Intro to Acrylic Painting

Instructor: Doug Billings

Beginners will start by learning the fundamentals of acrylic painting, including color mixing and a variety of application techniques. The course also introduces key concepts such as perspective, proportion, and color theory. With guided instruction, students will select their own subject matter for their paintings. A range of creative painting styles will be explored to inspire personal expression. Intermediate students will expand on the foundational skills acquired at the beginner level. The focus will shift toward refining techniques, deepening understanding of formal principles, and developing a unique artistic voice through continued practice and exploration. Open to students ages 14 and up. 

Intro to Acrylic Painting

Instructor: Doug Billings

Beginners will start by learning the fundamentals of acrylic painting, including color mixing and a variety of application techniques. The course also introduces key concepts such as perspective, proportion, and color theory. With guided instruction, students will select their own subject matter for their paintings. A range of creative painting styles will be explored to inspire personal expression. Intermediate students will expand on the foundational skills acquired at the beginner level. The focus will shift toward refining techniques, deepening understanding of formal principles, and developing a unique artistic voice through continued practice and exploration. Open to students ages 14 and up. 

Wheel Throwing

Instructor: Troy Becker

This class welcomes both beginners and experienced students, offering a dynamic environment where all skill levels can thrive. Instruction covers everything from the fundamentals of creating functional pottery to more advanced techniques used in sculptural and artistic vessel design. Students are encouraged to work at their own pace in a supportive, collaborative setting, with plenty of individualized guidance tailored to their needs and goals. Open to students ages 14 and up. 

Painting Light in the Studio

Instructor: Virginia Grass Simmons

This course will include presentations and exercises to learn, review and apply important concepts in oil painting. Students will work on individual paintings and will work individually with Instructor to enhance skills and find their creative voice.

Afternoon Abstract

Instructor: Jim Gross

Explore both historical and contemporary trends in nonobjective painting while working with acrylics, water-based media, drawing, and collage. This course encourages creative experimentation and personal expression, offering students the freedom to develop their own visual language. With guidance and feedback from instructor Jim, participants will work at their own pace on individualized projects. All experience levels are welcome, from beginners to seasoned artists, in this supportive and exploratory studio environment.

Sculpture for All Skils

Instructor: Norma Nicks

Sculpture classes are for both beginners and experienced artists. The focus is creating figurative, representational, and non-representational forms in clay. Areas of emphasis include building techniques, glaze processes, non-fired painting techniques, and finding your own personal style in clay. Time will be spent on exploring the elements and principles of design, contemporary artist influences, and art history. The class will work with water-based clay. Supplies will be discussed on the first day of class. Just bring an apron if you don’t want to get messy! Open to students ages 14 and up. *Clay available for purchase.

Watercolor Independent Study

No Instructor 

This class is suitable for intermediate and advanced artists who understand the principles of watercolor, the supplies, and studio cleanliness. A perfect, self-guided environment to work among fellow artists, who are often having conversation and asking critique of their peers. 

No syllabi is provided, as students know what supplies they need for their practice. 

Handbuilding

Instructor: Troy Becker

Explore the art of handbuilding through techniques like coiling, pinching, and slab construction to create one-of-a-kind sculptures or functional dishware. Whether you're a beginner or building on existing skills, students work at their own pace in a relaxed, social, and supportive studio environment. Open to students ages 14 and up. 

Abstract Painting

Instructor: Matthew Hilyard

Discover past and contemporary trends in nonobjective painting while exploring creative possibilities using found objects and mixed media techniques. Students will develop their own individual projects with personalized guidance from the instructor. All skill levels are welcome—no prior experience required, just a willingness to experiment and create. Open to students ages 14 and up.

Abstract Watercolor

Instructor: Jim Gross

In this class, students will explore both basic and advanced watercolor techniques, working with a variety of subjects including landscapes, still-life compositions, and abstract forms. Basic watercolor tubes are required, while paper will be provided. Instructor Gross, a charter member of the Kansas Watercolor Society, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help guide students through each stage of the creative process.

Wheel Throwing

Instructor: Troy Becker

This class welcomes both beginners and experienced students, offering a dynamic environment where all skill levels can thrive. Instruction covers everything from the fundamentals of creating functional pottery to more advanced techniques used in sculptural and artistic vessel design. Students are encouraged to work at their own pace in a supportive, collaborative setting, with plenty of individualized guidance tailored to their needs and goals. Open to students ages 14 and up. 

Painting in Amazing Technicolor

Instructor: Melinda Weis

Every artist’s color choices have a powerful impact on the mood and message of a painting—yet selecting the right colors can be a challenge. This class delves deeply into the many facets of color, guiding students in making intentional, narrative-driven color decisions. Going beyond basic tints, tones, and shades, the course introduces unexpected color combinations and creative approaches to color use. All media and skill levels are welcome; however, some prior painting experience is recommended. Open to students ages 14 and up.