Art Workshops
 
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Daytime Classes


Nature Drawing: A Beginner's Course
Whether your interest leans toward the realistic, surreal, or a bit of van Gogh, you will see your drawing skills improve in this class. Using standard black and white media, instructor/artist Meredith Moench will first guide you in an exploration of basic drawing skills, focusing on a variety of botanical subjects. Building upon this foundation, she will then help you discover the various creative possibilities suggested by natural forms using a variety of drawing media, including some color options. Please bring a 14x17 spiral-bound medium weight sketch pad and 2B drawing pencil to the first class. Additional materials will be discussed at that time.
Session is Closed

Botanical Illustration
If you are a plant and flower lover, here is a class for you! Appealing to both the scientific and artistic, botanical illustration emphasizes accuracy of detail while also exploring the natural beauty of plants. You will begin by observing and carefully drawing your subject from life. Instructor/artist Meredith Moench will then teach you the special watercolor techniques used by botanical artists to create finished illustrations. Although no previous painting experience is necessary, it is recommended that students have a basic knowledge of drawing before taking this class. (Meredith's Nature Drawing: A Beginner's Course is an excellent foundation.) A materials list will be sent with class receipt.
S8105 / 5 sessions / 12.5 clock hrs.
F from 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM
Moench
$119
Start Date:5/16
End Date: 6/13
WCC - Cascade 163

Figure Drawing
Whether you are a true beginner or a returning figure drawing student, join in this inspiring class to learn to draw what you see...not what you think you see! Using clothed models from all walks of life, local artist Trish Harding will teach the elements of contour, line integrity, attitude, volume, shading, shapes, and much more. Work at your own pace as you learn to draw better than you ever thought possible! Please bring to first class an 18" x 24" newsprint pad, drawing board, several sticks of soft "vine" charcoal, and one stick of soft "compressed" charcoal. No pencils, please.
Session is Closed

Experience Watercolors II
Continue your watercolor painting experience with this follow-up to "Experience Watercolors!", and further develop your artistic skills and ideas. Under the gentle guidance of instructor Meredith Moench, you will gain confidence in your ability to complete high quality, finished watercolor paintings. Any student who has had basic watercolor painting experience is invited to enroll. A supply list will be sent with class receipt.
Session is Closed

Sculpting Bust Portraits in Clay
Experience the meditative qualities of sculpting in clay as you create a bust portrait of a person of your choice. Capture the elegant precision of classical portraiture or the whimsical flow of a unique character. Working from direct observation of your own photos you will study shape, proportion and feature placement with an emphasis on creating a lifelike quality to your piece. We will focus on achieving a likeness of your subject using your own personal expressive narrative while developing sound hand-building techniques. Prerequisite: some clay building experience or instructor permission required. Materials list will be sent with class receipt; bring a sack lunch. Class includes a one-hour critique and pick-up of finished works on May 10, 10-11 a.m. Session is closed.

Introduction to the Potter's Wheel  (See below for evening section)
Join us in Whatcom's beautiful Roe Studio and learn to use the potter's wheel to create unique designs and useful art in clay. You will learn the basic skills of centering, throwing, trimming, and glazing pottery to create one-of-a-kind pieces. Student creations may include bowls, cups, cylinders, and jars. Instructor and artist Gene Lewis enjoys teaching his craft and welcomes both beginning and experienced pottery students. Clay and glaze will be provided; additional supply list will be sent with class receipt. Course includes a final one-hour critique session, time/date to be arranged in class.
S8403 / 5 sessions / 15 clock hrs.
Tu from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Lewis
$139
Start Date:5/6
End Date: 6/3
WCC - Roe Studio

