday, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
August 29 + 30
2 Days
$310 public / $275 member
Studio 1
In this workshop students will learn the fundamentals of stained glass using the copper foil (Tiffany) method to complete a small panel from start to finish. You can design your own small panel or choose a design from one of the available pattern books before cutting and grinding glass pieces to fit your pattern. You will then wrap each piece with copper foil, solder the panel and finish it for display. Panels are generally 10–20 pieces in total.
No prior glass experience needed. Materials are provided by the instructor for a fee (see materials list for more details).
Collagraph Printmaking (PR-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Tess Doyle
All Levels
Wednesday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
July 22 - August 12
4 Weeks
$335 public / $300 member
Studio 1
This workshop introduces collagraph printing on paper, using textured Sintra plates. Participants will explore intaglio and drypoint printmaking methods with non-traditional materials, focusing on texture, line, and image-building. Students will create prints that can utilize fine linework, painterly marks, and a variety of textures. Open to beginners, returning artists, and those eager to experiment in a studio setting. Bring materials on day one. Estimated plate size: 11" × 14."
Screenprinted Bags (PR-2) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Gaby Hurtado-Ramos
All Levels
Saturday + Sunday, 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
August 8 + 9
2 Days
$350 public / $315 member
Studio 1
In this weekend workshop, learn screenprinting basics to print on tote bags. We will be working with hand-drawn designs with multiple colors. You will come away learning the process necessary to make prints from start to finish, with an understanding of how to prepare screens and print on fabric.
Block Printing (PR-3) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Gaby Hurtado-Ramos
All Levels
Wednesday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
August 19 + 26
2 Days
$190 public / $155 member
Studio 1
Feel the relief and carve into blocks that you can print from home. Learn how to carve a relief block and successfully print it by hand or with an etching press. We will be using linoleum and carving tools. You will leave with an edition of prints and knowledge of how to continue these skills on your own. This workshop is a great introduction to relief printing and a fun way to share your message with the world.
Beautifully Messy: A Mixed Media Embroidery Class (T-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Chelsea Araujo
All Levels
Sunday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
July 19 - August 30
7 Weeks
$455 public / $420 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.
Appliqué Amulet: A Power Felt Brooch Workshop (T-2) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Nela Garzón
All Levels
Sunday mornings, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
August 16 + 23
2 Days
$185 public / $150 member
Studio 1
Throughout this workshop, you will design and create a keepsake brooch, a personal amulet inspired by cultural heritage or personal character. Using the tactile techniques of felt layering appliqué and hand-stitching, we will transform fabric into a wearable symbol of protection and identity. This workshop is open to all skill levels and emphasizes the intersection of storytelling and craft, inviting you to anchor your personal magic into every stitch.
Mixed Media for Beginners (MM-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Rafael Gamero
Beginner
Friday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
July 17 - August 28
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 1
This class focuses on the creative process, emphasizing experimentation and play. Through materials like pastels, paint, and collage, you'll explore a range of techniques that let the act of making guide your work. While prior experience with painting or drawing is welcome, it’s not required—this course supports both figurative and abstract exploration. The emphasis is on discovering new approaches, embracing texture, and allowing the materials to lead the way. Your final piece will serve as a reflection of your creative journey.
Illustrated Quilt Block (MM-2) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Brynne Henry
Beginner / Intermediate
Saturday, 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
August 1
1 Day
$185 public / $150 member
Studio 1
In this workshop, students will create a quilt block using a simple design that they will illustrate themselves, following the theme of "ways to enjoy oneself". We will begin with a brainstorming session and a sketch of our idea, then I will provide students with fabrics and show them how to create a quilt block following the design on their illustration. Students should have basic drawing skills for this workshop so that they can create their illustration, but they will learn the necessary sewing skills to create the quilt block. Students will leave this workshop with a handmade quilt block!
Intro to Ink Painting (MM-3) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Leslie Cuenca
Beginner/Intermediate
Sunday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
August 2 + 9
2 Days
$185 public / $150 member
Studio 2
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 the subject matter to create a beautiful composition that is filled with expression. No prior experience is required-just curiosity and willingness to experiment. All levels are welcome.
Painting People (W-1) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Caroline Graham
All Levels
Saturday + Sunday, 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
July 25 + 26
2 Days
$310 public / $275 member
Studio 1
Let’s paint the narrative! In this workshop, students will learn how to create portraiture studies using watercolor or gouache. After picking a point of view with people in intimate spaces, outdoors, urban or countryside, we will address the story you want to tell. Bring your photos so we can discuss and design. We will analyze elements such as lighting, contrast, angles, and the activity that focuses on a narrative. The story it creates is the art!
Basic Drawing, Graphite & Charcoal (D-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - John Davis
All Levels
Monday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
July 13 - August 24
7 weeks
$455 public / $420 member
Studio 1
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
July 13 - August 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.
Intermediate Drawing (D-3) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Myke Venable
Intermediate / Advanced
Wednesday mornings, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
July 15 - August 26
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-4) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Myke Venable
Beginner
Thursday mornings, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
July 16 - August 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.
Basic Drawing 101 (D-5) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Myke Venable
Beginner
Saturday mornings, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
July 18 - August 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-6) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Myke Venable
Intermediate / Advanced
Saturday afternoons, 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM
July 18 - August 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-7) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Peter Broz
All Levels
Sunday mornings, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
July 19 - August 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 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 more 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.
