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August 8, 2026
During this one-day intensive workshop, Beth shares her unique technique with students. Beth will do a demo and show how she uses photography and simple apps on her phone to simplify forms enhance value and emphasize composition. She will also discuss how to pick objects that make an exciting still life set up. Students are encouraged to use water mixable (soluble) oils to get the most out of the workshop. Beth will have paint for her students to try as well as one of her prepared painting panels, brushes and other supplies for you to use during the workshop. This workshop is for all level of painters.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Beth Bathe
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Mondays, August 24 - December 7, 2026
Composition is the structural foundation of the creative process. Learn to build stronger paintings by incorporating the essential principles of design into your work. Develop the ability to recognize and establish rhythmic relationships among two-dimensional shapes, light and dark values, and color harmonies to achieve a unified artistic expression. Instruction emphasizes color, space, and drawing concepts.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Michael Gallagher
Cost: $1,450
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Wednesdays, August 26 - December 2, 2026
The ability to depict objects in space is essential to representational drawing, and understanding these principles is fundamental to manipulating them for expressive and abstract effects. Gain a firm foundation in the concepts and terminology of perspective while practicing linear perspective drawing using both grid-based and freehand techniques. Instruction focuses on the interpretation of space, the organization of objects within space, and the relationships of relative proportion. Course content defines and examines a variety of methods for representing three-dimensional objects on a flat, two-dimensional surface, including orthographic, oblique, and isometric drawing systems.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Jill A. Rupinski
Cost: $1,450
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Thusdays, August 27 - December 10, 2026
This first-year-level comprehensive figure modeling course focuses on geometry, anatomy, and proportion, as well as the crucial elements of gesture, rhythm, spontaneity, and the spirit of form-making. Students are encouraged to work in a variety of sizes. Independent study and experimentation are always encouraged, and outside projects should be expected. Broader topics, including the nature, history, and philosophy of figurative art, are also discussed.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: John Horn
Cost: $1,450
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Mondays, September 14 - October 26, 2026
Explore the painting techniques of the masters who pioneered the 19th and 20th century American watercolor movement, including Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent, Edward Hopper, and Charles Demuth. Characterized by bright color and bold handling that includes accents of opaque watercolor and loose washes, artwork in this tradition captures subject matter with dazzling light-filled effects. Practice these classic methods and learn to incorporate them into your own work to achieve a greater freedom of expression as well as adaptability and control in the way that you paint. Demonstrations and art historical discussions will be combined with short and more extensive still life and self-portrait exercises. This course is appropriate for beginning and intermediate levels.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Richard Estell
Cost: $295
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Tuesdays, September 15 - December 1, 2026
Paint the human figure in oil from short studies to developed compositions. Work from the life model in poses of increasing length to master the components of mass and gesture, proportion and basic anatomy, value, composition, and color mixing from limited colors to a full palette. Extended poses will allow students to refine their observations and deepen their understanding of structure toward building more nuanced and cohesive paintings. Topics such as oil paint handling, surface preparation, and color organization also will be addressed. Students will gain the enhanced ability to construct formally sound and personally expressive figure paintings. Note: Tuition includes a $75 model fee.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Jill A. Rupinski
Cost: $615
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Wednesdays, September 16 - December 2, 2026
