WATERCOLOR BASICS with John Erwin

Watercolor can be elusive and challenging.  John Erwin instructs in a way that creates successful paintings.  In this class you will learn the basics of color and design to create well balanced paintings. Focusing on landscapes and still life, John will instruct on how to start and complete a painting.  Each week you will build techniques and skills to guide you into more complex, finished paintings.  We will explore wet into wet, dry brush and negative painting techniques.

All Levels
Tuesdays 9:30 am-12:30 pm  | October 3-31, 2017 | 5 sessions | $175

WATERCOLOR BASICS with John Erwin

Watercolor can be elusive and challenging.  John Erwin instructs in a way that creates successful paintings.

In this class you will learn the basics of color and design to create well balanced paintings. Focusing on landscapes and still life, John will instruct how to start and complete a painting.

Each week you will build skills to guide you into more complex finished paintings.  Various techniques such as wet into wet, dry brush and negative painting will be explored.

All Levels
Tuesdays 1:00-4:00 pm  | October 3-31, 2017 | 5 sessions | $175

QIGONG FOR CREATIVE FLOW with Ambre Leffler

This class teaches focused breathing with slow, gentle movements to give your qi (energy) movement.  Students of Qigong will find themselves more connected to their inner creative being.

Qigong is two parts: qi or chi (energy) and gong (to move).  Students will learn techniques of tapping, breathing, slow movement, and meditation to gather energy back to the inner self.  Spending repeated time with a focus on energy flow has healing, calming and energizing benefits.  Best of all for artists is that they will leave ready to use their creative energy!

Ambre has been teaching energy work since 2012 and has brought Breath Qigong Yoga and Tai Chi to local support groups, assisted living centers, and veterans with PTSD.

This is a class for all abilities: movements can be done in standing or sitting postures.  Class will be meeting outside at the Shemer, either on the lawn or on one of the patios.  Dress appropriately.

Students will benefit most from practicing regularly.  Sign up for the full 7 week session at a greatly reduced rate or drop in on occasion for a rate of $20 per session.

Saturdays, 8:30-9:30am  | October 7 - November 18, 2017 | 7 sessions

Class fee: $87.50
Drop in rate: $20/day

Learn the hands-on art of printmaking and create hand-pulled prints.  Join John on this adventure as you explore traditional and experimental forms of printmaking.  The centuries-old process is easy and fun under the direction of this gifted artist and instructor.  Printmaking opens you to a new form of expression and helps you to reevaluate your approach to art making.

Experience the excitement of converting your designs into original prints! In this class you will learn to make your own unique marks and stamps that will become cards or artwork.  Explore mixing colors and printing on a variety of papers including colorful Japanese rice paper and an array of artist papers.

Most of the materials will be provided including carving tools, inks and a press.  Each week you will leave with a finished project.  Methods to be covered could include:  Relief Printing; Woodblock (using 'soft 'easy' to carve images); Drypoint Etching (using clear acrylic sheets); Monoprints (creating one of a kind prints); Chine Colle (printing on a surface attached to another surface; Collograph (printing over a raised surface); Gyotaku (a 200 years-old Japanese style of fish rubbing, yielding a remarkable fish print with exact color duplication, subtlety of motion and exquisite detail); Solar Printing (a light sensitized approach to creating an etching plate) and Pochoir (a stencil-based printing technique).

Open to all levels
Thursdays 9:30 am-12:30 pm | October 12-November 2, 2017 | 4 sessions | $150

TEN MINUTE SKETCHING with John Erwin

What’s the difference between a sketch and a drawing?   A sketch can be imperfect, it takes less time than a drawing, evokes emotion, and captures a moment. There is an art to making a sketch that instantly conjures a memory of time or place.

In this class, award-winning artist John Erwin shares his tips and lessons on sketching from his extensive travel over several decades. John generously shares his personal travel journals of sketches and the artistic lessons he learned along the way.

