Art Workshops, Classes & Retreats

Post Your Workshops or Classes
 

"Beginning Drawing and Beyond"
Fridays, April 24 - May 22, 2026
 

This 5-week course is for beginners who want to explore drawing, and for more experienced artists who want to improve their artistic skills. Using still-life compositions, students will learn about form, space, design, and value through working observationally. In addition, the instructor will introduce a variety of artists who are representative of the lessons provided and conduct in-process and final critiques for a helpful synopsis of the student’s progress and ideas.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Annie Gardner
Cost: $210
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Addressing the Figure"
Fridays, April 24 - May 29, 2026
 

This course is designed to help you develop the skills needed to paint a portrait and achieve a likeness of your subject, working either in a traditional or contemporary style. Focus will be on observation, composition, and color with an emphasis on skin tones as well as learning to translate the various planes of color and light that are so important in painting the figure.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Anne Graham
Cost: $365
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Splash of Color: Watercolor Workshop"
Fridays, April 24 - May 29, 2026
 

Workshop participants will begin by learning to handle watercolor materials: papers, paints, brushes, palettes, and more. From the bold application of washes to fine detail, we’ll explore specifics: how to begin a watercolor and how to conclude a work, wet-in-wet to dry-brush, what to put in and what to leave out. The skillful use of the elements of composition and the simplification of form will provide a means to achieving dynamic results. We’ll also explore ways of creating a sense of light and mood in a watercolor, through the use of structured tone. Students will be encouraged to work from still-life, and photos to start. Further development in the watercolor medium will be determined by each participant's interest.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Ernie Norcia
Cost: $250
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Two For Art (Ages 2+)"
Fridays, April 24 - May 29, 2026
 

Join your child on a nurturing creative quest. Whether your child has already begun to show an interest in art or you are looking to introduce them to new media in a structured yet caring environment, this class allows even the youngest students to discover their creative side. Students work with air-dry clay, collage, paint, chalk and more. Our early childhood teachers encourage students to talk about their art, providing a great opportunity to learn new vocabulary, particularly words related to colors, shapes, textures, and emotions. Children learn to follow directions in a social setting with support and encouragement of their caregiver, serving as the perfect precursor to preschool. This is a 6-week, 1 hour class for 1 child + 1 adult (parent or caregiver).
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Chloe Campbell
Cost: $115
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Preschool Art Adventures (Ages 4+)"
Fridays, April 24 - May 29, 2026
 

Watch creativity come alive in your child! In this class, children learn "to see" differences in art. Exploration of bright vs. light, colors, line differences: straight/curved, short/long and thick/thin and include them in their artwork. Employing a wide range of mediums, including drawing and painting, printmaking and mixed media. Kids get to get messy, so smocks and older clothing are encouraged! Please bring a snack to enjoy during a mid-break story time. This is a 6-week, 1.5-hour, Friday class.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Chloe Campbell
Cost: $170
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Drawing & Painting (Ages 9+)"
Fridays, April 24 - May 29, 2026
 

Students study composition, perspective and shading as they gain exposure to a variety of mediums including graduated pencils, charcoal, pastels, watercolor and acrylic paints. Drawing from still life set-ups, painting in the garden 'plein air' style and self-portraiture are just some of the techniques that may be introduced during this drawing and painting class. This is a 6-week, 1.5 hour, after school class.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Carolyn Kline-Coyle
Cost: $170
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Teen Studio: Pottery Hand & Wheel (Ages 12+)"
Fridays, April 24 - May 29, 2026
 

For older and more advanced ceramic students, participants work in the ceramics studio where they learn and develop hand-building and wheel-throwing skills. Students have an opportunity to examine works of more advanced artists before using artist-grade tools and equipment to create their own handmade pieces. Instruction is tailored to each student's individual ability and needs. This is a 6-week class.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Andrea Cooper
Cost: $190
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"KinderART & Clay (Ages 4-6)"
Saturdays, April 25 - May 30, 2026
 