Develop your ability to render the human form through the time-honored combination of anatomical study and life drawing. Learn the methods and technical skills of traditional figure drawing, such as measuring, capturing gesture, anatomical structuring, and tonal rendering. Through lectures and demonstrations, and work from the life model, learn the structural aspects of the human form: bony landmarks, simplified volumes, and proportional relationships. Progress to the skeletal framework and superficial muscles to identify their surface effects and how they influence mass and movement. Incorporate your knowledge of figure anatomy to capture the fluidity, vitality, and subtleties of the human form while working from the life model in short and extended poses. Ideal for anyone interested in strengthening their figure drawing, painting, or sculpture skills.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: John Horn
Cost: $615
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Wednesdays, September 16 - November 18, 2026
No matter what your preferred subject matter or painting style, this class is designed to help you push your work beyond your preconceived notions of what it should be. One-on-one instruction will develop your unique artistic voice while exploring composition, color, space, rhythm, and technique. Work from personal subject matter (objects or reference materials) to learn how to begin a painting with confidence, trust your instincts, embrace spontaneity, and transform observed forms into a personal form of expression. Experimentation and intuitive decision-making are encouraged. Whether you recently started or renewed your painting practice, or are an experienced painter seeking to move beyond your comfort zone, you'll discover new ways to express yourself and find joy in the creative process.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Kassem Amoudi
Cost: $450
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Thursdays, September 17 - November 19, 2026
Still life subject matter presents endless possibilities for exploring concepts of color and composition to expand your essential painting skills. Working from eclectic arrangements in PAFA’s dedicated still life room, learn to compose with color to describe form, create visual focus and movement, suggest space, and evoke emotion. Students will become acquainted with color theory and other elements of composition as tools for resolving spatial issues in their paintings. Topics include palette arrangements, color mixing, composing a picture plane through sketching and underpainting, and building a painting surface through direct and indirect painting techniques.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Jill A. Rupinski
Cost: $450
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632
Thursdays, September 17 - December 11, 2026
Taking the leap to start or cultivate an art-making practice in a private studio space can be both exciting and daunting. Learn how to create work and stay motivated on your own terms in this unique combination studio-rental and instruction/critique course! Tuition will confer an individual private studio space in PAFA’s Samuel M.V. Hamilton Building, as well as bi-monthly meetings (approximately every two weeks) for critiques, field trips and/or archives visits, and drawing sessions led by artist-instructor/critic Roger Chavez, accompanied by visiting critics for select weeks. Studio spaces for this program are approximately 10 x 14.5 feet (145 sq. ft.), white-walled, with easel and stool provided. Participants will benefit from prior art-making experience and the ability to work independently.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Roger Chavez
Cost: $1,700
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Saturdays, September 19 - October 24, 2026
Painting the human form from observation is one of the cornerstones of PAFA's long tradition of rigorous instruction. 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 more advanced students the opportunity 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: $385
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Sundays, September 20 - October 11, 2026
Enjoy the expressive possibilities, portability, and vibrant color of traditional watercolor, watercolor pencils, or watercolor markers for open air landscape drawing and painting! Work with either drawing or water-based applications or combine them for luminous mixed-media studies as you portray the beauty of autumn in Philadelphia’s parks in your own personal style. Learn techniques for choosing a composition, mixing and layering color, and working efficiently outdoors as you complete a series of rapid sketches and at least one sustained drawing or painting. Open to all levels. Painting locations featuring shade, restrooms, and other amenities may include Wissahickon Valley Park, Glen Foerd Mansion, and Brandywine River locations. Note: Students are responsible for their own transportation to painting locations.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Michelle Oosterbaan
Cost: $265
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

