Open Studies Course Registration

In this course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of camera controls, film processing, darkroom techniques, and the creation of final prints. Students will gain a deep appreciation for traditional darkroom photography and developing 4x5" film using a large format camera. Students will also learn the basics of scanning negatives for digital output. By the end of the course, students will have not only mastered the technical aspects of large format photography but also developed a personal artistic vision. A $30 lab fee is required for this course.

Students in this course will learn the fundamentals of watercolor and build a vocabulary of approaches to this versatile medium. The course begins with essential techniques, such as color mixing and the properties of transparent pigments, basic brush strokes, selecting paper and palettes, and analysis of techniques used by other artists. As students progress they explore transparent and wet and dry techniques, such as glazing, charging, wet-on-wet, negative painting and masking. Class instruction aims to meet the individual student at his or her level of experience, while building self-confidence with the medium and encouraging advancement.

This course is designed for the inquisitive student who wants to incorporate more spontaneity and freshness in their painting. Painterly painting will explore your personal signature as we investigate the suggestive potential and expressionist range of oil painting. Beginning with a review of bsic skills, assignments will focus on representational painting as we study surfaces and layering, grounds and supports, color interaction and mixing, and various materials and methods across the genres of still life, figurative, and landscape painting. Formal demonstrations and slide discussions will be used throughout the class. Through open dialogue and supportive group critiques, students will be encouraged to generate a personal direction for their work. This class provides an opportunity to improve technically while gaining a more fluid, unconstrained skillset as we explore the medium’s many expressive possibilities. Students of all levels and experience are welcome, as are those who prefer to work in acrylics.

In this workshop students will work through a progression of drawings that explore how different approaches to the figure can address mood, spirit, intensity, viewpoints, and emotion. Students will learn how to successfully portray the human body with dramatic form, mass, volume and tonality. While investigating the human form, students will use charcoal, conte crayon graphite and ink to produce a portfolio of figure drawings that range in style from traditional to more contemporary and conceptual approaches.

Sessions are offered for those who want to draw or paint from a live model with no guided instruction. Each section includes a live model for long poses for independent studio work. A class coordinator will ensure the quality of each session.

Sessions are offered for those who want to draw or paint from a live model with no guided instruction. Each section includes a live model for quick poses for independent studio work. A class coordinator will ensure the quality of each session.

This workshop is designed to help you refine your skills in observational drawing by focusing on lines and forms. We'll explore different charcoal techniques and tools. Students will hone their drawing skills and receive constructive feedback on their work with guidance on creating a cohesive and impressive collection of drawings. Each session will focus on a different strategy to build a strong foundation for your drawing portfolio and sharpen your ability to perceive the world around you. Whether you aspire to pursue an art career or express your creativity, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to develop your artistic talents.

Object work, is the exploration and manipulation of physical or symbolic objects. This workshop is open to artists of all mediums. It invites participants to engage with materials, form, and context to create meaningful works that explore narrative, symbolism, and cultural critique. Through hands-on projects and critical discussions, students will investigate how objects communicate ideas and transform spaces. Sample projects include assemblage, performance, book arts, collage, conceptual drawing, and painting. This course encourages innovative thinking, material exploration, and a deep understanding of the role objects play in artistic expression and contemporary practices.