Studio School

Sat, Feb 29, 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. Some materials included.

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

Sat & Sun, Feb 29 & Mar 1, 10 am–4 pm  | 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.

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$145 (VMFA members $130)

Sat & Sun, Mar 7 & 8 , 10 am – 4 pm  (2 sessions)| Studio School, 2nd floor
Sally Bowring

Learn to develop new ideas and imagery by working in small units on wooden panels or canvas and then combining them for a larger scale piece. Be inspired by collage elements that you provide -- photos, small objects, or decorative paper-- that may be added to your paintings for a personalized touch. Students should work with acrylic paints. Prerequisites: basic drawing skills

Sat, Mar 14, 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 semi-gloss house paint, and four to six acrylic colors of your choice. 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, Mar 21 & 22, 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, Mar 21 & 22, 10 am -- 4 pm  | Studio School, 2nd floor
Michelle Gagliatio

With guidance from the instructor, students will tour the VMFA galleries and select a painting as inspiration for their own piece of art. Back in the studio, students will investigate palettes, mediums, composition, and history of their paintings. Through this creative exercise, students will transfer these details into their own piece of art, inspired by the color and composition of their chosen "masterwork".
Prerequisite: basic drawing & painting skills
Click here for materials list. 

$145 (VMFA members $130)

Sat, Mar 28, 10 am – 4 pm, & Sun, Mar 29, 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  Mar 28 & 29, 10 am – 4 pm | Studio School, 2nd floor
Martha Prideaux

This workshop will teach students how to build beautiful textured surfaces using cold wax medium and oi paint. Experienced and beginner painters are welcome. The workshop will consist of demonstrations and hands-on practice. With guidance from the instructor, students will create small scale studies and paintings using various techniques and leave with an understanding of how to use the wax medium to build gorgeous layered surfaces in future paintings. Prerequisite: basic drawing & painting skills

$145 (VMFA members $130)

Sat & Sun, Apr 4 & 5, 10 am–4 pm (2 sessions)| Studio School, 2nd floor
Dawn Flores

Basic drawing skills are essential to building a strong foundation from which to express creativity in any medium. By focusing on the beauty of trees, students learn the importance of observation, proportion,  perspective, and form while discovering and cultivating an appreciation for the anatomical complexity of nature’s botanical wonders.  Students will work directly from observation on the VMFA grounds and from photographs provided by the instructor.

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

Sat & Sun, Apr 4 & 5, 10 am–4 pm (2 sessions)| Studio School, 1st floor
Aijung Kim

Through demos, handouts, and short drawing exercises, this workshop covers the most basic and important elements of children’s book illustration. Topics include character design, composition, storytelling, and page layout.Bring your favorite children’s book(s) and a fable, poem, or short story (or you can use one that the instructor provides) for practice and creating your illustrations. Prerequisite: Basic drawing skills

Click here for materials list.
$145 (VMFA members $120)

Sat & Sun, Apr 18 & 19, 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 & Sun, Apr 18 & 19, 10 am – 4 pm (2 session)| Studio School, 2nd floor
GINNA CULLEN

This workshop will explore several approaches to creating artists’ books including Copric sewn binding. Participants will be free to experiment with the concept of bookmaking, to incorporate their personal artistic styles and journaling possibilities into the book format. They will also be encouraged to think of the book as a possible sculptural form and to use a variety of usual and unusual materials. A great workshop for teachers to experiment with ideas to take back to the classroom. A materials fee of $10, payable to the instructor, is due at the beginning of the workshop.

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

Mon, Apr 27–May 18, 9:30 am–12:30 pm (4 sessions)| Studio School, 2nd floor 
Dawn Flores

This crash course in observation-based landscape painting with watercolors shows students how to “see” the world through a painter’s eyes. Technical demonstrations stress line, shape, value, and color. Students learn to simplify the landscape by identifying color masses from which to develop realistic watercolor paintings. A portable easel is recommended. Prerequisite: basic drawing & watercolor skills.

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

Fri, May 1–22, 10 am--1 pm (4 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Sally Bowring

Expand technical and critical skills and learn to develop new ideas and imagery. In the studio, students work from a variety of subjects, focusing on color and abstraction. The instructor will provide suggestions and individual critiques. Prerequisite: basic drawing & painting.

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

Wed, Apr 29 -- May 20, 10 am – 1 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.