September 22-25, 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: $265
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Tuesdays, September 22 - November 24, 2026
PAFA’s breathtaking Cast Hall is a unique resource that offers enrolled students the opportunity to work from copies of Greco-Roman and Renaissance sculpture, including the Winged Victory, the Venus de Milo, and the staggering life-size Michelangelo’s David, among other notable works. Students may also work from select casts on display in additional PAFA exhibition areas. Cast Drawing has been a core part of PAFA’s fine arts curriculum for over 200 years. Become a part of this long and rich artistic tradition as you learn to draw accurately from observation, explore line and shape, describe form through light and shadow, and gain an appreciation for some of history’s most beautiful sculptural artworks. This course is an excellent introduction to drawing techniques and materials.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Phyllis Laver
Cost: $450
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Tuesdays, September 22 - November 24, 2026
If you’ve never drawn before, or your skills are a little rusty, then this class is for you. Learn to draw what you see with confidence. Work from still life arrangements, selections from PAFA’s casts and statuary, interior spaces, and the human figure to master the drawing elements: shape, contour line, composition, light and shadow, texture and perspective. Instruction will guide students through sight-drawing and measuring techniques, use of materials, shading methods, and ways of defining form and space. This course is also excellent as a foundation for future study, including for painting and other disciplines. Note: Tuition includes a $25 models fee.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Phyllis Laver
Cost: $500
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Tuesdays, September 22 - November 3, 2026
Strong paintings start with a great foundation. Even when you want to break the ‘rules’, it’s important to do so with intention! In this class, we will dive into the core foundations of creating a great painting, including composition, value, and rhythm, and look at how master artists have incorporated these ideas into their work. Through creative observation and practice, we will spend time with each concept, and see how they work together to make an engaging painting.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Nicole Michaud
Cost: $340
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Wednesdays, September 23 - December 16, 2026
This 12-week course is for beginners who want to explore life drawing and oil painting, and for more experienced artists who want to improve their artistic skills. Using still-life compositions, students will learn about form, space, design, value, and color 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. The class will be broken up into five weeks of drawing and seven weeks of painting, but the student is open to work in any medium if they prefer or continue drawing throughout the entirety of the course.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Annie Gardner
Cost: $490
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Wednesdays, September 23 - December 16, 2026
In this 12-week class we will explore ways to move beyond blending and over-polishing toward a more semi-abstract approach. With a focus on shape, color, and composition, your work can become more powerful. Bring your current work to develop each week. The instructor will help you strengthen your existing approach and refine your paintings. All subject matter and mediums are welcome- still-life, figure, landscape, et al. There will be weekly discussions or lessons, and the instructor will provide weekly one-on-one guidance for each student. Please note: This is a semi-abstract class. We will begin with representational subject matter while exploring ways to abstract it. All mediums welcome (instructor works in oil).
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Claudia Rilling
Cost: $585
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Thursdays, September 24 - December 17, 2026
Using your own inspiration e.g., photos, tablets, still life objects etc., you will learn different techniques to give your paintings life and energy. Composition, value, color mixing and technique will be the main focuses of this class. All mediums and skill levels are welcome!
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Stefanie Lieberman
Cost: $585
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Thursdays, September 24 - December 17, 2026
This course is designed to create paintings that we will build from a loose, underpainting and refine as we go along. This class is ideal for those painters who want to break out of the habit of focusing in on details and let the paint create a more expressive piece. Attention will be paid to composition, color mixing, paint application and technique. All skill levels welcome in a fun and relaxing atmosphere!
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Stefanie Lieberman
Cost: $585
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Fridays, September 25 - October 30, 2026
This 6-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: $250
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Fridays, September 25 - October 30, 2026
Abstract or expressive painting often uses observable subject matter as a starting point or source of inspiration for color, form, and composition. Working from colorful still life arrangements, learn to move beyond identifiable objects and defined contours to explore more expressive or personal means of interpretation. Instruction will address redeploying or adapting observable shapes and colors toward abstract effect, manipulating visual elements to strengthen compositional balance and movement or to reconstruct pictorial space, and employing expressive mark-making for focus or emotional intent. Color mixing and basic oil painting techniques will also be reviewed.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Roger Chavez
Cost: $295
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

