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 with a completed self-portrait and a stronger understanding of painting from life.

Other than a canvas, supplies will not be provided for this class. A full list of suggested supplies can be found here. 

Ages 18+

Saturdays 12:30-3 pm

August 22-September 26

Registration Fee: $285      Canvas Fee: $5

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 rushing into full comics, participants will master dynamic posing andpersonality development to ensure their creations are ready for any adventure.

The workshop takes place in our Digital Arts Lab, offering students the best of both worlds. Whether they prefer drawing manually or want to explore our professional desktopworkstations and drawing tablets, they will have the tools and time needed to refine theirwork.

Students will walk away with a complete character "blueprint" including varied poses, a narrative foundation, and a background scene—the essential first steps for any aspiringcartoonist or storyteller.

Ages 9-12

Saturdays 3-5 pm

August 22-29

Registration Fee: $76          Supply Fee: $6

Join us for one of the inaugural wellness workshops in our new artWORKS Collaborative series, brought to you in partnership with the Didlake Foundation!

Join us for a FREE arts experience centered around exploration, creativity, and community! Led by one of our expert arts instructors, the group will explore painting, drawing, and more in a calming and coommunal setting. Participants can expect to have the space to explore and express themselves in a safe environment. 

Beyond being fun, these experiences are designed to foster belonging, friendship, confidence, and meaningful social connections. Research shows that participation in the arts can boost mood, reduce stress, enhance cognitive skills, promote empathy, and strengthen overall well-being.

All materials will be provided - just come with an open mind and a willingness to create!

Ages 10+

Please note that children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult!

Wednesday, August 26

2-3:15 pm

Registration Fee: FREE!

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 be provided via the supply fee.

Ages 15+

Wednesdays 6-8 pm

August 26-September 30

Registration Fee: $228    Supply Fee: $20

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.

Each student will leave with a monologue that has been worked on during the workshop, and feedback that will help them take their Shakespearean skills to the next level beyond our work session!

Ages 13-18

Saturday, August 29th

2-6 pm

Registration Fee: $76

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

In a world of uncertainty, it's important to express yourself and acknowledge your strengths! This is doubly important for young artists growing into their skills and talents.

In this one-off workshop, students will use mixed media to create a tree that will help them reflect on themselves in a positive light. With prompts to help them think about their support, skills, dreams, and ways they can better the world, students will leave with new artistic skills and a project to help them face the school year with confidence. 

Ages 9-12

Sunday, August 30th

12:30-2 pm

Registration Fee: Free!!

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

Ignite your creativity and supercharge your skills in color theory, value, and composition! Using a limited palette, dive into a thrilling, unique acrylic exercise that unlocks endless possibilities.

Each session spotlights fresh artists for inspiration, sparking exhilarating discoveries in your personal style. Let famous masterpieces guide you to see the brilliance in your own skills.

All skill levels welcome!

Please note that aside from a canvas supplies will NOT be provided for this class. Please see the list of recommended supplies to be purchased here. 

Ages 15+

Wednesdays 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

September 2-30

Registration Fee: $190       Canvas Fee: $5

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 with watercolor as a painting medium!

Accomplished artist Valerie Larson will be presenting examples of her own watercolor-pencil paintings, showcasing various techniques she uses. These techniques include mixing colors, creating paper palettes, and much more.

Students can bring their own photo for painting inspiration or follow along with one of several provided. You will also be working on Aquabord, a clay-like surface made for watercolors. A 12-color set of watercolor pencils will be provided for classroom use, but you're welcome to bring your own watercolor pencils if you'd like to have more color options!

ALL SUPPLIES PROVIDED VIA THE SUPPLY FEE!!

Ages 15+

Wednesdays 1-3 pm

September 2-23

Registration Fee: $152       Supply Fee: $16