Studio School

Thu, Sep 26 – Dec 5, 1 – 4 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Sara Clark

Expand the use of color in drawing with soft pastels, employing various application methods and paper choices. Students work from the still life or subjects of their choice. Individual critiques provided. Prerequisites: basic drawing skills.

Click here for materials list.
$250 (VMFA members $230)

Wed, Sep 25 – Dec 4, 1 – 4 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Sara Clark

Learn to generate ideas, choose subjects, and adopt approaches to using paint and pastel. Students also work on independent projects, with guidance and individual critiques from the instructor. Prerequisites: basic drawing & painting skills.

Click here for materials list.
$210 (VMFA members $190)

Tue, Sep 24 – Nov 26, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Marjorie Perrin

This class focuses on creating portraits from direct observation. Students learn about drawing and painting techniques and the history of the portrait in art and may choose to work in oil-paint, charcoal, chalk pastel, or watercolor. Prerequisites: basic drawing and painting skills.

Click here for materials list.
$210 (VMFA members $190)

Mon, Nov 11 – Dec 2, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm (4 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Dawn Flores

Learn a wide variety of watercolor techniques while using related drawing mediums in this course for beginning and experienced watercolor artists. Students work directly from the still life, landscape, and other subject matter, with discussions of color. The instructor will share watercolor masterworks to offer inspiration. Individual and group critiques provided. Prerequisites: basic drawing skills.

Click here for materials list.
$140 (VMFA members $120)

Wed, Sep 25 – Dec 4, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Kendra Wadsworth

Learn to use direct observation when painting from "real life." Through demonstrations, observation-based painting exercises, and instruction, beginning and intermediate artists strengthen their ability to see color and value relationships, and they learn how to mix colors accordingly. Students also learn to simplify any subject matter by identifying color masses from which to develop realistic paintings. Prerequisite: basic drawing skills.

Click here for materials list.
$210 (VMFA members $190)

Mon, Sep 23 – Nov 25, 1 – 4 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Matt Lively

Explore drawing and painting from direct observation, photos, or sketches and depict various subjects including the still life, human figure, and landscape. Students develop a more personal approach to imagery, drawing, and painting styles by examining the formal and expressive aspects in their work and that of classical to contemporary artists. Prerequisites: basic drawing and painting skills.

Click here for materials list.
$210 (VMFA members $190)

Thu, Sep 26 – Dec 5, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Joan Elliott

This is a great studio course for students at the intermediate level who are working to develop their own personal painting style and approach to imagery. Through individual guidance, students explore painting strategies and working methods. Prerequisites: basic drawing and painting skills

Click here for materials list.
$210 (VMFA members $190)

Tue, Sep 24 – Oct 22, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm (5 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Frank Saunders

Using found materials, create unique images that range from abstract and dynamic to representational and poetic. The instructor will discuss materials, techniques, mounting, and presentation. Explore one of the most satisfying forms of visual play. Experienced students are also welcome. Prerequisites: basic drawing and painting skills.

Click here for materials list.
$160 (VMFA members $140)

Tue, Sep 24 -- Nov 26, 1 – 4 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Sally Bowring

Using VMFA's galleries as a classroom, the instructor will review modern art "isms" starting with Cubism, Dada, Surrealism, and Abstract Expressionism. Lectures will include decorative arts, literature, music, and politics of the time. Students will make paintings and drawings in the studio inspired by what they have seen and learned about the various art movements. Lively discussions will be encouraged. Prerequisites: basic drawing and painting skills.

Click here for materials list.
$210 (VMFA members $190)

Thu, Nov 14 -- Dec 12, 1 – 4 pm (4 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Dawn Flores

Artist John Singer Sargent was a master of color. His blacks were textured, his whites were complex, and his side-by-side use of warm and cool colors gave his paintings vibrancy. In this intensive class, students will study Sargent’s artwork through slide presentations and by visiting the VMFA’s McGlothlin Collection. Working in either watercolor or acrylic paint, students will complete color exercises, copy Sargent’s work and create their own compelling pieces inspired by Sargent’s use of color. Prerequisites: basic drawing and watercolor or acrylic painting skills.

