Improv quilting is quilting with freedom in mind. Beginning a quilt with no real concept, quilters will spin the fabric into an ever-evolving fabric tapestry. We’ll dive into improv quilting blocks of our own while talking about the pioneers of this technique (Rosie Lee Tompkins, Quilters of Gee’s Bend, Etc.)
read moreLearn basic sewing techniques and create a project of your choice with instructor guidance. Weekly demonstrations will include sewing machine basics, fabric basics, simple seams, simple hems, zipper application, how to take body measurements, and how to follow a sewing pattern. The first classes will be demonstration-based and the final classes will focus on the […]
read moreCreate compelling landscapes in a series of paintings. Each week, we’ll focus on elements of the landscape including techniques for rendering sky, terrain, trees and water. We’ll also focus on palette development and color mixing. We'll cover seasonal themes and architecture while learning to use light and color to create depth. You'll practice layout and […]
read moreIn this introduction to memoir class, we'll study coming-of-age stories as a window into the art of character development. Each week, we'll read an essay or book excerpt and use it as a foundation for writing our own 500-word piece. There will be opportunities to share in class and edit our own work outside of […]
read moreLearn the basics of using a torch and mandrel to wind hot glass into beautiful beads that are perfect for jewelry.
read moreLearn how to mock-up a mural and then paint it on the side of VisArts! For inspiration, we will go on a walking tour of Richmond murals and talk about formal qualities of murals and their concepts. Students will work together around a common theme to design and sketch a mural. Sketches will be arranged […]
read moreIn this beginner class, you will learn basic drawing techniques that will enable you to draw your home or another building. We'll dive into our watercolor paints and bring your drawing to life. Learn multiple watercolor techniques as we paint together each week!
read moreExplore key concepts of interior design: continuity, scale, proportion, balance, color and light. We’ll use slide presentations and class discussions to prepare you to investigate and analyze the interiors of your choice.
read moreLearn new techniques to improve your functional and non-functional ceramic forms. Try raku, cone 10 reduction glazes and soda firing. Learn new surface design processes using slips, underglazes, terra sigillata and the spray booth application of both underglazes and overglazes. This class is best for intermediate and advanced students with a solid foundation of the […]
read moreJoin this class to continue wheel and hand building with plenty of feedback and guidance from the instructor as you explore independent projects. This class is best for intermediate and advanced students who are interested in furthering their ideas and have a solid foundation of the basics of ceramics .
read moreStudents will work on fused and slumped glass projects to create functional and narrative pieces. We will be creating with glass sheet, frits, powders, stringers and rod.
read moreDo you want to learn to quilt or change your approach to quilting? We’ll cover contemporary quilt design and technique. You’ll learn about piecing, applique and machine quilting. You’ll leave with a finished wall or lap quilt.
read moreLearn the ancient craft of knitting! You will learn to cast on, knit, purl and cast off to make a beginners project. We'll also cover pattern reading, abbreviations, yarn and needle selection.
read moreExplore zine-making process, an accesible way to self-publish! You'll learn digital design techniques to create miniature zines filled with your own stories and illustrations. We'll start with the basics of Procreate and then learn basic text design and illustration. Expect to walk away from this class with printed copies of your zine to display, trade […]
read moreTransform rough-cut lumber into a modern stool. You’ll learn to use a table saw, planer, router and a variety of hand tools.
read moreLearn how to craft a strong image in poetry as you write an original poem and embroider that image to take home and display. We'll explore imagery in poetry and craft your own image driven poem that will be workshopped in class and then choose one image from your own poem to embroider. You will […]
read moreTake your metal jewelry making to the next level. We’ll focus on design execution, complex stone setting as well as fabricating and soldering with sterling silver. You’ll also advance your polishing skills for finishing pieces.
read moreLearn to throw clay on a potter’s wheel. We’ll cover the foundations of wheel work, including wedging and centering clay and forming cylinders, cups and bowls. Basic glazing information will help you finish your final forms.
read moreLearn methods of using soft pastels for landscape subjects from conception to completion. We'll cover application methods, color mixing techniques, and blending processes for drawing the landscape. Various methods and techniques will be discussed based on the papers and materials chosen by each student. We'll go over principles of composition based on format variation including […]
read moreExplore the basics of clay. We’ll cover the proper use of studio tools, equipment and materials. You’ll learn about slab construction, coil building and combined techniques. We’ll also demonstrate wheel throwing and discuss how various clays and glazes respond to each other.
read moreUse watercolor to paint landscapes while exploring basic watercolor skills, materials and techniques. Watercolor can be both fun and frustrating, dynamic and meditative. You will learn to use color to make simple watercolor washes and layering techniques while exploring the history, materials, tricks and ways to capture light as you paint and sketch using this […]
read moreGum printing (aka Gum bichromate) is a painterly photographic pigment process stretching back to the 19th century. This class will introduce multi-layer contact printing techniques that utilize easily accessible analog and digital photographic technologies. Learn how to make your own digital negatives and safely prepare chemicals used. We'll discuss color theory and produce beautiful color […]
read moreExplore the possibilities of natural dyeing with this 6-week course. Learn how to scour fabric, make mordant baths, and dye with kitchen scraps, foraged goods, and powdered pigments. Everyone will leave with a book of dye swatches and dyed personal items!
read moreLearn the basics of glass cutting, foiling, soldering and framing in order to embellish your home with stained glass panels, decorative mirrors or handmade lampshades. By the end of the class, beginners will have learned the fundamentals and completed a panel. Returning students will be able to explore more advanced techniques.
read moreBring along your oil pastels or oil paint sticks for this plein air class that meets in different locations around our fabulous River City. We’ll visit some of Richmond’s favorite sites – such as Pony Pasture and Maymont – and discover some new ones too! This course will meet off-site and instruction will happen in […]
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