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July 6 - August 14, 2026
This six-week on-campus studio-rental program is designed for experienced visual artists who desire constructive feedback on their artwork, as well as the support and interaction of an artistic community. Stimulate your personal artistic growth in your own private PAFA studio through individual weekly critiques from a stellar ensemble of notable artists, including members of PAFA’s acclaimed faculty, as well as discussion, group critiques, and artist studio visits. Tuition covers a personal studio in PAFA's Samuel M.V. Hamilton Building, weekly critiques (one-on-one; one group critique), and additional group discussions and outings to museums and commercial galleries (scheduled per students' interests). This is an uninstructed program; as such, prior art-making experience and the ability to work independently are required.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Cost: $1,350
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Thursdays, July 9 - August 13, 2026
Explore the art of portrait painting through an in-depth approach. Investigate the structure and basic anatomy of the human head through drawings and painted studies. Progress to finished paintings and address issues of likeness, composition, space and texture. Instruction will focus on alla prima (direct) painting techniques, practical use of materials, and color palettes for effective portrait painting. Learn to better see and understand color to mix it more successfully – a useful skill for painting any subject matter. All levels welcome. Note: Course tuition includes a $65 model fee.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Jill A. Rupinski
Cost: $515
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

July 10-12, 2026
Abstract geometric art is about hidden meanings, analogies, protests and deliberate simplification to prove that everything complicated is simple. We will discuss how, by looking inwardly, we can create personal narratives. Geometry plays a significant role in art and design, often carrying symbolic interpretations beyond its visual form. Geometric shapes and patterns are not just aesthetic elements but can also evoke specific emotions.
Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico
Instructor: Jorge Luis Bernal
Cost: $695.00 Tax & Materials included
Website, email, 301-821-3999

Fridays, July 10 - August 14, 2026
The simple pencil is an economical medium readily accessible to students at all levels, including beginners. It can produce drawings that range from poetic delicacy to energetic and bold expressiveness. Working from still life arrangements, interiors, window views, and other subjects, students will explore a variety of approaches for using pencil to shade and model form convincingly and with beauty. Instruction will review basic drawing principles and observational skills such as evaluating shape, gauging proportions, and employing perspective effects like foreshortening. Previous drawing experience is recommended but not required.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Frederic Kaplan
Cost: $295
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

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

Saturdays, July 11 - August 15, 2026
Paint from a life model in a multi-week-pose format to develop and refine your figure painting compositions. Extended poses will allow students to adjust and resolve issues of surface, color, and composition. Instruction will cover a variety of topics including glazing, broken color, surface texture, composition and design, the relationship of the figure to the environment, the creation of atmosphere and color harmony, disrupted realism, and open- versus closed-form painting. All levels welcome. Instruction will be geared toward oil, but students are welcome to draw-only, or use other appropriate media, if they wish. Note: Tuition includes a $35 models fee.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: David Wilson
Cost: $330
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632
July 11, 2026
This workshop will introduce students to the fundamental principles of design and composition. Using simple materials and guided exercises, students will learn how to organize visual elements to create clear, engaging images. Concepts covered will include balance, contrast, movement, focal point, and value structure. These ideas will be applied through quick studies and practical examples that can translate across drawing, painting, and printmaking.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Shushana Rucker
Cost: $95
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647

Mondays, July 13-27, 2026
Unleash your creativity in a fun, relaxed studio setting where you can paint your way! Choose your favorite medium—oil, watercolor, acrylic, pastel, charcoal, or colored pencil—and dive into new projects or bring along unfinished pieces. Enjoy as much one-on-one guidance from Dennis as you like, plus inspiring mini demos, technique tips, and helpful critiques of your work. Whether your style leans toward realism, impressionism, or bold modern expression, this open painting session is your space to explore, create, and grow. This class is appropriate for beginner painters, intermediate painters and advanced painters of any medium. The main purpose of this course is one-on-one assistance from the instructor with whatever you need help with (fixing, composition, specific subjects, etc.).
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Dennis Lake
Cost: $150
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Mondays, July 13 - August 17, 2026
Explore the possibilities of palette knife painting in this six-week course led by artist Shushana Rucker. Designed for painters of all levels, the course introduces students to a range of knife techniques for applying oil paint. Through demonstrations, guided exercises, and individual feedback, students will learn how to mix bold color and use texture to heighten expression and atmosphere. Working from observation and reference imagery, participants will complete several finished paintings and develop a personal approach to working with the knife. No prior palette knife experience required.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Shushana Rucker
Cost: $295
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Wednesdays, July 15-29, 2026
This course will introduce students to the fundamentals of relief printmaking without a press. Students will learn linocut and woodcut carving and hand printing techniques. The tools and techniques covered are accessible and can be continued at home with minimal equipment. Upon completion, students should feel confident creating and printing their own relief designs independently.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Shushana Rucker
Cost: $150
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647

