Winter 2024 Classes
Classes from January 8 – March 17, 2024
Registration opens November 20, 2023
Click here for the winter term digital brochure
COURSE OFFERINGS – 5 AND 10 WEEK CLASSES
January 8 – March 17, 2024
HUMANITIES
ART HISTORY AND ART APPRECIATION
NEW! TREASURES OF THE PHARAOHS
All Levels
This course will enhance your appreciation for
the VBMA’s exhibition Ancient Egypt & the Napoleonic Era: Masterworks from the Dahesh Museum of Art with the stories behind the monuments in the paintings, along with insight into the ancient Egyptian civilization that has so fascinated artists. Gallery visits, combined with PowerPoint presentations, will explore the secrets of the pyramids, the tombs, and the treasures they contained; show how ancient paintings beautifully portrayed the rich flora and fauna of the Nile; and even show family life in ancient Egypt. Click here for video.
Classes meet January 8 – March 18, 2024
(no class January 15, 2024)
Mondays, 9:30 – 11:30 am
Location: VBMA Studio 4 and via Zoom
#WA01 $310 (VBMA members $265)
Register for #WA01
NEW! THE ART OF ART APPRECIATION
All Levels
Through a series of illustrated lectures, this
course introduces the history, development, basic elements, theories, and concepts of the visual arts in various media and forms. The instructor will emphasize understanding the artists’ motivations and appreciating overt and subtle aspects of artwork, and its relevance in time and history.
Classes meet January 9 – February 6, 2024
Tuesdays, 5:30 – 7:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#WA02 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA02
NEW! EXPLORERS OF THE NILE
All Levels
Gallery visits and PowerPoint lectures will add to students’ enjoyment of the the VBMA’s exhibition Ancient Egypt & the Napoleonic Era: Masterworks from the Dahesh Museum of Art. Learn about the adventures behind the paintings, as artists explored Egypt during the nineteenth century and see how they followed in the wake of Napoleon Bonaparte and Horatio Nelson while trying to recreate the Egypt of ancient times in their art. Join the adventure! Click here for video.
Classes meet January 10 – March 13, 2024
Wednesdays, 9:30 – 11:30 am
Location: VBMA Studio 4 and via Zoom
#WA03 $310 (VBMA members $265)
Register for #WA03
NEW! INSPIRATION AND IMPACT: WHEN ART AND ARTISTS INFLUENCE EACH OTHER
All Levels
Artists draw inspiration from many sources including nature, places, personal experiences, exotic lands, and other artists’ work. Students will consider van Gogh and the artists he loved, the Orient and the West, and many more thrilling connections. From historic to contemporary images, class conversation includes a diversity of artists and short enriching videos.
Classes meet January 11 – February 8, 2024
Thursdays, 9:30 – 11:30 am
Location: Classes meet via Zoom
#WA04 $130 (VBMA members $110)
Register for #WA04
NEW! APPROACHING ART: CONNECTIONS AND DIFFERENCES FROM AVERY TO ZURBARAN
All Levels
Looking at art is a dynamic experience when approached with strategies that allow for information and insights to emerge from the viewer. Tantalizing questions and prompts, using comparing, observing, and hypothesizing techniques, will get to the story within the paintings on view. From Matisse to Hopper, Jordan Casteel, and others, we will craft fresh ways of seeing. A diversity of artists, styles, and ‘isms will come to light with additional media to enrich the discussion.
Classes meet February 15 – March 14, 2024
Thursdays, 9:30 – 11:30 am
Location: Classes meet via Zoom
#WA05 $130 (VBMA members $110)
Register for #WA05
CONTEMPLATIVE ARTS
CHAIR YOGA
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.
Classes meet January 8 – February 12, 2024
(no class January 15, 2024)
Mondays, 9:30 – 10:30 am
Location: VBMA Holmes Great Hall
#WA06 $75 (VBMA members $65)
Register for #WA06
Classes meet February 19 – March 18, 2024
Mondays, 9:30 – 10:30 am
Location: VBMA Holmes Great Hall
#WA07 $75 (VBMA members $65)
Register for #WA07
QIGONG
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.
