Art Workshops, Classes & Retreats

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"Still Life Oil Painting"
June 11-13, 2026
 

Qiang’s approach to still life painting will be demonstrated with particular focus on creating dramatic set ups by observing the light distribution, and using bold and loose strokes to create a powerful and accurate representation on canvas. Using demonstrations and individual assistance, Qiang will explain his process of creating energetic paintings by manipulating values, colors, edges, and brushwork. Personal attention will be given to each student according to his or her current skill level and personal goals in art. The workshop is designed for indoor practice with live settings. For more information, visit qh-art.com.
 
Location: Huntsville, Alabama
Instructor: Qiang Huang
Cost: $525 Museum members/ $550 non-members
Sponsor: Huntsville Museum of Art
Website, email, 256-535-6372


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

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


"Oil Painting Basics"
Fridays, June 19 - July 31, 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


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

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


"Painting with Water Mixable Oils from Photos"
June 20, 2026
 

During this one-day intensive workshop, Beth shares her unique technique with students. In the morning, 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. In the afternoon students will work from photos (either bring your own on your phone/iPad, or Beth will have prints to share). 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 - from beginners to returnees.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Beth Bathe
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Realism to Abstraction"
Mondays, June 22 - August 10, 2026
 

Whatever experience you have had before with figures, landscapes or abstraction, this class is designed to help you go a step farther. This is a one-on-one approach in order to cultivate the richness of your individuality. Discover the joy of finding your own voice and singing with it. Newly acquired techniques learned in our class will make a big difference. Learn how to start a painting, how to trust your instincts, embrace spontaneity, and allow your art to flow freely using your intuition. Learn how to develop a stronger sense of composition, space, rhythm, and technique. This class is designed so you can experiment fearlessly, and most importantly, have fun making art! All levels are welcome.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Kassem Amoudi
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Advanced Drawing & Painting"
Tuesdays, June 23 - August 11, 2026
 

Designed for artists ready to challenge themselves and take their work to the next level, this class is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of the artist's own creative process and sensibility. A variety of subject matter will be explored. Level: Previous drawing and painting experience is recommended.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Karen Fogarty
Cost: $400
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Expressions in Paint: Oil or Acrylic In Studio"
Tuesdays, June 23 - August 11, 2026
 

In this course, we will be painting small, loose paintings of varied subject matter comprised from images that students will submit. Learn how to break down an image to its most important aspects and not getting tied up in detail from the start. Composition, color mixing and painting technique will be addressed in a fun and relaxing painting experience! All skill levels welcome.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Stefanie Lieberman
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Light & Shadow: Bring Your Paintings to Life"
Tuesdays, June 23 - August 11, 2026
 

Whether it is portrait, still life, landscape or abstracts, the presence of light against shadow gives the subject form and dimension. Bring your own inspiration to class and with this principle in mind, watch your paintings come to life! Composition and color mixing will be a focus in this class. All mediums and skill levels are welcome!
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Stefanie Lieberman
Cost: $400
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Oil Painting: Starting Up & Moving Along"
Tuesdays, June 23 - August 11, 2026
 

Acquaint or re-acquaint yourself with the pleasure of oil painting. Learn about the materials and techniques that form the basis of the medium. Students will use still life, simple and complex, as subject matter. All levels are welcome.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Karen Fogarty
Cost: $400
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Realism to Abstraction"
Tuesdays, June 23 - August 11, 2026
 

Whatever experience you have had before with figures, landscapes or abstraction, this class is designed to help you go a step farther. This is a one-on-one approach in order to cultivate the richness of your individuality. Discover the joy of finding your own voice and singing with it. Newly acquired techniques learned in our class will make a big difference. Learn how to start a painting, how to trust your instincts, embrace spontaneity, and allow your art to flow freely using your intuition. Learn how to develop a stronger sense of composition, space, rhythm, and technique. This class is designed so you can experiment fearlessly, and most importantly, have fun making art! All levels are welcome.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Kassem Amoudi
Cost: $335
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Fundamentals of Oils"
Wednesdays, June 24 - August 12, 2026
 

Students explore all aspects of working with oils, with a strong emphasis on composition, color mixing and various painting techniques. Individual instruction provided in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for beginners as well as more experienced artists.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Stefanie Lieberman
Cost: $400
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Oil Painting - Start to Finish"
Wednesdays, June 24 - August 12, 2026
 

This course guides students through the creation of an original oil painting from concept to completion. Using personally selected photographs, students develop compositions through sketches, value studies, and preparatory drawings while exploring design, color, and mood. Students learn essential oil painting techniques including underpainting, layering, color mixing, glazing, brushwork, and finishing methods through demonstrations and individualized instruction. The course concludes with a final critique discussing artistic growth, technical development, and project outcomes.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Ernie Norcia
Cost: $400
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Photo to Canvas"
Thursdays, June 25 - August 6, 2026
 