Thursdays, July 16 - August 13, 2026
This five-week course focuses on the specific skills needed to successfully create small and miniature oil paintings. Students will learn how to adjust composition, simplify forms, and control detail so that images read clearly at a smaller size. Students will learn painting strategies which will make working at a smaller scale more approachable. Working from observation and/or reference, students will also explore how value, edges, and color relationships function differently in a compact format. Through demonstrations, exercises, and critique, participants will build confidence in making clear, deliberate decisions that suit the demands of painting small.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Shushana Rucker
Cost: $245
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

July 18-19, 2026
In this intensive weekend course, students will complete two to three small oil paintings while exploring a range of techniques for rendering complex surface qualities. Through focused exercises, participants will develop methods for organizing the flowing structure of draped fabric, capturing the intricate patterns of wood grain, and conveying the reflective sheen of metal. The course will also address the challenges of depicting transparency in glass and the subtle, shifting character of water both on surfaces and within vessels such as glasses or vases. This class presents valuable information for painters of all subject matter. Previous drawing and painting experience is strongly recommended.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Frederic Kaplan
Cost: $195
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Tuesday, July 21, 2026 | 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Take your skills to the next level in this intermediate-to-advanced class focused on watercolor, acrylic, or gouache. Work from your own photo references or still life setups while exploring personal direction, design fundamentals, and new techniques. Ideal for students who have beginner watercolor knowledge or experience. Join us and continue building confidence, creativity, and polish in your artwork!
Location: Jupiter, Florida
Instructor: Sue Archer
Cost: $55 per class
Sponsor: The New Studio For The Visual Arts
Website, email, 561-295-5712

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

July 25-26, 2026
This workshop explores the evocative world of nocturne painting through the delicate and expressive medium of watercolor. Focusing on landscape scenes at the edge of day—sunset, twilight, and night—students will learn to capture the silvery light and subtle atmospheric effects that define these transitional hours. Learn how to work with restrained hues and layered washes to create a sense of depth and unity, to suggest rather than describe subject matter. Instruction will emphasize tonalist concerns of working with muted color palettes, gentle value shifts, and harmonious compositions. Through individualized guidance, participants will hone their sensitivity to tonal relationships and the expressive potential of nocturne painting.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: James Toogood
Cost: $225
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

July 25, 2026
Join nationally acclaimed artist and instructor Addison Palmer as he guides you through painting your own stunning sea turtle masterpiece in acrylics! This dynamic, hands-on workshop is designed for artists of all levels who want to capture the grace and beauty of these beloved ocean creatures on canvas. Addison will share expert techniques in composition, shadow and light, negative space, color mixing, and layering — essential skills that will elevate your painting and bring your sea turtle to life with depth and realism. Whether you're picking up a brush for the first time or looking to refine your skills, you'll leave this workshop with a beautiful painting, new techniques, and the creative momentum to keep exploring your artistic journey.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Addison Palmer
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

July 27-31, 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, 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 excellent as a foundation for future study, including for painting and other disciplines. Note: Tuition includes a $35 models fee.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Phyllis Laver
Cost: $485
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

