Booking

Adults

You won’t find a more enlightening — and inspirational — environment than the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts! From gallery talks and tours to art classes, seminars, teacher programs, and family fun, the museum offers a variety of learning experiences for every age and every interest.

Specials

VMFA Members enjoy discounts on many of our classes and programs. Click here for more information.

Studio Class

Basic Drawing: Step One [1]

This introductory class helps students develop basic drawing skills using various techniques and materials. Observation, imagination, memory, and creativity will be used to build skills and confidence.
 
Instructor: Catherine Purdy
Sold Out

Drawing in Color: Pastel [2]

Thu, Sep 11–Dec 4, 1–4 pm (12 sessions)

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.

Instructor: Dawn Flores

Sold Out

Paint, Pencil, and Pastel Studio [3]

Dec 3, 1 – 4 pm (12 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor

 

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

Instructor: Dawn Flores

Sold Out

Botanical Drawing [4]

Mon, Sep 8–Nov 24, 1:30–4:30 pm (12 Sessions)

Students will hone their drawing skills by working from live specimens, and occasionally photographs, of a variety of flowers, plants, and seeds. Learn to examine structure in nature and translate that structure into drawing while focusing on composition. Botanical demonstrations in a variety of mediums will be included in this course. Students will work in graphite to begin with and expand into colored pencils. Learn about the history of botanical illustration while studying a diversity of artists. Prerequisite: basic drawing skills.

Instructor: Dawn Flores

Sold Out

Watercolor Studio [5]

Mon, Sep 8–Nov 24, 9:30 am–12:30 pm (12 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor

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 and watercolor masterworks offering inspiration. Individual and group critiques provided. Prerequisites: basic drawing skills.

Instructor: Dawn Flores

Sold Out

Introduction to Painting [6]

Tue, Sep 9– Nov 25, 9:30 am–12:30 pm (12 sessions)

Learn to use direct observation when painting from life. Through demonstrations, observation-based painting exercises, and instructions, 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 or abstract paintings. Prerequisites: basic drawing skills.

Instructor: Amy Smith

Sold Out

Oil Painting Studio [7]

Mon, Sep 8– Nov 24, 1–4 pm (12 sessions)

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 oil painting skills.

Instructor: Amy Smith

Sold Out

Oil Painting: Independent Study [8]

Thu, Sep 11–Dec 4, 9:30 am–12:30 pm (12 sessions)

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 oil painting skills.

Instructor: Martha Prideaux

Sold out

Color & Abstraction in Painting [9]

Fri, Sep 12–Dec 5, 10 am–1 pm (12 sessions)

Expand technical and critical skills and learn to develop new ideas and imagery. The class will focus on contemporary art in the VMFA's galleries as points of interest and inspiration. In the studio, students will work from a variety of subjects, focusing on color and abstraction. Critiques and discussions of contemporary painting will be included. Prerequisites: basic drawing and painting skills.

Instructor: Sally Bowring
Sold Out

Plein Air Painting [10]

Wed, Sep 10– Oct 29, 9:30 am –12:30 pm (8 Sessions)

Explore drawing and painting the landscape from direct observation. With guidance from the instructor, students will develop a more fluid response to painting on location. Students must provide their own plein air painting easel, stool and painting and drawing supplies. Prerequisite: basic drawing & painting skills. 

Instructor: Maria Reardon

Register Now

Introduction to Collage [11]

Tue, Sep 9–Nov 25, 10 am–1 pm (12 sessions)

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.

Instructor: Diana Detamore

Sold Out

Introduction to Mixed Media Painting [12]

Mon, Sep 8–Dec 1 (no class Nov 24), 10 am–1 pm (12 sessions)

Each session introduces a unique combination of media—such as acrylics, collage, ink, pastels, mark-making tools, found objects, and more—encouraging creative freedom and personal expression. Through demonstrations and open studio time, you’ll learn how to layer textures, play 
with color, make expressive marks, and bring your artistic vision to life. Repeat students may choose to work on independent projects. Prerequisites: basic drawing and painting skills.

Instructor: Martha Prideaux

Sold Out

Mixed Media Illustration [13]

Wed, Sep 10 – Dec 4, 10 am – 1 pm (12 sessions)

Make playful and colorful illustrations using familiar and unusual techniques and media. In this lighthearted class, you will learn to generate ideas for imagery, simplify drawings while adding personality, make a portfolio to hold experiments and samples, and create finished art. Students will develop an intuitive feel for mixing and using color. Techniques included are painted paper collage, stencils, and masks, smudging and scribbling, oil pastel and crayon, simple printmaking, and fun ways to add lettering and words to your art.