In this course, children discover new mediums and ideas in art. They begin to identify differences in art such as distinguishing between bright and light, as well as dull and dark colors, find basic shapes within larger objects, and identify types of lines, such as long/short, thick/thin, and straight/curved, then include them in their work. Enrich your child's school-based art program with a more in-depth exploration of art. Employing a wide range of mediums, including drawing and painting, printmaking, ceramics and mixed media, this is an exciting opportunity for children who are looking to take their artistic learning to the next level. This is a 5-week, 1.5 hr. Saturday class.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Susan Branco
Cost: $145
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Drawing Pixar & Realistic Animals (Ages 6+)"
Saturdays, April 25 - May 30, 2026
 

Come and learn how to draw and paint realistic animals as well as your favorite characters from Pixar, Disney and Dreamworks movies. Explore drawing and painting using many different mediums and techniques. You decide the subjects and how to color them. Come join the fun as we "go to the movies!" This is a 5-week, 1.5-hour class, held on Saturdays.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Mark Gruener
Cost: $140
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Pottery Club (Ages 7+)"
Saturdays, April 25 - May 30, 2026
 

Bring your young artists to join us in the ceramics studio as we learn various hand-building methods for creating and decorating ceramic masterpieces. Each week's project will include a method of constructing clay by hand (pinch, coil, slab, etc.) and plenty of opportunities for self-expression and experimentation. After the students construct a clay piece and paint it with colorful glazes, projects will be fired in electric kilns. Students should bring their imagination and be prepared to get messy as we dive into the world of functional and sculptural ceramics. This is a 5-week, 1.5-hour class.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Nicole Lee
Cost: $150
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Cartooning (Ages 7+)"
Saturdays, April 25 - May 30, 2026
 

Learn to draw funny faces and silly scenes incorporating the tips and tricks of cartooning, including the use of exaggeration to make characters come to life and tell a story. Campers work from well-known cartoons, reference pictures, and their own imaginations! This is a 5-week, 1.5 hr. class.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Madison Ketcham
Cost: $140
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Pottery Hand & Wheel (Ages 9-13)"
Saturdays, April 25 - May 30, 2026
 

Throw yourself into the art of making pottery! Learn hand-building, wheel throwing, and glazing skills in this popular ceramics class while creating functional and sculptural forms. Spend time building your pieces, then experiment with design and colorful glazes. This is a 5-week, 1.5 hr. class.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Nicole Lee
Cost: $150
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Teen Studio: Drawing & Painting (Ages 11+)"
Saturdays, April 25 - May 30, 2026
 

This 5-week course is designed for beginners who want to explore drawing and painting, as well as for more experienced students looking to enhance their college portfolio. Gain confidence experimenting with a variety of mediums, including pencil, charcoal, chalk pastel, watercolor, and acrylic paints. This student-centered class will help build essential knowledge of drawing and painting fundamentals, skill sets in working from observation, and confidence in using imagination to create successful and joyful images. Students will explore different approaches to art, working from life by arranging unique still-life setups, portrait sessions, and observing nature in the garden. Photo references will also be used. If you're ready to learn solid foundational skills in drawing and painting, join us on Saturday mornings to create art!
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Annie Gardner
Cost: $200
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Teen Studio: Advanced Drawing & Painting/Portfolio Prep (Ages 14+)"
Saturdays, April 25 - May 30, 2026
 

This class is for high school students looking to deepen their skills in 2D composition and life drawing. Working from various still life arrangements, students will create detailed realistic and expressive compositions from life using pencils and chalk pastels. Students will benefit from highly individualized instruction in a small class setting. As many college art programs and art schools require observational work in portfolio submissions, this class will also provide the opportunity to create a strong and essential portfolio piece. New students and repeat students welcome - each session explores different topics and still set-ups. This is a 5-week, 2-hour class.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Annie Gardner
Cost: $200
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Pottery for Adults & Teens"
Saturdays, April 25 - June 6, 2026
 

Students of all levels are included in this class. Ages 15+. Beginners will work together with the instructor to form a strong understanding and direction of functional pottery skills. Advance students will be directed on a one on one basis. Class tuition includes your first bag of stoneware clay as well as glazes and firing fees for coursework completed in class. Clay is available at Wayne Art Center.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Ryan Wheeler
Cost: $305
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"A Beginner's Approach to Trunks & Branches"
April 25, 2026
 