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$140 (VMFA members $120)

Sat, Mar 14, 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)

Fri, Mar 13 – Apr 17, 10 am – 1 pm (6 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor Conference Room
TBD

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.

$175 (VMFA members $155)

Sat, Feb 29, 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)

Sat, Mar 28, 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)

Mon, Mar 9 – Apr 13, 10 am – 1 pm (6 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.

$175 (VMFA members $155)

Mon, Mar 9 – Apr 13, 7 – 10 pm (6 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.

$175 (VMFA members $155)

Tue, Mar 10 – Apr 14, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm (6 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.

$175 (VMFA members $155)

Mon, Apr 27–May 18, 10 am–1 pm (4 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.

$145 (VMFA members $125)

Mon, Apr 27–May 18, 7–10 pm (4 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.

$145 (VMFA members $125)

Sat & Sun, Mar 28 & 29, 10 am – 4 pm (2 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor
Sue Heatley

Experiment with printmaking techniques and drawing to create dynamic combo images. With guidance from the instructor, layer monotypes, linocuts, and Gelli plates with drawing in wet and dry media for bold, colorful, and unique works of art.
Prerequisites: basic drawing skills
Click here for materials list.

$145 (VMFA members $130)

Wed, Apr 29– May 20, 10 am–1 pm (4 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 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 & painting skills

$150 (VMFA members $130)

Sat, Apr 4, 10 am–3 pm  | Studio School, lower level
Steven Glass

Students currently enrolled in any of the pottery classes are eligible for this one-day independent study. Faculty assistance is available. Prerequisites: current enrollment in any VMFA pottery class

$60 (VMFA members $45)

Tue, Apr 28 – May 19, 10 am–1 pm (4 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.

$150 (VMFA members $130)

Tue, Apr 28 – May 19, 7–10 pm (4 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.

$150 (VMFA members $130)

Thu, Apr 30– May 21 10 am–1 pm (4 sessions) | Studio School, Lower Level
Julie Elkins

Create small clay sculpture in this intensive class that focuses on various 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 class. Bring sketches and ideas to the first class. Clay and glazes are included. Fired pieces may be picked up a week later than the final class.

$150 (VMFA members $130)

Sat, Mar 7,  10 am -- 4 pm  | Studio School, 2nd floor

Mary Swezey

Learning a few basic embroidery stitches will allow you to embellish your own clothing or household textiles or simply make marks on fabric and draw with thread. Embroidery is an easy, portable, and inexpensive art form. Cotton fabric, embroidery floss, embroidery needles, and hoops will be supplied. Feel free to bring a piece of clothing to embellish. Expect to complete a small sampler of stitches and a hoop composition suitable for hanging. A materials fee of $20, payable to the instructor, is due at the beginning of the workshop.
$90 ( VMFA members $75)

Thu, Apr 30 -- May 21, 10 am -- 1 pm (4 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor
Sarah Hand

Explore sculpting with papier-mâché to create small sculpture. The instructor will demonstrate the use of armature sculpting, traditional newspaper and paste papier-mâché, and painting. Students will then create their own sculptures. Learn various ways to attach pieces, create expressions, and embellish. Explore how to make a three dimensional object in this low-tech medium. The instructor will also show examples of her own creations and give students an overview of papier-mâché. A materials fee of $20 is payable to the instructor at the first class session.

Tue, Apr 28 – May 19, 5:30 – 6:30 pm (4 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.

$60 (VMFA members $40)

Sat, Apr 4  10 am --1 pm  (1 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor, Conference Room
Erin Householder

Designed for anyone interested in deepening their creative expression, this workshop will answer these questions: What is creativity? How do we access our creative desires? How do we stay motivated when creative blocks arise? How do we continue to enhance the results of our creative action? Using ancient meditative practices from the Himalayas of India, participants will explore meditative techniques designed to elevate artistic expression, enliven inner spirit, and enrich the creative process. During this in-depth journey, we will calm the mind, relax the nervous system, and engage in discussion and personal reflection. Please wear comfortable clothes and bring a notebook and pen.

$50 (VMFA members $35)

Wed, Apr 22 -- May 13  2 -- 4 pm  (4 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor, Conference Room
Erin Householder

In this meditation series, students will learn various ancient meditation techniques to calm the mind and relax the nervous system, enlivening and deepening our approach to creative flow. Please wear comfortable clothes and bring a notebook and pen.

$120 (VMFA members $100)