WILLIAMSBURG CONTEMPORARY ART CENTER
ADULT ART CLASSES & WORKSHOPS
Advance registration is required.
|
|
adult CLASSES – Spring 2026
|
monday | tuesday | wednesday | thursday | friday
| saturday
top of page
Tuesdays
Continuing Watercolor - 01-26
ASP-617-01-26 / Tuesday, January 6, 13, & 20
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 9:00 - 11:00
Course Fee:
Members: $105
Non-Members: $120
Instructor: Elizabeth Greaf
This is a small class for people who have had some experience with watercolor, preferably at least an introductory class that taught them about watercolor materials and the basics of painting in watercolor.
In this class you will be doing paintings from your own photographs.
The instructor will work with the students as a group and individually during the class to help them further develop their skills. She will help you plan your approach to your painting, give guidance on the drawing that you are starting with, and then advise, demonstrate, etc. on aspects of the painting wherever you may need her help.
When needed, she’ll use a class session for a concentrated lesson on some aspect of drawing/painting. When she is working with one student, all are welcome to listen and ask questions as these questions offer a learning opportunity to all.
Get your materials list when you enroll. If you have questions about items on the materials list, contact the instructor for information at 516 383-1137 or artbyeliz@gmail.com.
This class is one in which people who are working to continually improve their painting skills often enroll continuously. People find not only the help of the instructor valuable but to continually take class with the same group of people creates an excellent support group for your painting endeavors.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by January 2 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
Introduction to Watercolor - 01-26
ASP-616-01-26 / Tuesday, January 6, 13, & 20
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 12:30 - 2:30
Course Fee:
Members: $105
Non-Members: $120
Instructor: Elizabeth Greaf
In three sessions you will learn about watercolor materials, basics of using watercolor, and how to create a simple still life painting. You will end with enough insight to begin to paint simple scenes on your own or feel comfortable in early watercolor classes. If you've been away from painting for a while, this class can refresh your skills and help you get back into it.
The first session will teach you about watercolor materials. Please wait to get your supplies after this class. Bring only pencil and paper to the first session (for notes).
Session One: Watercolor materials, how to choose them, how they work.
You need to understand how to select paint, paper, and brushes to have tools that will let you achieve your goals in painting. You'll learn why these selections are important and be able to make good decisions as you add materials.
Session Two: Watercolor techniques, basic strokes and techniques
When should the paper be dry, when should it be wet? How can I use my brush to create the image that I want to make? What other tools can I use to create images? How do I "paint" white shapes since I don't use white paint in watercolor? Demonstration and exercises will help you learn about working with watercolor, its materials, and equipment to achieve your painting goals.
Session Three: Create a simple watercolor still life painting.
You will create a simple painting that will utilize many of the materials and techniques that were discussed in earlier sessions. This will give you the opportunity to reinforce what you have learned by trying the techniques in an actual painting. We will work from specific still life items in a setup for your subject. These items have been chosen to enable you to use a wide variety of the basic techniques. You will need to bring a small purple eggplant, a nicely striped Gala apple, and a Bartlett pear to class for your subject.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by January 2 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
Continuing Watercolor - 02-26
ASP-619-02-26 / Tuesday, February 10, 17, & 24
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 9:00 - 11:00
Course Fee:
Members: $105
Non-Members: $120
Instructor: Elizabeth Greaf
This is a small class for people who have had some experience with watercolor, preferably at least an introductory class that taught them about watercolor materials and the basics of painting in watercolor.
In this class you will be doing paintings from your own photographs.
The instructor will work with the students as a group and individually during the class to help them further develop their skills. She will help you plan your approach to your painting, give guidance on the drawing that you are starting with, and then advise, demonstrate, etc. on aspects of the painting wherever you may need her help.
When needed, she’ll use a class session for a concentrated lesson on some aspect of drawing/painting. When she is working with one student, all are welcome to listen and ask questions as these questions offer a learning opportunity to all.
Get your materials list when you enroll. If you have questions about items on the materials list, contact the instructor for information at 516 383-1137 or artbyeliz@gmail.com.
