Teaching Artist: Leigh Ferello

Explore the creative world of altered art and assemblage in this hands-on mixed-media class. Using found objects, collage materials, and a variety of art supplies, you’ll transform different surfaces into unique works of art.
Students will create a Frida Kahlo–inspired shadowbox, a pocket art gallery created from playing cards using gel plate prints and collage materials, and other assemblage pieces and mixed-media creations, like decorative tags, ornaments, magnets, etc.
This class encourages experimentation, layering, and storytelling through art. No prior experience is necessary—just bring your curiosity and a willingness to play with materials.
Perfect for adults who enjoy collage, mixed media, and turning ordinary objects into meaningful art.
Please dress for mess as we may use paint, glue, etc. For ages 18+.
*** A $20 material fee is due to the instructor upon the first class. 

No class on 11/23.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Dorothy Hoeschen

The popularity of gouache, sometimes called "opaque watercolor", has been growing in recent years. And although it is older and lesser known than other media, its vibrant colors, simplicity of supplies, and ease of cleanup have all added to gouache's increasing popularity.

We will explore tools and materials, the basics of gouache paint and painting, how it differs from other media (like watercolor, oil, acrylic),and the many ways there are to get from sketch to finished painting.

On days that the weather is good we may even try a little plein air painting (painting outdoors) on the grounds of the beautiful AOY Art Center.
A list of supplies needed will be supplied.

No class on 11/23.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Ilya Lerner

Painting and drawing from a live model are the main components of the traditional art education.  This course is addressing both in depth.  Students will learn about anatomy, proportions, gesture and other fundamentals of figurative art and get acquainted with different styles of figure drawing and painting.
All six classes students will work from the same model.  The first part is three sessions of drawing a nude model.  The first class is sketching, and the next two are one long pose.  The last three classes are painting of a clothed model.  The first class is sketching, and next two are one long pose, the same one as the long pose of the drawing of the nude.  
The course is recommended for both beginners, interested in learning basics of figurative art, as well as experienced artists looking for practice and further development of their skills.  
Charcoal for drawing and oils for painting are recommended, but any media can be used. Full materials list will be distributed before beginning of the class. Model fee is included. For ages 18+.

No class on 11/24.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Nelly Kouzmina

Give a new life to your old clothing by creating unique accessories and artwork.
Using a traditional and new approach to utilize your old possession learn how to:
1. Create unique piece of accessory and artwork
2. Reduce textile waste
3. Save money to prolong life of clothing
4. Slow stitch and in contemporary embroidery - a mindful, creative hand stitching practice that emphasizes the process and enjoyment of creating something by hand, rather than focusing on speed or perfection
5. Sashiko and Boro Stitch
6. Wabi-Sabi in textile
7. Stress relief

For ages 18+. 

No classes on 11/24.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Dorothy Hoeschen

Grid journaling is a simple and easy way to create eye pleasing images that come together quickly and are so satisfying. It also sharpens your artistic eye and composition abilities. It’s an exciting way to try something new that doesn’t take up too much room (it’s done in an art journal) and it uses supplies that you may already have around the house. A bonus that it is artwork that can be carried out in small chunks of time to accommodate a busy lifestyle. What you learn about Composition, Value, and Color Theory can be carried over into other art activities if you want.
Grid journaling is meant for your own personal enjoyment, with no pressure to frame it, show it, or subject it to any one else’s judgement or expectations. It’s only for you.
If you can wield a glue stick, you can create a grid journal.

For ages 18+. 

No class on 11/24.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Devon Chebra

Join Devon John Chebra for a 6-week exploration of iPhone photography, an invitation to slow down, look closer, and use a tool you already carry in your pocket. This course introduces the fundamentals of iPhone photography, including composition, lighting, in-phone camera controls and editing, and visual storytelling. Through guided lessons and hands-on practice, participants will develop technical skills and their personal visual voice.

Drawing inspiration from historic photographers and contemporary tools, students will learn to create thoughtful, well-crafted photographs and shape them into a cohesive photo series. Along the way, we will explore how images can hold meaning, ask questions, and tell stories that feel both intimate and expansive.

