Technical Foundations for Serious Practice

This course focuses on the essential techniques that govern watercolor behavior and control. Students work systematically with brush handling, water management, and paint application, including wet-on-wet, dry brush, lifting, glazing, masking, and layered washes. Emphasis is placed on understanding cause and effect in watercolor rather than working by guesswork.

Instruction progresses from broad, controlled washes to increasingly precise applications. Students apply techniques to structured studies and selected subjects such as landscapes and seascapes, with close attention to value, edge control, and color interaction.

Regular critiques and technical evaluations address accuracy, control, and refinement. The goal is not stylistic imitation, but the development of reliable technique upon which personal expression can later rest.This course is intended for students who already have a basic familiarity with color and value, as both are considered prerequisites for technical study. Materials are not included; here is a suggested supply list. 

This class is scheduled to be in our print studio, which is only accessible by stairs. 

Our class/workshop cancellation policy can be found here.

We believe art should be accessible to all. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.

On-going sessions for those who want to work on their own to develop and refine their techniques of drawing and painting from the live model. Short poses. Bring your own materials. This is a monitored event, not a class. Interested in paying for 8 sessions all at once and receiving a discount? Reach out to us at 845-424-3960 for more information.

This traditional figure drawing class emphasizes rigorous observational training to build confidence and control. Sessions begin with several 20-minute poses to warm up and sharpen technique. Every class then concludes with a single, longer pose—held for at least an hour—to allow for deeper study and refinement. A different model is featured each week, offering students fresh perspectives and continual growth in their figure-drawing practice.

Materials are not included. Experienced students can bring their own preferred materials. Supplies recommended for beginners and intermediate students:

• 18 x 24" pad of sketch paper with drawing board (can use GAC drawing board during class if desired)
• Vine charcoal sticks
• Compressed charcoal pencil (2B or softer) and sharpener
• Kneaded eraser
• Tortillon (paper stump)

Focused and mature teens age 15 and up can participate in this adult class with parental/ guardian permission. Please reach out to us if interested.

Our class/workshop cancellation policy can be found here.

We believe art should be accessible to all. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.

Foundational Structure Across Painting Media

Of the many color choices available, how and why do watercolorists choose specific colors? How do painters understand color use without knowing pigment properties? How can students overcome common painting pitfalls when techniques are not clearly taught?

This course addresses the structural foundations that underpin watercolor painting: value, color relationships, and the behavior of light. Students learn to distinguish pigment characteristics, understand value hierarchies, and recognize how color temperature and transparency affect form and atmosphere. These principles apply across painting media, but are examined here through the particular demands of watercolor.

Instruction is systematic and cumulative, guiding students step by step through concepts that are often learned only through years of trial and error. Special emphasis is placed on values, light, color qualities, technique, and composition, while respecting the gradual development of each artist’s personal direction.

This course is designed for students who are serious about painting and wish to establish a strong, professional foundation. Students who believe they already know the basics but sense gaps in their understanding will find those gaps addressed clearly and thoroughly. Materials are not included; here is a suggested supply list.

This class is scheduled to be in our print studio, which is only accessible by stairs. 

Our class/workshop cancellation policy can be found here.

We believe art should be accessible to all. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.

Have you begun to learn the basics of painting and are ready for more? Build on the skills you learned in Learning to Paint Again (or a similar experience) and take your painting to the next level. This class focuses on refining your technique, deepening your understanding of color theory, and experimenting with advanced brushwork and texture. You’ll work from life to improve composition, light, and shadow, while developing a more intuitive and personal approach to painting. Whether you're refining your skills or exploring new techniques, this class offers a supportive environment where you can push your boundaries while continuing to develop your skills and artistic voice. This class is for advanced beginners who are building their confidence and are interested in going beyond an absolute beginner-level class. 

All materials are included. The quality of water-based acrylic paint has improved greatly over the years, and we will be working with acrylic and a slow drying medium that increases paint flow. If you prefer to use oil paint, please email the instructor.

No class on January 31st

Our class/workshop cancellation policy can be found here.

We believe art should be accessible to all. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.

Unlock your creativity and explore the expressive world of abstract art! This class is perfect for anyone new to painting or those looking to expand their current practice. Under the guidance of teaching artist Melanie Delgado, students will experience a variety of warm-up exercises, multiple demonstrations, and hands-on techniques designed to build confidence and inspire experimentation. This class offers a supportive space for students of all skill levels to play, explore, and develop your unique creative voice. Basic materials are included, and students are encouraged to bring in additional supplies they want to experiment with or learn more about.

Our class/workshop cancellation policy can be found here.

We believe art should be accessible to all. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.