From this class you will be able to capture your travel memories in sketches. John will teach you how to set up a sketchbook and a pocket-travel sketch kit. Through specific lessons, you will learn how to create balanced compositions with perspective and value. Experience the excitement and the confidence of sketching in public. You will add people, cars and other real-life interest to your sketches. From black and white line drawing in pencil, pen or other media, John will guide you through adding color, texture and pattern to create more finished works. Working with watercolor, ink, pencil, marker and you will even use a razor blade! You will astonish yourself and your friends in your ability to capture the spirit of the place you are sketching.

Fridays, 9:30 am-12:30 pm | October 13-November 3, 2017 | 4 sessions | $150

AN INTRODUCTION TO CERAMICS with Danielle Wood

In this class, you will get an introduction to the fundamentals of handbuilding in ceramics.

The principles covered will be sculpting with slabs, coil, pinch pots, press molds, and more. We will also be focusing on surface texture, glaze, decals, and china paper as finishing techniques.

This is a good introductory class that provides hands on attention.  You will learn a variety of techniques, creating a foundation for further ceramic courses.  Each student will complete the course with a solid body of work, inspiration, and skills.

Fridays | 1:00-4:00 pm  | October 13 - November 3, 2017 | 4 sessions

Class fee:  $120
Materials fee:  $30 to be paid directly to the instructor on the first day of the class

INTRODUCTION TO ASIAN BRUSH PAINTING with Martha Klare

Relax as you create and learn about the meditative and spontaneous art of Asian Brush Painting.  You will create your own variations of Chrysanthemum, one of the four Gentlemen in Asian Brush Painting.

Using the  traditional materials of bamboo brush, Chinese ink, and paper, fundamental techniques and principles relating to the orchid will be explored.

Although the materials appear simple you will be surprised at their limitless possibilities as you play!

You will also discover the power of being present.  Each piece you create is a reflection of your unique ch'i - known as energy or spirit - in that moment of time and can never be repeated.  This workshop is a wonderful way to learn a new art form and enhance your well being at the same time.

Martha Klare has been practicing brush painting for over 25 years and has studied under several masters both in the US and in China; her work is collected internationally.

$30.00 materials fee payable to the instructor (cash or check please).

Note: Ink does not wash out.  Dress accordingly.

All Levels
Saturday | October 14, 2017 | 10:00-2:00 pm |1 session | $70 

$30 materials fee payable directly to instructor

Ceramic Tile Painting workshop with Alan Jones

Alan Jones creates masterful ceramic tiles in an old-world tradition with a contemporary look.  Join Alan in this two-day workshop to learn how to make your own tiles that can be functional or purely decorative works of art. Planning a bathroom or kitchen renovation? Finished tiles can be incorporated into your design as architectural elements adding a custom look to your room. Finished tiles can be prominently displayed as a work of art either sitting upright on a display stand or hanging on a wall. Or they can be used functionally as a trivet or cheese board. You are limited only by your imagination.

During this workshop Alan will provide step-by-step instruction, with demonstration of all techniques. He will lead you in techniques for hand painting with glaze your own design on tiles. You will work on tiles that he has prepared for you as well as building your own tile (s) and wooden framework.

All tiles will be kiln fired and ready for pick up about a week after the class.

Open to all levels

Saturdays, October 21 & 28, 2017 | 10:00 am - 3:00 pm | 2 sessions  | $175. plus $20 materials fee.

 THE ART OF COLLAGE with Kim Sweet

Exploring how collage can be used to reorder the material world, artists in this workshop of all levels will have the opportunity to study and apply color theory and composition as they make images with cut paper and other materials.

Students will gain an appreciation of collage as a valid art practice in its own right, and will also learn how to use collage to get a fresh perspective on their own painting, sculpture, or other primary discipline. Get ready to liberate your sensibilities with this fun, open-ended technique of cutting and pasting.

Popularized in the early 20th Century by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque, collage is an accessible art form with a tremendous influence on our everyday lives.  Kim earned her BFA  from the Rhode Island School of Design and completed the European Honors Program RISD.

Bring your own materials to work with... papers to work on, scissors, and whatever you want to use to create the collage!  Elmer's glue provided.

Saturday |10:00 am - 1:00 pm | October 28, 2017 | 1 Session | $55. 