Classes meet January 9 – February 6, 2024
Tuesdays, 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Location: VBMA Holmes Great Hall
#WA08 $75 (VBMA members $65)
Register for #WA08
Classes meet February 13 – March 12, 2024
Tuesdays, 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Location: VBMA Holmes Great Hall
#WA09 $75 (VBMA members $65)
Register for #WA09
STUDIO ARTS
WRITING
NEW! CREATIVE WRITING: DISCOVERING YOUR STORY
All Levels
This supportive and interactive class concentrates on the techniques of writing creative nonfiction and fiction through the production of original works followed by discussion and analysis. Students along with the instructor will provide effective critiques, identifying both strengths and areas for improvement. In addition, students will work on creative exercises using specific techniques that will provide the foundation for stories and essays and learn how to transform observation and personal experience into imaginative prose, create dynamic characters and dialogue, and write from different points of view.
Classes meet January 10 – February 7, 2024
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#WA10 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA10
Classes meet February 14 – March 13, 2024
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#WA11 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA11
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 via the VBMA’s Museum Art School. For more information or to apply for this scholarship, please visit www.vbmuseum.org/museum-art-school.
PHOTOGRAPHY 101
Beginner 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! Students only need their cameras and notes.
Classes meet January 8 – March 18, 2024
(no class January 15, 2024)
Mondays, 6:30 – 8:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#WA12 $310 (VBMA members $265)
Register for #WA12
THE CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHER
All Levels
This course is designed to help students discover their creativity and personal vision through photography. We will explore the creative process through presentations, slides and videos. Each week students will be given a creative challenge to help them discover new ways of seeing. Technical skills will be introduced along the way to support creative ideas. The instructor also presents a variety of strategies for staying engaged creatively even after the course.
Classes meet January 10 – March 13, 2024
Wednesdays, 6:30 – 8:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#WA13 $310 (VBMA members $265)
Register for #WA13
CERAMICS
PLEASE NOTE: MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES FOR CERAMICS CLASSES
A 25-pound bag of clay is included in class tuition. Registered students may purchase up to two more bags of clay from the instructor during the duration of each course. Only clay provided by the Museum may be used in class or fired in the Museum’s kilns. All tools and materials are the responsibility of the students and are generally introduced through a supply list on the website under the class description, or during the term’s first class. Click here for recommended supply list.
WORKING WITH CLAY
Kent Johnson
All Levels
Open to beginners through advanced students, this class includes both hand building and wheel throwing. Beginners learn the basics, while returning students work on perfecting their techniques. The instructor covers surface decoration, design, and glazing instruction, and will also employ helpful class critiques.
Classes meet January 9 – March 12, 2024
Tuesdays, 5:30 – 8:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 5
#WA14 $330 (VBMA members $280)
REGISTRATION IS CLOSED FOR THIS CLASS
THROW LIKE A PRO
Kent Johnson
All Levels
This class provides an intensive immersion in wheel-throwing for students of all skill levels. Beginners will learn shortcuts to successfully make pots on the wheel, while students with previous experience can grow their skills. Weekly demonstrations will cover basic forms such as cups and bowls and will move on to advanced forms such as tall vases and larger forms. Instruction on glazing techniques will round out the course, allowing students to finish pieces to take home and enjoy.
Classes meet January 10 – March 13, 2024
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 5
#WA15 $330 (VBMA members $280)
REGISTRATION IS CLOSED FOR THIS CLASS
ADVANCED CERAMICS STUDIO
Walford Campbell
Advanced Level
This studio course is geared to the student who is motivated to undertake ambitious individual work in clay and further their understanding of ceramic art. The goal is to provide the advanced student the opportunity to grow and to produce desired but previously unattainable work. Student work will reflect well thought out and executed projects, including aesthetic decisions, an increased ability to handle material, and an increased proficiency with glazing techniques.
Classes meet January 11 – March 14, 2024
Thursdays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 5
#WA16 $330 (VBMA members $280
REGISTRATION IS CLOSED FOR THIS CLASS
EXPRESS YOURSELF WITH CLAY
Walford Campbell
All Levels
This course will introduce fundamental hand-building and wheel-throwing skills that will enable students to make a variety of forms, both functional and sculptural.
Classes meet January 12 – March 15, 2024
Fridays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 5
#WA17 $330 (VBMA members $280)
REGISTRATION IS CLOSED FOR THIS CLASS
POTTERY LAB
Labs allow currently enrolled ceramics students to work independently in Studio 5 outside of class time during any lab listed below. A lab monitor will be present.