For ages 18+.

No class on 11/24.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: James Bongartz

Intermediate to Advanced. This painting class is a follow up to the beginner painting classes, "I've Never Painted Before In My Life!" Prerequisite class: "I've Never Painted Before In My Life!". "... Let's Do More" is an Intermediate class for students who have enjoyed repeating "I've Never Painted Before In My Life!" and wish to continue their painting journey using the blocking-in method. Students will continue to develop color mixing skills with a focus on value, mid-tones and underpainting techniques. Group and individual critique will help to examine which techniques are working and what could be explored further. Students are encouraged to use photos and/or laptops or pads to display imagery/reference material. For ages 18+.
No class on 11/24.
Website: jamesbongartz.com

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Renee Egan

This is an oil painting class for the beginner painter to intermediate. The student will participate and develop their painting skills through creative and technical approaches. They will learn to make great choices during the process of conceptualizing their photo reference. Color mixing and brush application will be discussed, as well as composition and finding light in a visual image and painting it. The student can choose his or her own photograph to work on. Group critiques will be explored and encourage as you go. A material list will be provided once a working roster develops.
For ages 18+.

No class on 11/24.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: George Apotsos

Cubism threw out the rulebook and rebuilt the world in shapes, angles, and multiple perspectives. In this class, we'll dive into the movement through the work of Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque, learning how they deconstructed objects and reassembled them as intersecting planes and facets, revealing several points of view at once.
We'll start by exploring Cubist composition through mixed-media collage, working through form and fragmentation on a flat surface before building toward a 3-dimensional sculpture made from accessible, everyday materials. Inspired by Picasso's iconic 1912 cardboard Guitar, you'll construct your own multi-layered guitar collage from the ground up, arranging vibrant decorative papers, sheet music, and textures into a unified composition. In the process, you'll visually deconstruct musical imagery, play with spatial perspective, and pick up essential design and construction skills including composition layout, negative space management, templating, color contrast, and precision cutting and joining.
This is an adventurous, hands-on way to think like an artist and build like a sculptor. No experience needed — just curiosity and a willingness to jump in and make something with your hands. Come see how taking something apart can be the best way to understand how it goes together.
Building materials will be provided. Decorative paper and specialty collage elements are the responsibility of the student.
A $33 material fee is included in the class price. 

For ages 18+.

No class on 11/24.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Grace Clark

*It is recommended to take "Whimsical Watercolor Illustrations" before this class, or to have some prior experience with watercolors.

This class is for lovers of classic children's books, such as Beatrix Potter's "Peter Rabbit" and Anita Jeram's "Guess How Much I Love You", and would like to create a book of their own in a similar watercolor style. Instructor Grace Clark will take you through the whole process of creating a short and sweet picture book, from coming up with an idea, to designing the characters, and of course making the finished illustrations. Students will learn about how to best format a picture book so the story flows properly, as well as when and where to add text to their illustrations. The end result of the class will be a wonderful, original storybook that you can take home and show to your loved ones! 

For ages 18+.

No class on 11/24.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Nelly Kouzmina

Learn various techniques of making one of the oldest textiles in the world - felt using simple tools and natural fibers. Student will get start up kit with necessary supplies on the first day of class ($30 cash or check made payable to the instructor on the first day of class). Information on additional material to purchase will be provided. Extra materials will be available during class to share. For ages 18+. No class on 11/25.

This class is also offered on Fridays, 9 am - 12 pm.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Andie Olson

Have you noticed that some of your paintings from photographs fall a little flat, seem overworked? This class will help you successfully translate your favorite photographs into beautiful paintings.

This course is designed to help you bypass issues such as getting caught up in creating an exact copy of the photo and/or dealing with value and color distortions. These common pitfalls can be avoided by studying how the eye of the camera captures images very differently than the human eye. You will learn how you can take advantage of these differences through creative expression. These choices will serve to enhance the colors and improve elements of your composition.

Painting from photographs also offers many practical advantages such as capturing a subject in motion and working in a controlled, indoor environment so that you can take as much time as you need to study the fine details of your subject.

All skill levels welcome. For ages 18+. No class on 11/25.