POTTERY STUDIO with Alan Jones

If you want to expand your ceramic abilities, this is the class for you.  Alan Jones is a Phoenix icon.  He has been a professional ceramic artist for decades, generously sharing his knowledge and skill through his teaching.  In this class, Alan will help you take your work to the next level.  No matter what your skill level Alan will guide your explorations so that your work improves.

A $30 fee payable to the instructor on the first day of class will cover materials including clay and glazes.

Open to all levels

Mondays | 6:00-9:00 pm | November 6 -December 18, 2017 | 7 sessions  | $210, plus $30 materials fee

INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED POTTERY with Alan Jones

If you have worked with clay but really want to take it to the next level, this is the class for you.  Alan Jones is a Phoenix icon.  He has been a professional ceramic artist for decades, generously sharing his knowledge and skill through his teaching.  In this class, Alan will work with you to build your skill so that your work can truly be inspirational.  Although the class is intended for intermediate to advanced potters, all levels are welcome.

A $30 fee payable to the instructor on the first day of class will cover materials including clay and glazes.

Focused on furthering your skill level

Mondays | 9:30-12:30 pm | November 6 -December 18, 2017 | 7 sessions  | $210, plus $30 materials fee

BEGINNING POTTERY with Alan Jones

If you have ever wanted to learn how to work with clay, this is the class for you.  Alan Jones is a Phoenix icon.  He has been a professional ceramic artist for decades, generously sharing his knowledge and skill through his teaching.  In this class, Alan will expertly instruct you in wheel throwing clay.   He has developed a curriculum to build your skill level from week to week.  Although the class is geared towards beginning potters, all skill levels are welcome.

A $30 fee payable to the instructor on the first day of class will cover materials including clay and glazes.

Open to all levels

Mondays | 1:00-4:00 pm | November 6 -December 18, 2017 | 7 sessions  | $210, plus $30 materials fee

Drawing Basics with Elliott Everson

Everyone can learn to draw and this class will get you started. Drawing requires learning how to observe correctly and record what you see. Students will learn the essentials of proportion, line, shading, perspective and composition, and use basic drawing techniques to create realistic pencil drawings of still life, landscapes and more, with natural and man made textures and subjects. Learning to draw accurately will provide you with an excellent foundation for additional drawing, colored pencil, painting and other art classes. Returning students will continue learning and refining techniques, try new subjects and textures or surfaces. Come to work on a current project or start a new idea. Have fun!

Tuesdays | 9:30 am-12:30 pm | November 7-December 19, 2017   | 7 Sessions | $245.

Drawing Basics with Elliott Everson

Everyone can learn to draw and this class will get you started. Drawing requires learning how to observe correctly and record what you see. Students will learn the essentials of proportion, line, shading, perspective and composition, and use basic drawing techniques to create realistic pencil drawings of still life, landscapes and more, with natural and man made textures and subjects. Learning to draw accurately will provide you with an excellent foundation for additional drawing, colored pencil, painting and other art classes. Returning students will continue learning and refining techniques, try new subjects and textures or surfaces. Come to work on a current project or start a new idea. Have fun!

Tuesdays| 1:00 - 4:00 pm | November 7 - December 19, 2017   | 7 Sessions | $245

Experimental Water-Media with Sue Hunter

In this class students will have fun experimenting with combining different media – watercolor, fluid acrylics, black gessos, masking fluid, tar gel*, and molding paste* to produce texture along with various tools and products.  Alcohol Inks* will be introduced.

You'll see how watercolor has a different look on yupo paper and watercolor paper. The options are endless. Open to all levels.

*Instructor will provide tar gel, molding paste and alcohol inks.

Tuesdays 9:30 am - 12:30 pm | November 7-December 19, 2017 | 7 Sessions | $245.

WATERCOLOR BASICS with John Erwin

Watercolor can be elusive and challenging.  John Erwin instructs in a way that creates successful paintings.  In this class you will learn the basics of color and design to create well balanced paintings. Focusing on landscapes and still life, John will instruct on how to start and complete a painting.  Each week you will build techniques and skills to guide you into more complex, finished paintings.  We will explore wet into wet, dry brush and negative painting techniques.