This class is one in which people who are working to continually improve their painting skills often enroll continuously. People find not only the help of the instructor valuable but to continually take class with the same group of people creates an excellent support group for your painting endeavors.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by February 6 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
Painting with the Instructor - 02-26
ASP-620-02-26 / Tuesday, February 10, 17, & 24
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 12:30 - 2:30
Course Fee:
Members: $105
Non-Members: $120
Instructor: Elizabeth Greaf
Now that you’ve had a series of introductory classes, learn how to use those basics of watercolor in a painting. The instructor will e-mail a copy of a photograph to students prior to class. That scene will be the subject for this 3 session class. She will take you step by step, from start to finish of the painting, based on the photo, to teach you to utilize the basics of watercolor in a painting. Each step will be demonstrated, accompanied with careful instruction, then you will try it. Be sure to print out a copy of the photo for your reference during class. Get materials list when you enroll. Contact instructor if you need more information: 516 383-1137 or artbyeliz@gmail.com.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by February 6 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
Continuing Watercolor - 03-26
ASP-622-03-26 / Tuesday, March 10, 17, & 24
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 9:00 - 11:00
Course Fee:
Members: $105
Non-Members: $120
Instructor: Elizabeth Greaf
This is a small class for people who have had some experience with watercolor, preferably at least an introductory class that taught them about watercolor materials and the basics of painting in watercolor.
In this class you will be doing paintings from your own photographs.
The instructor will work with the students as a group and individually during the class to help them further develop their skills. She will help you plan your approach to your painting, give guidance on the drawing that you are starting with, and then advise, demonstrate, etc. on aspects of the painting wherever you may need her help.
When needed, she’ll use a class session for a concentrated lesson on some aspect of drawing/painting. When she is working with one student, all are welcome to listen and ask questions as these questions offer a learning opportunity to all.
Get your materials list when you enroll. If you have questions about items on the materials list, contact the instructor for information at 516 383-1137 or artbyeliz@gmail.com.
This class is one in which people who are working to continually improve their painting skills often enroll continuously. People find not only the help of the instructor valuable but to continually take class with the same group of people creates an excellent support group for your painting endeavors.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by March 6 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
Painting with the Instructor - 03-26
ASP-623-03-26 / Tuesday, March 10, 17, & 24
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 12:30 - 2:30
Course Fee:
Members: $105
Non-Members: $120
Instructor: Elizabeth Greaf
Now that you’ve had a series of introductory classes, learn how to use those basics of watercolor in a painting. The instructor will e-mail a copy of a photograph to students prior to class. That scene will be the subject for this 3 session class. She will take you step by step, from start to finish of the painting, based on the photo, to teach you to utilize the basics of watercolor in a painting. Each step will be demonstrated, accompanied with careful instruction, then you will try it. Be sure to print out a copy of the photo for your reference during class. Get materials list when you enroll. Contact instructor if you need more information: 516 383-1137 or artbyeliz@gmail.com.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by March 6 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
Continuing Watercolor - 04-26
ASP-624-04-26 / Tuesday, April 7, 14, & 21
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 9:00 - 11:00
Course Fee:
Members: $105
Non-Members: $120
Instructor: Elizabeth Greaf
This is a small class for people who have had some experience with watercolor, preferably at least an introductory class that taught them about watercolor materials and the basics of painting in watercolor.
In this class you will be doing paintings from your own photographs.
The instructor will work with the students as a group and individually during the class to help them further develop their skills. She will help you plan your approach to your painting, give guidance on the drawing that you are starting with, and then advise, demonstrate, etc. on aspects of the painting wherever you may need her help.
When needed, she’ll use a class session for a concentrated lesson on some aspect of drawing/painting. When she is working with one student, all are welcome to listen and ask questions as these questions offer a learning opportunity to all.
Get your materials list when you enroll. If you have questions about items on the materials list, contact the instructor for information at 516 383-1137 or artbyeliz@gmail.com.
This class is one in which people who are working to continually improve their painting skills often enroll continuously. People find not only the help of the instructor valuable but to continually take class with the same group of people creates an excellent support group for your painting endeavors.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by April 3 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
Introduction to Watercolor - 04-26
ASP-625-04-26 / Tuesday, April 7, 14, & 21
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 12:30 - 2:30
Course Fee:
Members: $105
Non-Members: $120
Instructor: Elizabeth Greaf
In three sessions you will learn about watercolor materials, basics of using watercolor, and how to create a simple still life painting. You will end with enough insight to begin to paint simple scenes on your own or feel comfortable in early watercolor classes. If you've been away from painting for a while, this class can refresh your skills and help you get back into it.
