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 more dynamic and balanced compositions. Whether sketching from life or imagination, participants will build a technical toolkit that serves as the base for all future artistic endeavors.

Ages 8-14

Mondays 6-8 pm

August 3-24

Class Fee: $152    Supply Fee: $6

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, supplies will not be provided for this class. Please see this list to purchase the recommended supplies!

Please note that there will be no class 8/20!! The makeup day is September 3rd.

Ages 16+

Thursdays 10:30 am - 1 pm

August 6-September 3

Registration Fee: $190    Paper Fee: $5

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 here. Watercolor paper will be provided by the instructor.

Ages 15+

Fridays 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

August 7-28

Tuition: $152  Supply Fee: $5

2026 is the year to give back to yourself, and there's no better place to start than with this entry in our ARTful Wellness series!

Everyone has worries sometimes—and sometimes it helps to have a special place to put them!

In this fun and relaxing parent-and-me workshop, young artists ages 5-8 will decorate their own worry box using colorful paints and simple mandala-inspired designs. As we paint, we'll explore patterns, colors, and creativity while learning that art can be a wonderful way to express our feelings and find moments of calm.

Participants will leave with a beautiful keepsake box where they can tuck away written or drawn worries, happy wishes, affirmations, or treasured little notes.

No art experience is needed—just imagination and a willingness to create!

Ages 5-8 (Must be accompanied by an adult!)

Sunday, August 9th

1-2 pm

Registration Fee: Free!

This free wellness class is brought to you in partnership with UVA Health.

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 is offered throughout the year with a different approach presented in each session.

Click here for a list of supplies. Canvases and boards will be provided by the instructor.

Ages 15+

Tuesdays 10:30-12:30

August 11 - September 1

Tuition: $152 Canvas Fee: $5

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 an understanding of the role of color, value, edges and contrast, and how to use them to improve their art.Students may work in any media. Students must bring their own supplies! Michele will provide reference photos, or students may use their own.

Ages 15+

Thursdays 4-5:30 pm

August 13 - September 3

Registration Fee: $114

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 - please check the supplies list here for everything you need! 

For ages 15 & up.

Thursdays 6-7:30 pm

August 13-September 3

Tuition: $114 

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 steps to a finished, framed work. Students will need to provide the following: an 8x10 frame (wood preferred) and a piece of art.

If the art is on paper, the image area should be either 4x6 or 5x7. If the art is on a canvas or board, it should be 8x10. All other supplies will be provided via the supply fee.

Ages 18+

Saturday, August 15th

1-3:30 pm

Registration Fee: $47.50    Supply Fee: $10