Click here for materials list.
$140 (VMFA members $120)

Thu, Sep 26 – Dec 5,  7 – 9:30 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Dawn Latane

This class helps students develop basic drawing skills through various techniques and materials, working from the model and other subjects. Class discussions and individual and group critiques round out the course.

Click here for materials list.
$195 (VMFA members $175)

Mon, Nov 11 – Dec 2, 7 – 10 pm (4 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Dawn Flores

Designed for beginning and intermediate watercolor or acrylic students, this class covers the basic tools, materials, and practices of water-based paint media. Students will study classic and contemporary art while they experiment with various techniques. Individual and group critiques are included. Prerequisites: basic drawing skills.

Click here for materials list.
$140 (VMFA members $120)

Wed, Sep 25 – Dec 4, 7 – 10 pm (12 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Joan Elliott

Learn to use direct observation when painting from life. Through demonstrations, observation-based painting exercises, and instruction, beginning and intermediate artists strengthen their ability to see color and value relationships, and learn how to mix colors accordingly. Students also learn to simplify any subject matter by identifying color masses from which to develop realistic paintings. Prerequisite: basic drawing skills.

Click here for materials list.
$250 (VMFA members $230)

Mon, Sep 23 – Nov 25, 7 – 10 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Joan Elliott

Explore drawing and painting from direct observation, photos, or sketches and depict various subjects including the still life, human figure, and landscape. Students develop a more personal approach to imagery, drawing, and painting styles by examining the formal and expressive aspects in their work and that of classical to contemporary artists. Prerequisites: basic drawing and painting skills.

Sat & Sun, Sep 28 & 29, 10 am – 4 pm (2 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Marjorie Perrin

Beginning artists and those wanting to brush up on their skills will discover the basics of drawing, including pattern and composition, light and shade, proportion, three-dimensional form, and perspective. Learning through demonstrations, class discussions, and individual instruction, students complete multiple drawings working from the still life and landscape images. Soft vine charcoal (assorted sizes), 18" x 24” sketch pad, and a kneadable eraser required.

Click here for materials list.
$145 (VMFA members $130)

Sat, Sep 28, 10 am – 4 pm (1 session) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Karen Eide

Encaustic painting is an ancient process using molten, pigmented beeswax to create layered and luminous art. This workshop, designed for both new and experienced painters, teaches classic encaustic techniques and ways to combine them with contemporary painting techniques and mixed media. Discover collage, incising, texturizing, surface embellishment, and relief work, as well as how to combine oil paint, pastels, inks, watercolors, and gouache with the encaustic. Returning students may begin exploring larger scale works. Some materials included.

Click here for materials list.
$105 (VMFA members $90)

Sat & Sun, Oct 5 & 6, 10 am -- 4 pm (2 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Sally Bowring

This workshop will help you conjure up your memories and paint them in inventive ways. Fragments, color, symbols, and abstract forms will be the language used to paint. Bring in anything to help inspire you—photographs, diaries, your mother’s favorite recipe on an index card or anything else of use. This is a great workshop to develop ideas for future artworks. Students should work with acrylic paints. Prerequisites: basic drawing and painting skills.

Click here for materials list.
$145 ( members $130)

Sat & Sun, Oct 12 & 13, 10 am - 4 pm (2 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Matt Lively

Start by exploring a variety of dog and cat portraits by other artists. Then, with guidance from the instructor and working from photographs, learn to create accurate, detailed or expressive portraits of your own pet using drawing materials and oil or acrylic paint. Prerequisites: basic drawing skills.