All Levels
Tuesdays 9:30 am-12:30 pm  | November 14-December 19, 2017 | 6 sessions | $210

Advanced Colored Pencil Techniques with Elliott Everson

Join us in learning about the variety of uses and basic techniques of color pencil drawing including different pencil strokes, blending, layering colors, burnishing, as well as other tools and materials. Use colored pencils to achieve realistic colors and textures to create drawings of man made or natural subjects, animals, plants, landscapes, shiny or rusty cars, or a glass vase of flowers. Returning students will continue learning and refining techniques, try new subjects and textures or surfaces. Come to work on a current project or start a new idea. Have fun! Basic experience required.

Wednesdays| 9:30 am-12:30 pm | November 8-December 20, 2017   | 7 Sessions | $245

Colored Pencil Techniques with Elliott Everson

Join us in learning about the variety of uses and basic techniques of color pencil drawing including different pencil strokes, blending, layering colors, burnishing, as well as other tools and materials. Use colored pencils to achieve realistic colors and textures to create drawings of man made or natural subjects, animals, plants, landscapes, shiny or rusty cars, or a glass vase of flowers. Returning students will continue learning and refining techniques, try new subjects and textures or surfaces. Come to work on a current project or start a new idea. Have fun!

Wednesdays| 1:00 - 4:00 pm | November 8 - December 20, 2017 | 7 Sessions | $245

Open to all levels

Learn to develop and clarify your painting style while expanding your technical skills in this studio class. Sue will tailor discussions and demonstrations to the developing needs of each student-artist. As the class progresses, students will have the opportunity to learn ways of adding other media to their paintings. Prerequisite: Previous painting experience. Bring a blank canvas or a work in progress, images, reference materials, or a sample of finished work, and painting supplies you currently use to the first class; suggestions for additional materials will be discussed at that time.

This class is now full.  If you would like to be added to the wait list, please call 602-262-4727 or email info@shemerartcenter.org.

Wednesdays 9:30 am-12:30 pm | November 8 - December 20, 2017 | 7 Sessions | $245.

CERAMICS with Danielle Wood

The focus of this class will be on creating non-functional sculptures. You will learn a variety of hand building techniques from coiling and slab building with firm as well as soft slab. Additionally you will use slump and drape molds. You will be creating organic abstract contemporary sculptures that may be freestanding or wall installations. Through this class you will increase your knowledge about ceramic vocabulary and firing techniques. A variety of glazes including mid range glazes, underglazes, and decals will be demonstrated and applied. The potential for creative possibilities is endless. Material fee $30.  Prior experience suggested.

Wednesdays, 1:00-4:00 pm  | November 8 - December 20, 2017 | 7 sessions

Class fee: $210
Materials fee:  $30 paid directly to the instructor on first day of class

This is a class designed to walk you through the painting process from beginning to end.  Sometimes the most difficult part of making art is starting.  Sue will guide you through the process of setting up your paints and organizing your colors.  Learn how to simplify and mix colors.  Emphasis on values will be discussed throughout the sessions.  Learn to view your surroundings, to edit in your mind's eye, to create interesting and engaging compositions.  Each week, Sue Hunter will demonstrate the lesson and then provide individual and group instruction.  Students are invited to work in either oil or acrylic.  Materials list for both will be provided.

Thursdays | 9:30 am-12:30 pm | November 9 - December 21, 2017* | 6 Sessions | $210.

*No Class November 23

Pastels combine the disciplines of drawing and painting. Student will explore how different papers give different effects. Become familiar with underpainting using various mediums and limiting the selection of pastels to produce glowing color. Emphasis on design, color, value and application.

Step-by-step instructions with demonstrations will help you to approach the process of painting with pastels with ease and joy.  Studio time is available during this class for students working on their own projects who want feedback and critique from Sue. Other media may be used, call for additional information.  602-262-4727.

Thursdays, 1:00 - 4:00 pm | November 9-December 21, 2017* | 6 Sessions | $210.

*No Class November 23

Learn the hands-on art of printmaking and create hand-pulled prints.  Join John on this adventure as you explore traditional and experimental forms of printmaking.  The centuries-old process is easy and fun under the direction of this gifted artist and instructor.  Printmaking opens you to a new form of expression and helps you to reevaluate your approach to art making.