This one-day workshop will concentrate on painting one of the most beautiful and challenging aspects of a tree: its trunk and branches. Trunks are rarely perfectly round; instead, their surfaces present a combination of flat planes and rounded forms that interlock together and describe the tree's surface. The pattern of its branches, roots and rippling bark tell each tree’s life story and are influenced by interaction with other trees, the sun, and the earth. Our goal in this class is to simplify the tree's structure and capture its essence as effectively as possible. Rather than aiming for finished paintings, we will create several small studies focusing on the topography of different trunks and how we can communicate them using paint.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Claire Haik
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Handbuilding Expressive Pottery"
April 25-26, 2026
 

Bohls’ work is deeply rooted in a study of historical vessels. She translates these forms first by doing a series of drawings and then building forms using the coil and pinch method of handbuilding. In this workshop, Margaret will share images of a variety of historical pottery forms. She will also give a brief demonstration of her drawing techniques - used to create a visual framework for her coil-build objects and to translate historical form language into contemporary pottery forms. Demonstrations will include the building of a variety of utilitarian forms, with an emphasis on the creation of inventive lids, spouts, handles and other attachments. Student will have the opportunity to build a small vessel during the workshop.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Margaret Bohls
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Ceramic Open Studio for Spring '26 Enrolled Students"
April 27 - May 25, 2026
 

Wayne Art Center is pleased to offer an option for currently enrolled student members who wish to have more time in the studio to create and finish their work, and to practice their hand building and wheel throwing skills. Students will work independently, with a monitor available to sell clay and tools. Students must be currently enrolled in a Wayne Art Center adult ceramics class and must be members of Wayne Art Center. Clay used must be purchased at Wayne Art Center. No more than 10 students can attend any single session. This is a three (3) session pass. The ceramic studio manager, Eva, will email the details to you and a link to sign up for each individual session.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Aqueous Media, Pastel & Oil Painting"
Mondays, April 27 - June 1, 2026
 

Working from still life set-ups, learn the various techniques of aqueous media used for creating light, structure, texture, transparency and opacity. While the focus of the class is water-based acrylics, students are welcome to work in pastels or oil if they prefer. Instructor demonstrations and group discussion, as well as individual attention, provided during each class session.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Joeseph Sweeney
Cost: $250
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Introduction to Painting in Oils"
Mondays, April 27 - June 1, 2026
 

Students learn basic techniques and mechanics of oil painting to help guide them from inspiration to expression. Working from still-life set-ups, students build paintings as they consider the relationship of objects within a composition, as well as the overall picture including color, hue, and intensity.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Michael Doyle
Cost: $200
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Open Life Drawing Studio with Model"
Mondays, April 27 - June 8, 2026
 

Work independently in the drawing medium of your choice! This monitored studio is designed to give students the opportunity to work from live nude models without instruction, allowing you time to explore and experiment. Just as any life drawing session the poses will range from short gestures gradually building to longer poses at the end. This is an extraordinary opportunity for you to develop and extend your drawing skills.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Leslie Bowen, Monitor
Cost: $215
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Stained Glass"
Tuesdays, April 28 - May 26, 2026
 

Students will learn how to cut glass, solder, and complete a window hanging. Patterns will be supplied by instructor. Tool kits available for purchase from instructor on first night. Intermediate and advanced level projects offered for those with experience. Please note: Due to the use of lead, under no circumstance should someone participate in stained glass while pregnant.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Mark Kidd
Cost: $170
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Plein Air Landscape at Boathouse Row"
Tuesdays, April 28 - May 12, 2026
 

Join veteran plein air artist Joe Sweeney for a unique opportunity to paint inside one of the oldest rowing clubs in Philadelphia: the Bachelors Barge Club on Boathouse Row. Work from picturesque views of the Schuylkill River with the benefit of full access to the historic building with access to the dock, rain-/sun-sheltered porch, and amenities including restrooms. Experienced guidance will cover tactics for working efficiently outdoors, selecting a composition, color mixing, and capturing time of day and atmospheric effects. Instruction and demonstrations will be geared toward acrylic, oil, and pastel painting, but experienced watercolorists are welcome to participate. Note: Students are responsible for their own transportation to painting locations.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Joseph Sweeney
Cost: $195
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632


