Learning at the Valley Art Center

Children's Courses


Art du Jour: Ages 6-9. This new class is offered by the day in 4 week sessions. You may enroll your child for one class or for all four. Each meeting, children will engage with a different process, media, or concept. Includes plenty of opportunities for experimentation and expression. Register by 4pm the Thursday prior to the class. Class credit only, no refunds, for cancellations after deadline. Saturdays, April 19 through May 10, 10:00am-12:00pm.


Art with Mom and Me taught by Kathy Vencl: Ages 3 ˝ to 6. Children experiment with 2 and 3 dimensional art material and methods, get messy, and have fun. Mom, Dad or Grandparents can stay and enjoy the fun adventure in art. Fridays, April 18 through May 9, 9:30am-10:30am.


Beading with Kim Mettee: Ages 10 & up. Children create unique and personalized jewelry. Learn stringing and finishing techniques, design layout and tool usage to make earrings, charms, necklaces and bracelets. Glass, wood, bone, and ceramic beads are included but feel free to bring old jewelry, beads, charms, buttons etc. Wednesdays, April 16 through May 7, 3:30-5:30pm.


Drawing and Painting with Emily English: Ages 6 to 9. This class will focus on the traditional studies of art including color, design, principles and the elements in new and exciting ways. Students will study basic skills without feeling like they're in school. Projects will be structured by what they have learned while exploring traditional and creative outlets. All abilities welcome.
   Drawing and Painting with Emily English on Tuesdays: Tuesdays, April 15 through May 6, 4-5:30pm.
   Drawing and Painting with Emily English on Thursdays: Thursdays, April 17 through May 8, 4-5:30pm.


Mixed Media with Kathy Vencl: Ages 8 to 12. In this class, students get an opportunity to work in a broad range of media including collage, painting, egg tempera, wax, and stone. Projects will include both two and three dimensional work. Students will learn the elements of art and color theory while creating abstract and realistic art works. New projects every session. Mondays, April 14 through May 5, 4-5:30pm.


Rock, Paper & Scissors with Kathy Vencl: Ages 6-10. Have fun working with forms of paper mache’, wire, wood and plaster. We will investigate artists and contemporary sculptures. Time & size permitting, we will complete three sculptures. Wednesdays, April 16 through May 7, 4-5:30pm.


Pottery “Prewumps”: Age 3 ˝ to 6. Experiment with clay in the pottery studio for the fun of it. Let’s get our hands dirty and make some mighty awesome stuff! We provide art smock and all the clay you can use. Leave Mom or Dad behind.
   Pottery “Prewumps” on Monday Afternoons: Mondays, April 14 through May 5, 1-2:00pm.
 
 Pottery “Prewumps” on Tuesday Afternoons: Tuesdays, April 15 through May 6, 1-2:00pm.
   Pottery “Prewumps” on Wednesday Mornings: Wednesdays, April 16 through May 7, 9:30-10:30am.
   Pottery “Prewumps” on Thursday Mornings:Thursdays, April 17 through May 8, 9:30-10:30am.


Pottery “Mudwumps”: Ages 6 to 9. Come learn the basics of ceramics including wedging, hand building, glazing, and potentially using the potter’s wheel. We have plenty of art smocks if you need one. All skill levels welcome. Materials and tools provided.
   Pottery “Mudwumps” on Monday Afternoons: Mondays, April 14 through May 5, 4-5:30pm.
   Pottery “Mudwumps” on Wednesday Afternoons: Wednesdays, April 16 through May 7, 4-5:30pm.


Pottery for Youth and Teen with Joan Rusek: Ages 10 & up. Learn advanced hand-building techniques and learn or sharpen your wheel-thrown pottery skills. All skill levels are welcome. Materials included and tools provided.
   Pottery for Youth and Teen with Joan Rusek on Tuesday Afternoons: Tuesdays, April 15 through May 6, 4:30-6:30pm.
   Pottery for Youth and Teen with Joan Rusek on Saturday Mornings: Saturdays, April 19 through May 10, 9-11:00am.


Pottery with Mom and Me taught by Kathy Vencl: Ages 3 ˝ to 6. Children experiment with clay in the pottery studio for the fun of it. Mom, Dad, or a Grandparent will stay to enjoy the class and have fun with the children. Tuesdays, April 15 through May 6, 9:30-10:30am.

 

Stop in or call now to register: 440-247-7507!