Sat & Sun, Oct 19 & 20, 10 am - 4 pm (2 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Matt Lively

Start by exploring a variety of cloud paintings by other artists. Then, with guidance from the instructor and working from photographs, learn to create accurate, detailed, or expressive painting in oil or acrylic paint. Prerequisites: basic drawing and painting skills.

Sat, Oct 26, 10 am -- 4 pm | Studio School, 2nd floor
Kendra Wadsworth

Explore several methods for making acrylic pour paintings, which are characterized by unpredictable swirls of colorful paint with a glossy finish. Please bring three painting canvases—not to exceed 24 x 24 inches, one quart of semigloss house paint, and four to six acrylic. Miscellaneous supplies will be provided by the instructor for a $5 fee, payable at the beginning of the workshop. Prerequisites: basic drawing and painting skills.

Sat & Sun, Nov 9 & 10, 10 am – 4 pm (2 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Dawn Flores

This workshop provides step-by-step instruction on a variety of watercolor techniques including special effects, glazing, wet on wet, washes, and more. Working from colorful photographs or still lifes of flora and fauna, students explore the full range of watercolor painting. Prerequisite: basic drawing skills.

Click here for materials list.
$145 (VMFA members $130)

Sat, Nov 9, 10 am – 4 pm, & Sun, Nov 10, noon – 4 pm (2 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Heather Godlewski

Learn to create a small, wall-hung assemblage in this introductory workshop. Many 20th-century and contemporary artists have experimented with assemblage as a way to think creatively and repurpose materials that might otherwise be discarded. Students need to provide a collection of items to use or share with fellow students - creating a pile of "junk" to inspire ideas. Small found objects are the best and the instructor will provide supplemental materials to complete your piece. The class will cover planning and execution, composition, adhesives and attachment methods, useful tools, and stylistic and aesthetic choices.
Prerequisite: basic drawing skills.

Click here for materials list.
$125 (VMFA members $110)

Sat & Sun, Nov 9 & 10, 10 am – 4 pm (2 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor
Sarah Hand

Explore sculpting with papier-mâché to create small ornaments. The instructor will demonstrate the use of armature sculpting, traditional newspaper and paste papier-mâché, and painting. Students will learn to create their own personalized holiday ornaments to paint and embellish. The instructor will also show examples of her own creations and give students an overview of the complete process. Most materials will be provided.

Click here for materials list.
$150 (VMFA members $135)

Sat, Oct 12, noon – 4 pm | Studio School, 2nd floor Conference Room
Frank Saunders

Are you interested in collecting art but don’t know how to begin? This workshop offers valuable information to get you started with confidence. The instructor will provide insight on the local art market, working with galleries and artists, and buying art online. Also learn ways to display and take care of your artwork when you get it home so you can enjoy it for years to come. 

$65 (VMFA members $50)

Tue, Sep 24 – Nov 26, 10 am – 1 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor Conference Room
Douglas S. Jones

Willa Cather wrote, “Some memories are realities, and are better than anything that can happen to one again.” Ernest Hemingway wrote, “Memory is hunger.” This class merges these two notions: that memories are heightened experiences, and that they make us hunger for more. The instructor offers students encouraging feedback and specific writing prompts to help develop ideas. 

Thu, Sep 26 – Dec 5, 10 am – 1 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor Conference Room
Amy Ritchie Johnson

We are all storytellers. In this class we will experience the joys of writing stories of our own making and explore how the characters and events we write about can enrich our everyday world. Writing prompts, assignments, and discussion of the craft of fiction will benefit writers and readers of any level of experience.

$210 (VMFA members $190)

Fri, Sep 27 – Oct 25, 10 am – 1 pm (5 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor Conference Room
Amy Ritchie Johnson

Explore the pleasures of writing from nature as we find it in plants and flowers, the garden, and landscape. Nature writing has a long, illustrious history in both nonfiction and fiction forms. We'll look at literary examples, write from the world around us, and explore the VMFA Sculpture Garden and galleries for inspiration.