Please note that this class may be held on the second floor of the building, and there is no elevator access. Participants must be able to climb one flight of stairs.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Donna Sheehan

Learn to “see” as an artist does, then apply that new-found knowledge to oil painting! From a still-life setup, you’ll learn the basics of drawing in order to do a preliminary sketch in oil directly onto canvas. Guided by your instructor, you quickly learn about shape and form and gain an understanding of how to see value to complete a tonal underpainting. An explanation of tools and mediums will be discussed, with a focus on pallet setup. While proceeding to a full-color painting, you will learn about color mixing and matching. The concepts and principles you’ll learn in Introduction to Oil Painting will help you develop the skills to further your journey to becoming a better artist. 

For ages 18+.

No class on 11/25.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Richard Romero

Develop your observational drawing skills by working from the live human figure in a supportive studio environment. This 3-hour session features a nude model and explores the fundamentals of figure drawing, including gesture, proportion, anatomy, structure, light and shadow, and expressive line.
Students will work through a series of short and long poses designed to strengthen observation, improve accuracy, and build confidence in drawing the human form. Individual guidance and demonstrations will be provided throughout the class, making it suitable for both beginners with some basic drawing experience and more advanced artists looking to refine their skills.

Modeling fee is included in the registration fee.

For ages 18+. No class on 11/25.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Anne Gannon

This class is for students with some experience in painting or drawing with oils, acrylics, pastels, charcoal or graphite. It offers a comprehensive approach to enhancing your skills and focusing on the key elements needed when creating successful artwork. The instructor will assess each student's skill level and discuss their goals, providing guidance from start to finish depending on their needs. We will talk about composition, perspective, beginning with an underpainting (grisaille), tonal value, and mixing colors to achieve harmony. Students can choose their own subject matter, whether it’s a still life setup, a photograph, referencing an iPad, or a previous unfinished painting. The instructor will help you decide if you are unsure. Each class concludes with a positive group critique, allowing students to share their work and gain valuable insights from their class peers. This supportive environment encourages reflection and growth as an artist. Everyone feels productive and happy at the end!
Students are responsible for their own supplies. A suggested list is provided upon the instructor receiving a working class roster.
Level: Intermediate/Advanced

For ages 18+.

No class on Thanksgiving, 11/26.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Devon Chebra

Spend your Thursday mornings in the dining room at AOY’s charming Janney House exploring an eco-friendly alternative photo process! Lumen printing produces colorful and unpredictable imagery on fogged or expired photo paper traditionally used for black and white darkroom printing. Learn the basics of photograms and lumen printing, and turn your collections of found objects into artwork that reflects your unique style and curious heart.

Perfect for garden enthusiasts (pressed and fresh botanicals work spectacularly with this process), photographers, printmakers, visual poets and experimental artists of all skill levels!

No darkroom or toxic chemicals needed, little to no water used in processing your prints. Come out and play, and leave (hehe) with all the skills you'll need to keep printing at home!

Materials list
Participants bring:
A few cut flowers or lace fragments
Flat Items that would cast interesting shadows
A coffee-table book to press finished prints in
Scissors
Notebook and pen to take notes

There is a $30 materials fee due the first day of class that will cover your photo paper and printing frames.

*** No class November 26 for Thanksgiving

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Lisa Kennedy

Would you like to draw accurately? Stop making the same mistake over and over. Through the use of classical drawing exercises you will increase your ability to see. As you train your eye and improve your technique you will bring your drawing closer to a realistic finish.
We will discuss methods, technique and materials. Learn about Bargue plates and small atelier and why copying helps you draw better.
Drawing is the foundation for all visual art. This class is for anyone who wants to improve their drawing skills. All skill levels welcome. For ages 18+.

No class on Thanksgiving, 11/26.