Thursdays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 5
#WA18 $130 (VBMA members $110)
Register for #WA18
Fridays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 5
#WA19 $130 (VBMA members $110)
Register for #WA19
SCULPTURE
FIGURE AND PORTRAIT SCULPTURE
George Paxton
All Levels
Students will develop a proficiency in figurative and portrait sculpture. Working in water-based clay and from a live model, students will create two figures and one portrait. The instructor will introduce principles of anatomy, gesture, and proportion as well as the intricacies of the hands, feet and facial features. Proportional calipers will be utilized assist in developing accuracy.
Classes meet January 12 – March 15, 2024
Fridays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 6
#WA20 $385 (VBMA members $325)
REGISTRATION IS CLOSED FOR THIS CLASS
DRAWING
NEW! DRAWING OUTSIDE THE BOX
All Levels
Students will learn how to explore the medium of drawing in a loose, non-academic way, and to think outside the box. In this fun and lively journey of discovery, students will draw with a different medium each week with a variety of materials provided. Students are encouraged to bring an open mind and as they dive into approaches that may be new to them as they draw (wet and dry) from nature or from the figure, or art history or even their imaginations, which is the greatest frontier of all. This class will go “outside the box” and find new ways of seeing and doing. Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet February 13 – March 12, 2024
Tuesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#WA21 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA21
YOU CAN DRAW
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 recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 11 – February 8, 2024
Thursdays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#WA22 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA22
Classes meet February 15 – March 14, 2024
Thursdays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#WA23 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA23
PASTELS – MORE THAN JUST DRAWING
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 recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 11 – February 8, 2024
Thursdays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#WA24 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA24
Classes meet February 15 – March 14, 2024
Thursdays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#WA25 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA25
OPEN STUDIO
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. One of the demonstrations in the studio will be inspired by the VBMA exhibition’s Ancient Egypt & the Napoleonic Era: Masterworks from the Dahesh Museum of Art and students will also experience a guided gallery tour. Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 8 – February 12, 2024
(no class on January 15, 2024)
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#WA26 $190 (VBMA members $160)
REGISTRATION IS CLOSED FOR THIS CLASS
CREATIVE OPEN STUDIO
All Levels
Artists are invited work in an open studio class setting. Artists work independently in a non-instructional setting in the medium of their choice. The instructor will be available, if needed, to facilitate and guide artists in this friendly, open, and creative environment where artists are free to work at their own pace and create with like-minded artists. Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 12 – February 9, 2024
Fridays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#WA27 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA27
Classes meet February 16 – March 15, 2024
Fridays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#WA28 $190 (VBMA members $160
Register for #WA28
PAINTING
ADVANCED PAINTING TECHNIQUES
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. This class will also include a guided trip to the galleries to view the VBMA’s exhibition Ancient Egypt & the Napoleonic Era: Masterworks from the Dahesh Museum of Art. Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 8 – March 18, 2024
(no class January 15, 2024)
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#WA29 $310 (VBMA members $265)
Register for #WA29
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. This class will also include a guided trip to the galleries to view the VBMA’s exhibition Ancient Egypt & the Napoleonic Era: Masterworks from the Dahesh Museum of Art. Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 10 – March 13, 2024
Wednesdays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#WA30 $310 (VBMA members $265)
REGISTRATION IS CLOSED FOR THIS CLASS
INTERMEDIATE PAINTING
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. This class will also include a guided trip to the galleries to view the VBMA’s exhibition Ancient Egypt & the Napoleonic Era: Masterworks from the Dahesh Museum of Art. Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 10 – March 13, 2024
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#WA31 $310 (VBMA members $265)
Register for #WA31
NEW! THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF WATERCOLOR
Xaque Gruber
All Levels
In this class the instructor will show students how wonderfully easy and fun watercolor is and each student will produce untold beauty and multiple paintings. The class will experiment with different approaches to watercolor – working from life, botanicals, art history, the landscape, and the imagination. This class is for all skill levels; students more experienced in watercolor will enjoy exploring new paths and beginners will find a new favorite endeavor. Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 9 – February 6, 2024
Tuesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#WA32 $190 (VBMA members $160)
REGISTRATION IS CLOSED FOR THIS CLASS
MEDITATE AND CREATE: INNER VISION ENHANCEMENT FOR YOUR CREATIVITY
All Levels