Mosaic Art: An Introductory Workshop
Learn the basics of mosaic art as you create a colorful wall-hanging in this introductory class. Using an easy method, you will design your own pattern with a wide variety of colorful ceramic pieces and interesting found objects. Instructor Jean Kroll is a mosaic artist who has exhibited her work in the Whatcom/Skagit County area. Jean will provide all materials needed for your project, including a vast selection of colorful shards. You are also welcome to bring your own items from home (broken dishes, beads, beach glass, etc.). $10 materials fee payable to instructor at class.
S8479 / 1 session / 4 clock hrs.
Sa from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Kroll
$39
Start Date:5/10
End Date: 5/10
WCC - Cascade 163

Drum Design & Paint Workshop
If you are enthralled by the art of Native American drum making, spend a day with award-winning drum maker Ramon Murillo as he teaches you how to first create a unique design and then paint it on a drum. Ramon will guide you through his design process, using animal characteristics and world symbols to determine your authentic representation of self. Class will also explore the issues of appropriation and misappropriation of Native American symbols and ceremonies. As a special treat, Ramon will drum and sing traditional Native American songs. Please bring an unpainted hand drum to class; drums and drumstick will also be available for purchase in class ($50). Additional $5 material fee is payable to instructor at class. Lunch break from 12:30-1:00 PM.
S8217 / 1 session / 5.5 clock hrs.
Sa from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Murillo
$55
Start Date:5/17
End Date: 5/17
WCC - Cascade 163

Drum
Making: An Introductory Workshop
Don't miss this chance to spend a day with award-winning Native American drum maker and accomplished artist Ramon Murillo as he teaches you how to make your very own drum and drumstick. Through images, song, and dance, this class will explore the Native American culture and many of the beautiful ceremonies and beliefs that surround drumming. Each student will learn how to cut, lace, and construct a 12-inch hand drum and drum stick--leaving at the end of the day with a completed drum! Additional $30 materials fee payable to instructor at class. Lunch break from 12:30-1:00 PM.
Session is Closed
 

Evening Classes


Caring for Art, Heirlooms and Documents
 
When hanging your pictures, which wall is safest for which kind of media? What do you do if your photos become wet or dirty? Will color or black & white copies last longer than the original photos? These questions and more will be answered during this workshop dedicated to teaching you how to keep your priceless family photos and works of art safe for generations to come. Course will cover how to avoid damage when framing, hanging, and storing your artwork; safe storage options (boxes, albums); and how to save money by using commonly found materials. Each student will receive a humidity indicator card to take home. Instructor Carol Lavoie, a.k.a. The Art Preserver, has a private studio in Bellingham for paper and paintings restoration.
Session is closed.

Colored Pencil Drawing
Discover colored pencils, a medium that has recently come into its own as a fine art. Katherine Morgan, local artist and teacher, will teach techniques in layering, burnishing and lifting to create rich, glowing effects. You will be surprised at the results! Individualized instruction makes this class perfect for all skill levels--beginners are welcome and encouraged to enroll! Bring drawing paper and any colored pencils you may have to first class. Additional required supplies will be explained at first class session.
S8149 / 5 sessions / 10 clock hrs.
Tu from 6:25 PM to 8:25 PM
Morgan
$95
Start Date:5/13
End Date: 6/10
WCC - Cascade 163

Advanced Knotwork Drawing
This continuation will introduce you to Roses, Spheres, Triangles, and Repeating Patterns. Class will also delve deeper into mixed cutwork, morphing grids, and custom ribbons. Prerequisite: Instructor Jenevieve Neros' Drawing Celtic Knotwork course. Session is closed.

Color for Painters
 
Whether you are an experienced painter or have just completed your first class, learning more about the dynamics of color will improve your paintings and add to your enjoyment. In this new class you will learn to accurately and easily reproduce the colors you see while also discovering that color can have a life of its own! An experienced teacher of 30 years, Meredith Moench will gently guide you in exploring new ways to use color in a variety of painting exercises and subjects. You may work in whatever painting medium you prefer. A list of recommended supplies will be sent with class receipt.
S8145 / 5 sessions / 12.5 clock hrs.
W from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Moench
$119
Start Date:5/14
End Date: 6/11
WCC - Cascade 163