Adult Courses

 

The Art of Beaded Jewelry Design with Kim Mettee: This course is for beginning and experienced students who want to create unique and personalized designs in wearable art. The instructor will encourage individual direction while sharing basic and advanced techniques. Students are encouraged to utilize traditional components combined with recycled objects: buttons, hardware, old jewelry, found objects, and items from nature. Fresh designs always develop from combining old with new. Attendance at first class is mandatory.
   The Art of Beaded Jewelry Design with Kim Mettee on Wednesday Evenings: Wednesdays April 16 through May 6th, 6-8:30pm
   The Art of Beaded Jewelry Design with Kim Mettee on Thursday Mornings: Thursdays April 17 through May 8th, 9:30 am-12:00pm.


Birdbaths and Fountains with Joan Rusek: Use clay to create full-size water features for your yard or garden. You will create unique fountains and birdbaths using wheel-throwing or handbuilding techniques that you can learn in this class. No experience necessary to walk away from this course with personalized and functional ornaments that will be the envy of the neighborhood. Students will fire and glaze all projects to a durable stoneware finish. Fridays, April 18 through May 9 and June 17 through July 22, 10:00am-12:00pm.


Drawing for the FRAIDY CAT (or the faint of heart) with Darlene Jackson: It's just a matter of line! Bring a medium sketchbook and pencils. For Beginners or students returning to art. Summer term, this Course is located at Hamlet Village Art Studio. Wednesdays April 16 through May 21, 1-3pm, Valley Art Center. Wednesdays June 18 through July 9, 1-3pm, Hamlet Village.


Drawing the Nude Figure with Dale Slavin: All levels. Individual instruction will be emphasized, but lectures and demonstrations will be given as necessary. Working from a live model, students will learn basic anatomy and combine it with simple concepts for understanding the nude human form. Instruction in methods and techniques, composition, volume, proportion, and value will be emphasized. Supply lists will be available when you register for the course. We will conclude with a discussion of the students' work. Tuesdays April 15 through May 6th, 7-9:30pm.


Enamel on Metal with Sandy Richert: Make table or wall pieces or jewelry while learning techniques of applying and kiln firing vitreous glass enamel to metal. The process is fascinating and colorfully expressive (drawing skills not required). All levels welcome. Lab fee $7, payable to instructor at first class; additional supplies available for purchase. Wednesdays, April 16 through May 7, 1-3:00pm.


Glass with Aline Peterson (Artist's Studio Class): With beginner as well as advanced classes in lampworking and fusing. Aline can get you started in learning about the beautiful medium of glass. All tools, supplies and equipment are provided. Her studio has everything you'll need to learn about techniques and designing your glass artwork. Aline has flexible days and times with room for up to 4 students. Aline's Studio is in Auburn Twp. Call the Art Center for more information. 6-8 hours of instruction, by arrangement.


Learning to Tap the Magic Of Your Mind with Mary Senechal: Did you know you can double your idea power in just a few short weeks by applying the concepts of creative thinking? Fifty years of research have proved individuals in all walks of life can deliberately learn how to double the quantity and quality of ideas when facing any kind of problem or challenge If you are interested in learning how to apply creative behavior everyday in your personal and professional life, this practical "learn by doing" course is for you. You will learn how to solve problems and make decisions creatively. Join us on the transformation journey! Thursdays, April 17 through May 8th, 7-9pm.


Oil and Acrylic Painting with Rob Crombie: Instructor Rob Crombie is an Impressionistic painter.†This class is for the intermediate to professional artist. Emphasis will be on nature, structures (homes etc.) and still life.†Work will be done from photographs, props and on-site when possible. There will be time for individual assistance as well as personal exploration. This class is for those 18 and over. There is a REQUIRED supply list from the Teacher. Please call the office to receive a copy, or you may email Rob Crombie at: bcrombie@neo.rr.com to obtain one or if you have any questions. Saturdays, April 19 through May 10, 10:00am-12:30pm.


Oil Painting with Bud Deihl: This course is for serious artists of all levels from beginning to advanced. The extended, four hour class format has been highly successful. Lectures and demonstrations will be given on a wide range of topics, including concepts, materials, techniques and aesthetic issues. Individual instruction will be emphasized, with a group discussion of the studentsí work in the final class of the studentsí works. Subject matter for the students' paintings will be their choice, with guidance available if requested. Ask the VAC office for a supply list; students will be responsible for bringing the proper materials, including any necessary reference materials, starting with the first class. Available on two different days--sign up for one or sign up for both!
   Oil Painting with Bud Deihl on Mondays: Mondays April 14 through May 5th, 10:00am-2:00pm.
   Oil Painting with Bud Deihl on Fridays: Fridays April 18 through May 9th, 10:00am-2:00pm.


