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

December 4-18

Tuition: $114  Supply Fee: $5

Designed for upper-elementary and middle school artists ready to build a strong artistic foundation, this course focuses on integrating the fundamental Elements of Art (line, shape, form, texture, value, color, and space) and Principles of Design (balance, contrast, emphasis, pattern, and proportion) into every lesson.

Each Monday evening, students explore new concepts through guided skill-building exercises and studio practice. Every project begins with foundational pencil drawing skills before expanding into versatile mixed media techniques—utilizing heavy-weight multimedia, watercolor, and toned papers alongside graphite, charcoal, pen & ink, soft pastels, and gentle watercolor background washes. Students will learn to break down complex subjects, render dynamic textures, build strong compositions, and manipulate light sources with confidence.

Ages 9-12

Mondays 6-8 pm

December 7-21

Registration Fee: $114     Supply Fee: $5

Create festive handmade wrapping paper and gift tags with a cheerful winter feel!

Students will carve simple stamps from pink erasers and print repeating patterns, using printmaking to create one-of-a-kind holiday paper and seasonal accents.

Ages 15+

Monday, December 7

6-8 pm

Registration Fee: $38

Ready to turn your ideas into custom stickers? In this fun, hands-on 1-day workshop, you’ll learn how to design and create your own stickers from start to finish — all from home.

You’ll learn how to create bold, eye-catching designs, that really make your stickers pop!

You’ll also discover two easy ways to make your stickers: how to create them without a cutting machine, and how to use a cutting machine for a more polished, professional look.

By the end of the class, you’ll have the skills and confidence to design, print, and create stickers for fun, gifts, or even to grow your own brand.

All supplies provided via the supply fee.

Ages 15+

Saturday, December 12th

11 am - 2 pm

Registration Fee: $57       Supply Fee: $5

2026 is the year to give back to yourself, and there's no better place to start than this free wellness class!

Just in time for the holidays, relax and enjoy some hot cocoa while we make colorful and sparkly ornaments with paper, paint and wood.

No art experience required, just some skill with scissors and glue.

Ages 15+

Saturday, December 12

12-2 pm

Registration Fee: Free!

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

Of course, auditions can be scary and stressful - but all too often actors commit preventable mistakes that keep them from displaying their full potential. This session is designed to help actors of all ages prepare for auditions and avoid these setbacks.

Session participants will discuss a comprehensive list of "what to do" and "what NOT to dos" when auditioning for a theatre production. Things like: the difference between "good confidence" and "bad confidence," how to introduce yourself, interacting with accompanists, choosing literature, etc.

In the end, the more an actor understands the director's expectations and point of view, the more successful they will likely be.

The class will end with volunteers performing their "cuts" for the class for feedback! Interested students should email their cuts to alex@virginiaartfactory.org.

Ages 15+

Saturday, December 12

5-7 pm

Registration Fee: $38

Designed for upper-elementary and middle school artists ready to build a strong artistic foundation, this course focuses on integrating the fundamental Elements of Art (line, shape, form, texture, value, color, and space) and Principles of Design (balance, contrast, emphasis, pattern, and proportion) into every lesson.

Each Monday evening, students explore new concepts through guided skill-building exercises and studio practice. Every project begins with foundational pencil drawing skills before expanding into versatile mixed media techniques—utilizing heavy-weight multimedia, watercolor, and toned papers alongside graphite, charcoal, pen & ink, soft pastels, and gentle watercolor background washes. Students will learn to break down complex subjects, render dynamic textures, build strong compositions, and manipulate light sources with confidence.

Ages 9-12

Mondays 6-8 pm

January 4-25

Registration Fee: $152      Supply Fee: $5

Join artist Michele Frantz for a 5 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.

Please note that the first class will be held at the City of Manassas Community Center.

Ages 15+

Tuesdays 10:30-12:30

January 5 - February 2

Tuition: $190                    Canvas Fee: $5