$160 (VMFA members $140)

Fri, Nov 1 – Dec 6, 10 am – 1 pm (5 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor Conference Room
Amy Ritchie Johnson

Creative writing and visual art have a deeply interwoven relationship. Come enjoy the opportunity to look closely at artworks from the VMFA's permanent collection and translate the experience into written work in the form of a short story, essay, poem, or play. 
We'll share weekly writing assignments in class, discuss the nature of looking closely at art, and explore writing craft.

$160 (VMFA members $140)

Mon, Sep 23 – Nov 25, 7 – 10 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor Conference Room
Douglas S. Jones

Why do folktales and fairy tales have such a remarkable staying power? Author and mythographer Marina Warner suggests that it’s “because the meanings they generate are themselves magical shape-shifters, dancing to the needs of their audience.” In this class we’ll read and discuss fairy tales, both traditional and revisionist. We will then explore ways to reimagine and repurpose them in our creative writing.

$210 (VMFA members $190)

Thu, Sep 26 – Dec 5,  7 – 10 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor Conference Room
Douglas S. Jones

Each of us has a dark self. Sometimes we glimpse it in dreams; sometimes we come to know it in our thoughts or imaginings. The aim of this course is to draw it out and see what students can learn from it. Students explore ways in which a realization of the shadow can open up creative avenues for use in various writing exercises, including guided imagery, dream work, and active imagination.

$210 (VMFA members $190)

Sat, Oct 19, 10 am – 4 pm | Studio School, 2nd floor Conference Room
Amy Ritchie Johnson

Learn about blog themes, how to set up a blog, and even blog marketing. Through valuable writing exercises, discover ways to keep up the momentum of your posts and improve your creativity.

$90 (VMFA members $75)

Sat, Oct 26, 10 am – 4 pm | Studio School, 2nd floor Conference Room
Douglas S. Jones

Willa Cather wrote, “Some memories are realities, and are better than anything that can ever happen to one again.” Ernest Hemingway wrote, “Memory is hunger.” This workshop merges these two notions to demonstrate that memories are heightened experiences and that they make us hunger for more. The instructor offers students encouraging feedback and specific writing prompts to help develop ideas.

$90 (VMFA members $75)

Mon, Sep 23 – Oct 21, 10 am – 1 pm (5 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor
Regula Franz

Find out what white balance, resolution, and mega pixels are all about. This class teaches students to use their digital cameras more effectively, including the fundamentals of image capture, camera operation, proper exposure, and using a flash. Weekly assignments and sharing images in class help beginning photographers troubleshoot and develop a creative eye. Bring a digital camera with manual adjustments and the camera manual to the first class.

$160 (VMFA members $150)

Mon, Sep 23 – Oct 21, 7 – 10 pm (5 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor 
Regula Franz

Find out what white balance, resolution, and mega pixels are all about. This class teaches students to use their digital cameras more effectively, including the fundamentals of image capture, camera operation, proper exposure, and using a flash. Weekly assignments and sharing images in class help beginning photographers troubleshoot and develop a creative eye. Bring a digital camera with manual adjustments and the camera manual to the first class.

$160 (VMFA members $140)

Wed, Sep 25 – Oct 23, 10 am – 1 pm (5 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor
Regula Franz

Find out what white balance, resolution, and mega pixels are all about. This class teaches students to use their digital cameras more effectively, including the fundamentals of image capture, camera operation, proper exposure, and using a flash. Weekly assignments and sharing images in class help beginning photographers troubleshoot and develop a creative eye. Bring a digital camera with manual adjustments and the camera manual to the first class.

$160 (VMFA members $140)

Mon, Oct 28 – Nov 25, 10 am – 1 pm (5 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor
Regula Franz

This class helps students refine both technical and creative photographic skills. Through discussions, class critiques, and weekly assignments, participants solve problems with exposure, low-light situations, and creative ennui, and learn time-saving methods for an effective digital workflow. A digital SLR is recommended but not required. 
Prerequisite: digital photography skills.

