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

2026 is the year to give back to yourself, and there's no better place to start than this entry in our ARTful Wellness series, brought to you in partnership with UVA Health.

Come and learn the basics of the fine art of Quilling or Paper Filigree. This unique process for creating beautiful paper artwork is naturally meditative and will help you find calm in creation. 

No prior experience is needed to join this class! Just bring an open mind, and your reading glasses.

Ages 15+ (Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult)

Saturday, September 5th

2-4 pm

Registration Fee: FREE!!

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

Unlock the power of digital color and form in this immersive painting session. Utilizing professional tablets and Krita, students will learn to translate traditional painting concepts-like balance, focal points, and the rule of thirds-into the digital realm.

Whether starting with geometric abstractions or fluid organic shapes, participants will focus on building 'beautiful compositions' from scratch. The workshop culminates in a high-quality print of your final digital masterpiece to take home.

Ages 18+

Fridays 6-8 pm

September 11-25

Registration Fee: $114

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

Origami has had a long tradition of mastery over one’s patience. It is a physical meditation to help quiet the mind while using your hands to create something beautiful. Take the journey and let your fingers comfort you and bring you peace.

Ages 15+ (Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult)

Saturday, September 12th

2-4 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.

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

Ages 15+

Tuesdays 10:30-12:30

September 15-October 6

Tuition: $152                    Canvas Fee: $5

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