Asian-Style Brush Painting: The Plum Blossom
Spontaneous, expressive, sensitive and intuitive--explore the wonders of Asian-style brush painting. Using ink on rice paper, you will experience centuries-old brush strokes and timeless tradition. Our subject for spring quarter will be the plum blossom, admired for its fortitude and spirit, fragility of blossom and firmness of branch. Instructor and local artist Carole Chaplin will demonstrate techniques, guidelines, and strategies that every artist can use, including beginners, students with previous practice, and artists in other media. Carole's past students are encouraged to return to add the plum blossom to a pine tree or bamboo composition. Don't miss this inspiring experience as you learn to paint with rhythm, serenity and grace. A supply list will be sent with class receipt.
Session is Closed

Matting Techniques for the Beginner
 
Have you ever wanted to learn how to cut a mat for your favorite picture? Do you have an odd-sized frame that you would like to reuse? This class will teach you how to select and purchase matting materials, proportion and color considerations, and mat-cutting and mounting techniques. Through demonstrations and hands-on practice, you will gain the skills to successfully complete your own matting projects. Instructor will discuss mat-cutter purchasing options at first class--students will be expected to bring their mat-cutter to subsequent sessions. $3 material fee payable to instructor at first class. Instructor Carol Lavoie, a.k.a. The Art Preserver, has over 20 years of experience in matting and framing and has a local private studio specializing in paper and paintings restoration. Session is closed.

Drawing Celtic Knotwork
Are you intrigued by Celtic knots and tribal designs? Then join local artist Jenevieve Neros as she shows you how simple it is to draw elaborate knotwork. Using a freehand grid system and easy-to-follow rules, you will be able to create limitless knotwork for almost any medium, from painting to pottery to jewelry design. Even if you have no drawing skills you will be able to succeed--creating amazing knotwork plaits, borders, rings, and mandalas. The only tools you'll need are pencil, paper, and a compass to begin to duplicate these ancient designs of the British Isles!
Session is Closed

Beginning Design: All About Composition
 
Why is it that sometimes the art you create looks like you intended, but other times the result is less desirable? Improve your odds for success by learning what makes it work in the first place! Join instructor Katherine Morgan and practice a few easy-to- learn fundamentals of composition in class that you can apply to your art, whether it's drawing, painting, photography, collage, printmaking, or quilting. Bring a pencil and paper to first class; additional materials will be discussed at that time. Session is closed.

Dare to Draw!
This is a great class for anyone who would like to try drawing for the first time or for those wanting a refresher in basic skills. Instructor Katherine Morgan will lead you through a number of exercises to train the eye, hand, and imagination to work as a team. As you progress from contour line drawings to the use of shading, you will see your drawing skills improve right before your eyes! Course is based on the book Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain. Bring a #2 pencil and white sketch pad to class.
Session is Closed

Experience Watercolors! A Beginner's Course
Join in this beginning watercolor class and discover how delightful watercolor painting can be! Course will include step-by-step exercises that will demystify the painting process. With an abundance of individual instruction and encouragement, you will soon gain the self-confidence to begin creating your own watercolors. With 30 years of experience teaching students of all levels and abilities, artist Meredith Moench will guide you as you explore your own inner artist. A supply list will be sent with class receipt.
Session is Closed

Introduction to the Potter's Wheel  (See above for daytime section)
Join us in Whatcom's beautiful Roe Studio and learn to use the potter's wheel to create unique designs and useful art in clay. You will learn the basic skills of centering, throwing, trimming, and glazing pottery to create one-of-a-kind pieces. Student creations may include bowls, cups, cylinders, and jars. Instructor and artist Gene Lewis enjoys teaching his craft and welcomes both beginning and experienced pottery students. Clay and glaze will be provided; additional supply list will be sent with class receipt. Course includes a final one-hour critique session, time/date to be arranged in class.
Session is Closed

 

 
     

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360-647-3277, 237 West Kellogg Road, Bellingham, WA 98226