$160 (VMFA members $140)

Mon, Oct 28 – Nov 25, 7 – 10 pm (5 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor 
Regula Franz

This class helps students refine both technical and creative photographic skills. Through discussions, class critiques, and weekly assignments, participants solve problems with exposure, low-light situations, and creative ennui, and learn time-saving methods for an effective digital workflow. A digital SLR is recommended but not required. 
Prerequisite: digital photography skills.

$160 (VMFA members $140)

Tue, Oct 29 – Nov 26, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm (5 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor
Frank Saunders

This course is for students who want to pursue personal work while still becoming grounded in photo history and aesthetics. The majority of class time will be spent in the open darkroom, with the instructor providing technical support and advice for short- and long-term projects. A 35mm camera with manual settings required. Darkroom fee included.

$160 (VMFA members $140)

Wed, Sep 25 – Dec 4, 7 – 10 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor
Georgianne Stinnett

Designed for anyone who wants to get into the darkroom, this class covers the basics of developing film, as well as making contact prints and enlargements. Topics include mixing chemistry, enlarger operation, adjusting contrast and density, making photograms, contact sheets from negatives, editing, and printing enlargements. Students will shoot photos outside of class time and use the darkroom during class. Those with recent darkroom experience are also welcome and will receive feedback during lab time. Students must provide their own film camera, film, and photo paper. Photo chemistry will be supplied.

$210 (VMFA members $190)

Wed, Sep 25 – Dec 4, 10 am – 1 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor
Randy Toy

Delve into the creative possibilities of monotype, a unique process that combines painting, drawing, and printmaking. Covering the uses of oil- and water-based inks and paints, this course allows students to produce prints on the etching press and by hand. Technical assistance and individual critiques provided. Prerequisites: basic drawing and painting skills.

Click here for materials list.
$210 (VMFA members $190)

Fri, Sep 27 – Dec 6, 10 am – 1 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor
Mary Holland

Experiment with various monotype processes and produce work in oil- or water-based ink or paint by hand and on the etching press. With individualized technical guidance from the instructor, try other print techniques including stencils and collage. This is a great introduction to one-of-a-kind prints.
Prerequisites: basic drawing skills.

Click here for materials list.
$210 (VMFA members $190)

Sat & Sun, Oct 19 & 20, 10 am – 4 pm (2 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor
Sue Heatley

Learn to create one-of-a-kind prints by hand and on the printing press. Once prints are dry, create collages using monotypes, decorative papers, and drawing elements. Explore different types of papers and adhesives. A great workshop for students of all levels.

Click here for materials list.
$145 (VMFA members $130)

Sat & Sun, Oct 26 & 27, 10 am – 4 pm (2 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor
Mary Holland

The Gelli plate is a wonderful tool for creating monotypes simply. With stencils, stamps, and transparent paints, as well as some planning, complex artwork results. Explore color theory and composition and enjoy using your own "printing press." Collage techniques will also be covered. On day two, participants will learn to make simple accordion books using the Gelli prints for covers and collages inside the book. Students must provide their own Gelli plate and other materials.

Click here for materials list.
$145 (VMFA members $130)

Thu, Sep 26 – Dec 5, 10 am – 1 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, Lower Level
Steven Glass

For students of all levels, this class teaches pottery making and design using various materials and techniques, including wheel-thrown and hand-built methods. By exploring the history of pottery making, students gain a better understanding of design. Individual critiques and technical assistance provided. Firing, glazes, and 25 pounds of clay included. Extra clay is available for purchase.

$230 (VMFA members $210)

Tue, Sep 24 – Nov 26, 7 – 10 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, lower level
Steven Glass

For students of all levels, this class teaches pottery making and design using various materials and techniques, including wheel-thrown and hand-built methods. By exploring the history of pottery making, students gain a better understanding of design. Individual critiques and technical assistance provided. Firing, glazes, and 25 pounds of clay included. Extra clay is available for purchase.