The first session will teach you about watercolor materials. Please wait to get your supplies after this class. Bring only pencil and paper to the first session (for notes).
Session One: Watercolor materials, how to choose them, how they work.
You need to understand how to select paint, paper, and brushes to have tools that will let you achieve your goals in painting. You'll learn why these selections are important and be able to make good decisions as you add materials.
Session Two: Watercolor techniques, basic strokes and techniques
When should the paper be dry, when should it be wet? How can I use my brush to create the image that I want to make? What other tools can I use to create images? How do I "paint" white shapes since I don't use white paint in watercolor? Demonstration and exercises will help you learn about working with watercolor, its materials, and equipment to achieve your painting goals.
Session Three: Create a simple watercolor still life painting.
You will create a simple painting that will utilize many of the materials and techniques that were discussed in earlier sessions. This will give you the opportunity to reinforce what you have learned by trying the techniques in an actual painting. We will work from specific still life items in a setup for your subject. These items have been chosen to enable you to use a wide variety of the basic techniques. You will need to bring a small purple eggplant, a nicely striped Gala apple, and a Bartlett pear to class for your subject.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by April 3 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
top of page
Wednesdays
Developing Your Personal Painting Style - 01-26
ASP-612-01-26 / Wednesday, January 7, 14, 21, & 28
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 9:30 - 12:00
Course Fee:
Members: $140
Non-Members: $155
Instructor: Carol Gruppe
There is no substitute for painting a lot to develop your own personal painting style. But there are painting exercises that can be done along the way to help you consciously choose where you want your painting journey to go. This class is for experienced painters who are looking to develop more consistency in their work and there will be a heavy use of journals to capture the painting path.
Supplies:
A list of supplies will be provided from the instructor upon registration
What to Bring:
Mixed media sketchbook (8x10” or larger) for notes and examples (preferably hardback - Amazon, Michaels, or Five Below stores); water container; and a roll of paper towels.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by December 30 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
Foundations of Acrylic Painting - 01-26
ASP-614-01-26 / Wednesday, January 7, 14, 21, & 28
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 1:00 - 3:30
Course Fee:
Members: $140
Non-Members: $155
Instructor: Carol Gruppe
This foundation course offers the basics of working with acrylic paints and the techniques needed to create finished artwork. Different acrylic mediums and styles will be introduced and students will have the opportunity to paint various subjects which will incorporate the techniques learned.
We will paint on acrylic paper and canvas surfaces. We will also work in sketchbooks for note-taking, practicing techniques, and journaling.
After this course, students should feel comfortable with some basic techniques of acrylic painting to be able to work on their own and transition into more advanced lessons and techniques.
Supplies:
A $39 materials fee will be collected by the instructor in the first session. Includes all supplies except what to bring listed below.
What to Bring:
Mixed media sketchbook (8x10” or larger) for notes and examples (preferably hardback (Amazon, Michaels, or Five Below stores); water container; roll of paper towels; painting clothes or apron.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by December 30 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
Alla Prima Still Lifes & Florals - 02-26
ASP-613-02-26 / Wednesday, February 11, 18, 25, & March 4
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 9:30 - 12:00
Course Fee:
Members: $140
Non-Members: $155
Instructor: Carol Gruppe
We will paint 4 simple still lifes each in one go! These studies can become finished pieces during one class session and you will become faster and better at drawing with a brush!
We will focus on color, values, and composition to improve technique and increase confidence in painting.
This course is open to all who have some basic painting experience and who want to increase their drawing (painting) skills. We will work from everyday objects arranged into simple scenes with strong lighting. This is a traditional method of work focusing on improving eye-hand coordination and increasing painting skills.
Supplies:
A list of supplies will be provided from the instructor upon registration
What to Bring:
Mixed media sketchbook (8x10” or larger) for notes and examples (preferably hardback - Amazon, Michaels, or Five Below stores); water container; a roll of paper towels, and painting clothes or apron.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by February 4 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
Continuing Foundations of Acrylic Painting -02-26
ASP-615-02-26 / Wednesday, February 11, 18, 25, & March 4
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 1:00 - 3:30
Course Fee:
Members: $140
Non-Members: $155
Instructor: Carol Gruppe
This is a follow-on 4-week course for those who took the beginning class with Carol or for those who have some experience painting with acrylics and want to expand their techniques.