In this class, the instructor combines guided, creative visualization meditation to inspire and invoke inner images to surface. Participants will then journal their images, put them to paper with the medium of their choice, and afterwards have time to present and share with the class if they choose. No previous art experience is needed. The focus of class is on the process of enhancing expression and creativity over product. Each class students will produce a different artwork. Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 8 – February 12, 2024
(no class January 15, 2024)
Mondays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#WA33 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA33
Classes meet February 19 – March 18, 2024
Mondays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#WA34 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA34
NEW! PORTRAITS – OLD WORLD TECHNIQUES
Martha Westphal
All Levels
The instructor will go over composition, underpainting, color, and materials. Students will learn the skills needed to master the art of portraiture in oils. Students will paint from reference material at their own pace in a creative relaxing atmosphere. The class will learn about Fibonacci theories of perfect composition and be able to calculate reference materials to canvas. Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 9 – February 6, 2024
Tuesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#WA35 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA35
Classes meet February 13 – March 12, 2024
Tuesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#WA36 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA36
SELF EXPRESSION THROUGH ABSTRACT PAINTING
Jack Reilly
All Levels
This course is an introduction to various styles and techniques of non-representational, abstract painting. Topics include Abstract Expressionism, Color Field, Geometric Abstraction, and Hard-Edge painting. A series of individual projects in oil or acrylic media will explore artistic techniques and concepts incorporating elements of line, shape, form, color, tone, and texture. Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet February 13 – March 12, 2024
Tuesdays, 5:30 – 8:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#WA37 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA37
OIL PAINTING AND MORE
Martha Westphal
All Levels
This course will cover composition, underpainting, glazes, color, materials, mediums and old world techniques. The instructor will discuss Fibonacci’s theories plus the history of colors. Students will learn to incorporate their style with proven techniques in a creative related atmosphere. Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 10 – February 7, 2024
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#WA38 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA38
Classes meet February 14 – March 13, 2024
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#WA39 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA39
PAINTING WHAT YOU WANT IN OIL
Marlene Evans Putnam
Intermediate to Advanced Level
This course is for students who aspire to go to the next level in oil painting. An intensive study of tones and values, design, and composition will be done in class. Students will learn unique color combinations as well as paint application techniques. Still life and other subject matter will be demonstrated and discussed every week. Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 9 – February 6, 2024
Tuesdays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#WA40 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA40
Classes meet February 13 – March 12, 2024
Tuesdays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#WA41 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA41
STILL LIFE PAINTING
Hank Feeley
Beginner to Intermediate Level
Each class will start with a brief illustrated presentation, beginning with the history of still life painting. Inspired by the VBMA exhibition’s Ancient Egypt & the Napoleonic Era: Masterworks from the Dahesh Museum of Art, one of the classes will include studying aspects of this exhibition as it relates to still life and then students will incorporate them into their own still life paintings. Subsequent presentations will be on specific artists and styles and classes will end with a group critique. Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 9 – February 6, 2024
Tuesdays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#WA42 $190 (VBMA members $160)
REGISTRATION IS CLOSED FOR THIS CLASS
Classes meet February 13 – March 12, 2024
Tuesdays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#WA43 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA43
PLEIN AIR
Pearl Lau
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. The VBMA will provide all students with portable easels and seats to use during classes. Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 12 – February 9, 2024
Fridays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 4 and other local outdoor locations
#WA44 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA44
Classes meet February 16 – March 15, 2024
Fridays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 4 and other local outdoor locations
#WA45 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA45
PET PORTRAITS
Pearl Lau
All Levels
Artists have painted portraits of their pets for centuries. Students have the opportunity to immortalize theirs with a painting or create a wonderful gift. Students will learn several drawing techniques while working from a photo of a chosen pet. Any medium students are comfortable working in is acceptable. During this class, students will have the opportunity to complete four 8×10 portraits. Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 9 – February 6, 2024
Tuesdays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#WA46 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA46
Classes meet February 13 – March 12, 2024
Tuesdays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#WA47 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA47
NEW! MIXING MEDIA!