Drawing the Face (D-8) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Zach Mendoza
All Levels
Sunday mornings, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
July 19 - August 30
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member + additional live model fee
Studio 3
In this course, students will learn portrait drawing fundamentals. Emphasis will be placed on facial proportions, various views, building a likeness, and more. Half of the class will include drawing from a live model in various dry and wet media. The second half of the course will involve working from photo-reference with precision ink tools like micron pens or crow-quill pens. Optional personal assignments will be suggested throughout the term as well. Learning outcomes include learning to draw portraits from life and photos and build mileage in numerous drawing mediums.
Intro to Acrylic Painting (P-1) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Maureen Lax
Beginner
Monday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
July 13 - August 24
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 2
In this class we will learn all about the basics of painting with acrylics! Students will be introduced to a range of painting techniques and styles, working primarily from still life, copies of existing paintings, and photos. This class will cover all stages of the painting process, from sourcing reference material, composing an image and blocking out a painting using simple values, all the way to embellishing your artwork with details and expressive mark-making. Students will come away from the course with a broad understanding of acrylic painting approaches and a foundational knowledge of color, value and proportion. This class is geared towards beginners, but all experience levels are welcome.
Landscape Fundamentals (P-2) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Max Guarnaccia
All Levels
Tuesday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
July 14 - August 25
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 will never lose sight of maintaining the larger light 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 weekly project. Each project has a beginner and an advanced landscape reference based on the week’s theme. Students at all levels of painting proficiency are encouraged to enroll.
Towards Abstraction in Landscape (P-3) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Max Guarnaccia
All Levels
Wednesday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
July 15 - August 26
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 2
This unique class was born out of the mind of legendary 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 special 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 joined by an art book that will encourage art historical and theoretical dialogue amongst the students.
Demystifying Oil Paint (P-4) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Max Guarnaccia
Beginner / Intermediate
Wednesday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
July 15 - August 26
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member
Studio 2
This 7-week class is carefully 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. By the end 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.
Open Studio in Painting (P-5) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - John Davis
All Levels
Thursday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
July 16 - August 27
7 weeks
$460 public / $425 member
Studio 2
This course is designed for students who are already painting and want feedback. Open studio painting provides a flexible, self-directed environment for artists of all levels to work on personal projects. It focuses on developing individual techniques in a collaborative space. This course will enhance your development by providing guidance through critique and suggestions. Every week, a new painting technique is introduced, addressing color, pictorial space, layering, glazing, and surface effects to enhance your approach to picture making.
If you know what you want to paint and wish to do it in a classroom setting, this class is for you. Open to acrylic or oil painters.
Oil Painting - Zorn Palette Portraiture (P-6) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Peter Broz
Intermediate / Advanced
Thursday evenings, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
July 16 - August 27
7 weeks
$450 public / $415 member + additional live model fee
Studio 2
This 7 week course offers an in depth look at painting portraits in oil using a direct painting method, also known as alla prima. This method allows the artist to paint more efficiently by strategically placing opaque colors on the canvas, resulting in a completed painting using a single layer of paint. The alla prima technique eliminates the need for underpainting or glazing. In addition, it allows artists to work faster, requiring less or even no solvent during the painting process. The Zorn palette offers a convenient and versatile way to create an array of hues and skin tones using just four colors. By adopting a limited color palette, color mixing is made more approachable and easier to understand. As we will be focusing mainly on painting, this course will be best fit for students with a solid foundation in drawing. We will work from both printed reference material as well as live models.
Outdoor Landscape Painting: Plein Air Painting (P-7) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Max Guarnaccia
Intermediate / Advanced
Friday mornings, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
July 17 - August 7
4 Weeks
$310 public / $260 member
OFF-SITE / Studio 2
This 7-week course 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.
Weather permitting, all class sessions will take place outdoors at locations such as the Hermann Park and Bear Creek Park.
DISCLAIMER: We will always paint in the shade but it will be very hot. Please do not sign up for this if you are not comfortable painting outside during the months of July and August for 3+ hours.
Landscape into Art (P-8) | IN-PERSON CLASS
Instructor - Max Guarnaccia
All Levels
Saturday mornings, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
July 18 - August 29
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 and an advanced landscape reference based on each week’s theme. Students at all levels of painting proficiency are encouraged to enroll.
Pet Portrait Workshop (P-9) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Laura Lawson
All Levels
Saturday, 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
July 18
1 Day
$185 public / $150 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.
Oil Painting: A No-Pressure Introduction (P-10) | IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Instructor - Laura Lawson
Beginner
Saturday afternoons, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
July 25 + 26
2 Days
$200 public / $165 member
Studio 2
Curious about oil painting but unsure where to start? Join us for a risk-free introduction to the world of oils! Led by Laura you’ll receive an overview of essential oil painting materials and tools, including brushes, paints, and surfaces. We’ll also dive into the basics of color theory and mixing, helping you understand how to create harmonious color palettes. Watch as your instructor demonstrates an oil painting from start to finish, offering tips and techniques along the way. With guidance, you’ll create your first oil painting, choosing from a selection of instructor-provided photographs, including still life, landscapes, and more. This class is perfect for those who want to dip their toes into oil painting, learn the basics, and walk away with a completed piece of art—all in a supportive, low-pressure environment.
No need to worry about purchasing materials—I’ve got you covered! All painting supplies will be provided, so you can fully immerse yourself in the creative process.