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.

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

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

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.

Capture the quiet beauty of winter in this elegant seasonal landscape class!

Using a unique mixed media approach, students will build textured birch trees, snowy ground, and soft cast shadows with watercolor and acrylics to create a peaceful, atmospheric finished artwork.

Please note that aside from paper no supplies will be provided for this class! A list of suggested supplies will be provided soon.

Ages 15+

Monday, January 11

6-9 pm

Registration Fee: $57     Paper Fee: $5

2027 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+

Thursday, January 14

10:30 am -12:30 pm

Registration Fee: FREE!!

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