September 25-27, 2026
Learn how to paint beautiful landscapes on location! In this class, we will discuss the fundamentals of painting en plein air as well as more advanced topics like drawing, composition, and color theory. The first day will begin with a 30-minute lecture and discussion on the core concepts of plein air painting. This will be followed by a 2.5-hour painting demonstration. After a 1-hour lunch break, students will begin work on their own paintings while Marc gives individualized instruction. Class will end at 4pm, but students may continue to paint if they wish. Days 2 and 3 will follow a similar format. The class will end with a group critique and discussion.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Marc Anderson
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

September 26-27, 2026
This workshop will focus on the problem of combining the genres of still-life and interior painting into a single picture. We will start by addressing the problem of finding a subject and the practical and formal problems of setting up a still life. We will discuss how to organize and simplify complex information, how to have a unified sense of light throughout the picture and how to perceive color and tone relationships. We will also cover aspects of drawing that will help in the creation of a convincing sense of space. Students are welcome to bring their own objects or work with objects on hand at the center.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Peter Van Dyck
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Mondays, September 28 - December 7, 2026
Paint portraits from a variety of models using the direct painting method. Examine the proportions and volumes of the head, as well as the placement, structure, and characteristics of the facial features, through preliminary drawings and demonstrations. Develop color using a limited palette to understand how to use chroma, temperature, value, tint, and tone. Instruction will address materials, composition, paint handling, and color mixing, blending, and theory. Homework assignments working from photos, Masterworks, or oneself/others will encourage students to learn to make personal aesthetic and technical choices and to practice concepts addressed in class. Open to all levels, this course is excellent for all students who want to review fundamental techniques or who simply enjoy painting portraits from life.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Roberto Osti
Cost: $515
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Fridays, October 2 - November 13, 2026 (No class on Oct 23)
Create your own collage from painted paper in the online Zoom class with Katie Knoeringer! Learn how to plan and complete an original work of art from pencil sketch to finished collage. This class covers processes for generating ideas, spatial drawing techniques, basic color theory and collage techniques.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Katie Knoeringer
Cost: $195
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647

October 3, 2026
Explore the colorful world of soft pastels! Color theory, layering and the use of toned paper will help you maximize vibrancy in your pastels. Learn to allow touch and mark to inform your work and avoid over-working. Art historical artists will be discussed to give grounding in the pastel tradition and provide examples to build upon. The workshop will take place in the Cerulean Arts' backyard garden (weather permitting). All levels welcome, from beginner to advanced and all forms of expression from realist to abstract.
The workshop will include a tour of Keith's Cerulean Collective exhibition, on view September 16 - October 11.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Keith Leitner
Cost: $95
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647

October 10-11, 2026
This will be a two-day long pose oil painting workshop with a live model. To start off, students will learn how to get better structure and likeness through the practice of abstract angle relationships as our drawing foundation. Students will then build upon this by modeling the surface of the face with a basic flesh tone value range. This is the basic method upon which more elaborate portraits can be developed. Also discussed will be adding color to our flesh tones, how to start this process and how to think about it based upon classical formulas and also pure abstract color perception. We will end the class with developing the features further to create a focal point for the portrait.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Kerry Dunn
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

October 15, 2026
Paul Cézanne: Father of Modern Painting. No single artist has been as influential on the development of modern painting as Paul Cézanne. Although not a naturally gifted artist, Cézanne worked to hone a uniquely personal form that was boldly dynamic and visually innovative. In this talk we’ll track Cézanne’s development from his early struggles to his confident, mature work, along the way encountering the artists who befriended, tutored, and challenged his progress.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: William Perthes
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

October 17-18, 2026
In this immersive two-day painting workshop, artist Vlad Duchev emphasizes a practical approach centered on one of the most important elements in painting: composition. Through a series of focused studies, participants will learn how to simplify complex subjects, identify compelling shapes, organize visual relationships, and create compositions that communicate clearly and powerfully. From initial idea to finished painting, emphasis will be placed on editing, design, and the strategic use of suggestion—learning how to leave out the unnecessary so the essential can speak louder. This workshop is designed for painters seeking to strengthen their artistic voice, create more compelling compositions, and develop a deeper understanding of how studies and suggestion work together to elevate their paintings.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Vlad Milan Duchev
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Wednesdays, October 21 - November 11, 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: $195
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647