We will continue with land or seascapes, still life, figure and/or other ideas depending on group interest working on acrylic paper and canvas. We will also work in sketchbooks for note-taking, practicing techniques, and journaling. Various styles and color theories will be explored.
There will be group discussion of works in progress in order to share creative thought processes and build confidence in going forward.
Supplies:
Mixed media paper (hardback preferred) sketchbook (8x10” or larger) for notes and journaling, water container, roll of paper towels, painting clothes or apron.
Once enrolled, Carol will send a list of paints and additional supplies along with contact information for any questions you might have.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by February 4 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
top of page
Thursdays
Korean Traditional Folk Painting (Minhwa) - 01-26
ASP-618-01-26 / Thursday, January 22, 29, February 5, & 12
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 9:30 - 11:30
Course Fee:
Members: $120
Non-Members: $140
Instructor: MoonJoo Lee
Minhwa is a form of traditional Korean painting that was popular during the 17th and 18th centuries. Each painting carries a symbolic meaning, bringing blessings.
Let's explore and paint Minhwa, from peonies symbolizing wealth and lotus flowers representing integrity, to turtles signifying longevity and perseverence, and carp embodying success and honor.
Students need to bring the following items to class: two medium sized white, flat non-paper plate for palette, a tiny bowl for Sumi-e ink, and a 20 x 20 cloth mat/sheet to use under rice paper.
A supply fee of $50 for coated mulberry papers, Oriental paint brushes, Chinese watercolors, Sume-e ink, and a stretched canvas will be collected at the beginning of class.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by January 30 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
Let's explore and paint Minhwa, from peonies symbolizing wealth and lotus flowers representing integrity, to turtles signifying longevity and perseverance, and carp embodying success and honor.
Students need to bring the following items to class: two medium sized white, flat non-paper plates for palettes, a tiny bowl for Sumi-e ink, and a 20 x 16 cloth mat/sheet to use under rice paper, and some paper towels.
For beginners, a supply fee of $50 for coated mulberry papers, Oriental paint brushes, Oriental watercolors, Sume-e ink, and a stretched canvas will be collected at the beginning of class.
For returning students a supply fee of $5 per project for coated mulberry paper and stretched canvas will be collected at the beginning of the class.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by January 8 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
Korean Traditional Folk Painting (Minhwa) - 02-26
ASP-621-02-26 / Thursday, February 26, March 5, 12, & 19
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 9:30 - 11:30
Course Fee:
Members: $120
Non-Members: $140
Instructor: MoonJoo Lee
Minhwa is a form of traditional Korean painting that was popular during the 17th and 18th centuries. Each painting carries a symbolic meaning, bringing blessings.
Let's explore and paint Minhwa, from peonies symbolizing wealth and lotus flowers representing integrity, to turtles signifying longevity and perseverence, and carp embodying success and honor.
Students need to bring the following items to class: two medium sized white, flat non-paper plate for palette, a tiny bowl for Sumi-e ink, and a 20 x 20 cloth mat/sheet to use under rice paper.
A supply fee of $50 for coated mulberry papers, Oriental paint brushes, Chinese watercolors, Sume-e ink, and a stretched canvas will be collected at the beginning of class.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by January 30 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
Let's explore and paint Minhwa, from peonies symbolizing wealth and lotus flowers representing integrity, to turtles signifying longevity and perseverance, and carp embodying success and honor.
Students need to bring the following items to class: two medium sized white, flat non-paper plates for palettes, a tiny bowl for Sumi-e ink, and a 20 x 16 cloth mat/sheet to use under rice paper, and some paper towels.
For beginners, a supply fee of $50 for coated mulberry papers, Oriental paint brushes, Oriental watercolors, Sume-e ink, and a stretched canvas will be collected at the beginning of class.