Please note that this class is held on the second floor of the building, and there is no elevator access. Participants must be able to climb one flight of stairs.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Ilya Lerner

Unlock the power of observation—the foundation of Realism. Adopted from my college courses, this class is designed for artists of all levels and working in any medium. It develops the essential skills every visual artist need - from painters and sculptors to printmakers and designers.
Through still-life and portrait projects, and optional independent sketching, you will explore the key elements of drawing, including composition, proportion, perspective, anatomy, light and shadow, value, and more.
You will train your eye and hand while discovering the tools, techniques, and working methods used by professional artists. You’ll also study the work of masters, explore a variety of approaches to drawing, and begin developing your own personal style.
While charcoal on Bristol paper is recommended, you’re welcome to explore various drawing materials. Materials list will be sent before starting date. A $65 modeling fee included covers two classes with a live model. This course is for ages 18 and up.

No class on Thanksgiving, 11/26.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Marina Ahun

Get breadth of experience with several watercolor techniques and tricks for beginners. Watercolors can be used in an amazing variety of ways. Step-by-step guides for layering, blending, flat & graded washing, wet-on-wet & wet-on-dry technique, blotting & splattering watercolor, sponge painting, watercolor with salt & sugar technique, dropping alcohol onto a wet watercolor.
Each technique requires a certain level of skill to pull it off successfully. You’ll love the way water and colors interact on paper in an untamed manner. Students will learn the ‘secret’ and practice the different watercolor techniques. Instructions and guidance, demonstrations and easy-to-follow tutorials will be given to you. The class involves creating your own watercolor paintings and hands-on exercises along with the instructor.
Allow yourself time to explore and experiment!
A basic supply list will be provided.

For ages 18+.
No class on Thanksgiving, 11/26.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Leigh Ferello

IKIGAI represents the intersection of what you love, what you're good at, what the world needs, and what you can be compensated for. Finding your ikigai can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment in life, encouraging individuals to pursue their passions while contributing meaningfully to society.

This class will explore:

• Suminagashi Paper Marbling, Sumi-e Ink Painting
• Chigiri-e Collage, Gyotaku Printmaking*
• Kintsugi Golden Pottery Joinery
• Ikebana Flower Arranging

Last half hour of class can be used for optional time to complete current or other outstanding projects. A $50 material fee will be collected by the instructor during the first class.
No class on Thanksgiving, 11/26.

*no shellfish will be used.

Please note that this class may be held on the second floor of the building, and there is no elevator access. Participants must be able to climb one flight of stairs.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Nelly Kouzmina

Learn various techniques of making one of the oldest textiles in the world - felt using simple tools and natural fibers. Student will get start up kit with necessary supplies on the first day of class ($30 cash or check made payable to the instructor on the first day of class). Information on additional material to purchase will be provided. Extra materials will be available during class to share. For ages 18+. 

This class is also offered on Wednesdays, 9:30 am - 12:30 pm.
No classes on 11/20 or 11/27.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.

Teaching Artist: Grace Clark

This is the perfect class for those who want to create whimsical and playful illustrations, inspired by some of the best children's book illustrators. This class will teach the basics of watercolor, along with so much more! After students learn firstly how to paint with watercolors, we will take it up a notch by learning how to combine this medium with other materials, such as colored pencils and gel pens, to create even more engaging illustrations.
We will also explore the basics of storytelling through artwork and learn about various picture book illustrators, discussing how they are able to successfully create narratives through a single image. We will go over all the steps required to create a finished illustration, starting off in the sketchbook and learning how to transfer a sketch into a beautiful work of art. Students will create illustrations based on their own life as well as inspired by nostalgic stories.
The most important thing students will gain from this class is an appreciation for the "unserious" art form of illustration. While picture books and illustration often get deemed as juvenile or kitschy in the fine art world, students will leave this class with a better understanding of just how valuable it can be to create fun and humorous artwork. For ages 18+.
No classes 11/20 or 11/27.

Please note that this class may be held on the second floor of the building, and there is no elevator access. Participants must be able to climb one flight of stairs.

Here is a link for details regarding AOY Terms & Conditions. Online payment at time of registration is preferred. Please note, if you choose to use the "payment by check" option, that checks are accepted only during the first 4 weeks of registration and the check payment option expires two weeks prior to the start of each class. Checks must be received two weeks prior to the start date for completion of registration in order to be added to the class roster. Registrations will be cancelled if payments are not received prior to these deadlines.