ARTfactory

This foundational course is designed to sharpen young artists' observational skills while introducing them to the Elements of Art (line, shape, form, color, value, texture, and space) and the Principles of Design (balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, pattern, rhythm, and unity). Through hands-on exercises, students will learn how to intentionally apply these "building blocks" to create […]

This year marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of our nation, and to celebrate we are offering a class focused on the defining landmarks of our country! "From Sea to Shining Sea", each class will focus on painting a different historic landmark, with references provided by Mike. Please note that aside from watercolor paper, […]

Explore the beautiful fluidity and transparency of watercolor. Beginners will learn basic tools and techniques . Experienced students will explore new methods, materials, and styles. This class is offered throughout the year with a different approach presented in each session. A list of supplies can be found on the Classes and Camps page, or by clicking […]

Join artist Michele Frantz for a 4 lesson session in acrylic painting! Versatile and forgiving, acrylic paints may be manipulated with a wide array of techniques, applied to many different surfaces, and modified with various additives. Students new to acrylics will learn introductory basics; experienced students will improve their skills and explore new directions. Class […]

Join us for an introduction to creating the illusion of atmosphere and depth in interiors and still life art! Learn how light and shadow affects how we perceive objects in a limited space, such as a room or a tabletop, and how it differs from achieving depth in landscape art. Students will come away with […]

Join artist Michele Frantz for an evening class in acrylic painting.  Quick drying, vibrant, and versatile, acrylics may be applied to a wide variety of surfaces and altered with different additives.  Students new to acrylics will learn introductory basics; experienced students will improve their skills and explore new directions. Supplies will not be provided - […]

This workshop will cover the basics of framing works on both paper and canvas, the tools and materials required, where to get them, and standards you will be expected to meet if you are thinking of entering your work in art shows. Each participant will have the opportunity to cut a mat and go through […]

The art of storytelling is thousands of years old. Histories or morals, each story that has existed puts pictures in the mind. Visual artists become illustrators of the world through the storytelling of their own mental images instead of words. In this class, students will listen to a story to inspire them to create an […]

Using mirrors and direct observation, students will create a self-portrait while learning the foundations of oil portraiture. Through exercises in drawing, color mixing, and paint application, students will develop an understanding of facial structure, likeness, and luminous skin tones. Topics will include observation-based drawing, color temperature, flesh-tone mixing, edges, and expressive brushwork. Students will leave […]

Great cartooning is more than just drawing—it’s about writing and world-building! In this expanded two-session workshop, students follow a professional creator’s protocol: first, designing a character’s "soul" and silhouette; second, developing a unique storyline; and finally, placing them into a detailed indoor or outdoor setting. By focusing on the architecture of a character rather than […]

Join us for a six week course exploring the fun and versatile medium gouache! Students will paint three different nature subjects- floral landscape, butterflies and birds! Learn how to mix colors, and how to use the gouache paint as a wash and in thicker more opaque applications to build layers and details. All supplies will […]

Do you want to learn more about Shakespeare, but don't know where to start? Come join Ms. Shelby for a one-day workshop that will leave actors excited and confident about exploring The Bard's work! Actors will engage in textual analysis and hands-on activities to help Shakespeare's text come to life and become more accessible to read. […]

Have fun exploring the many different techniques one can use with watercolor pencils! Watercolor pencils are a versatile medium because they can be used dry for colored-pencil effects, partially diluted, or completely diluted. These pencils are fun to use and can create smooth or textured artwork, and they’re a great way to become more comfortable […]

Students will explore composition and color by creating a collage while working from a photographic reference image. Focusing on shadows, midtones, and highlights, they will cut and arrange flat shapes of colored paper—no drawing or paint—to build form and depth. By developing a custom paper color palette, students will create a modern, mosaic-like piece that […]

Dive into the exciting world of printmaking! Students will experiment with relief printmaking techniques to create bold, layered artwork from simple materials. You will build skills in carving, inking, and pressing while exploring composition and texture. This class is perfect for sparking creativity and producing multiples you're proud to share—all skill levels welcome! All supplies […]

Transform your inner critic into a guiding voice that helps rather than hinders. In this class you will learn to approach your own artwork with fresh eyes, mastering self-editing techniques that elevate composition and skills without self-doubt. Bring a picture of a work of art you created to reflect on. This intermediate course equips you […]