Join us for an introduction to creating the illusion of atmosphere and depth in interiors and still life art!

Learn how light and shadow affects how we perceive objects in a limited space, such as a room or a tabletop, and how it differs from achieving depth in landscape art.

Students will come away with an understanding of the role of color, value, edges and contrast, and how to use them to improve their art.Students may work in any media. Students must bring their own supplies! Michele will provide reference photos, or students may use their own.

Ages 15+

Thursdays 4-5:30 pm

August 13 - September 3

Registration Fee: $114

This workshop will cover the basics of framing works on both paper and canvas, the tools and materials required, where to get them, and standards you will be expected to meet if you are thinking of entering your work in art shows.

Each participant will have the opportunity to cut a mat and go through the steps to a finished, framed work. Students will need to provide the following: an 8x10 frame (wood preferred) and a piece of art.

If the art is on paper, the image area should be either 4x6 or 5x7. If the art is on a canvas or board, it should be 8x10. All other supplies will be provided via the supply fee.

Ages 18+

Saturday, August 15th

1-3:30 pm

Registration Fee: $47.50    Supply Fee: $10

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.

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

2026 is the year to focus on yourself, and there is no better way than through some art therapy!

Students will doodle and color on different papers, and the cut them up and make a "quilt". You can open your mind by trading papers with other students, and creating a mesh of ideas and inspiration that will revive your spirit.

All materials will be provided, including paper, drawing materials, paints, scissors, and quilting patterns. 

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

Saturday, October 3rd

1-4 pm

Registration fee: Free!

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

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.

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