"Plein Air Painitng at Fairmount Park Historic Houses"
Fridays, May 1-29, 2026
 

Paint on location at Philadelphia's historic Fairmount Park mansions! Built in the 18th century, these houses feature amazing architecture, beautiful gardens, and scenic views. Each week will feature a different instructor including: Lisa BergerLentz, Mark Bockrath, Roger Chavez, & Lou Schellenberg, demonstrating oil, watercolor/gouache and pastel techniques, reference art historical examples, cover the ins-and-outs of working outdoors and encourage personal expression. Includes a tour of each historic house (optional)! Work with the materials of your choice including watercolor, oil, acrylic and drawing media. Restrooms and free parking will be available.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Various
Cost: $250
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery & Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647


"Floral Design & Painting Workshop"
May 1, 2026
 

The workshop begins with flowers! You will create your own flower arrangement with Jennifer’s help. Jennifer will have a beautiful selection of fresh flowers, and a container/vessel to create an arrangement for each student. She’s an excellent instructor and makes the workshop so fun. Students will go home with a gorgeous fresh floral arrangement in a container. After the flower arranging is complete, we break for a one-hour lunch. Students can bring their own, order in, or go out. The afternoon will be spent painting flowers. Jan will instruct on the painting of florals beginning with a brief demo. She will then work with students for the remainder of the afternoon as they create paintings from their own floral arrangements.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Jennifer Reed & Jan Wier
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Make Your Own Palette, Cup and Brush Holder"
May 3, 2026
 

Join us for a creative and hands-on pottery workshop where you'll craft your very own palette, water cup, and brush holder from stoneware clay! Over the course of five hours, Karen will guide you step-by-step in a variety of techniques including shaping, molding, carving and decorating your pieces. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, by the end of the workshop, you'll have functional, beautiful items for your art space that are uniquely your own. All materials, tools, and firings are included—just bring your creativity! All work will be glazed white. Students will be contacted for pick up.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Karen Sacks
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Floral Inspiration for Four Weeks"
May 4 - June 1, 2026
 

Whether you want to paint a bunch of flowers, a single flower, or just use the colors of flowers to launch an idea, this course may be for you. We will be working in oils. You may bring your own flowers to use as reference or work from whatever I choose to bring that day. This course is not about botanical painting or hyper realistic painting. It is more about expressing the joy of flowers; the colors, and textures, and shapes. If you even used this class time to practice mixing the colors you see, it will be painting time well spent.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Jan Wier
Cost: $210
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Lecture: Color Science behind a Limited Palette"
May 4, 2026
 

Having a well-chosen limited palette is not only incredibly useful but also highly practical for plein air painting and all other studio work. That said, many artists find that a limited palette sometimes falls short—there are always a few colors they need that simply can’t be mixed from the ones they have. Through rigorous investigation, Qiang has examined color performance using a systematic process. His findings are backed by scientific evidence that supports clear reasoning and informed decision-making. He will introduce a new seven-color limited palette that he has found to be effective across nearly all genres, both in the studio and outdoors. To test its versatility, Qiang spent about a year painting exclusively with this palette.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Qiang Huang
Cost: $10
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Big Bold Watercolor Fun"
Thursdays, May 7-21, 2026
 

Instead of getting caught up in tiny details, we focus on making big, bold strokes with large, juicy brushes. By loading our brushes with a generous amount of water and pigment, we can let the colors mingle and flow across the paper in exciting and unpredictable ways. It’s a messy, joyful experience that helps students overcome the fear of a blank page and discover the unique magic of watercolor as a medium. This approach encourages a playful mindset and results in vibrant, expressive paintings that are full of life and movement.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Paulette Staley
Cost: $160
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Painted Paper Collage Workshop"
May 9, 2026
 

Create your own collage from painted paper! Learn how to plan and complete an original work of art from pencil sketch to finished collage. This workshop covers processes for generating ideas, spatial drawing techniques, basic color theory and collage techniques.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Katie Knoeringer
Cost: $95
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647