July 28, 2026
Dive into the world of sea turtles and discover the joy of drawing these magnificent ocean wanderers! Join longtime favorite instructor Joyce Nagel for a half-day workshop where you'll learn to capture the graceful curves, intricate shell patterns, and serene presence of sea turtles using charcoal and graphite techniques. Whether you're picking up a pencil for the first time or you're a seasoned sketcher, Joyce will guide you through every step—from understanding basic forms and proportions to adding depth, texture, and movement that brings your drawings to life. You'll explore shading techniques that create dimension, learn how to render the distinctive patterns of turtle shells, and discover tricks for capturing that sense of weightless gliding through water.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Joyce Nagel
Cost: $50
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Tuesday, July 28, 2026 | 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Take your skills to the next level in this intermediate-to-advanced class focused on watercolor, acrylic, or gouache. Work from your own photo references or still life setups while exploring personal direction, design fundamentals, and new techniques. Ideal for students who have beginner watercolor knowledge or experience. Join us and continue building confidence, creativity, and polish in your artwork!
Location: Jupiter, Florida
Instructor: Sue Archer
Cost: $55 per class
Sponsor: The New Studio For The Visual Arts
Website, email, 561-295-5712

July 29, 2026
Create something amazing with one of the most fun and forgiving art mediums out there! Washi tape—a beautifully versatile rice paper tape that's just sticky enough—comes in endless colors and patterns, making it perfect for crafting vibrant, textured artwork on virtually any surface. Join local artist Joan Moreau McKeever for a playful, hands-on workshop where you'll discover how to layer, overlap, and arrange colorful washi tape to bring a stunning sea turtle to life. Joan will guide you step-by-step as you build your sea turtle from the shell up, choosing patterns and colors that reflect your own style. You'll learn techniques for creating depth, texture, and movement while enjoying the tactile satisfaction of peeling, placing, and designing.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Joan Moreau McKeever
Cost: $80
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

August 1, 2026
This one-day workshop introduces the fundamentals of color temperature and its role in creating depth, light, and mood in a painting. Through demonstrations and hands-on exercises, participants will explore the relationships between warm and cool colors and how temperature shifts can be used to model form, suggest atmosphere, and unify a composition. Working from simple references, students will practice mixing and applying color with intention. This workshop is suitable for all levels and emphasizes both observation and experimentation.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Shushana Rucker
Cost: $115
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

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

Tuesday, August 11, 2026 | 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Take your skills to the next level in this intermediate-to-advanced class focused on watercolor, acrylic, or gouache. Work from your own photo references or still life setups while exploring personal direction, design fundamentals, and new techniques. Ideal for students who have beginner watercolor knowledge or those with experience. Join us and continue building confidence, creativity, and polish in your artwork.
Location: Jupiter, Florida
Instructor: Sue Archer
Cost: $55 per class
Sponsor: The New Studio For The Visual Arts
Website, email, 561-295-5712

August 14-16, 2026
Monochrome painting is art composed in a single color. It utilizes various shades or tints, so the images become incredibly evocative and most importantly what you lose in not using color you’ll gain in quality of composition and contrast. Color is no longer a distraction. The focus is on the overall composition. Also mark-making is improved by enabling the discovery of different forms and shapes with subtle tones. Painting with a single color can improve your art because it makes you concentrate on elements such as line, value, lighting and form.
Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico
Instructor: Jorge Luis Bernal
Cost: $695.00 Tax & Materials included
Website, email, 301-821-3999

August 15, 2026
Escape to the mountains with nationally acclaimed artist and instructor Addison Palmer in this immersive one-day acrylic painting workshop that celebrates the grandeur of summer alpine landscapes. Whether you're new to painting or a seasoned painter, you'll discover how to translate the drama of towering peaks and the serenity of flowing streams onto canvas through expert instruction in composition, color theory, atmospheric perspective, light and shadow, and textural layering techniques. You'll learn to capture the unique quality of mountain light that makes summer landscapes so captivating. Addison's personalized approach means each participant receives tailored guidance that meets them exactly where they are in their artistic journey. His warm, encouraging teaching style creates a supportive studio atmosphere where creativity flourishes and confidence grows.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Addison Palmer
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Tuesday, August 18, 2026 | 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Take your skills to the next level in this intermediate-to-advanced class focused on watercolor, acrylic, or gouache. Work from your own photo references or still life setups while exploring personal direction, design fundamentals, and new techniques. Ideal for students who have beginner watercolor knowledge or those with experience. Join us and continue building confidence, creativity, and polish in your artwork.
Location: Jupiter, Florida
Instructor: Sue Archer
Cost: $55 per class
Sponsor: The New Studio For The Visual Arts
Website, email, 561-295-5712

