Winter 2026 Classes

Chris Fasolino
All levels
This course is designed to enhance enjoyment and appreciation of the VBMA’s exhibition American Made: Paintings and Sculptures from the DeMell Jacobsen Collection. Explore American portraiture, landscapes, seascapes, and still life paintings from colonial times through the nineteenth century. The Hudson River School and the American Impressionists will be featured. With gallery visits, we will discuss historic paintings as we stand right in front of them!

January 5 – March 9, 2026
(No class January 19. Make-up class TBD)
Mondays, 9:30 – 11:30 am
Location: VBMA Studio 4 and via Zoom
#26WI-01 $335 (VBMA members $285)
Register for #26WI-01

Chris Fasolino
All levels
What should one look for when visiting the VBMA’s exhibition American Made: Paintings and Sculptures from the DeMell Jacobsen Collection? This course will introduce participants to exhibit highlights while providing an overview of early American art. We will explore portraits, landscapes, seascapes, and still life paintings from colonial times through the nineteenth century, using gallery visits, PowerPoint lectures, and engaging discussion. The Hudson River School and American Impressionism will be featured.

February 11 – March 11, 2026
Wednesdays, 9:30 – 11:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 4 and via Zoom
#26WI-02 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #26WI-02

Lynn Berkowitz
All levels
Considering Monet’s love affair with London, American artists who flocked to Spain and Paris, international artists in NYC, and Loïs Mailou Jones’ visits to Haiti, we will explore a diverse group of artists who found the culture of new places inspiring! From profoundly different ways of artmaking to impassioned new teaching strategies, artists have used their far-flung experiences to enliven their practice. Art from the past to the present will be discussed. Includes short videos.

February 12 – March 12, 2026
Thursdays, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: via Zoom
#26WI-04 $140 (VBMA members $120)
Register for #25WI-04

Rose Z. King
All levels
This course explores the mesmerizing city of Venice, whose enduring beauty and weathered elegance captivated American artists and collectors, profoundly shaping their art and culture between 1760 and 1950. Students will examine how Venice’s distinctive landscape, rich visual heritage, and diverse inhabitants stirred artistic imagination and fostered a vibrant expatriate community, while also deepening their appreciation for the VBMA’s American Made exhibition through guided gallery visits.

January 8 – March 12, 2026
Thursdays, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#26WI-05 $335 (VBMA members $285)
Register for #26WI-05

Elise Mahovlich
All levels
Students will enjoy an invigorating yoga practice with a slight modification – the chair is the ‘ground.’ Students will employ this everyday prop to take them through the range of motion for a full body workout that will include forward bends, backbends, and spinal twists for flexibility; standing and balancing poses to build stability and core strength; and breathing techniques for body awareness and stress reduction.
January 5 – February 2, 2026
(No class January 19. Make-up class TBD)
Mondays, 9:30 – 10:30 am
Location: VBMA Atrium
#26WI-06 $85 (VBMA members $75)
Register for #26WI-06

February 9 – March 9, 2026
Mondays, 9:30 – 10:30 am
Location: VBMA Atrium
#26WI-07 $85 (VBMA members $75)
Register for #26WI-07

John Walcott
All levels
The art of tai chi feeds body, mind, and spirit. In this course, students will learn a series of forms that focus on balance, health, and well-being. A combination of brief lecture and practice, sessions will include opening the energy gate exercises for body, 18-step Qigong for mindfulness, and 24-step tai chi moving meditation for flow of spirit.

January 6 – February 3, 2026
Tuesdays, 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Location: VBMA Holmes Great Hall
#26WI-08 $85 (VBMA members $75)
Register for #26WI-08

February 10 – March 10, 2026
(No class February 17. Make-up class TBD)
Tuesdays, 8:30 – 9:30 am
Location: VBMA Atrium
#26WI-09 $85 (VBMA members $75)
Register for #26WI-09

January 8 – February 5, 2026
Thursdays, 8:30 – 9:30 am
Location: VBMA Atrium
#26WI-10 $85 (VBMA members $75)
Register for #26WI-10

February 12 – March 12, 2026
Thursdays, 8:30 – 9:30 am
Location: VBMA Atrium
#26WI-11 $85 (VBMA members $75)
Register for #26WI-11

John Walcott
All levels
This class will introduce students to five different styles of Qigong, an ancient practice designed to unify body, mind, and spirit. Using conscious breathing combined with gentle movement, students will stretch muscles, massage internal organs, and cultivate inner balance. The practice encourages calmness and fosters a harmonious sense of well-being that supports overall health and vitality.