Open Studio Watercolor with Tan Gillespie: Bring your ideas and in-progress works. Helpful advice and assistance in drawing, composition, value studies, color and technique. Learn to develop your own unique style of painting. For the intermediate and advanced painter. Thursdays, April 17 through May 8th, 9:30am-12:00pm.


Pastels with Mary Senechal: A class open to all levels. We will start by introducing you to your materials and offer ways for you to increase your comfort and confidence in using them. Through class exercises you will learn varying strokes and layering techniques that allow colors to vibrate. Additional focus will be placed on composition and mood, with particular attention given to your individual style and expression. Each class will end with critiques. Wednesdays, April 16 through May 7th, 7-9:00pm.


Pottery with Tracy Ameen: All skill levels learn to make unique pottery pieces and sculpture with clay. Both methods of making pottery will be taught using potters wheel and hand building techniques. Course also includes instruction in glazing. Materials included and tools provided. Thursdays, April 17 through May 8th, 11:00am-1:00pm.


Pottery - Everything But The Kitchen Sink with Joan Rusek: Learn to make everything from pasta bowls to berry bowls with plates, mugs, pitchers and catch-alls in between. Optional dinner party at the end of the session. All skills welcome. Materials included and tools provided. Tuesdays April 15 through May 6 and Jenu 17 through July 22, 7-9:30pm.


Pottery on the Wheel with Gary Kusner: Learn wheel techniques to create functional pieces both large and small. Firing and glazing techniques will be taught also. All skill levels welcome. Materials included / tools provided. Wednesdays, April 16 through May 6, 7-9:30pm.


Precious Metal Clay (PMC) Jewelry with Catherine Davies Paetz: Create silver jewelry with this amazing new material that offers a whole new approach to jewelry making. Microscopic particles of fine silver are suspended in an organic binder with water making it pliable and clay-like. After kiln firing, the binder burns away leaving a creation that is pure silver. Explore many different ways to express your jewelry ideas. Materials fee of $42.00 for supplies and an initial package of PMC payable to the instructor. Additional clay and findings will be available for purchase. No experience necessary. All levels welcome and advanced techniques are offered as students gain experience. Visit the artist's website at www.cdpdesigns.com.
   Precious Metal Clay (PMC) Jewelry with Catherine Davies Paetz on Tuesday Afternoons: Tuesdays, April 15 through May 6, 1-3:30pm
   Precious Metal Clay (PMC) Jewelry with Catherine Davies Paetz on Thursday Evewnings: Thursdays, April 17 through May 8, 6:30-9:00pm.


Silver, Copper, and Brass Jewelry with John Gulyas: Course offers instruction in design, sawing, hammering, soldering, stone setting, and polishing to make your own great jewelry pieces. All skill levels welcome. Equipment provided. Metal supplies are available from instructor. Tuesdays, April 15 through May 6th, 7-9:30pm.


Simply Watercolor: A class for all levels, on a choice of surfaces: watercolor paper, watercolor canvas, Clayboard, or Rtistx (a new surface that challenges watercolor paper). Elements of design and basic information about painting will be discussed. Critiques at the end of the session for works completed in class. Mondays, April 14 through May 5th, 7-9:00pm.


Watercolor Intermediate with Darlene Jackson: This is for those of you who are not beginners and want to develop your own personal style. We will be working through the elements and principles of design. Learn the importance of your sketch book in working through your compositions. Sign up for the day and bring your lunch. List for additional supplies is available from the VAC or PRIZM ART SUPPLY. This class is taught in the morning and afternoon. Sign up for one or both and bring a sack lunch. Supply list available at registration. Summer term, this Course is located at Hamlet Village Art Studio.
   Watercolor Intermediate in the Morning with Darlene Jackson: Tuesdays, April 15 through May 20 at Valley Art Center and June 17 through July 8 at Hamlet Village, 10:00am -12:30pm.
   Watercolor Intermediate in the Afternoon with Darlene Jackson: Tuesdays, April 15 through May 20 at Valley Art Center and June 17 through July 8 at Hamlet Village, 1:00pm-3:00pm.