August 18-19, 2026
Immerse yourself in the luminous world of soft pastels and discover how to paint with brilliant color, texture, and energy! In this exciting workshop, Carol Iglesias will guide you step-by-step through the impressionist approach—helping you loosen up, see color in new ways, and bring your paintings to life. Each morning begins with a dynamic demonstration as Carol reveals her process for blocking in bold, simple shapes and layering vibrant hues to create depth and light. You’ll explore how to capture reflections that shimmer, build strong compositions, define values, and use expressive mark making to convey emotion and movement. Spaces are limited—don’t miss this chance to elevate your pastel painting and experience the joy of impressionistic color!
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Carol Iglesias
Cost: $330
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Tuesday, August 25, 2026 | 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Take your skills to the next level in this intermediate-to-advanced class focused on watercolor, acrylic, or gouache. Work from your own photo references or still life setups while exploring personal direction, design fundamentals, and new techniques. Ideal for students who have beginner watercolor knowledge or those with experience. Join us and continue building confidence, creativity, and polish in your artwork.
Location: Jupiter, Florida
Instructor: Sue Archer
Cost: $55 per class
Sponsor: The New Studio For The Visual Arts
Website, email, 561-295-5712

August 30 - September 6, 2026
Join the Diamond 4 Ranch and artist John Springer to experience the grandeur of the American wilderness through the practice of oil painting. With the support of horse-pack, we will have the rare opportunity to create artwork deep within the mountains. Together we'll experience what John Muir knew: "Going to the mountains is going home." This trip is limited to 10 participants. We will spend the first three nights based from cabins, then we'll camp for three nights, and our final night will be back in the cabins. A family outfitter guiding the Wind Rivers for three generations. Licensed by USFS since 1973.
Location: Lander, Wyoming
Instructor: John Springer
Cost: $4250 + gratuity (suggested 15-20%)
Sponsor: Diamond 4 Ranch
Website, email, +1 (307) 332-2995

September 8-10, 2026
This workshop is designed for intermediate and advanced artists ready to elevate their work to the next level. Participants will receive both group instruction and personalized guidance in studio painting. Dee will provide feedback that enhances—rather than alters—their individual style. The focus will be on learning to see value shifts, color temperature, and composition. We'll build arrangements of abstract shapes to create a strong foundation for each painting, with in-depth studies on color temperature and value that will make your work sing with evocative color. Each day begins with short lectures and demonstrations, followed by dedicated painting time during which Dee will work with artists individually. While instruction will be demonstrated in oils, all mediums are welcome.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Dee Beard Dean
Cost: $500
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Tuesdays, September 8 - October 6, 2026
To achieve a strong foundation in any medium, one must first learn the basics of drawing - line, form value and composition. Through a series of fun and challenging exercises, the student will become familiar with how to "draw what you see." The importance of positive and negative shapes, comparative measurements and composition will be demonstrated. This class is beneficial for the absolute beginner or the artist who is interested in sharpening their skills.
Location: Ocean City, Maryland
Instructor: Katie Cassidy
Cost: $228 ($190 for members)
Sponsor: Art League of Ocean City
Website, email, (410) 524-9433

Wednesdays, September 9 - October 7, 2026
To make beautiful pastel paintings full of light and color, one must understand the importance of values. Through a series of exercises and studies, Katie will guide the student through the steps for a better understanding of how value works. There will be lots of hands on guidance and helpful critiques.
Location: Ocean City, Maryland
Instructor: Katie Cassidy
Cost: $234 ($195 for members)
Sponsor: Art League of Ocean City
Website, email, (410) 524-9433

