Transform your inner critic into a guiding voice that helps rather than hinders.

In this class you will learn to approach your own artwork with fresh eyes, mastering self-editing techniques that elevate composition and skills without self-doubt. Bring a picture of a work of art you created to reflect on.

This intermediate course equips you to see and refine your work constructively, building progress you're proud of. The class is designed for artists ready to level up!

All supplies will be provided via the supply fee!

Ages 16+

September 9-30

Wednesdays 1-3 pm

Registration Fee: $152    Supply Fee: $10

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

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

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 "Slightly Askew" we will be concentrating on "informal" (assymmetrical) balance, the most widely used approach to composition, especially in contemporary art. Students will be introduced to some basic formats, and encouraged to find their own solutions to an effective 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 first class will take place at the City of Manassas Community Center!!

Ages 15+

Thursdays 4-5:30 pm

October 22 - November 12

Registration Fee: $114

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, November 7th

11 am - 2 pm

Registration Fee: $57       Supply Fee: $5

Bring an original world to life through drawing and painting!

Students will design unique characters, creatures, environments, and cultures while learning the fundamentals of visual storytelling, composition, color, and concept development.

Through guided exercises and individual feedback, each student will create a fully realized narrative artwork inspired by a world of their own imagination.

Please note that aside from a canvas, no supplies will be provided for this class!! A list of suggested supplies can be found here. 

Ages 15+

Saturdays 6-8 pm

November 7-28

Registration Fee: $152     Canvas Fee: $5

This fall drawing class combines observation, composition, and shading as students work from a small pumpkin image repeated across the page.

Through a mini pumpkin study, students will explore how shading can change the look and feel of a drawing while creating a seasonal composition that is playful and complete.

All supplies will be provided via the supply fee!

Ages 15+

Monday, November 9

6-8 pm

Registration Fee: $38     Supply Fee: $15

Join us for this beginners class all about the digital art application "Procreate". 

In this 2-day course, students will go over things from the beginning such as brushes, erasers, smudging, canvas size, how resolution works with digital art, all the way up through how to use layers and why they are important.

Professional digital artist and streamer Jon Flanders will work you through a guided project using their gained knowledge to let them become more comfortable with making art of your own at home digitally.

Please note that students will need to bring their own iPad and digital pencil, and will need to have Procreate downloaded prior to the start of class!

Ages 15+

Sundays 12:30-3:30

November 15-22

Registration Fee: $114