Instructor: Sarah Hand

Sold Out

The Language of Color: Theory for Painters and Designers [14]

Wed, Sep 24–Dec 3, 9:30 am–12:30 pm (10 sessions)
In this color class designed for beginners, professional artists, and aspiring designers, students complete a series of exercises using The New Munsell Student Color Set. Assignments will aid students in a better understanding of color use, mixing, color schemes, selection for personal projects, creation, manipulation, and organization. The color theories of Albert Munsell and Joseph Albers will be discussed along with the color world of Pantone. Students may choose to work with watercolors, acrylics, or oil paints.

Instructor: Catherine Southall
Sold Out

Basic Drawing: Step One [15]

Thu, Sep 11–Dec 4 (no class Sep 25 or Nov 6), 7–9:30 pm (10 sessions)

This introductory class helps students develop basic drawing skills using various techniques and materials. Observation, imagination, memory, and creativity will be used to build skills and confidence.
 
Instructor: Amy Smith

Sold Out

Painting and Drawing Studio NEW! [16]

Tue, Sep 9–Nov 25 (no class Sep 23 or Nov 4), 7–10 pm (10 sessions)

Expand technical skills in drawing and painting and learn to develop new ideas and imagery. Students will work with drawing and/or painting materials of their choice. The instructor will offer demonstrations and provide guidance when exploring new materials and methods. Prerequisites: basic drawing skills. Instructor: Amy Smith
Sold Out

Introduction and Intermediate Painting [17]

Wed, Sep 10– Dec 3, 7–10 pm (12 sessions)

This is a good painting class for beginning or intermediate level oil painters who want to develop their own personal painting style and approach to imagery. Through individual guidance, students explore painting strategies and working methods. Prerequisites: basic drawing skills.

Instructor: Joan Elliott

Sold Out

Oil Painting Studio [18]

Mon, Sep 8– Nov 24, 7–10 pm (12 sessions)

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 & painting skills

Instructor: Joan Elliott

Sold Out

Drawing Fundamentals [19]

Sat & Sun, Sep 13 & 14, 10 am–4 pm (2 sessions)

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, discussions, and individual instruction, students complete multiple drawings working from the still life and landscape images. Soft vine charcoal (assorted sizes), 18" × 24" sketchpad and a kneadable eraser required.

Instructor: Dawn Flores

Sold Out

Introduction to Collage [20]

Sat, Sep 13, 10 am–4 pm (1 session)

Experiment with new techniques, materials, and more to make innovative collages. The teacher will demonstrate ways to design, mount, and present your artwork in this workshop designed for all levels of experience.

Instructor: Martha Prideaux

Sold Out

Architectural Illustration Workshop [21]

Sat & Sun, Sep 20 & 21, 10 am–4pm (2 sessions)

Develop observational drawing skills and learn to capture depth, details, and sense of place through architectural illustration. After learning the basics of one-and two-point perspective, explore the museum grounds with the instructor to practice sketching on site. Back in the studio, choose one of your sketches to refine using watercolor and ink. Previous experience with watercolor is not necessary. The workshop is a great way to jumpstart a travel sketchbook or urban sketching practice. Prerequisites: basic drawing skills. 

Instructor: Catherine Purdy

Sold Out

Encaustic Painting & Mixed Media Lab [22]

Sat, Sep 20, 10 am–4 pm (1 session)

Encaustic painting is an ancient process using molten, pigmented beeswax to create layered and luminous art. Designed for both new and experienced painters, the instructor 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.

Instructor: Karen Eide

Sold Out

Drawing Flowers in Color with Oil Pastels [23]

Sat &Sun, Sep 20–21, 10 am–4 pm (2 Sessions)

This workshop introduces oil pastels and paint sticks for painterly approaches to drawing flowers and plants. Students explore colored grounds, glazes, and various methods of layering color as well as color mixing and interaction. Prerequisite: basic drawing skills.