For returning students a supply fee of $5 per project for coated mulberry paper and stretched canvas will be collected at the beginning of the class.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by February 12 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
top of page
Fridays
Continuing Drawing - 01-26
ASP-611-01-26 / Friday, January 9, 16, 23, & 30
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 2:00 - 4:00
Course Fee:
Members: $165
Non-Members: $175
Instructor: Radhika Bhoite
This is a continuing class for artists who want to refine their drawing skills. If you have some experience with drawing or have taken an introductory drawing class, this class is for you!
Students will work on their own projects and receive feedback throughout the class. Advanced drawing concepts and techniques will be explained as and when required on an individual basis. All students are welcome to listen in at all times!
Artists can choose to work in any or all of the following drawing mediums -
Graphite Pencils, Charcoal, Ink, Pen & Ink, Conte Crayons.
Students should be familiar with the materials and mediums of their choice. Artists working in Pastels and Colored Pencils are also welcome!This is a continuing class for artists who want to refine their drawing skills. If you have some experience with drawing or have taken an introductory drawing class, this class is for you
Students will work on their own projects and receive feedback throughout the class. Advanced drawing concepts and techniques will be explained as and when required on an individual basis. All students are welcome to listen in at all times!
Artists can choose to work in any or all of the following drawing mediums -
Graphite Pencils, Charcoal, Ink, Pen & Ink, Conte Crayons.
Students should be familiar with the materials and mediums of their choice.
Artists working in Pastels and Colored Pencils are also welcome!
A list of supplies will be provided once you register.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by January 2 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
Drawing for Beginners - 01-26
ASP-610-01-26 / Friday, January 9, 16, 23, 30, & February 6
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 10:30 - 12:30
Course Fee:
Members: $170
Non-Members: $180
Instructor: Radhika Bhoite
This is a beginner-friendly class that will help you learn and apply the basic principles of drawing. We will focus on improving observational skills and explore a variety of traditional as well as new drawing mediums, surfaces, and techniques.
Students will work from multiple simple still-life objects, photographs, and old master drawings.
A list of supplies will be provided once you register.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by January 2 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
top of page
Saturdays
Intermediate Watercolor Pencil - 04-26
ASP-627-04-26 / Saturday, April 18
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 2:00 - 5:00
Course Fee:
Members: $75
Non-Members: $90
Instructor: Kurt Jarvis
We are happy to provide this one-day workshop by renowned traveling artist Kurt Jarvis.
For this 3-hour workshop some prior watercolor pencil art experience is required or the Intro to Watercolor pencil workshop. This is a more in-depth workshop.
Participants will work on a 11x14 size art work that will be placed in a 11x14 glass white frame with black mat.
All supplies are provided for participants to use. Those in the workshop will select their own watercolor pencil project from dozens of sample pictures provided.
An optional watercolor pencil art kit can be purchased at the workshop for $35.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by April 10 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
Introduction to Watercolor Pencil - 04-26
ASP-626-04-26 / Saturday, April 18
Location: WCAC - 110 Westover Avenue
Times: 10:00 - 12:00
Course Fee:
Members: $55
Non-Members: $70
Instructor: Kurt Jarvis
We are happy to provide this one-day workshop by renowned traveling artist Kurt Jarvis.
This introductory workshop will give participants an introduction to watercolor pencil art. Those that have never done any art before or participants who think they have no art ability; this workshop will show that anyone can produce a good work of art by just following a few basic directions.
In this 2-hour workshop each participant will complete a 5x7 watercolor picture of their choosing and select from dozens of sample pictures. The finished art work will be placed a 5x7 glass frame ready to take home for display or gift giving.
All supplies are provided for participants to use. Those in the workshop will select their own watercolor pencil project from dozens of sample pictures provided.
An optional watercolor pencil art kit can be purchased at the workshop for $35.
Questions, Enrollment Deadline & How to Enroll: Contact Michael Jones, Art Center Manager, by April 10 at (757) 229-4949 or visitwcac@gmail.com to register and make payment.
|
|
top of page
For additional information, call: 757–229–4949
or visit the gallery at 110 Westover Avenue, Williamsburg.
|
Unless otherwise noted,
Classes & Workshops
will be held
in the Art Education Center at the back of the Blue Building,
110 Westover Avenue, Williamsburg.
Our parking lot entrance is one way only from Lafayette Street.
Advance Registration Required.
Call the Gallery to register today!
757–229-4949
|