$230 (VMFA members $210)

Thu, Sep 26 – Dec 5, 7 – 10 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, Lower Level
Steven Glass

For students of all levels, this class teaches pottery making and design using various materials and techniques, including wheel-thrown and hand-built methods. By exploring the history of pottery making, students gain a better understanding of design. Individual critiques and technical assistance provided. Firing, glazes, and 25 pounds of clay included. Extra clay is available for purchase.

$230 (VMFA members $210)

Tue, Sep 24 – Nov 26, 10 am – 1 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, lower level
Steven Glass

Create sculptural forms and hand-built vessels in this class that focuses on techniques, including coil and slab construction methods. Students experiment with various glazes and slips and are introduced to the history of ceramic art. Bring sketches of ideas to the first session. Both beginning and experienced clay students are welcome. Firing, glazes, and 25 pounds of clay included. Extra clay is available for purchase.

$230 (VMFA members $210)

Sat, Oct 5 & 12, 10 am – 4 pm (2 sessions) | Studio School, lower level
Julie Elkins

Create small-scale sculptures in this workshop that focuses on various clay techniques including coil and slab construction. With guidance from the instructor, students will work with glazes and slips and should be able to complete one or two small clay sculptures during the workshop. Bring sketches and ideas to the first day. Clay and glazes are included. Fired pieces may be picked up a week after the 2nd workshop session.

$150 (VMFA members $130)

Sat, Nov 9, 10 am - 3 pm | Studio School, lower level
Steven Glass

Current pottery students will work on independent projects in this one-day workshop.Faculty assistance is provided.
Prerequisite: current enrollment in any VMFA pottery class.

Sat & Sun, Oct 12 &13, 10 am – 4 pm | Studio School, 2nd floor
Shelley Jones

Working with a wet-felting technique, students will learn to make lightweight wool bangles, ropes, and brooches. Experiment with various ways of adding attachment to a basic shape with hand manipulation of the wool fibers. Imaginative use of color, texture, and contour will be encouraged. Embellishing techniques using hand stitching with beads and sequins will also be covered. This workshop is suitable for beginners as well as seasoned felters. A materials fee of $15 is payable to the instructor at the beginning of the workshop. Please bring two old towels. All other tools will be provided.

$145 (VMFA members $130)

Fri, Oct 18, 10 am – 1 pm | Studio School, 1st floor
Mary Margaret Pettway

Join third generation Gee's Bend quilter Mary Margaret Pettway to learn the art of hand quilting. This master quilter has been using the same style as her family and friends for generations. Students will investigate various quilting techniques with guidance from the instructor and begin a quilt sampler or project. Students should provide their own scissors, needles, thread, and fabric scraps to personalize their quilts. Some fabric will be available.

$60 (VMFA members $45)

Mon, Sep 23 – Nov 25, 5:30 – 6:30 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor, Parlor
Jodi Bock

This beginning-level yoga class incorporates stretching, strengthening, and breathing exercises to reduce stress and promote optimum health and well-being. Participants should bring an exercise or yoga mat and wear comfortable clothing to this hour-long, instructor-led class.

$120 (VMFA members $100)

Tue, Sep 24 – Nov 26, 5:30 – 6:30 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor, Parlor
Jodi Bock

This beginning-level yoga class incorporates stretching, strengthening, and breathing exercises to reduce stress and promote optimum health and well-being. Participants should bring an exercise or yoga mat and wear comfortable clothing to this hour-long, instructor-led class.

$120 (VMFA members $100)

Wed, Sep 25 – Nov 27, 5:30 – 6:30 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor, Parlor
Jodi Bock

This beginning-level yoga class incorporates stretching, strengthening, and breathing exercises to reduce stress and promote optimum health and well-being. Participants should bring an exercise or yoga mat and wear comfortable clothing to this hour-long, instructor-led class.

$120 (VMFA members $100)