October 24-25, 2026
This two-day workshop explores how artists can use limited palettes, dominant color relationships, and value structure to create landscape paintings with greater mood, atmosphere, and emotional impact. Through demonstrations, discussion, and hands-on painting exercises, students will learn how simplifying color choices can create stronger design, clearer visual statements, and more expressive paintings. Student Level: Open to painters with prior experience (beginner through advanced). This workshop is not intended for absolute beginners with no painting experience. Medium: Oil is preferred; however, painters working in other media are welcome provided they have prior experience in their chosen medium.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Mark Vander Vinne
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

October 24 & 25, 2026
This workshop will consider the idea of approaching still life not as a collection of objects, but as a landscape. By shifting focus away from describing things and toward spatial relationships, atmosphere, movement and structure, we will discover new possibilities for observation and interpretation. The goal is not to disguise the still life as a landscape, but to use the visual language of landscape painting to deepen engagement with what is in front of us.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Gillian Wainwright
Cost: $395
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647

October 28, 2026
In the last years of his life, Paul Cezanne described himself as “a pupil of Pissarro”. The often overlooked Camille Pissarro was not only a major painter himself, but he was also a generous teacher and mentor of Cezanne, Van Gogh, and Gauguin. In this lecture I will share my enthusiasm of Pissarro and stress his central role in the development of modern art. About the instructor: Leslie Bowen received her MFA from The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and taught at Millersville University and Lebanon Valley College where she received the Nevelyn J. Knisley Award for Inspirational Teaching. She also studied painting at the Paris American Academy, Southhampton College, and Salzburg International Summer Academy.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Leslie Bowen
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Thursdays, October 29 - December 10, 2026
This course will introduce students to the basics of oil painting. Students will learn how to handle materials, mix colors, and build a painting from start to finish. The tools and processes covered are adaptable for use in a home studio setup. Techniques will include color mixing, brushwork, layering, and basic surface preparation. Students will work from simple observation and/or reference while developing an understanding of value and composition.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Shushana Rucker
Cost: $250
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647

October 31, 2026
Every strong painting begins with a thoughtful foundation. In this one-day workshop, students will first explore applying transparent patches of vibrant color to the painting surface, creating an energetic underpainting that adds excitement and provides color relationships to build upon throughout the process. From there, we'll establish transparent darks to define the value structure, composition, and overall color harmony. You'll learn to mix a variety of rich, colorful darks while connecting dark shapes to dark shapes and light shapes to light shapes, creating visual pathways that guide the viewer's eye through the painting. Once the design is established, we'll transition to thicker, opaque light passages, bringing the painting to life with clarity, unity, and luminous color.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Fred Jackson
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

October 31 - November 1, 2026
While working from a live model (one 2-day pose) this workshop will emphasize how to achieve accuracy of the facial structure and features as you block in, and how to mix the right color and value for the light, shadow, and midtones as the portrait is developed. Instructor will demonstrate both days in a step-by-step process to support students’ work. We will work on a toned surface so that we can paint directly with color after doing a block in. Some drawing experience recommended. Handouts provided. One-on-one feedback at your easels in a supportive, friendly atmosphere.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Ellen Cooper
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

October 31 - November 1, 2026
During this two-day color class students will learn how to skillfully mix oil paint through guided mixing exercises and how to better apply these ideas to one's own paintings. We will work also with a variety of palettes and explore how each one can influence color relationships and expression in a painting. Through hands-on exercises, demos, and lectures, color will become easier to use and to understand. This class is for any oil painter- advanced beginner to advanced- who would like to become more confident with color control and mixing, and learn to use different palettes and approaches to color theory. Acrylic can be accommodated if one has a “stay-wet” palette set-up.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Claudia Rilling
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Fridays, November 6 - December 18, 2026
This 6-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: $250
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Fridays, November 6 - December 18, 2026
Watercolor is a wonderful painting medium due to its vibrant and translucent nature, quick drying time, and easy set-up and clean-up. Explore this versatile medium a supportive and immersive environment! Focus will be color theory and brush work demonstrations as we explore the basics of color mixing, layering washes and a sense of touch. Painting from natural subject matter including still life, botanical studies and landscape. Drawing experience is helpful but not required.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Michelle Oosterbaan
Cost: $250
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647