Instructor: Diana Detamore

Register Now

Portrait Drawing Workshop with Soft Pastels [24]

Sat, Sep 27, 10 am–4 pm (1 session)

This is a great workshop for intermediate drawing students to practice their portrait drawing skills. Working from a live model, students will learn how to capture a likeness and expression in their portrait drawing. The workshop will include demonstrations and one on one guidance. Pastel techniques and materials will be discussed. Prerequisite: intermediate drawing skills 
using soft pastels

Instructor: Maria Reardon

Sold Out

Pour a Painting [25]

Sat, Sep 27, 10 am–4 pm (1 Session)

Explore several methods for making acrylic pour paintings.  These paintings are characterized by unpredictable swirls of colorful paint with a glossy finish. Please bring a maximum of eight small canvases or panels. These need to be safely transported flat after painting (canvases should not exceed 11” x 14”). Also provide one quart of white semigloss house paint, and four to six acrylic paint colors of your choice.  Miscellaneous supplies will be provided by the instructor for a $5 materials fee (cash or check) payable at the beginning of the workshop. Prerequisite: basic drawing and painting skills.

Instructor: Kendra Wadsworth

Register Now

Experimental Mixed Media [26]

Sat & Sun, Oct 4 & 5, 10 am – 4 pm (2 sessions)

Experiment with various painting and drawing media. Explore new ideas, techniques, and imagery. Students will work on individual projects with demonstrations from the instructor. This is a great workshop to recharge your studio practice. Prerequisite: basic drawing and painting skills. 

Instructor: Mary Scurlock

Register Now

Painting on Photographs: The Extended Image [27]

Sat & Sun, Oct 4 & 5, 10 am–4 pm (2 sessions)

This workshop explores the use of photography with mixed-media applications. Students combine photographic materials (digital or traditional prints, photocopies, found imagery or old photographs) with oil paint to produce new and exciting imagery. The instructor demonstrates a variety of approaches, including surface supports and preparation, gluing techniques, surface alterations, paint application, varnishing, cold wax, and other surface treatments. Open to all levels of experience.

Instructor: Pam Fox

Register Now

Introduction to Painting with Gouache Workshop [28]

Sat, Oct 11, 10 am–4 pm (1 session)

This workshop is an introduction to painting with gouache, an opaque water-soluble medium that is like watercolor. Gouache, which is applied in layers like acrylics or oils, offers highly saturated colors, flexibility, and spontaneity. The medium is great to use as a sketching medium to plan larger paintings or for finished artwork. Students will learn to use gouache to make studies, to plan compositions and color themes that they may use for larger works. Prerequisites: basic drawing and painting skills.

Instructor: Maria Reardon

Sold Out

Figure Drawing Workshop [29]

Sat, Oct 18, 10 am–4pm (1 session)

Start by exploring a variety of drawings of the human form by other artists. Then with guidance from the instructor and working from a live model, learn to create expressive portraits in charcoal and pencil. Prerequisites: basic drawing skills. 

Instructor: Amy Smith

Sold Out

A Crash Course in Watercolor [30]

Sat & Sun, Oct 25 & 26, 10 am–4 pm (2 Sessions)

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.

Instructor: Dawn Flores

Sold Out

Painting with Cold Wax Medium [31]

Sat & Sun, Nov 1 & 2, 10 am–4 pm (2 sessions) | Studio School, 2nd floor

This workshop will teach students how to build beautiful textured surfaces using cold wax medium and oil paint. Experienced and beginning 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. Prerequisites: basic drawing and painting skills. 

Instructor: Martha Prideaux

Sold Out

Pet Portrait Workshop [32]

Sat & Sun, Nov 8 & 9, 10 am–4 pm (2 sessions)

Learn how to capture the unique personality of your favorite furry friend. Start by studying the anatomy and features of different animals, focusing on the artistic process of making detailed studies. Then with guidance from the instructor and working from photographs, create accurate and expressive portraits of your own pet using drawing materials and oil or acrylic paint.  

Instructor: Catherine Purdy

Register Now

Sketchbook as Traveling Companion & Visual Memoir [33]

Sat & Sun, Nov 8 & 9, 10 am - 4 pm (2 sessions)

Do you want to capture a moment and place, whether traveling or just hanging out? Record the little and big things in your life by creating a visual record. Participants will learn several easy and successful strategies for drawing, painting, collage, and writing to turn their adventures into handheld works of art. Mini field trips within and outside VMFA will also offer source material and inspiration. 

Instructor: Kathleen Calhoun

Sold Out

Memoir Writing [34]

Tue, Sep 9–Nov 25, 10 am–1 pm (12 sessions)

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 the 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.  

Instructor: Douglas S. Jones
Sold Out

Introduction to Cross-Genre Writing NEW! [35]

Fri, Sep 12–Dec 5, 10 am–1 pm (12 sessions)

This class will explore writing and reading work that is cross-genre, meaning a blend of multiple genres such as poetry, prose, fiction, and creative nonfiction. A cross-genre exploration allows students to stretch their notions of genre and write something new and experimental. Guidance and prompts will be provided for all writing that is to be workshopped. Reading lists and materials will 
also be provided, as we will be reading for a portion of every class as well as talking about craft. Students are expected to complete some homework between classes.