September 12, 2026
Step into the vibrant world of botanical art with nationally acclaimed artist and instructor Addison Palmer in this captivating one-day acrylic painting workshop dedicated to the beauty of flowers. Perfect for beginners and experienced painters alike, this hands-on class will teach you how to bring blossoms to life on canvas through masterful techniques in color mixing, composition, capturing organic forms, working with light and shadow, and building luminous layers that create depth and dimension. With Addison's attentive, individualized teaching approach, every student receives personalized feedback and guidance designed to nurture their unique artistic voice. You'll leave with a beautiful flower painting, a solid foundation in acrylic techniques, and the creative confidence to continue exploring botanical subjects long after the workshop concludes.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Addison Palmer
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

September 14-17, 2026
The workshop sessions begin as Couch completes a painting, explaining what he is doing, and why, as he paints. Students paint in the afternoons, after which Couch critiques all the day’s completed work, including his own. An optional slide show/lecture on the principles of design – including color and composition – will be presented in the afternoon of the first day. For more information, visit tonycouch.com.
Location: Huntsville, Alabama
Instructor: Tony Couch
Cost: $575 Museum members/ $625 non-members
Sponsor: Huntsville Museum of Art
Website, email, 256-535-6372

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 25-27, 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

September 26, 2026
Step into the enchanting world of fantasy art and discover how to create illustrations that tell powerful visual stories! In this immersive workshop, instructor Samantha Dwornikoski will guide you through the rich history of fantasy art, exploring its enduring importance and how it continues to shape the media we love today. You'll dive deep into the essential elements of fantasy illustration—learning about motifs, visual language, style, and tone—while reviewing key fundamentals including anatomy, shape, lighting, and rendering techniques. You'll learn Samantha's signature underdrawing and color wash layering method to build a complete, polished illustration from start to finish. But the biggest emphasis? Creativity. This course is designed to push your imaginative boundaries and help you develop your unique artistic voice.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Samantha Dwornikoski
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

September 28 & 29, 2026
Discover the limitless potential of mixed media in this dynamic workshop led by acclaimed artist Rose Cofield. Designed to spark your imagination, this session invites you to experiment with texture, color, and form as you blend a variety of materials into cohesive, expressive works of art. Draw inspiration from captivating themes—faces, stairs, doors, flowers—and explore the art of layering to add depth and meaning to your creations. With Rose’s expert instruction and creative insight, you’ll gain fresh techniques and the confidence to push your artistic boundaries. This course is appropriate for students of all levels, even beginners. Students should bring $20 cash to pay the instructor for materials, most of which will be provided for you.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Rose Cofield
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

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 17, 2026
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking colors of autumn with nationally acclaimed artist and instructor Addison Palmer in this dynamic one-day acrylic painting workshop celebrating the splendor of fall foliage. Welcoming painters at every skill level—from beginners to seasoned artists—this engaging class guides you through essential techniques for capturing the season's signature warmth on canvas, including dynamic color blending, creating compelling compositions, rendering natural leaf forms, mastering value contrasts, and applying expressive brushwork that brings texture and movement to your painting. Addison's hands-on, personalized teaching style ensures that each participant receives individual attention and customized instruction tailored to their experience and goals.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Addison Palmer
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

October 22, 2026
Puzzled by your art? Feeling lost? Know something's "off" but can't figure it out? This is a terrific opportunity to receive individual attention from one of the Lowcountry's masters, Art Cornell. In this intimate 2-hour session, Art will offer a limited number of one-on-one consultations for all media and subjects—helping you troubleshoot problem areas, refine your vision, and get your work presentation-ready. Whether you're stuck on a piece in progress or starting fresh with a blank canvas and an idea, Art will provide personalized recommendations, tips, and critiques to move your work forward with confidence. 100% of proceeds support ongoing Capital Improvement efforts at Art League Academy.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Art Cornell
Cost: $20
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

October 23-25, 2026
Join us for the "Painting the Pastel Landscape: Tools, Tips & Techniques" workshop with the renowned artist Eve Miller. This exceptional event offers a unique opportunity to delve into Eve's innovative approach to capturing the beauty of landscapes with pastels. Participants will gain valuable insights into establishing correct values, while the workshop emphasizes mastering color temperature, composition, and mark-making. Each day features engaging demonstrations, and you'll receive personalized, one-on-one instruction to refine your skills. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a passionate beginner, this workshop promises to enhance your artistic journey and elevate your pastel landscapes to new heights. Don't miss the chance to learn from a true master—secure your spot today!
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Eve Miller
Cost: $500
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

