Spring 2026 Classes
March 16 – May 23, 2026
REGISTRATION OPENS: Monday, February 2, 2026 at 9 a.m.!
Spring Term Dates: March 16 – May 23, 2026
Registration Opens: Monday, February 2, 2026
Faculty Open House: Saturday, February 14, 2026 10am – 4pm
The first half of spring term begins: Monday, March 16, 2026
The second half of spring term begins: Monday, April 20, 2026
Click here for DIGITAL BROCHURE
The VBMA will have a full schedule of classes and workshops throughout the Spring Term, available both weekdays and weekends. A variety of five- and ten-week sessions will be available in a wide array of mediums and topics.
Explore Other Course Offerings
IMPORTANT REGISTRATION INFORMATION
2026 Spring Term Registration Information
Classes from March 16 – May 23, 2026
Registration opens Monday, February 2, 2026.
Register online at www.vbmuseum.org. All registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Instructors
VBMA instructors are experienced teachers with rich education and studio backgrounds in addition to being professional artists. Click here for instructor biographies.
Materials
Tuition does not cover the cost of materials used for students’ own production unless stated otherwise. Materials lists for each course or workshop are available on the website.
Cancellations
Courses are canceled if minimum enrollment is not met. If a course is canceled, the VBMA will inform students one week in advance to offer a refund or a transfer to another course.
Guest Policy
We regret that we are unable to accommodate guests in any art studio, humanities, or film class.
Waiting Lists
The Education Department maintains waiting lists for all filled classes. Please contact the VBMA to be placed on a waiting list. No deposit is necessary to hold a space.
Class Refund Policy
For multi-week classes, refund requests must be made through the Education Department within the first week of class. A $25 administrative fee will be assessed on all refunds.
ART HISTORY AND ART APPRECIATION
NEW Art History of the Still Life
Chris Fasolino
All levels
From the lost city of Pompeii to the Dutch golden age, from masterpieces of realism to the experiments of the Impressionists, the still life has a fascinating history in art. During the nineteenth century, American artists excelled in detailed still life paintings that reflect close observation and the love of nature. With gallery visits included, this will enhance the appreciation for hidden gems of the exhibit “American Made: Paintings and Sculpture from the DeMell Jacobsen Collection.”
March 16 – May 18, 2026
Mondays, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 4, Galleries and via Zoom
#26SP-01 $335 (VBMA Members $285)
Register for #26SP-01
Americans in Venice: Artists and Collectors, 1760-1950
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.
March 17 – May 19, 2026
Tuesdays, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#26SP-02 $335 (VBMA Members $285)
Register for #26SP-02
American Art From Colonial Times Through the Nineteenth Century
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!
March 18 – May 20, 2026
Wednesdays, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 4, Galleries and via Zoom
#26SP-03 $335 (VBMA Members $285)
Register for #26SP-03
NEW Based on Books: Literature Inspired by Art
Lynn Berkowitz
All levels
Four tantalizing novels and a memoir bring to light the work of an array of creative artists and inspired collectors and museums. From the hallowed museum halls of the Met in All the Beauty in the World to the Isabella Stewart Gardner in The Art Forger, classic to contemporary paintings and sculptures from artists as diverse as Titan and Vermeer to Louise Bourgeois will be part of this artful conversation. Reading is optional although a booklist will be provided; short videos included.
March 19 – April 16, 2026
Thursdays, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: via Zoom
#26SP-04 $140 (VBMA Members $120)
Register for #26SP-04
NEW On Tour: Museum Highlights from Baltimore to Buffalo
Lynn Berkowitz
All levels
What do Baltimore, Bentonville, Boston, Brooklyn, and Buffalo have in common? Incredible cultural offerings and magnificent museums filled with stunning works of art! To enrich your travel experiences, this virtual tour takes you to happening sites to view and discuss a diverse range of works that feature artists, both famous and less well-known. This conversational-style class features short, related videos to bring fresh perspectives to art movements from classical to contemporary.
April 23 – May 21, 2026
Thursdays, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: via Zoom
#26SP-05 $140 (VBMA Members $120)
Register for #26SP-05
NEW Masters of the Venetian Renaissance: Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese
Rose Z. King
All levels
This course explores Venice’s golden age of painting through the works of Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese, artists who transformed European art. It will examine Titian’s groundbreaking altarpieces and portraits, Tintoretto’s bold brushwork and dynamic compositions, and Veronese’s lavish, theatrical scenes, focusing on their distinctive styles and how each conveyed the beauty and spirituality of their era.