Instructor: Catherine Carson
Register Now

Writing the Shadow [36]

Mon, Sep 8–Nov 24, 7–10 pm (12 sessions)

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 we can learn from it. Students explore ways in which a realization of the shadow can open creative avenues for use in various writing exercises, including guided imagery, dream work, and active imagination.

Instructor: Douglas S. Jones

Register Now

Confessional Poetry [37]

Wed, Sep 10–Dec 3, 7 –10 pm (12 sessions)

Confessional poetry marked a revolution in poetic style in the mid-20th century. Confessional poets wrote in direct, colloquial speech rhythms and used images that reflected intense psychological experiences, often culled from childhood or battles with mental illness and breakdowns. In this class, students will study these poets, including Sylvia Plath, Anne Sexton, and Robert Lowell. With guidance from the instructor, participants will learn to write their own confessional poetry.
 
Instructor: Catherine Carson

Register Now

Memoir Writing Workshop [38]

Sat, Oct 4, 10 am – 4 pm (1 session)

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.

Instructor: Douglas S. Jones
Register Now

Digital Photography for Beginners - AM [39]

Mon, Sep 8–Oct 13, 10 am–1 pm (6 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor 

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. 

Instructor: Samia Minnicks

Register Now

Digital Photography for Beginners - PM [40]

Mon, Sep 8–Oct 13, 7–10 pm (6 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor 

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.

Instructor: Kevin Morley

Sold Out

Intermediate Digital Photography - AM [41]

Mon, Sep 8–Oct 13, 7–10 pm (6 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor 

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 to use in class and experience using the camera settings are required. Prerequisite: Recent Digital Photography for Beginners class.

Instructor: Samia Minnicks

Register Now

Intermediate Digital Photography - PM [42]

Mon, Oct 20 - Nov 24, 7–10 pm (6 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor

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 to use in class and experience using the camera settings are required. Prerequisite: Recent Digital photography for Beginners class.

Instructor: Kevin Morley

Register Now

Introduction to Black & White Darkroom Photography [43]

Wed, Sep 10 - Dec 3, 7 -10 pm (12 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor

This class is for anyone who wants to get into the darkroom. Those with no or non-recent experience will be taught 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 chemicals will be supplied.

Instructor: Georgianne Stinnett

Register Now

Photography: The Black & White Darkroom [44]

Tue, Sep 9 - Nov 25, 7 -10 pm (12 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor

This course is for experienced photography students who want to pursue personal work with guidance from the instructor. Most of the class time will be spent in the darkroom with the instructor providing technical support and advice for short -and-long-term projects.  A 35mm film camera with manual settings, film, and photo paper are supplied by the student. Photo chemistry is supplied by the Studio School.  Prerequisite: Recent VMFA photography darkroom experience or permission of the instructor.

Instructor: Georgianne Stinnett

Register Now

Experimental Printmaking [45]

Fri, Sep 12–Dec 5, 10 am–1 pm (12 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor

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 print techniques including Gelli plates, collagraphs, and relief. Students will also learn to make simple books to display prints. Individual critiques will be provided. This is a great introduction to one-of-a-kind prints. Prerequisites: basic drawing and painting skills.

Instructor: Mary Holland

Register Now

Experimental Printmaking [46]

Tue, Sep 9– Nov 25, 10 am–1 pm (12 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor

Experiment with printmaking processes and develop a body of work that is open to "happy accidents". Students will learn various monotype processes including Gelli plates, watercolor transfers, and hand-tinting as well as a few developed by the instructor to create unique, one-of-a-kind prints. This is a great opportunity to explore printmaking. Individualized critiques will be provided. Prerequisites: basic drawing and painting skills.

Instructor: Randy Toy

Register Now

Intro to Gelli Plate Printing [47]

Sat, Oct 18, 10 am–4 pm (1 session) | Studio School, 1st floor

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. Students must provide their own Gelli plate (8 inches x 10 inches or larger) and other materials. 

Instructor: Mary Holland

Sold Out

Simple Folded Books Workshop [48]

Sat, Oct 11, 10 am – 4 pm (1 session)

Create your own unique handmade book by simply folding paper.  The instructor will guide students in constructing accordion style books, which provide excellent vehicles for collections of photographs, collage, drawing, or text. The instructor will share her collection of handmade books as examples of how these simple formats can be transformed into personal and imaginative books and journals. No experience necessary.

