Adult Art Classes

Painting Fundamentals
Wednesdays | 7 – 8:30 pm | 6 weeks | Session PF1 : $180
(supplies not included)

Instructor: Ian Kabat

This class introduces the underlying concepts of painting and provides a solid foundation for further exploration. Composition, value, color, materials and techniques are covered. Students view the paintings of contemporary artists and work from a still life to sharpen skills. This class is designed for both beginners and those looking to refresh their outlook.

Fundamentals of Oil Painting
Saturdays | 9 – 11 am | 6 weeks | Session SPF1 : $180
(supplies not included)

Instructor: Ian Kabat

Beginning and experienced painters learn to work with the unique properties of oil paint. A mixture of demonstration and individualized attention guides students from the handling of materials, color theory and composition through the creation of finished paintings. Instruction is tailored to the abilities and goals of each artist.

$180.00 for 6- week session = $30.00 a class

Registration does not guarantee class enrollment. Successful processing of the registration form and full payment is necessary. Please be aware that incomplete information on registration forms may delay successful processing and enrollment.

Please print out and send or bring to the center: Class Registration form (PDF)

Class Topics

Brushwork Technique

It is essential that you master the proper way to achieve vertical, horizontal, diagonal, and curved strokes on your canvas before you can become the accomplished painter you want to be. You’ll learn how to maximize the use of your various brush options by understanding what part of the brush is best for each technique and which brush is the best choice for different aspects of a painting. Once you can hold each brush properly, load the paint correctly, and achieve the various stroke techniques (like hard, soft, and lost edges), you’ll be ready to move forward on your journey of becoming a master painter.

Color Theory

You’ll learn the history of color theory and why it is helpful to know how the hue and value of pigments can direct you in making the best color choices for your works of art. After learning how to create a hue circle of your own, you’ll have an easy reference to support you in all of your future color decisions.

Understanding Composition

Once you begin brainstorming and planning your paintings, you’ll need guidance on how best to arrange the elements in a painting to create symmetry and balance, otherwise known as your painting’s composition. In order to do this, you’ll need to understand a viewer’s reaction to the apparent weight of objects placed with the composition (applying static balance or dynamic balance). And you’ll know how to use color contrast for the focal point, pattern to lead the eye toward the focal point, rhythm to move the eye around the canvas, mass for balance, and line to get the eye started on its journey all over again.

Using Photographic Reference

Many artists use photographic reference at some point during the painting process. You’ll come to recognize when to use photographic reference in paintings and how best to use photographic reference for certain elements in paintings.

We will cover many other topics as the classes continue.