Experience the excitement of converting your designs into original prints! In this class you will learn to make your own unique marks and stamps that will become cards or artwork.  Explore mixing colors and printing on a variety of papers including colorful Japanese rice paper and an array of artist papers.

Most of the materials will be provided including carving tools, inks and a press.  Each week you will leave with a finished project.  Methods to be covered include:  Relief Printing; Woodblock (using 'soft 'easy' to carve images); Drypoint Etching (using clear acrylic sheets); Monoprints (creating one of a kind prints); Chine Colle (printing on a surface attached to another surface; Collograph (printing over a raised surface); Gyotaku (a 200 years-old Japanese style of fish rubbing, yielding a remarkable fish print with exact color duplication, subtlety of motion and exquisite detail); Solar Printing (a light sensitized approach to creating an etching plate) and Pochoir (a stencil-based printing technique).

Open to all levels
Thursdays 9:30 am-12:30 pm | November 9-December 21, 2017* | 6 sessions | $210.

*No class November 23

CERAMICS with Constance McBride

In this class, we'll be exploring ideas that inspire each student individually and then translate those ideas into personal and unique figurative sculptures.  You will be creating sculptures that may be freestanding or may be used as part of a wall installation.

Constance will teach hand building techniques that include coiling and slab building with an emphasis on finishing each sculpture with pre- and post-firing processes.  In addition to using glazes, you will learn how to apply post-firing surface treatments such as stains, pastels and powdered graphite.  This class is open to all levels of ceramic students. Material fee $30.

Thursdays |1:00-4:00 pm | November 9 - December 21, 2017* | 6 sessions | $180
Materials fee: $30 paid directly to instructor on first day of class

*No class November 23

Open Studio with Elliott Everson

Join Elliott Everson in an open studio setting. Returning students will continue learning and refining techniques, try new subjects and textures or surfaces. Come to work on a current project or start a new idea. Elliott will provide one-on-one and group instruction depending on the needs of the students.  This is a tremendous opportunity to push your drawing skills to a new level in the open studio setting. Use colored pencils or graphite. Open to all Levels Have fun!

Fridays| 9:30 am-12:30 pm | November 10-December 22, 2017 *  | 6 Sessions | $210.

*No Class November 24

10 Minute Sketching with John Erwin

What’s the difference between a sketch and a drawing?   A sketch can be imperfect, it takes less time than a drawing, evokes emotion, and captures a moment. There is an art to making a sketch that instantly conjures a memory of time or place.

In this class, award-winning artist John Erwin shares his tips and lessons on sketching from his extensive travel over several decades. John generously shares his personal travel journals of sketches and the artistic lessons he learned along the way.

From this class you will be able to capture your travel memories in sketches. John will teach you how to set up a sketchbook and a pocket-travel sketch kit. Through specific lessons, you will learn how to create balanced compositions with perspective and value. Experience the excitement and the confidence of sketching in public. You will add people, cars and other real-life interest to your sketches. From black and white line drawing in pencil, pen or other media, John will guide you through adding color, texture and pattern to create more finished works. Working with watercolor, ink, pencil, marker and you will even use a razor blade! You will astonish yourself and your friends in your ability to capture the spirit of the place you are sketching.

Fridays, 9:30 am-12:30 pm | November 10-December 22, 2017* | 6 sessions | $210.

*No class November 24

A Focus on Glazing, Form and Texture with Danielle Wood

In this class, students will have the opportunity to learn more about glaze and the variety of textures that can be made in clay through the medium of hand building. There will be glazing demonstrations on how to mix different under glazes, using decals, image transfers, and china painting. Organic sculptural and functional forms will be made as a base for experimentation with glaze and texture. In this class, students will also have the opportunity to learn more about ceramic vocabulary and firing techniques. All levels are encouraged to join.

Material fee $30.

Fridays | 9:30 - 12:30 pm  | November 10-December 22, 2017*  | 6 sessions

Class fee $180.
Materials fee: a $30 fee paid directly to the instructor on the first day of the class for materials.