Working in oil or pastel from photographic reference, this class is about translating the photographic image onto either canvas or paper. Focusing on color, value and mark making as essential tools, students are encouraged to move a step beyond the restraints of a camera to create a successful and personal work. Discussion will include working with painting mediums and exploring different techniques.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Anne Graham
Cost: $350
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Bring Your Paintings to Life"
Thursdays, June 25 - August 13, 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: $400
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Painting with a Purpose"
Thursdays, June 25 - August 13, 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: $400
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Painting – Discovering Your Artistic Voice"
Thursdays, June 25 - August 13, 2026
 

Uncovering the connection between your identity and your artwork can be both liberating and inspiring. In this class, we will explore methods designed to help you discover and develop your unique aesthetic and artistic voice. Our focus will be on paint handling, color selection, and composition. You will learn to manage your palette, make intentional color choices, and understand their impact on your work. Play will be encouraged! Music will serve as our muse, providing inspiration as you select your subject matter with guided support. This journey encourages mindfulness and self-discovery, and connects us more deeply with the world around us and ourselves. All skill levels are welcome and valued in this class.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Heidi Techner
Cost: $400
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Painting: Play, Process, and Presence"
Thursdays, June 25 - August 13, 2026
 

Discover the joy of painting with the natural world as inspiration. In this gentle exploratory class, students of all levels are invited to slow down, observe, and draw inspiration from the colors, textures, and rhythms of nature. Using flowers, trees, landscapes, and seasonal changes as starting points, we’ll experiment with playful techniques and creative prompts that spark imagination and personal expression. Rather than striving for perfect results, this course celebrates process over product...finding peace, presence, and delight in the act of painting itself. Along the way, you’ll cultivate a deeper connection to both nature and your own creativity. No prior painting experience is needed—just curiosity, openness, and a willingness to explore.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Heidi Techner
Cost: $335
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Let's Take It Up A Notch... and Go Beyond"
June 25 & 26, 2026
 

Join us for an engaging painting workshop led by Mary Ann Browning Ford. Whether you're continuing a work in progress or starting fresh on a new piece, this session welcomes your unique artistic vision and personal approach. Throughout the workshop, you'll receive guidance on essential painting fundamentals including mastering composition, refining your values, exploring fresh color combinations, and learning effective highlighting techniques. Mary Ann will provide a demonstration and welcome your questions, creating an interactive learning environment where your individual creativity is encouraged and supported. Bring your current project or a blank canvas—either way, you'll leave with new skills and inspiration to elevate your work.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Mary Ann Browning Ford
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"5 Week Oil Painting for Beginners to Intermediate"
Wednesdays, July 1 - August 5, 2026
 

The class is designed to support artists at all levels of development. Students will learn and develop skills in underpainting, composition, impasto, glazing and scumbling. Beginning students will work with foundational exercises, experienced students may, by agreement with the instructor, work on independent projects with supervision.
 
Location: Ocean City, Maryland
Instructor: David Hollander
Cost: $276 ($230 for members)
Sponsor: Art League of Ocean City
Website, email, (410) 524-9433


"Summer Studio/Critique Program"
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


"Fast and Unfussed Figure Painting"
Tuesdays, July 7 - August 11, 2026
 

Energize and open up your approach to figure painting through rapid, loose oil painting studies from the life model. Learn tactics to avoid the tendency toward tightness and over-attention to detail too early in the process that can lead to work that lacks liveliness in gesture or mark and is difficult to adjust or correct. Through short, small-scale painting exercises from the model in one-day poses, learn new ways of approaching life painting with an emphasis on keeping compositions fluid, capturing the gesture and character of the subject before getting locked into its contours, and both initiating and retaining a sense of freshness in your color and brushstrokes. Instruction will address color mixing, painting materials and methodologies.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Roger Chavez
Cost: $515
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632


"The Portrait in Oil"
Thursdays, July 9 - August 13, 2026
 

Explore the art of portrait painting through an in-depth approach from Al Gury, noted PAFA instructor and author of Alla Prima: A Contemporary Guide to Traditional Direct Painting and Color for Painters: A Guide to Traditions and Practice. 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: Al Gury
Cost: $515
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632


"Figure Painting: The Extended Pose"
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


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

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


"Palette Knife Painting"
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


"Open Painting in The Medium of Your Choice"
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


"Glowing Citrus: An Oil Workshop"
July 16-18, 2026
 

This 3-Day In-Studio workshop is designed for beginner students, intermediate students and advanced students. The instructor has limited the size to ensure that this type of workshop style will be the most beneficial for every student.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Adam Clague
Cost: $550
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Small Worlds: Oil Painting in a Small Format"
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