Instructor: Diana Detamore
Register Now

Pottery Making- AM [49]

Thu, Sep 11– Dec 4, 10 am–1 pm (12 sessions) | Studio School, lower level

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 are included. Extra clay is available for purchase.

Instructor: Steven Glass

Sold Out

Pottery Making - PM [50]

Tue, Sep 9–Nov 25, 7–10 pm (12 sessions) | Studio School, lower level

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 are included. Extra clay is available for purchase.

Instructor: Steven Glass

Sold Out

Pottery Making- PM [51]

Thu, Sep 11– Dec 4, 7–10 pm (12 sessions) | Studio School, lower level

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 are included. Extra clay is available for purchase.

Instructor: Steven Glass

Sold Out

Ceramic Sculpture & Hand Building [52]

Tue, Sep 9–Nov 25, 10 am–1 pm (12 sessions) | Studio School, lower level

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 are included. Extra clay is available for purchase. 

Instructor: Steven Glass

Sold Out

Ceramic Jewelry [53]

Mon, Sep 8 -- Oct 13, 10 am – 1 pm (6 sessions) | Studio School, lower level

Students will learn how to combine clay and wire to design and create their own ceramic jewelry. Using a variety of handbuilding techniques and jewelry-making methods, participants will craft unique and personalized pieces including earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and brooches. The instructor will guide students through the entire creative process, from brainstorming and sketching initial designs, to shaping clay, adding texture or patterns, and assembling the final jewelry pieces. Techniques include working with clay slabs, coils, and sculptural forms, as well as incorporating wire elements for structure and decoration. Students will also learn about firing and finishing processes, such as glazing or adding surface treatments to bring their pieces to life. Open to all levels of experience. Most materials are included.

Instructor: Kourtenay Plummer

Register Now

Body Awareness for Makers: A One-Day Workshop NEW! [54]

Sat, Oct 4, 10 am–12:30 pm (1 session) | Studio School, lower level

This workshop helps artists of all kinds build body awareness and reduce studio strain. With practical tools like a joint check-in and movement-based observation, you’ll learn how to stay aligned, supported, and painfree while making art. Ideal for ceramicists, painters, sculptors, and anyone who creates with their hands.

Instructor: Elizabeth Schlatter

Register Now

Pottery Independent Study [55]

Sat, Nov 1, 10 am–3 pm (1 session) | Studio School, lower level

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

Instructor: Steven Glass

Register Now

Art Quilting for Beginners [56]

Learn to quilt like an artist in this class for beginners or experienced quilters who want to change their approach to quilting. The instructor will cover contemporary quilt design and techniques. Students will learn about piecing, applique, and machine quilting, finishing up the course with a unique wall or lap quilt. A materials fee of $10 is payable to the instructor at the beginning of the class.

Instructor: Julia Pfaff
Register Now

Printing, Dyeing, and Painting Fabric [57]

Thu, Sep 11 -- Dec 4, 7 – 10 pm (12 sessions)

Explore a variety of approaches to making patterns on fabric including Japanese-style tie-dye and fabric printing with both dye and pigment. The instructor will cover the basics of printing in repeats and producing one-of-a-kind compositional fabric design. Finished fabrics will be suitable for quilting, home decorating, and garment construction. A materials fee of $50, cash or check, payable to the instructor at the first class, covers dyes and fabrics suitable for dyeing.

Instructor: Julia Pfaff
Register Now

Making Felted Flowers NEW! [58]

Sat & Sun, Oct 18 & 19, 10 am–4 pm (2 sessions)

From roses and poppies to peonies and lilies, explore a range of floral shapes and colors in soft wool, silk, and Tencel. Students will learn to make hand-felted flowers, some to be used as brooches and some with flexible stems and the receptacle and sepal to hold the petals. You will need to be able to get your hands wet and soapy and manipulate the wool with your hands in a repetitive motion. A fee of $10, payable to the instructor at the beginning of the workshop, will cover materials for at least four flowers. Please bring an old hand towel and bath towel. All other supplies will be provided. For beginners as well as experienced felters looking to expand their skills.