March 19 – April 16, 2026
Thursdays, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#26SP-06 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-06
CONTEMPLATIVE ARTS
Chair Yoga
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.
March 16 – April 13, 2026
Mondays, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Location: VBMA Holmes Great Hall
#26SP-07 $85 (VBMA Members $75)
Register for #26SP-07
April 20 – May 18, 2026
Mondays, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Location: VBMA Holmes Great Hall
#26SP-08 $85 (VBMA Members $75)
Register for #26SP-08
Art of the Tai Chi Form
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.
March 17 – April 14, 2026
Tuesdays, 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Location: VBMA Holmes Great Hall
#26SP-09 $85 (VBMA Members $75)
Register for #26SP-09
April 21 – May 19, 2026
Tuesdays, 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Location: VBMA Holmes Great Hall
#26SP-10 $85 (VBMA Members $75)
Register for #26SP-10
March 19 – April 16, 2026
Thursdays, 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Location: VBMA Holmes Great Hall
#26SP-11 $85 (VBMA Members $75)
Register for #26SP-11
April 23 – May 21, 2026
Thursdays, 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Location: VBMA Holmes Great Hall
#26SP-12 $85 (VBMA Members $75)
Register for #26SP-12
Qigong
Katie Nall
All levels
Qigong is an 8,000-year-old movement program that exercises the body as a whole. With over 9,000 variations, it is the parent form for Tai Chi, Kung Fu, acupuncture, acupressure, and Emotional Freedom Technique (Tapping). Qigong is known as the Longevity Exercise. No special equipment required.
March 17 – April 14, 2026
Tuesdays, 6 – 7 p.m.
Location: VBMA Atrium
#26SP-13 $85 (VBMA Members $75)
Register for #26SP-13
April 21 – May 19, 2026
Tuesdays, 6 – 7 p.m.
Location: VBMA Atrium
#26SP-14 $85 (VBMA Members $75)
Register for #26SP-14
Qigong: An 8,000-Year-Old Form of Exercise
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.
March 18 – April 15, 2026
Wednesdays, 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Location: VBMA Holmes Great Hall
#26SP-15 $85 (VBMA Members $75)
Register for #26SP-15
April 22 – May 20, 2026
Wednesdays, 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Location: VBMA Holmes Great Hall
#26SP-16 $85 (VBMA Members $75)
Register for #26SP-16
CLAY
Clay Creations
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. Click here for a list of recommended supplies.
March 19 – April 16, 2026
Thursdays, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26SP-17 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-17
PHOTOGRAPHY
Stuart Segal Scholarship for Photography Students
The Stuart Segal Scholarship is dedicated to aiding aspiring photography students for whom attending class would otherwise be financially challenging. The scholarship will pay tuition fees for any photography course offered at the VBMA. For more information or to apply for this scholarship, please click here.
NOTE: A limited number of cameras and lenses are available to check out from the Education Department during the photography classes listed below.
Photoshop for Photographers
Aric Attas
All levels
Students will take their photography to the next level in this interactive class. They will learn how to organize their images and get the most out of them using Bridge and the power of Photoshop. This class will cover file management, image adjustments, retouching, layers, filters, special effects, and exporting for print and web. Click here for a list of recommended supplies.
March 18 – May 20, 2026
Wednesdays, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#26SP-18 $335 (VBMA Members $285)
Register for #26SP-18
Visual Storytelling: Photography in a New Era
Ken George Jr.
Beginner to intermediate levels
This forward-thinking course explores the art of storytelling through photography in today’s digital landscape. Students learn to shoot, edit, and enhance images using modern tools and techniques, with an emphasis on narrative impact. The class incorporates evolving technologies and platforms, including Adobe Creative Cloud or Lightroom, to help photographers create more meaningful, visually compelling work. Click here for a list of recommended supplies.
March 21 – April 18, 2026
Saturdays, 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#26SP-19 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-19
April 25 – May 23, 2026
Saturdays, 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#26SP-20 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-20
JEWELRY
Jewelry 101: Fundamentals and Techniques
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.
*All materials and supplies are included.