October 30, 2026
Nocturnes: Painting the Moonlight invites artists to explore the quiet drama and mystery of nocturnal landscapes through watercolor with renowned artist, Alan Shuptrine. In this immersive workshop, students will learn how to paint by contrast—capturing the subtle glow of moonlight against deep shadows, and discovering how darkness can heighten emotion, atmosphere, and depth. Guided by Goethe’s words, “Where there is much light, the shadow is deep,” Alan will demonstrate how to juxtapose light and dark to create luminous night scenes filled with mood and movement. Come explore moonlit paths and shadowed tree lines and experience the night through watercolor! For more information, visit alanshuptrine.com.
Location: Huntsville, Alabama
Instructor: Alan Shuptrine
Cost: $285 Museum members/ $335 non-members
Sponsor: Huntsville Museum of Art
Website, email, 256-535-6372

October 30-31, 2026
Experience the joy of painting outdoors in this inspiring two-day Plein Air workshop with artist and instructor Carol Iglesias! Immerse yourself in the beauty of Hilton Head Island as you learn to capture the ever-changing light, color, and atmosphere of the landscape using oils, acrylics or pastels. Each morning begins with an engaging demonstration and expert insights from Carol, who will share her techniques for quickly and confidently capturing a scene in Plein Air. Throughout the workshop, you’ll discover how to compose a strong painting, define values, identify light sources, establish focal points, and use color to bring your work to life. With personalized instruction and one-on-one feedback, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to paint directly from nature.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Carol Iglesias
Cost: $330
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

November 14, 2026
Bring your most cherished memories to life with nationally acclaimed artist and instructor Addison Palmer in this heartfelt one-day acrylic painting workshop where you'll transform your favorite place into a personal work of art. Whether you're a first-time painter or have years of experience, this inspiring class will guide you through essential techniques for capturing the essence of meaningful locations—from beloved vacation destinations and childhood hideaways to treasured hometown views—using expert instruction in composition, color harmony, creating depth and distance, working with natural light, and applying expressive brushwork that conveys both detail and emotion. Addison's thoughtful, one-on-one teaching style ensures that every participant receives customized support tailored to their individual skill level and artistic vision.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Addison Palmer
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

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

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, 2026
Discover the captivating world of avian art with nationally acclaimed artist and instructor Addison Palmer in this enchanting one-day acrylic painting workshop dedicated to capturing the elegance and vitality of birds on canvas. Designed for painters of all levels—from beginners to experienced artists—this immersive class will teach you how to render the stunning beauty of feathered subjects through expert techniques in observing form and anatomy, mixing vibrant plumage colors, creating realistic textures, understanding light on curved surfaces, and composing dynamic poses that convey movement and personality. You'll master the art of painting intricate feather details, expressive eyes, graceful wings, and natural perches—all while learning to capture the spirit and character that make each bird species so distinctive and mesmerizing.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Addison Palmer
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Mondays, January 18 - February 22, 2027
If you’ve always wanted to paint with watercolors but were afraid to try, this very beginning class will introduce you to the joys of creating beautiful, glowing watercolor paintings. Using the elements and principles of design and composition, you’ll learn the following techniques: color mixing, wet-on-wet wash, wet-on-dry techniques, glazing, color charging, tricks with salt, oozles, scaping and much more. This class is designed for those with no watercolor experience, or those who have tried watercolor painting but need a refresher. There will be a printed handout with each class.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Nancy Carney
Cost: $300
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Fridays, February 5-26, 2027
Chris will demonstrate multiple paintings (seascape, floral, & island theme) from beginning to completion. Areas of demonstrations and techniques will include, design, drawing, color, value, washes, glazing, wet in wet, masking, dry brush, lifting out and more. Chris will guide you through the techniques and help you develop skills needed to produce beautiful watercolor paintings. He will not only tell you how but also show you! For more information about Chris, visit his website at www.dreyerdesign.com.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Chris Dreyer
Cost: $200
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