Instructor: Shelley Jones

Register Now

Indigo and Shibori Natural Dye Workshop [59]

Sat & Sun, Oct 25 & 26, 10 am – 4 pm (2 sessions)

Learn the ancient art of Shibori (Japanese-style tie-dye) using the king of natural dyes: indigo. Participants will make several pieces of richly patterned fabric along with two cotton kitchen towels and a silk scarf. A materials fee of $25, payable to the instructor at the beginning of the workshop, covers most materials. Students can bring a few small natural fiber items from home to dye (cotton, silk, or linen). 

Instructor: Julia Pfaff
Register Now

Introduction to Stained Glass [60]

Sat & Sun, Oct 25 & 26, 10 am – 4:30 pm (2 sessions)

Learn the basics of stained glass and create a small window panel in your choice of patterns. Techniques covered in the workshop include pattern making, glass cutting, copper foiling, soldering, and construction. Make something beautiful to treasure or give as a gift.  All materials are included.

Instructor: Jude Schlotzhauer

Sold Out

Introduction to Hand Appliqué NEW! [61]

Sat, Nov 1, 10 am – 4 pm (1 session)

Hand appliqué is the queen of all appliqué methods and is used for creating pictures and patterns. It is basically fabric collage but with no glue: just stitches holding it together. Learn a new sewing skill or perfect one that you already have. All levels are welcome, and no sewing/quilting experience is necessary. A $15 materials fee to be paid to the instructor at the beginning of class covers all materials needed.

Instructor: Julia Pfaff
Register Now

Hoop Embroidery [62]

Sat, Nov 8, 10 am–4 pm (1 session) | Studio School, 1st floor

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, a small embroidery kit, and hoops will be supplied. Feel free to bring a piece of clothing or tea towel to embellish. Expect to complete a small sampler of stitches and a hoop composition and a fabric embellishment. A materials fee of $20 payable to the instructor is due at the beginning of the workshop.

Instructor: Mary Swezey

Register Now

Yoga Studio [63]

Mon, Sep 8–Nov 24 (no classes Sep 29 or Oct 20), 5:30–6:30 pm (10 sessions)

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

Instructor: Jodi Bock

Register Now

Yoga Studio [64]

Tue, Sep 9–Nov 25 (no classes Sep 30 or Oct 21), 5:30–6:30 pm (10 sessions) | Studio School, 1st floor, Parlor

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

Instructor: Jodi Bock

Register Now

Art History Class

[65] Art and Eternity: The Visual Culture of Ancient Egypt

Wed, Sep 3, 10, 17, 24, Oct 1, 8, 2–3 pm (6 sessions)

The art of ancient Egypt is compelling and mysterious to us; its viewers in the ancient world thought so, too. Its timeless serenity speaks of the never-ending order of the world and of the universe, an order that transcends the impermanence of the natural world and directs our minds and our senses to the everlasting world to come. In this series we will survey the history of ancient Egyptian art, from the inception of divine kingship in the early Dynastic Period, to the remarkable confidence of Old Kingdom portrait sculpture, through the imperial grandeur of the Eighteenth Dynasty and the strange and sophisticated art of the age of Akhenaten, to the continuance of the forms of Egyptian art under the rule of foreign empires.  

Instructor: Dr. Donald Schrader, Adjunct Professor of Art History, University of Mary Washington

Register Now

[66] Art of the Ancient Americas

Thu, Sep 4, 11, 18, 25, 6 - 7 pm (4 sessions)

Art was widespread across Mesoamerica and South America prior to contact with European cultures in the early 16th century. Ancient American cultures produced everything from monumental architecture to portable sculpture to body adornments. These pieces often drew the attention of early 20th century collectors, such as Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. This four-week course focuses on the art and cultures of the ancient Americas, from the Olmec in present-day Mexico to the Inka in present-day Peru. We will analyze the materials, techniques, and meanings behind some of the most iconic ancient American artworks and discover the appeal that they still hold for contemporary audiences.     

Instructor: Dr. Jeanette Nicewinter, Associate Professor, Art History, Annandale Campus, Collegewide Honors Lead Faculty, Northern Virginia Community College

Register Now

[67] Picturing Our Stories: Narrative Art through the Centuries

Tue, Oct 7, 14, 21, 28, 2–3 pm (4 sessions)

Myths, legends, and literature have inspired works of art since ancient times. Discover how visual artists have interpreted the great epics of Greece, India, and Iceland. Explore the ways in which painters and silversmiths have illustrated legends—from Celtic myths to Mexican visions. Delve into novels and poems that have inspired prints, drawings, and sculptures. Don’t miss this visual journey 
around the world through works of art that bring spoken and written words to life. 

Instructor: Twyla Kitts, Educator and Researcher

Register Now