*No class November 24

 Wine and Watercolor at the Shemer with John Erwin

Join us for a fun night of watercolor painting with John Erwin.  Be surprised what you can learn in just a few creative hours.  Enjoy a lighthearted atmosphere while learning something new. You will leave with a beautiful completed painting.

Each month you will be introduced to the techniques of watercolor painting.  Learn the basics as well as some advanced techniques of watercolor painting during this fun-filled event.  All supplies will be provided.  Only a  willingness to try something new is required.

Appetizers and beverages will be provided.  Space is limited so reserve your spot now for this month's Wine and Watercolor at the Shemer!

All Levels
Thursday 6:00-8:30 pm | November 16, 2017 | 1 session

$15.

AM-15 FUSED GLASS FOR BEGINNERS with Anne Mello

In this workshop you will be introduced to basic glass fusing concepts. In a light, fun environment, you will learn about the principles of glass compatibility and how glass is kiln-formed.

Techniques reviewed and demonstrated include: scoring, breaking and grinding glass; glue-tacking, glass selection, placement and layering.

Design and create your own unique work of glass art!  No prior experience necessary.  Workshop includes use of fuse glass tools, equipment and kiln firing to complete an original glass design.  System 96 COE glass will be used in this workshop.

(Safety NOTE: Students are required to wear closed toe shoes for this workshop.)

Flat glass work produced in this workshop will be kiln fired and available for pick up one week later at the Wrap Up!

Workshop Wrap-up on the following Saturday   10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Wonder why your glass creation has ‘bumped out’ or ‘contracted’ here and there? Or, why a color fired so differently than you thought it would? Or, what would have happened if you ‘did this’ instead of ‘that’?  Or, how your glass art should be displayed?  This two hour Wrap-up will give students a chance to ask questions of workshop instructor, Anne Mello that are specific to the glass work produced in the Fused Glass Workshop a week ago.  The same relaxed pace Anne conducts in the workshop will be the guide for a friendly Wrap-up discussion with a little light refreshment.  You will take home your finished glass pieces along with some tips, suggestions and options that may spark and initiate creative ideas for your next fused glass design.

A $30 materials fee paid directly to the instructor covers all glass materials for the workshop.

No one under the age of 18 permitted unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.  If under 18, no glass cutting or grinding will be allowed.  No one under the age of 13 allowed.

This class is now full.  If you would like to be added to the wait list, please call 602-262-4727 or email info@shemerartcenter.org.

Workshop December 2, 2017 |  10:00am - 4:00pm  | Wrap Up December 9, 2017 | 10:00am - 12:00pm

Workshop fee: $120

Materials fee: $30 paid directly to instructor on first day

INTRODUCTION TO OIL PAINTING with Julie Gilbert Pollard

If you have wanted to try out oil painting before investing in the supplies, this is the workshop for you! All paint, brushes and one small canvas, plus a few miscellaneous necessary painting supplies will be furnished for the day of the workshop.  You will need to bring minimal supplies such as paper towels, apron, etc.  A list of supplies will be available upon registration.

Get your feet wet with a simple landscape using one of the methods featured in Julie’s new book Discover Oil Painting. 

There will be demos, exercises, critique and lots of painting time. All levels are welcome and encouraged to attend. The only prerequisite is an attitude of joy in the act of painting!

All Levels
Saturdays | December 9 & 16, 2017 | 10:00am - 4:00pm | 2 days

Workshop fee: $210

Materials fee: $15 to be paid directly to instructor on first day

 Wine and Watercolor at the Shemer with John Erwin

Join us for a fun night of watercolor painting with John Erwin.  Be surprised what you can learn in just a few creative hours.  Enjoy a lighthearted atmosphere while learning something new. You will leave with a beautiful completed painting.

Each month you will be introduced to the techniques of watercolor painting.  Learn the basics as well as some advanced techniques of watercolor painting during this fun-filled event.  All supplies will be provided.  Only a  willingness to try something new is required.

Appetizers and beverages will be provided.  Space is limited so reserve your spot now for this month's Wine and Watercolor at the Shemer!

All Levels
Thursday 6:00-8:30 pm | December 14, 2017 | 1 session

$15.