If you haven’t picked up a paintbrush since college, high school or kindergarten — or if you have never even picked up a paintbrush — this class is for you. Painting is a joyful, teachable skill that will open up a universe of color, expression, personal mark-making and visual perception. We will break down the basics of painting, everything from how to set up a palette, handle brushes, start a painting, mix color, apply paint to canvas —even the best practices for easy clean up. Our class will paint directly from life, using natural objects to explore color and composition. Every class will include a variety of time-tested painting exercises designed to increase your proficiency. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your skills will advance. It is time to start painting again, and re-enter the visual world with confidence.

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.

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

No class on November 2nd + November 30th. 

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.

No class on October 3rd and October 31st. 

Open to new and experienced students, this class will explore the world of blending pigment with water. Students will learn traditional techniques and be encouraged to take risks using different techniques and materials. Enjoy the freedom that watercolor provides!

This class is open to students of all skill levels. New students will receive an email about what supplies they will need to bring. The class runs for 4 weeks and does not include materials.


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 the magic of encaustic painting in Wax & Wonder, a dynamic four-week course where color, composition, and mixed media techniques come alive through layers of molten wax. Whether you’re new to encaustic or looking to deepen your practice, this class will guide you through innovative ways to blend pigment, texture, and collage into striking, multi-dimensional artworks.

What You’ll Explore:

• Week 1: The Alchemy of Color – Learn how to mix and layer encaustic pigments for depth, luminosity, and impact. Experiment with blending techniques that create harmony and contrast in your compositions.

• Week 2: Layering & Texture – Discover how to build rich, tactile surfaces using wax as both a sculptural and painting medium. Explore scraping, incising, and mark-making to add depth to your work.

• Week 3: Mixed Media & Collage – Fuse fabric, paper, and found materials into your encaustic pieces, transforming simple elements into evocative narratives.

• Week 4: Composition & Refinement – Learn the principles of strong composition and how to balance color, texture, and form. Finish your final pieces with expert tips on polishing and preserving encaustic art.

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.

No class on November 11th. 

Class dates are Tuesday, October 28, November 4, November 18, and Thursday, November 20.

Have you ever wanted to learn how to knit? Or perhaps you've already made a basic hat or scarf and are ready to take on a new challenge, like learning how to cable, read a chart, or knit in the round? This class caters to all skill levels and goals! Think of this class like a group independent study focusing in knitting. Learn a cozy skill, embrace the hygge hype, and make something cool with others doing the same. We will provide some needles and yarn for folks to use while practicing new skills. Students will be responsible for bringing their own materials for individual projects. This class is for adults and teens of all skill levels.

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.

Take advantage of our fully equipped printmaking studio and work on our own projects on your own time! This pass gives you unlimited access to our print studio during open studio hours for one month.This is not a class and is for experienced printmakers only. Artists are responsible for their own ink and paper. Open Studio hours will be sent to all registrants.

We require anyone new to our print studio to set up a time to meet with a member of our staff so we can show you the studio and answer any questions in person. Please contact info@garrisonartcenter.org to make an appointment.

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

Explore almost any material you can bring in (excluding welding) with James Murray.

Work inside (and outside) the studio of sculptor, and master woodworker, James Murray. Learn to use tools (safely) in Jim’s well-tooled workspace, including an introduction to basic woodworking. Blend various materials including wood, stone, and metal into sculpture. Bring those found objects to class and create a new work of art or bring that project that you might be wrestling with and finally bring it to completion.

Introduction to steam wood bending applied to sculpture and furniture.

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.


Late Fall-Weekends:  Classes run on November 2 (Sunday), 8, 15, and 22 (Saturdays).

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.

This four-week class for students 65+ years of age focuses on basic drawing and painting from objects. Still-life displays will be set up around the room. Class will begin with a drawing and painting demonstration and then students will continue independently with support from teaching artist Beth Bohrer. This class is for beginners and for those looking to refresh their skills. Senior citizen students looking for a creative outlet and camaraderie are encouraged to join in the fun! Some basic drawing materials will be provided but students are also encouraged to bring in their own favorite supplies.

These sessions are for senior citizens only and are low-cost to help ensure that art is available to experience at any age.

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.