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Garrison Art Center

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Painting

in 2D and Printmaking

Learning to Paint Again

$290

with Lori Sanford Ross

Calendar Current session started Jan 17, 2026 at 10 am, runs for 4 weeks
1 additional session on Feb 28, 2026

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.

There is 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.

Pastel Painting for Seniors

$105

with Beth Bohrer

Calendar Current session started Feb 3, 2026 at 1 pm, runs for 7 weeks

This seven-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.

NO CLASS ON FEBRUARY 17

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.

Full Course

Open Studio for Seniors

$105

with Beth Bohrer

Calendar Current session started Feb 5, 2026 at 11 am, runs for 7 weeks

This class is designed for senior students who are self-motivated and have their own projects to work on. Instructor will be working on their own piece, for students to observe and to be inspired by. Students are encouraged to bring in their own reference photos to work from. Pastels will be available for use; all other materials need to be supplied by the student. 

Students are encouraged to bring a lunch or snack for a half-hour break during the class.

No class on February 19th 

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.

Building Blocks of Watercolors: Techniques

$215

with Greta Corens

Calendar Current session started Feb 7, 2026 at 10 am, runs for 4 weeks
1 additional session on Mar 7, 2026

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.

Drawing and Painting from Life

$25

with John Allen

Calendar Next available session starts Feb 16, 2026 at 9:30 am
3 additional sessions through Mar 9, 2026

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.

Building Blocks of Watercolors: Color, Value, and Light

$215

with Greta Corens

Calendar Next available session starts Feb 19, 2026 at 5 pm, runs for 4 weeks

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.

Watercolor and Beyond

$215

with Linda Barboni

Calendar Next session starts Feb 27, 2026 at 10:30 am, runs for 4 weeks

No class March 20.

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.

Full Course

Painting From Observation

$290

with Lori Sanford Ross

Calendar Next available session starts Feb 28, 2026 at 2:30 pm, runs for 4 weeks

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.

 





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