"Family Day of Clay: Strawberry Pot (Ages 6+ with Adult)"
May 9, 2026
 

This Mother's Day weekend, join us for an afternoon of clay together with your child, and create this fresh Strawberry Pot! Learn the basics of working with kiln-fired clay and colorful glazes while you make one project together with your child. If you each want to create your own project, please register yourself and each child separately. Ages 6 and up with an adult. All works created will be fired and ready for pick up approximately two weeks from the date of the workshop.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Cost: $55
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Mother's Day Collage Workshop"
May 10, 2026
 

Celebrate Mother’s Day at Cerulean Arts with a session of creative collage! Explore how to build artistic and poetic images in a fun way utilizing random materials such as magazines, colored paper, textured surfaces, fabric, dried flowers and leaves. Bring family pictures and paper memories to build your own special and unique art pieces. Learn about composition, different ways to manipulate paper, and professional pasting techniques for future projects.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Alicia Mino Gonzalez
Cost: $75
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647


"Sunday Painting with Susan"
Sundays, May 10 - June 14 (No class on May 17)
 

Take an energetic painting journey with Susan Sullivan in this live Zoom Sunday class! Learn the basics of direct oil painting including composition, color mixing and paint handling. Create paintings from observation based on your own still life arrangements, window view/landscape, self-portrait, and through copying a master artwork. Receive helpful feedback and critique along the way. All levels welcome in this informative and fun class!
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Susan Sullivan
Cost: $195
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647


"Dynamic Still Life : Emphasis on Light and Color"
May 11-12, 2026
 

Qiang’s approach to still life painting will be demonstrated with particular focus on creating dramatic set ups by observing the light distribution and using bold and loose strokes to create a powerful and accurate representation on canvas. Using demonstrations and individual assistance, Qiang will explain his process of creating energetic paintings by manipulating values, colors, edges, and brushwork. Personal attention will be given to each student according to his or her current skill level and personal goals in art. The workshop is designed for indoor practice with live settings. Qiang has developed computer tools to help artists to see color more accurately and simplify the painting process. He will share his color study and introduce the tools in this workshop.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Qiang Huang
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Creating a Realistic Sense of Light"
May 11-13, 2026
 

Given the priority of authentic light in my work, it is this element that I like to focus on during the three-day workshop. As such, we will focus on value and color temperature relationships above all else. While good drawing is paramount to our effort—since nothing spoils a painting faster than drawing errors—our time is better spent on the more difficult and crucial concepts of value and color temperature. Elements such as appropriate edges, surface texture, composition, and others will also be discussed as needed. We will be painting in oil.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Mark Boedges
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"In-Depth Watercolor, Section 1"
Wednesdays, May 13 - June 17, 2026
 

Join veteran plein air artist Joe Sweeney for a unique opportunity to paint inside one of the oldest rowing clubs in Philadelphia: the Bachelors Barge Club on Boathouse Row. Work from picturesque views of the Schuylkill River with the benefit of full access to the historic building with access to the dock, rain-/sun-sheltered porch, and amenities including restrooms. Experienced guidance will cover tactics for working efficiently outdoors, selecting a composition, color mixing, and capturing time of day and atmospheric effects. Instruction and demonstrations will be geared toward acrylic, oil, and pastel painting, but experienced watercolorists are welcome to participate. Note: Students are responsible for their own transportation to painting locations.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: James Toogood
Cost: $540
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632


"Painting the Figure"
Wednesdays, May 13 - June 17, 2026
 

This in-person/on-campus studio class presents a structured approach to painting the figure in oils from life. Topics include drawing methods, gesture, figure structure, basic anatomy, palettes, and various paint application techniques for layering and alla prima approaches. Includes instructor demonstrations and generous individualized guidance/feedback.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Al Gury
Cost: $615
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632


"Watercolor Explorations"
Fridays, May 15 - June 5, 2026
 

I invite you to join me as we explore the excitement and drama of interior scenes in watercolor. We will maximize the use of light against dark as we paint interior scenes including barns, boathouses and bars! You don’t want to miss out on this adventure!
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Mick McAndrews
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Oil/Acrylic Painting: Capturing Color"
Fridays, May 15 - June 26, 2026
 