November 7-8, 2026
During this 2-day workshop, participants will explore approaches to developing and emphasizing abstract relationships in a painting based on direct observation. The instructor will work with students to set up their own still life, and cover topics such as color mixing, value relationships and framing the scene/composing. We will search for formal abstract relationships such as alignments, pathways through the space, as well as color and value design. There will be a focus on creating a simple, but sophisticated still-life arrangement. The emphasis will be on the emergence of the abstract structure of the painting rather than on traditional techniques or skills. A broad range of painting styles and skill levels are welcome. Some basic familiarity with oil paint is recommended.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Ed Praybe
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

November 7, 2026
Paint loose and intuitive in a workshop where color, shape and line come together to make impactful designs inspired by your color palette and your style of brushwork. Students will work on various small color studies (4 x 6 or 6 x 8) at first to determine color palette and choose a favorite composition to paint larger the second half of the day (11x 14 or 16 x 20). This is a day for those who move away from painting objects or landscapes to emphasize feeling and movement.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Abby Ober
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

November 7, 2026
In this workshop we will make the best use of our palette by learning how to mix complements and neutrals that create harmony in our paintings. We will also explore how to do a lot with a little, by gaining confidence with a limited palette. Travel light without giving up a range of expressions and moods. Beginning to advanced oil painters welcome.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Nicole Michaud
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Tuesdays, November 10 - December 15, 2026
This class will focus on personalized instruction and critique; encouraging creative experimentation and furthering one’s personal painting goals.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Jon Redmond
Cost: $300
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Tuesdays, November 10 - December 15, 2026
Through demos, lectures and personal instruction you will paint from life using your own personal still life set ups. Common problems such as composition, subject matter, lighting, color mixing and material choices will be covered.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Jon Redmond
Cost: $300
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Thursdays, November 12 - December 17, 2026
This class will explore the process of working in the studio from photographs looking at both historic and contemporary examples, as well as class demonstrations and individual instruction. We will sort through the inherent strengths and weaknesses of using the photograph as the basis for a painting. Jon will also discuss ways to manipulate your photos with the iPhone and how to choose the best photos from which to work.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Jon Redmond
Cost: $250
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Thursdays, November 12 - December 17, 2026
Through demos, discussions and class work I will help you understand how your material choices and aesthetic decisions can greatly affect the direction and outcome of your work.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Jon Redmond
Cost: $250
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

November 14, 2026
During this one-day intensive workshop, Beth shares her unique technique with students. Beth will do a demo and show how she uses photography and simple apps on her phone to simplify forms enhance value and emphasize composition. She will also discuss how to pick objects that make an exciting still life set up. Students are encouraged to use water mixable (soluble) oils to get the most out of the workshop. Beth will have paint for her students to try as well as one of her prepared painting panels, brushes and other supplies for you to use during the workshop. This workshop is for all level of painters.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Beth Bathe
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

November 14-15, 2026
We will dive into the all important painting issue of figuring out how to successfully mix colors and properly use your materials to express vision. In depth demos and discussions on color temperature, value relationships, paint handling, color choices and color mixing. Morning demos and afternoon instruction while painting from life.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Jon Redmond
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