January 7 – February 4, 2026
Wednesdays, 8:30 – 9:30 am
Location: VBMA Atrium
#26WI-14 $85 (VBMA members $75)
Register for #26WI-14 

February 11 – March 11, 2026
(No class March 4. Make-up class TBD)
Wednesdays, 8:30 – 9:30 am
Location: VBMA Atrium
#26WI-15 $85 (VBMA members $75)
Register for #26WI-15

Rob Buller
All levels
This class invites students to explore the world of sculpting and casting without firing. They will create 3-D original sculptures with oil-based clay, learn mold-making techniques with plaster, and press-mold multiples using air-dry clay. Projects are finished with acrylic based effects like faux stone, metal, or vibrant colors. Creations can include bas-relief tiles, chess sets, clay stamps, and more, providing opportunities to develop creativity and hands-on skills.

January 8 – February 5, 2026
Thursdays, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26WI-16 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #25WI-16

February 12 – March 12, 2026
Thursdays, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26WI-17 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #25WI-17

Ken George Jr.
Beginner to intermediate levels
Students will explore the fundamentals of cinematography, including camera operation, shot composition, movement, lighting, and sound. Through lectures, demos, and hands-on projects, students will gain practical skills to create visually compelling stories from concept to finished film.

January 6 – February 3, 2026
Tuesdays, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#26WI-18 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #25WI-18

February 10 – March 10, 2026
Tuesdays, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#26WI-19 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #25WI-18

Aric Attas
All level
This fun and interactive class is designed to teach students the fundamentals of photography. Discover f/stops and shutter speeds and how to use them to take better photos. We’ll also discuss composition, color, perspective and imaginative approaches to photography to spark creativity! Click here for recommended supply list.

January 7 – March 11, 2026
Wednesdays, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#26WI-20 $335 (VBMA members $285)
Register for #25WI-20

Gary Grossman
Beginner to intermediate levels
Students explore a wide range of jewelry making techniques, from sawing, piercing, and filing to metal forming, texturing, engraving, and stone setting. They design and create rings, earrings, pendants, brooches, and bracelets in copper, brass, and sterling silver, gaining hands-on experience with both traditional and modern methods.

January 7 – February 4, 2026
Wednesdays, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26WI-23 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #25WI-23

February 11 – March 11, 2026
Wednesdays, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26WI-24 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #25WI-24

Marlene Evans Putnam
Beginner level
This course will ensure that beginning students learn to see shapes, understand shadows, and use lines in powerful or delicate ways. Students learn to use their drawing tools properly and confidently and will be amazed at their steady progress as they learn to design and compose their projects. The instructor will teach by both lecture and studio demonstration. Click here for a list of recommended supplies.

January 8 – February 5, 2026
Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#26WI-25 $205 (VBMA members $175)​
Register for #26WI-25

February 12 – March 12, 2026
Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#26WI-26 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #25WI-36

Sherry Haaland
All levels
Students will learn pastel techniques of strokes/ marks, scumbling, crosshatching, dabbing, and blending. By experimenting with these methods, students can experiment on their own individual artworks. Click for a list of recommended supplies.

January 8 – February 5, 2026
Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26WI-27 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #26WI-27

February 12 – March 12, 2026
Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26WI-28 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #26WI-28

Judy Burgarella
All levels
Students will work independently in this open studio, bringing their own supplies in the medium of their choice and references to work from. The instructor will offer individual guidance along with demonstrations of various techniques and helpful tips and tricks. Click here for a list of recommended supplies.

January 5 – February 2, 2026
(No class January 19. Make-up class TBD)
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#26WI-31 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #26WI-31

February 9 – March 9, 2026
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#26WI-32 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #26WI-32

Leigh Bennett
All levels
Inspired by the works of the Impressionists with a contemporary twist, this class invites participants to create a unique three-dimensional floral arrangement using fabrics, paints, embroidery, and mixed media. Through playful experimentation with color, texture, and composition, students will develop design and layout techniques that can be applied across creative mediums. While not a technical course in stitching or embroidery, these elements will be incorporated into the process, offering participants new skills to expand their fiber art practice.