This painting-essentials course presents an in-depth and practical examination of the role of color in oil and acrylic painting. Instruction will explore mixing strategies and the effects of color choices and relationships upon depth, atmosphere, and luminosity. A variety of painting methods will be addressed, with a focus on how to exploit glazing, scumbling, and velatura layering techniques to achieve richer and more lively color. The still-life subject matter is appropriate for painters of all experience levels, although those with prior experience will benefit most from the color-emphasis in content.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Frederic Kaplan
Cost: $450
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632


"Figure Painting: Alla Prima and the Limited Palette"
Saturdays, May 16 - June 27, 2026
 

Working from the nude model in poses of varying lengths, investigate color mixing, proportion, and composition using oil paint as a medium. Focusing on alla prima painting techniques and a limited flesh-tone palette, learn to model the human form through gesture, shape, volume, and temperature – excellent for painted sketches and preparatory studies, foundations for extended work, or an introduction/refresher to figure painting. Intended for all skill levels, this course also offers the valuable opportunity for more advanced students to continue to hone their skills to deepen their understanding of the language of painting. Instruction will be geared toward oil, but students may draw-only, or use other appropriate media, if they wish.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: David Wilson
Cost: $330
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632


"Essential Drawing Techniques"
Mondays, May 18 - June 29, 2026
 

Draw what you see competently and with confidence. Drawing is not only the basis for other creative endeavors like painting and sculpting, but also a powerful means of describing the world around you and expressing yourself. Instruction will address fundamental concepts including line, shape, perspective, value, and composition. Draw from still life objects, the life model, and more while learning the proper use of drawing materials, sight-measuring methods to accurately gauge proportions and space, shading techniques to develop three-dimensional form and contrast, and means of developing personal expression. Ideal for beginners and those in need of a refresher.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Roger Chavez
Cost: $315
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632


"Papermaking Intensive"
May 18-22, 2026
 

Discover the sculptural possibilities of handmade paper in this one-week intensive in PAFA's Brodsky Center Paper Studio. Learn fundamentals or build on previous papermaking knowledge as you begin by forming sheets with a mould and deckle, and then move beyond the flat page into casting, draping paper over armatures, and investigating techniques for creating dimensional paper sculptures. Working with cotton, flax, and abaca fibers, explore how paper can function as both surface and structure. Students are encouraged to arrive with a project in mind; those with moulds from previous mould-making classes are welcome to bring them. All participants will gain the experience to continue to work with handmade paper as a sculptural medium. All levels welcome.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Clay Tenhula
Cost: $295
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632


"The Landscape Oil Sketch"
Tuesdays, May 19 - June 16, 2026
 

The oil sketch is a traditional way for painters to execute preparatory ideas and quickly capture initial impressions – perfect for plein air painting! Learn useful techniques for rapidly encapsulating color and form while working directly from observation. Locations with shade and restrooms include Bartram’s Garden and other sites along the Schuylkill River. Note: Students are responsible for their own transportation to painting locations.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Roger Chavez
Cost: $315
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632


"Watercolor Plunge"
Tuesdays, May 19 - June 23, 2026
 

Take the plunge to learn the fundamentals of watercolor through this beginner-friendly class designed for those with little or no painting experience! Acquire a thorough grounding in basic watercolor materials and techniques, including papers, brushes and pigments, as well as transparent and opaque painting methods. Gain the confidence to further your skills and enjoyment in the medium, in future studies or personal expression.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Tony Rosati
Cost: $295
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632


"Painting over the Line"
Wednesdays, May 20 - July 29, 2026
 

Learn to explore new possibilities and paint more intuitively under the guidance of artist/critic/mentor Kassem Amoudi. Work from personal subject matter (objects, images, emotions, or ideas) to find your own visual language, informed by examples from contemporary and modern art. Examine how to use concepts of color, harmony, focal point, space, and mark-making as powerful tools of personal expression. Instruction is geared toward open painting time supported by critiques and advice from the instructor as he works one-on-one with students to guide them in their personal style and goals. This course is excellent for students pursuing abstract or nonobjective imagery, seeking knowledgeable feedback and a focused community painting environment. Painting experience recommended.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Kassem Amoudi
Cost: $450
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632