Stephanie Lovallo
All Levels
Take this creative class and enjoy making unique artworks using different techniques and supplies, including acrylic paint pouring, alcohol ink demo on tile, mixed media assemblage, paint roller application and tape for sailboats and abstract paintings on canvas. Students may choose one technique for all classes or experience them all. Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 9 – February 6, 2024
Tuesdays, 5:30 – 8:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#WA48 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA48
Classes meet February 13 – March 12, 2024
Tuesdays, 5:30 – 8:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#WA49 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA49
NEW! REVIVE REDO OR NEW
Stephanie Lovallo
All Levels
This is the class for students who have paintings crying out to “FINISH ME!” Students may also bring in a family photo or a famous masterpiece that they have always wanted to paint. Another option is to bring in outdated artwork or a bunch of memorabilia that can all be turned into a great work of art. The instructor will help all students redo, revive, or create new artworks in the medium of choice in this fun, friendly environment! Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 10 – February 7, 2024
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#WA50 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA50
Classes meet February 14 – March 13, 2024
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#WA51 $190 (VBMA members $16
Register for #WA51
HOW TO PAINT A LANDSCAPE
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 8×10 and one final beautiful large 11×14 painting. Click here for recommended supply list.
Classes meet January 10 – February 7, 2024
Wednesdays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#WA52 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA52
Classes meet February 14 – March 13, 2024
Wednesdays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 2
#WA53 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA53
WORKSHOPS
PHOTO FUN!
Jeremiah Jenner
Beginner Level
Aspiring photographers will learn how to take better photos on their cell phones or digital cameras. The instructor will go over basic camera or cell phone settings along with varied artistic lessons such as color and composition, creative abstracts, portrait lighting, and basic editing with apps such as Photoshop and Snapseed. Each class will have a review and group critique of the previous lesson as they share creative ideas and photos with one another. Click here for recommended supply list.
Workshop meets January 12 – 14, 2024
Friday – Sunday, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#WA54 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA54
Workshop meets February 16 – 18, 2024
Friday – Sunday, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 4
#WA55 $190 (VBMA members $160)
Register for #WA55
DRAWING BASICS
Douglas David
All Levels
This simple one-day drawing workshop will teach students the basics of drawing, including composition and general sketching to get shapes and proportions correct, massing in large shapes, and simple perspective. Developed by the many requests of painting students, Douglas has assembled all the basic areas of drawing and students need to know to make paintings better and to correct problem areas. Click here for recommended supply list.
Workshop meets February 1, 2024
Thursday, 10 am – 4 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 3
#WA56 $185 (VBMA members $155)
Register for #WA56
EXPRESSIVE EXPLORATIONS ABSTRACT PAINTING
Vickie Marsango
All Levels
This workshop is designed for artists of all levels who wish to explore expressive drawing and acrylic painting with an emphasis on creative thinking. Students will discover fundamental techniques through painting exercises and painting assignments merged with an innovative approach to color harmony, compositional balance, and spontaneity. Students are encouraged to explore their individuality. Beneficial for anyone interested in taking risks with their painting, and for artists who want to strengthen their own voice and confidence as a painter. Click here for recommended supply list.
Workshop meets January 19 – 21, 2024
Friday – Sunday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: VBMA Studios 2 and 3
#WA57 $510 (VBMA members $430)
REGISTRATION IS CLOSED FOR THIS CLASS
NEW! PEONIES, LILACS, HYDRANGEA AND TULIPS IN OIL
Douglas David
All Levels
This workshop will cover the basic principles of oil painting with regard to painting florals. Incredible dynamic compositions with arrangements that are elegant and sophisticated, casual and relaxed while all keeping a bold direction will be the focus. The instructor will go over composition, massing, building form, light and shadow: and depending on the student’s own style, knowing when a work is finished and learning how to not overwork the painting. Students will work from photos the instructor provides and demos and individual discussions with instruction will help each student to create and produce several paintings during this three day workshop. Click here for recommended supply list.
Workshop meets February 2 – 4, 2024
Friday – Sunday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: VBMA Studios 2 and 3
#WA58 $510 (VBMA members $430)
Register for #WA58
NEW! LET GO AND LET IT FLOW
Alan James
All Levels
This workshop is designed for students who want to learn the process of how to loosen up and paint with confidence. In this workshop, the instructor will share all of the secrets of what he calls “Let Go and Let It Flow” which is the process of utilizing big brushstrokes loosely and freely. Through step-by-step demonstrations and one-on-one guidance, the instructor will guide students on how to take initial inspirations through the process of creating an expressive painting that is strong in both composition and content. Click here for recommended supply list.