January 6 – February 3, 2026
Tuesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26WI-33 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #26WI-33

Xaque Gruber
All levels
Using watercolor methods, students will explore the art of illustration through character design and visual storytelling. They will work from song lyrics, literature, nursery rhymes, and more to create imagery that enhance the text. Whether aspiring to be the next Beatrix Potter or simply looking to enjoy the creative process, all are welcome. No experience is necessary, just bring creativity and imagination!

January 7 – February 4, 2026
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26WI-35 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #26WI-35

Xaque Gruber
All levels
In this fun and imaginative class, students will discover how watercolor can be used to tell stories, capture moods, and spark creativity. Each week will bring a new playful prompt, such as illustrating a poem, inventing characters, or painting to music, encouraging students to experiment with color, shape, and flow. The focus will be on expression rather than perfection, allowing students to embrace happy accidents and the spontaneous nature of watercolor. No experience required, just bring curiosity and a sense of adventure!

February 11 – March 11, 2026
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26WI-36 $205 (VBMA members $175))
Register for #26WI-36

Pearl Lau
All levels
In this class, students will learn how 19th-century French artists such as Claude Monet broke away from European traditions. They explored light and color in addition to changing the subject matter from formal portraits to the working class. The invention of the train brought artists out of dingy, smoky Paris to the sunny and colorful south of France. Pastel, oil, or acrylic is appropriate for this class—students’ choice. Students will work from photos of landscapes they bring in, as well as from those the instructor has collected. Click here for a list of recommended supplies.

January 5 – February 2, 2026
(No class January 19. Make-up class TBD)
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26WI-37 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #26WI-37

February 9 – March 9, 2026
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26WI-38 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #26WI-38

Barry Shapiro
Advanced level
This course is designed for students who have had experience painting in acrylic and/or oil and who wish to expand their knowledge and technical skills. The instructor will encourage students to explore new techniques and work in larger formats. Click here for a recommended list of supplies.

January 5 – March 9, 2026
(No class January 19. Make-up class TBD)
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#26WI-39 $345 (VBMA members $295)
Register for #26WI-39

Adam Conard
All levels
This class takes a deep dive into creating successful oil paintings including choosing the right supplies, creating depth, tone, and value and setting up the canvas. Students will go over the rich and vibrant history of oil painting and how it is being used today. Whether a seasoned oil painter, new to painting, or have been painting in other mediums, this class will have a lot to offer. Students are free in their artistic expression to create the subject matter of your choice. Click here for a list of recommended supplies.

January 6 – February 3, 2026
(No class January 20. Make-up class TBD)
Tuesdays, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#26WI-41 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #26WI-41

February 10 – March 10, 2026
Tuesdays, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#26WI-42 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #26WI-42

Barry Shapiro
Beginner level
This course is designed to teach beginners the art and science of oil or acrylic painting, including perspective, color, and brushwork. Classes cover what students need to know about how to start an enjoyable and successful lifetime of painting. Students will work on assignments in class with specific instruction. Click here for a recommended list of supplies.

January 7 – March 11, 2026
Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#26WI-43 $335 (VBMA members $285)
Register for #26WI-43

Barry Shapiro
All levels
This class is for all levels of artists who want to explore the world of abstract painting by looking at its origins and its contemporary practitioners. Each week features a new style and approach for oil and acrylic painters. Click here for recommended supply list.

February 11 – March 11, 2026
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#26WI-45 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #26WI-45

Pearl Lau
All levels
This class introduces students to the versatile and expressive nature of watercolor. Through guided exercises, students will experiment with washes, layering, blending, and brush techniques to create both abstract and representational works. Emphasis will be placed on learning how to control the flow of pigment and water while also embracing the spontaneous effects that make watercolor distinctive. Students will complete a series of smaller studies and one final polished painting of their choice.

January 7 – February 4, 2026
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#26WI-46 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #26WI-46

February 12 – March 12, 2026
Thursdays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#26WI-47 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #26WI-47

Pearl Lau
All levels
The class will look at European artists and how they formed compositions, specifically landscapes. The focus will be on the French Impressionists and understanding perspective and diminishing colors to create depth in
a painting. Students can choose their own medium. Each student will create three 8 x 10” and one final beautiful large 11 x 14” painting. Click here for a list of recommended supplies.

January 8 – February 5, 2026
Thursdays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#26WI-49 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #26WI-49

February 11 – March 11, 2026
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#26WI-50 $205 (VBMA members $175)
Register for #26WI-50