November 14-15, 2026
This course invites painters to work directly from life rather than from assumptions or formulas. Using simple, tangible subjects—such as fruit or flowers—students learn to slow down, truly look, and respond to what is actually in front of them. The course emphasizes seeing the whole before the parts—establishing large relationships, proportion, and spatial order before attending to refinement. Color, pigment characteristics, and color mixing are addressed throughout as essential tools for clarity and expression. This class is ideal for painters who want their work to feel more confident, cohesive, and alive—and who are ready to trust their eyes, enjoy the process, and paint with clear, purposeful strokes.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Georganna Lenssen
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Sundays, November 15 - December 13, 2026
Experience the joy of watercolor painting in combination with gouache and ink to create a range of effects! Learn techniques for layering ink and watercolor to develop a deep, rich surface as well as direct, alla prima methods while you work from your own photographs. Add gouache and drawing media for contrast and definition. All tools and techniques will be explained and demonstrated including preparatory drawing, brushes, types of paper, use of color and painting methods. Designed to be instructional and fun for students of all levels of experience from beginner to advanced.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Michael Kowbuz
Cost: $195
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647

Wednesdays, November 18 - December 9, 2026
Learn everything you need to know about the medium of 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: $195
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647

November 19, 2026
In the 1950s a group of young American artists burst onto the international art scene with a bold, fresh, and improvisational visual form quickly labeled Abstract Expressionism. At the forefront of this group was Jackson Pollock whose “drip” paintings came to personify the movement. Join us for a close look at Abstract Expressionism and the central role that Pollock played in its development. We’ll look at Pollock’s early work, his breakthrough drip paintings, and the work of his last years. We’ll also consider Pollock in relationship to the work of his contemporaries such as Mark Rothko, Barnett Newman, and Robert Motherwell.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: William Perthes
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

November 19-22, 2026
Working from still-life we will develop a vocabulary for clearer color thinking, and skills in seeing and using the subtle color changes in white. Color is a perceptual event: a sensation, not a theory. White, as the brightest and highest value, is the master of all the other colors. How does a painter become a colorist? It is not about using bright colors but about handling nuances and seeing color relationships, especially in the use of whites. Those subtle color changes require heightened sensitivity to all aspects of color; value, harmony and complementary, along with careful observation and response, and understanding how color and light function in both human vision and in paint.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Maggie Siner
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

November 21, 2026
This class breaks down the landscape into three essential zones: foreground, middle ground, and background. We will look at how color and value shift in each of the three zones and learn how to use dramatic value contrast and scale shifts to guide the viewer's eye exactly where you want it to go. Together we will design landscapes with strong foreground elements (such as a large tree, dark grasses, or a winding pathway) that lead to a clear middle ground and then back to a deep atmospheric vista. Open to artists at all levels who want to create depth in their paintings and try a structured approach to landscape painting.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Claire Haik
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

December 3-6, 2026
Because drapery captures gravity, weight and movement, it does a great deal of the work in making a convincing dynamic composition. Drapery can be manipulated and altered in ways that bodies can never be and yet define the forms of the body underneath. As it covers it also reveals. Fabric retains the gesture of movement, giving life to static forms. Changes of color on each turning plane are subtle, beautiful, and completely dependent on fabric texture. This gives tactile specificity for the sense of touch. Fabric suggests content, drama. Working from visual perception and studying light relationships we will use both still life and figure to simplify and extract the essentials of form and gesture for a unified and dramatic whole.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Maggie Siner
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

December 12-13, 2026
This workshop will focus on working though the complexities of oil painting while studying the light, form and space of a small scaled still life. Demonstrations will cover: Subject choices, material choices, under-paintings, direct and indirect oil techniques. Intense personal instruction is augmented with class discussions on historical and contemporary artists.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Jon Redmond
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

December 12-13, 2026
Get the most out of your studio time or plein air work by keeping things simple, to-the-point, and powerful. Focus on design; the overall abstract relationships in your painting are what matter, and what have the most impact. Your ability to analyze visual data, break it down to its basic components, and record it, is the key to your development as a visual artist. This ability, combined with a lexical/visual language that can help you analyze and convey these ideas, is an essential step in discovering your own personal aesthetic. I'll do a demo of a painting for the ?rst half of each day, with the students painting the second half of the day. Attendees may use oils or acrylics.
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Patrick Lee
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

See also:
Art Books for Design & Color Theory |
Tutorials for Design & Color Theory
