Who says you have to wait for December? Get into the holiday spirit early with a Christmas-themed cookie decorating class full of festive colors, merry details and royal icing magic! We will decorate with royal icing while learning how to outline, flood and add whimsical touches that's sure to spread some summertime cheer. Santa's watching, don't miss out! This class is recommended for anyone interested in cookie decorating, including adults and kids 6 and up.

Pick the perfect summer class with our blueberry-themed cookie decorating experience full of gorgeous berry tones, sweet details and royal icing techniques. We will decorate with royal ccing while learning how to outline, flood and create charming designs. It's going to be berry, berry good! Grab your spot before they're gone. This class is recommended for anyone interested in cookie decorating, including adults and kids 6 and up.

Step into the engaging world of wet-carved concrete in this hands-on workshop where creativity meets process, learning from expert artist Elder Jones.

Participants will learn how to build simple forms, mix and prepare sand-based concrete, and sculpt by hand—carving directly into the soft material as it transforms, using Jones’ wet-carving technique. Although some art experience is required, no power tools are needed, making this an accessible and rewarding introduction to a unique artistic technique.

Students will gain a practical understanding of Portland cement and discover the wide range of creative possibilities this medium offers. Each participant will create their own piece—choosing between a planter or small sculpture (approximately 25 lbs.).

Schedule

Day 1 | Tuesday, August 11 | 6–9 p.m.
Prepare your workstation and begin mixing the sand and cement.

Day 2 | Wednesday, August 12 | 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
You will mix your concrete mixture and begin to sculpt. Participants will learn Jones’ techniques through slides, demonstration, and hands on creation. Participants should aim to be finished with sculpting by the end of day two, allowing their pieces to cure overnight.

Day 3 | Thursday, August 13 | 10 a.m.–Noon
Trim the artwork, then learn proper studio cleanup and care for your finished piece.

All materials are provided. Students may bring a dust mask and rubber gloves to use.

About the Artist

Jones is a cement sculpting artist with over 40 years of experience. Having assisted nationally known sculptor, Jack B. Hastings, Jones became familiar with wet- carved concrete technique Hastings used. Over the years, Jones experimented more with the carving technique and began to develop a personal style. First, selling to shops and individuals, then into the art gallery scene. Jones work evolved to making garden features like stones, bird basins, pedestals, and more.

Originally based in Tennessee, Jones now lives in North Carolina. Now, Jones travels the United States teaching workshops in the wet-carved technique and sharing his knowledge with others.

Jones has taught many workshops at Wichita Center for the Arts and Mark Arts. Mark Arts is thrilled to welcome him back this fall.

Learn more about Elder Jones and see his artwork at sandpudding.com.

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.

Instructor: Jack Norris

This class introduces teens to the fundamentals of working on the potter’s wheel, including throwing, trimming, and glazing. Instruction is hands-on and supportive, guiding students through each step of the process as they develop their skills. Clay is provided as needed, and a shared set of tools is available for use. Students who prefer may purchase their own 25-pound bag of clay and personal tool kit. For safety, closed-toe, secure-fitting shoes are required—no open-toed or slip-on footwear allowed. Open to grades 6-9.

Instructor: Ernst Kind

Enameling: the transformation of simple glass and metal to a piece of jewelry or decoration. Learn how two very different substances can be combined to make beautiful pieces of jewelry, dishes, wall decor and more as we engage in the centuries-old art of enameling. A supply list will be provided by the instructor. Students are responsible for purchasing project supplies and materials, which will be discussed on the first day of class. Open to students ages 16 and up.

Instructor: Sue Corriston

Unleash your child’s creativity in this fun and engaging youth art class! Young artists will explore a variety of creative projects while learning exciting art-making techniques and the foundational elements. Students will experiment with hands-on mediums such as printmaking, ceramics, painting, drawing, and more in a supportive and imaginative environment designed to inspire self-expression and confidence. Open to children ages 5–12. All supplies are included.

From the jungles of India to the depths of the sea, learn about the connection between animals and their habitats and create your own representations of these magnificent creatures.

Community Partner: Kansas Humane Society Community Pet Health Clinic

From the jungles of India to the depths of the sea, learn about the connection between animals and their habitats and create your own representations of these magnificent creatures.

Community Partner: Kansas Humane Society Community Pet Health Clinic