March 18 – April 15, 2026
Wednesdays, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26SP-21 $305 (VBMA Members $260)
Register for #26SP-21
April 22 – May 20, 2026
Wednesdays, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26SP-22 $305 (VBMA Members $260)
Register for #26SP-22
DRAWING
You Can Draw
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.
March 19 – April 16, 2026
Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#26SP-23 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-23
Pastels: More Than Just Drawing
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 here for a list of recommended supplies.
March 19 – April 16, 2026
Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26SP-24 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-24
April 23 – May 21, 2026
Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26SP-25 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-25
MIXED MEDIA
Focused Open Studio
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.
March 16 – April 13, 2026
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#26SP-26 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-26
April 20 – May 18, 2026
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#26SP-27 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-27
Collage with Self-Created Gelli Prints and Other Painted Papers
Leigh Bennett
All levels
Students will explore the many ways to create colorful gelli prints and other painted papers, experimenting with different techniques and materials to produce unique textures and patterns. Various types of paper will be discussed to expand creative possibilities. Once an assortment of prints is ready, the class will guide students through the process of building vibrant, expressive collages. This course is ideal for those who enjoy experimentation, creativity, and having fun with art. Click here for recommended supply list.
March 18 – April 15, 2026
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26SP-28 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-28
NEW Collage in the Footsteps of Beatrize Melhauzes
Leigh Bennett
Intermediate level
Students will use lots of self-created gelli prints and a variety of mixed mediums. Students will study shape, design, and symbols with the ultimate goal of composing a wonderful and exciting collage. Additionally, students will learn all about the incredible Brazilian collage artist Beatrize Melhauzes from whom we will gather inspiration. Click here for recommended supply list.
April 22 – May 20, 2026
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26SP-29 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-29
PAINTING
Painting with Oil
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.
March 16 – April 13, 2026
Mondays, 9:30 – 12:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26SP-30 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-30
April 20 – May 18, 2026
Mondays, 9:30 – 12:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26SP-31 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-31
Advanced Painting Techniques
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 list of recommended supplies.
March 16 – May 18, 2026
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#26SP-32 $345 (VBMA Members $295)
Register for #26SP-32
Watercolor Basics for All Levels
Adam Conard
All levels
Students will learn the fundamentals of watercolor painting, including color mixing, brush handling, and essential techniques like washes and layering. The class will explore different approaches to creating textures and learn how to compose engaging watercolor paintings. No prior experience is necessary, just a willingness to experiment and have fun! Click here for a list of recommended supplies.
March 16 – April 13, 2026
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26SP-33 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-33
April 20 – May 18, 2026
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#26SP-34 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-34
Abstract Painting
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 a list of recommended supplies.
March 17 – April 14, 2026
Tuesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#26SP-35 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-35
Still Life Painting
Barry Shapiro
Beginner to intermediate levels
Each class will start with a brief illustrated presentation, beginning with the history of still life painting. Subsequent presentations will be on specific artists and styles and classes will end with a group critique. Click here for a list of recommended supplies.
April 21 – May 19, 2026
Tuesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#26SP-36 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-36
Introduction to Painting
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 list of recommended supplies.
March 18 – May 20, 2026
Wednesdays, 9:30 – 12:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#26SP-37 $335 (VBMA Members $285)
Register for #26SP-37
Intermediate Painting
Barry Shapiro
Intermediate level
This course is for students who have completed Introduction to Painting or are relatively experienced painters looking to enhance their skills. Students will learn from well-known artworks and artists as well as from in-class instruction. Students will study composition through painting exercises in oil or acrylics, including still life, and figurative proportions. Click here for a list of recommended supplies.
March 18 – May 20, 2026
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#26SP-38 $335 (VBMA Members $285)
Register for #26SP-38
Plein Air
Judy Burgarella
All levels
Plein air is the act of painting outdoors with the artist’s subject in full view. Join other plein air artists to capture the spirit and essence of a landscape. Using beautiful, natural resources as subjects, students will assemble at local outdoor locations to find their favorite views to use as inspiration in original sketches and paintings. Click here for a list of recommended supplies.
March 19 – April 16, 2026
Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 2 and outdoor locations
#26SP-39 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-39
April 23 – May 21, 2026
Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#26SP-40 $205 (VBMA Members $175)
Register for #26SP-40