Watercolor Intermediate/Advanced with Darlene Jackson: Bring your own unique experience and personal style to this class. Create a painting in class from a still life, sketchbook, or photo. Along the way, your principles of design and composition will be strengthened. Youíll begin to see your work become more painterly. Come for part of the day (morning session 10-12:30 or afternoon session 1-3) or bring your lunch and enjoy the whole day painting. A supply list on is available upon request. Summer term, this Course is located at Hamlet Village Art Studio.
   Watercolor Intermediate/Advanced with Darlene Jackson in the Morning: Mondays April 14 through May 19 at Valley Art Center and June 16 through July 7 at Hamlet Village, 10:00am-12:30pm.

   Watercolor Intermediate/Advanced with Darlene Jackson in the Afternoon: Mondays April 14 through May 19 at Valley Art Center and June 16 through July 7 at Hamlet Village, 1:00pm-3:00pm.


Watercolor Painting for the FRAIDY CAT (or the faint of heart) with Darlene Jackson: This class is for the novice or truly timid beginner. Learn the basic techniques and how to work with watercolors. We will learn from each other and build confidence. Supply list is available from the VAC or from PRIZM ART SUPPLY . Supply list available at registration. Summer term, this Course is located at Hamlet Village Art Studio. Wednesdays, April 16 through May 21, Valley Art Center and June 18 through July 9, Hamlet Village, 10:00am-12:30pm.


Watercolor with Jan Mettee: Increase your knowledge of design. . . from those first preliminary sketches to your watercolor paintings. Through demos and individual critiques, Jan will help you to "see" and build on a style that is uniquely yours. Two classes taught on Tuesdays. Sign up for one or both. Spend the morning, afternoon or the entire day! Supply list available at registration.
   Watercolor with Jan Mettee in the Morning: Tuesdays April 15 through May 6, 9:30am-12:00pm.
   Watercolor with Jan Mettee in the Afternoon: Tuesdays April 15 through May 6, 1-3:30pm.

 

Stop in or call now to register: 440-247-7507!



Special Presentations


Art History Presentation by Genny Boccardo-Dubey: In the 11th through the 13th centuries, French architecture experienced a change from Romanesque building styles to a "new" style encompassing flying buttresses, pinnacles, vaulted ceilings, and elaborate stained glass. This awe-inspiring art form is familiar to us as the Gothic style. Come see Genny Boccardo Dubey as she shows us the elements of these beautiful French buildings and cathedrals in a digital visual presentation . Genny will also reveal the culture and politics in France that changed with the rise of national identity and the emergence of new building styles that impacted all of Europe. $5 includes refreshments. Please call to reserve a seat. Thursday, April 24, 6:30 p.m.

 

Stop in or call now to register: 440-247-7507!

 

Weekend Workshops


Teapots with Joan Rusek: Two sessions. Make the teapots one week, then two weeks later glaze them. Create an original teapot of your own design using hand-building techniques that Joan will teach you. This class will not only send you home with a great teapot set for your home or a gift, but will teach you how to come up with a creative design that is all your own. All projects are produced using stoneware clay so you can safely use the teapot and cups for serving tea. Saturday, April 19th and May 3rd, 1:00pm-3:00pm.


'Tufa Troughs and Planters: One Day Workshop. Take Home Your Planter That Day! Experience the magic of 'tufa, a type of lightweight cement that can be molded into garden vessels that look like limestone. 'Tufa is porous and is beneficial for plant growth, so it is a wonderful material for planters and garden troughs. In this workshop, you will create light-weight planters for your outside garden using cardboard boxes or baskets as molds. You can make 2 or 3 planters, so this is a great price and you get to make them yourself. Planters are lighter than clay or concrete and can withstand harsh winters. Saturday, April 26th, 12-3:00pm.


Handpainting on Silk with Gunter Schwegler: Discover the magic of Silk Painting with fiber artist Gunter Schwegler! This workshop introduces you to a marvelous medium, which is like watercolor only different. You will feel like a magician as you fill the fabric and your world with color, flowing lines and shapes. Using hand painting techniques, create two pieces either 27" square or 12" x 60." Possibilities include scarves, table runners, banners, pillows, or framed art. Gunter's work has appeared in museums and galleries across the US. Students will use materials supplied by the instructor for this workshop. All skill levels welcome. Bring or order in a lunch. Saturday, May 3rd 10:00am-4:30pm.

 

Stop in or call now to register: 440-247-7507!