Workshop meets February 2 – 4, 2024
Friday – Sunday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 1
#WA59 $510 (VBMA members $430)
Register for #WA59
PAINTING INTO ABSTRACTION
Marianne Mitchell
Intermediate Level
This workshop focuses on accessing personal expression in abstraction and understanding how to use visual language to create work that expresses your unique voice. You’ll be introduced to starting a painting in “Reckless Abandon” and gain clarity about your abstract voice through demonstrations and discussions emphasizing the interrelationship between emotional expression, composition, and painting technique. Oil paint will be used for demos and technical discussions. Other paint mediums welcome. Click here for recommended supply list.
Workshop meets February 9 – 11, 2024
Friday – Sunday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: VBMA Studios 2 and 3
#WA60 $510 (VBMA members $430)
Register for #WA60
NEW! ABSTRACTING NATURE
Monique Carr
All Levels
Students will take the plunge into abstraction by taking their floral and seascape with clouds paintings to new and exciting directions! The instructor will teach painting loosely with confidence and will help students discover their unique style. Students will discover possibilities with new tools, be open to imagination, and learn to trust intuitions (instead of copying a photo). And most of all…students will have FUN in the process! Click here for recommended supply list.
Workshop meets February 17 – 18, 2024
Saturday – Sunday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: VBMA Studios 2 and 3
#WA61 $385 (VBMA members $295)
Register for #WA61
NEW! PAINTING SEASCAPES, BEACHES, AND DUNES IN OIL
Douglas David
All Levels
This workshop will cover the basic principles of oil painting with regard to seascapes, beaches, and dunes. The students will learn how to build the wave, capture the motion of the sea, and better understand the colors in the sand. Photos to paint from will be provided and each day’s demo will include simple discussions on composition, massing, building form, light and shadow, near and far, capturing and developing atmospheric distance, and learning how to not overwork the painting. The instructor will go over capturing the time of day, atmosphere, the break of the wave, and the various atmospheric conditions. Students will produce several studies and one to two larger paintings. Click here for recommended supply list.
Workshop meets March 1 – 3, 2024
Friday – Sunday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: VBMA Studios 2 and 3
#WA62 $510 (VBMA members $430)
Register for #WA62
NEW! CAPTURING LIGHT AND MOVEMENT WITH PASTEL: WAVES AND BEACHES
Jane Robbins
All Levels
In this workshop students will tackle the challenges of capturing the light and drama of waves and beach scenes, from shifting light and movement to achieving color variation, translucence, and texture. The workshop will explore the anatomy of waves; color, temperature, and value in water and sand; techniques for composition; underpainting; clean color handling; and painting foam, spray, sparkle, grasses, and reflections on wet sand. Each day will include direct instruction with notes on aspects of seascape painting; demos; extensive individual guidance; and painting review/evaluations. Click here for recommended supply list.
Workshop meets March 8 – 10, 2024
Friday – Sunday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: VBMA Studios 2 and 3
#WA63 $510 (VBMA members $430)
Register for #WA63
KNIFE TO MEET YOU
Paige Speight
All Levels
This workshop will introduce the palette knife as the main painting tool for new and experienced oil painters and will focus on creating oil portraits from observation and photographs, while embracing improvisation. Students will explore creative mark-making and unusual color to create up to three expressive portraits. Some previous painting or drawing experience is recommended, but not required. Click here for recommended supply list.
Workshop meets March 15 – 17, 2024
Friday – Sunday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: VBMA Studios 2 and 3
#WA64 $510 (VBMA members $430)
Register for #WA64
NEW! ORIGAMI FOLDED BOWLS
All Levels
Students will create a bowl by using a template and cutting and folding the slab of clay. Students may use various textures, stamps, and molds to decorate the bowl as they wish. Once it is bisque fired, students will return to paint on the glaze and get it ready for the final firing. Students will learn how to work with a clay slab, attach decorations (sprigs), and the difference between glazes and underglazes.