March 17-19, 2027
Unlock the secrets to capturing light, color, and atmosphere directly from nature. Whether you're taking your first steps into outdoor painting or seeking to refine your plein air practice, this comprehensive three-day workshop with accomplished artist Lee Copen will transform your approach to working on location. Plein air painting offers unparalleled opportunities to observe and render the nuances of natural light and color—yet the ever-changing conditions and complexity of outdoor scenes can present significant challenges. Through expert instruction, practical demonstrations, and guided painting sessions, Lee will help you develop strategies to simplify the process, work with confidence, and enjoy the plein air experience. All levels of students are welcome; however, some drawing and painting knowledge and experience is important.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Lee Copen
Cost: $550
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

April 1-3, 2027
A successful painting relies on the harmonious interplay of essential elements: color, value, technique, and a clear focal point. In this workshop, Aline explores these fundamental principles through an innovative approach—viewing subjects as abstract shapes to create compelling illustrative works. Students will work from their own photographic references, transforming them into expressive pastel paintings. Through daily painting demonstrations, Aline will guide participants in understanding color through the lens of temperature, intensity, and value, while demonstrating how to translate these concepts using pastel techniques. A key focus will be the practice of building shapes and strategically carving back into them to achieve a dynamic, painterly finish. This class is a great choice for intermediate and advanced-level pastel painters.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Aline Ordman
Cost: $550
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

April 20-22, 2027
In this workshop designed for intermediate level watercolor students, you’ll begin to see the world through a new lens—learning how to transform everyday reality into expressive, impressionistic paintings that evoke mood and atmosphere. The focus is not on replicating every detail, but on capturing the essence of your subject. Keiko will guide you from that first spark of inspiration through a process of simplification, leading to a compelling painting rich in composition and meaning. Key topics covered in this class include:
• Creating a strong preliminary drawing and composition
• Exploring a range of watercolor techniques and brush handling
• Understanding what makes a strong design
• Mastering the relationship between light and dark values
• Balancing planning with intuition
• Learning how to simplify and edit complex visual information
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Keiko Tanabe
Cost: $650
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

July 11-16, 2027
Who is this workshop for? If you are a beginner, you’ll be given the opportunity to learn composition, color mixing, mark making and more, all in a welcoming environment. If you are an advanced artist, Jodie will help you create your most honest work through understanding the personal energy you bring to your art, embracing your personal mark making and how you choose color combinations in a more intuitive way. Either way, this workshop will help you and your art advance to a new level in a judgement-free, joy-filled zone.
Location: Glastonbury, Connecticut
Instructor: Jodie King
Cost: $3,300
Sponsor: Artists Rising Creativity Retreats
Website, email, 860-781-4389

September 30 & October 2, 2027
Discover the joy of painting expressive, atmospheric skies in this dynamic workshop designed for artists of all levels. Join award-winning artist and renowned instructor Eric Jacobsen for an inspiring experience tailored to both oil and acrylic painters. Key topics include composition, value, design, choosing a motif, identifying and mixing accurate warm and cool colors, establishing a focal point, and valuable tips and do’s and don’ts for the landscape painter. Special emphasis will be placed on mark making, helping you bring energy and expression to your brushwork. The workshop will feature a combination of informal lectures, instructor demonstrations, and plenty of hands-on painting time, ensuring a well-rounded and engaging learning experience.
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Eric Jacobsen
Cost: $550
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

July 30 - August 4, 2028
Learn to paint looser and more confidently during this four-day workshop with artist Sarah Sedwick. Take a step-by-step approach to alla prima oil painting, from black-and-white studies to brilliant color. Build a beautiful composition with life and movement, and get a new perspective on the still life. Instead of struggling with overworking your paintings, practice stopping sooner to keep the freshness you crave in your work! Explore how limitations can set you free, creating a painting in 20 brushstrokes, and another in 20 minutes. Learn the fundamentals of good design, and walk step-by-step through Sarah’s process, creating a dynamic still life from start to finish! Oils and acrylics are welcome - particularly Open acrylics, that stay wet longer.
Location: Glastonbury, Connecticut
Instructor: Sarah Sedwick
Cost: $1,596
Sponsor: Artists Rising Creativity Retreats
Website, email, 860-781-4389

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