The crucial role of composition in art is to establish balance and harmony in one’s artwork, while at the same time effectively using contrast to provide interest. In this series of classes, students will explore a variety of compositional formats, and learn how to use visual elements to make these formats work. 

In "A Formal Affair" we will be concentrating on "symmetrical balance" (aka "formal balance"), most commonly seen in portraiture, religious art and still life art. This is a more traditional approach to design, and a good starting place for those just beginning to explore composition.

Some previous experience with your chosen media is recommended, since the emphasis will be on design rather than technique. The instructor will supply reference photos, but students are also welcome to bring their own. Students may work in any media; no supplies provided.

Please note that the last class will take place at the City of Manassas Community Center!!

Ages 15+

Thursdays 4-5:30 pm

September 17 - October 8

Registration Fee: $114

If you love vibrant color, you will love pastels!Dive right in without needing paintbrushes, solvents, or a palette – no other medium allows you to apply rich color as quickly as soft pastels. We will be exploring the shapes and colors of the landscape in different seasons.

Paper will be provided via the Paper Fee, and additional supplies can be purchased by selecting the option at checkout.

Returning students can use their supplies from previous classes.

Please note that the last session of this class will take place at the City of Manassas Community Center!

Ages 15+

Thursdays 6-7:30 pm

September 17 - October 8

Registration Fee: $114     Paper Fee: $5   Optional Supply Fee: $10

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.

Please note that the last session of this class will meet at the City of Manassas Community Center

Ages 15+

Fridays 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

September 18 - October 9

Tuition: $152  Supply 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.

Please note that the last session of this class will meet at the City of Manassas Community Center

Ages 15+

Fridays 1-3 pm

September 18 - October 9

Tuition: $152  Supply Fee: $5

Join us for a warm, beginner-friendly introduction to alla prima—the joyful “all at once” painting approach. We’ll begin with simple objects from life to learn color mixing, shape simplification, and confident brushwork. Then we’ll apply those same principles to clouds and trees in my signature landscape style, finishing with a small landscape study from a photo I provide.

Want to paint faster without sacrificing beauty? Feel stuck overworking your paintings? You’ll learn how to:

• Paint wet-into-wet with clarity

• Simplify scenes without losing atmosphere

• Mix clean sky and foliage colors

• Create depth using light and edges

• Complete a small landscape in just one afternoon

You’ll leave knowing exactly how to approach a painting from start to finish—quickly, simply, confidently.

A list of recommended supplies can be found here! If you have any questions about possibly substitutes of supplies, please reach out to Christine at craymondartist@gmail.com 

Ages 13+

Saturday, September 26

11:30 am - 4:30 pm

Registration Fee: $150     Supply Fee: $5

Begin your journey into the art of paper cutting. Many cultures have created fine works of art with this easily manipulated medium.

By concentrating on the usage of both negative and positive spaces, intricate lines, bold patterns, and amazing shapes can be literally “carved out” of paper. The results are amazing.

In this workshop you will create a beautiful card to take home and enjoy.

Ages 15+

Sunday, September 27th

1-3 pm

Registration Fee: $38    Supply Fee: $5

Do you have a young one that learns best through art? Join us for a free STEAM class at the City of Manassas Community Center, brought to you in partnership with Micron Technology, Inc. 

Learn how animation started, create a fun flipbook, and draw your own stick figure character that comes to life while exploring how technology can support imagination and keep creativity at the center.

Ages 9-12

Monday, September 28th

5-7 pm

Registration Fee: Free!!

Join us for a workshop that will delve into capturing character in pet portraits, with a focus on the eyes as the windows to the soul.

Artist Valerie Larson will introduce two helpful methods of transferring a photo image to watercolor paper. These methods will allow you to easily achieve correct proportions and have more fun with the portrait-painting process! Students can bring a favorite close-up pet photo to work from or follow along with the photo provided.

Brushes and paper will be provided via the supply fee. You will need to bring your own watercolor paints!

Ages 18+

Wednesday, September 30th

1-3:30 pm

Registration Fee: $47.50

Supply Fee: $10.50