Workshop meets January 8 and 22, 2024
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 5
#WA65 $200 (VBMA members $170)
Register for #WA65
NEW! CERAMIC BUTTER DISH
All Levels
Students will create a two-piece butter dish by using a template and cutting and folding a slab of clay. Students may use various textures, stamps, and molds to decorate the set as desired, or sculpt their own handles. Once it is bisque fired, students will return to paint on the glaze and get it ready for the final firing. Students will learn how to work with a clay slab, attach decorations (sprigs), and the difference between glazes and underglazes.
Workshop meets January 29 and February 12, 2024
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 5
#WA66 $200 (VBMA members $170)
Register for #WA66
NEW! OCTOPUS SCULPTURE
All Levels
Students will create an octopus using the hand-building method. Instructions will be given on how to sculpt the head and tentacles, and how to attach them securely. Students are encouraged to bring pictures. Once it is bisque fired, students will return to paint on the glaze and get it ready for the final firing. Students will learn how to work with clay tools, attach pieces, and the difference between glazes and underglazes. All materials will be supplied, but students may bring any of their own tools if desired.
Workshop meets February 5 and February 19, 2024
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 5
#WA67 $200 (VBMA members $170)
Register for #WA67
NEW! COASTAL MANDALA DECORATIVE BOWL
All Levels
Students will create a bowl using the hand-building method with a slab of clay. Instructions will be given on how to use a stencil on the clay with underglazes and/or slip to create their design. Once it is bisque fired, students will return to paint on the glaze and get it ready for the final firing. Students will learn how to work with clay tools, attach pieces for the foot, and the difference between slip, glazes and underglazes. All materials will be supplied. There are a few coastal stencils and a few mandala stencils to choose from. Students may bring their own stencils and tools if desired. Stencils should not be larger than 10 x 10 inches.
Workshop meets February 26 and March 11, 2024
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Location: VBMA Studio 5
#WA68 $200 (VBMA members $170)
Register for #WA68
CORK, CANVAS & COMPANY
Explore your creative side with new friends in the studios! Whether your idea of art is drawing doodles or you are an experienced artist, Cork, Canvas & Company is a fun night out for everyone. A professional artist will guide and assist in creating your masterpiece. Bring your own wine and light hors d’ oeuvres; all art materials are included. Held in the VBMA studios.
SEA A SEAHORSE with Camy Demario
Thursday, January 4, 2024
6:30 – 8:30 pm
#WA69 $45
Register for #WA69
WINE TIME with Camy Demario
Thursday, January 18, 2024
6:30 – 8:30 pm
#WA70 $45
Register for #WA70
ROSEATE SPOONBILL with Barry Shapiro
Thursday, February 1, 2024
6:30 – 8:30 pm
#WA71 $45
Register for #WA71
WINTER SKIES with Barry Shapiro
Thursday, February 15, 2024
6:30 – 8:30 pm
#WA72 $45
Register for #WA72
TEXTURED HEART with Sandy Bachmann
Thursday, February 29, 2024
6:30 – 8:30 pm
#WA73 $45
Register for #WA73
MERMAID DREAMS with Camy Demario
Thursday, March 14, 2024
6:30 – 8:30 pm
#WA74 $45
Register for #WA74
FACULTY
Aric Attas
Sandy Bachmann
Lynn Berkowitz M.F.A., B.F.A.
Judy Burgarella
Walford Campbell
Monique Carr
Douglas David
Camy De Mario
Chris Fasolino
Hank Feeley
Xaque Gruber
Sherry Haaland
Gail Lois Jaffe
Alan James
Jeremiah Jenner
Joel Johnson
Kent Johnson
Pearl Lau
Stephanie Lovallo
Elise Mahovlich
Katie Nall, Ph.D.
Vickie Marsango
Marianne Mitchell
Christine Parker
George Paxton
Marlene Evans Putnam
Andee Reilly
Jack Reilly
Jane Robbins
Barry Shapiro
Paige Speight
Diane Thelen
Martha Westphal
REGISTRATION INFO WINTER 2024 CLASS SCHEDULE
Winter term begins Monday, January 8, 2024.
Registration Information
All registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.
In-person and phone-in registration is offered during regular Museum hours, weekdays 10 am – 4:30 pm.
Online and phone payment is by Visa/MasterCard/American Express/Discover.