"Everyday Textures for Oil Painters Workshop"
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


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

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


"Art as Release: Painting Through Emotion"
August 1, 2026
 

Discover the power of painting as a form of emotional expression in this half-day workshop with instructor Mary Ann Browning Ford. Designed for artists of all experience levels, this session invites participants to explore feelings that words can’t quite capture through the medium of their choice—whether acrylic, watercolor, oil, or mixed media. Mary Ann will guide participants through creative exercises that encourage intuitive mark-making, color exploration, and personal reflection, helping each artist connect more deeply with their inner voice. By the end of the workshop, attendees will leave with a meaningful, expressive piece of art and a renewed sense of creative freedom. All materials are welcome; bring whatever inspires you most.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Mary Ann Browning Ford
Cost: $50
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Color Temperature in Oil Painting Workshop"
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


"Still Life with Water Mixable Oils"
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


"All about Art and Where to StART"
August 11, 2026
 

This class is for those who would like to work in art but do not know where to start and/or with what mediums! We will start with pencils, charcoal and work our way through watercolor, acrylic, pastels and oil and any others that students may be interested in. Barb will explain the pros and cons of each of the mediums including prices points and other materials you'll need for that medium, including, brushes, surfaces and framing. At the end of the session, students will have time to try them all on a small scale. In addition to the registration fee, students should bring $20 cash to pay the instructor for materials, all of which she will provide to you.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Barb Snow
Cost: $50
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Painting Pack Trip"
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


"Painting Retreat in Acadia with Philip Frey"
September 2-6, 2026
 

Philip Frey and Schoodic Institute are pleased to offer a plein air painting retreat designed specifically for dedicated landscape painters. Held in the picturesque landscapes of Acadia National Park, this retreat will provide an opportunity for participants to hone their skills, gain deeper knowledge of materials, and develop confidence in their creative abilities. Students will learn to capture the essence of the landscape and comprehend the interplay of color and light. Each day will start with an on-site painting session, followed by an early afternoon demonstration and critique. Participants will have ample time to engage in painting, explore the surrounding area, or relax at their leisure. Meals and a daily cocktail hour will be provided.
 
Location: Winter Harbor, Maine
Instructor: Philip Frey
Cost: Commuter $1,195; Residential $1,795
Sponsor: Schoodic Institute
Website, email, (207) 288-1310


"The Alla Prima Still Life in Oils (or Acrylics)"
September 18-20, 2026
 

In this workshop, students will work in the Alla Prima method to paint three still-life paintings, one each day. Alla prima translates to “in the first” and is a wet-into-wet painting technique. Students are encouraged to bring their own props to create meaningful paintings. Each morning, the instructor will do a demonstration, and in the afternoon, students will work on their paintings and receive individual critiques. An emphasis on mark making, painting loosely, expressive color, and making a picture will be discussed. All levels are welcome.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Todd Casey
Cost: $550
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Painting Beautiful Landscapes On Location"
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


"Still Life in the Interior"
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


"Marks in Motion: Oil & Mixed Media"
October 4 & 5, 2026
 

In this dynamic two-day workshop, you will explore ways to bring energy, movement, and expressive mark-making into your oil paintings. Together we will embrace experimentation and cultivate a spirit of playful discovery. Through a series of guided exercises, you will work with a printmaker’s tool—the brayer— and water mixable oil paint to create bold, unexpected marks in combination with brush work and other miscellaneous mark making tools to layer textures and add energy within your paintings. We will also explore the exciting combination of oil paint with pastel and watercolor to expand your choices in how you approach your painting practice. We will also touch on color theory, and how we choose our palette to create mood and atmosphere.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Anne Strutz
Cost: $350
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"2-Day Portrait Painting Workshop"
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


"Impressionist Painting en Plein Air with Oils, Acrylics or Pastels"
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


"Painterly Realism for Oils & Acrylics"
November 6-8, 2026
 

In this 3-day workshop, Karen leads her students through the process of creating dynamic loose paintings that breathe life and reality. Using a photo reference, she will demonstrate the various stages of a painting from initial design to the final strokes. Along with foundational principles, Karen emphasizes the use of large brushes, intuitive measuring and the back-and-forth search of positive and negative shapes to achieve spontaneity and visual interest. This workshop was designed for all levels of oil & acrylic painters.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Karen Wilharm
Cost: $500
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"All The Color in White"
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


"Fabric as a Vehicle for Gesture"
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


"The Ins & Outs of Painting Plein Air with Oils"
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


"Painting Expressive Skies in Oils or Acrylics"
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


 

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