"Letterpress Printmaking"
Wednesdays, May 20 - June 24, 2026
 

Letterpress, also known as moveable type, is the process of printing with moveable components of either wood or lead type. Today, letterpress printing has become fashionable, used to print wedding invitations, business cards, and anything with that traditional vintage look. In this six-week course, students will learn the process of setting both wood and lead type and printing on a Vandercook letterpress. Instruction will also explore letterpress as a wonderful tool for printing images in edition through the creation of pressure prints. Printing of relief blocks, registration, layout, paper size, and color will also be discussed. This class is open to beginners and advanced artists. Tuition includes a $20 lab fee.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Rosae Reeder
Cost: $315
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632


"Portrait Drawing and Anatomy"
Thursdays, May 21 - June 25, 2026
 

Develop a solid background in drawing the human head and features. Learn first the structure of the head – planar structure, axial relationships, proportions and foreshortening – and progress to anatomy and the features. Work with a variety of materials including graphite, charcoal, and chalk (conté crayon and pencil). Extended poses will promote strengthening of observational abilities and drawing techniques toward achieving both a likeness and aesthetic effect. Historical and contemporary examples of master portrait drawings will provide inspiration and insight. All levels are welcome. Note: Course tuition includes a $75 models fee.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Jill A. Rupinski
Cost: $615
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632


"Pet Portrait Drawing Workshop"
May 30, 2026
 

Learn how to create a fun, realistic and character descriptive portrait of your beloved pet in this workshop. The instructor will guide through a step-by-step drawing process that includes how to create the facial structure of your pet; render beautiful and sparkling eyes; build nose and mouth shapes; create light and dark fur; and choose the right background for your portrait. Enjoy a happy pet drawing day!
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Alicia Mino Gonzalez
Cost: $95
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647


"The Expressive Floral"
May 30, 2026
 

Working from a limited palette, this one-day workshop focuses on ways to create expressive florals on a larger canvas exploring energetic brushstrokes to create a harmonious and vibrant garden scene of flowers. Students will work from their own or provided imagery. Examples of colorful works by Josef Klimt and Joan Mitchell will be shared to inspire your process. A short demo will be shared on color mixing and simplification of form.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Abby Ober
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Principles of Abstraction XL"
June 1-5, 2026
 

Exploring abstracts on a larger scale in the medium of your choosing, this 5-day class will push you into new territory where growth lives… only upsized, because bigger risks equal bigger rewards. You will be shown a system for developing your artistic voice, with a focus on design principles and the language of abstraction. The emphasis is on creative process, exploring new ways to develop and build paintings, create inventive compositions, and build authentic intent in your work. The class is as much a challenge for the experienced as it is for the developing artist, but it’s not for the rank beginner. Bring a sense of humor, a fearless creative spirit, and an open mind.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Larry Moore
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Geometric Inspirations for Painting"
Wednesdays, June 3-24, 2026
 

Geometry has been a source of interest, beauty and creative inspiration for the artist through the ages. Geometric forms, lines and shapes are all around us and can be seen in everything from architecture to plant life to seashells. Learn non-mathematical strategies inspired by geometry designed to enhance your ongoing body of work or be the starting point for a new one with focus on simplifying subject matter, building a unified composition and creating or enhancing a color palette. Work in the medium of your choice: acrylic, gouache or watercolor while working from your own reference photographs, drawings, books or digital imagery. Designed for both beginners and experienced art makers.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Michael Smith
Cost: $175
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647


"Bookmaking Workshop"
June 6, 2026
 

Learn how to make a quick and fun book in few hours. You will learn a paint transfer technique, pop-up mechanisms, pamphlet stitching, and a simple one sheet zig-zag accordion technique. The beauty and simplicity of these techniques can inspire you to become a book binding artist. By the end of the workshop, you will be a pro!
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Alicia Mino Gonzalez
Cost: $115
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647


"Plein Air Painting at Valley Forge"
June 9-10, 2026
 

Enjoy open-air painting in beautiful Valley Forge National Historic Park on the National Historic Register. The church site of George Washington’s Continental Army in 1777-1778 and now home to lush scenery and historic architecture! Located in Montgomery County, 35 minutes northwest of Center City Philadelphia, with ample parking and access to restrooms. Working from diverse landscape subject matter, students will learn essential plein air approaches, including color mixing to achieve a sense of light and air, capturing time of day, compositional fundamentals, and sound drawing and painting practices. Instruction is geared toward oil/acrylic painting and pastel drawing/painting. Meeting at the Washington Memorial Chapel parking lot.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Joseph Sweeney
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Lecture: A Short History of Plein Air"
June 11, 2026
 

Come discover the surprising history of how landscape painting, once confined to the artist’s studio, moved out into the open air. This talk will consider the work of artists, some forgotten today, responsible for transforming landscape painting from a minor, marginal genre subject to a platform for personal expression. Explore this fascinating story with Bill Perthes and celebrate its ongoing impact in the Wayne Art Center’s 18th Annual Plein Air Festival.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: William Perthes
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Small Landscapes with a Fauvist Approach: Acrylic on Canvas or Gouache on Paper"
June 13, 2026
 

Push your color and simplify forms in this one-day expressive workshop. Working from sunny landscape photography of your own, you will explore ways to use an arbitrary approach to color and create compositions in the style of fauvist painters Henri Matisse and Andre Derain. Plan to paint no larger than 11 x14. A demo and examples of their fauves will be shared to better understand this vibrant style of painting.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Abby Ober
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Master Class with Bill Scott: Still Life into Abstraction"
June 13 & 14, 2026
 

Don't miss this opportunity to work with renowned painter Bill Scott to explore the sensuous yet thoughtful abstract construction of space in this two-day, intensive studio workshop. Color will be the focus as participants paint from an expansive still life environment with special prompts from Scott. This workshop is designed for intermediate/advanced painters.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Bill Scott
Cost: $395
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647


"Plein Air Painting at Laurel Hill Cemetery"
Fridays, June 19 - July 17, 2026
 

Learn the basics of painting outdoors as you work on location at beautiful and historic Laurel Hill Cemetery featuring terraced grounds, sculpture, and amazing views of the Schuylkill River. Instruction will address the ins-and-outs of working outdoors, color and composition, art historical examples, and personal expression. You may work in the media of your choice including oil, acrylic, watercolor & pastel. Free parking and restrooms available.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Michelle Oosterbaan
Cost: $175
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647


"Meditative Drawing Workshop"
June 20, 2026
 

Meditative drawing is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. Learn to express yourself while creating your own designs and improve your drawing skills at the same time. It will help boost your creativity and ability to focus, cultivate mindfulness and improve your overall mind/body wellness. Join us for a fun, creative and relaxing day!
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Alicia Mino Gonzalez
Cost: $95
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647


"Pastel Drawing Workshop"
June 27, 2026
 

Learn everything you need to know about the medium of soft pastels. Apply basic and advanced techniques in rendering the still-life, portraits and cityscape views. Topics include the use of light and color, types of pastel available, use of different papers, fixing and transporting finished drawings, and safety issues.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Joseph Sweeney
Cost: $95
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647


"Green Scenes: Creating Variety of Greens in Landscape"
July 11, 2026
 

Too much of the same green? Discover the importance of using a range of greens to make your landscapes more impactful. Begin with creating a variety of color swatches of your chosen landscape, pushing some warmer or cooler or lighter or darker. Work on balancing these with other colors in your piece to create a harmonious and balanced composition. Various examples of paintings will be shared a short demo as well in color mixing from a limited palette of color. You can choose to work on smaller landscape studies or a larger finished piece.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Abby Ober
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"One-Day Advanced Painting Workshop"
July 25, 2026
 

Before a painting deserves a large canvas, it must survive the study. In this intensive one-day workshop, professional artist Vlad Duchev guides serious painters through the disciplined process that separates hesitation from mastery: structured, intentional studies. In today’s art culture, artists are often encouraged to “just paint.” But strong paintings are not accidents. They are built. A study is not a warm-up. It is not a quick sketch. It is a focused investigation. When you isolate one problem at a time — value, composition, temperature, edge, brushwork — clarity replaces guesswork. Confidence replaces correction. Authority replaces uncertainty.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Vlad Milan Duchev
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


 

Promote your art workshops, classes & retreats!

Advertising Options