Classes for Adults
Register for a Fall Class or Workshop
Registration for our Fall Session Courses and Workshops begins August 1. The brochure linked below describes all Fall Session courses. A registration form is also available for download.
Basic Engraving
Learn how to draw into plexiglass using simple line techniques and a needle tool. Students will learn to create black and white as well as multi-color images from a single plate.
Kyra received her BFA from the Kansas City Art Institute. After graduation she moved to Chicago where she worked as a print assistant for the Chicago Printmakers Collaborative. Kyra has printed and designed broadsides for poets such as Dan Beachy-Quick through the Powell’s North Reading Series, run collaboratively by the Art Institute of Chicago and Powell’s Chicago Bookstores. She also worked for the indie label Fresh Produce in creating the artwork for an album by the band, The Leaves.
Dry and Wet Felting, Oh My!
This 8 week class will explore the use of felted fibers to construct flat and three-dimensional pieces. We will explore a variety of wet and dry felting techniques that will allow students to create forms such as beads, bowls, and small animals.
Anne Cove graduated in dress design at the St. Martin’s School of Art, London, in 1961.
She has worked with fiber for her whole career, including felting, evolving from dress to visual art. Her work has been exhibited in both the UK and the USA, including recent solo shows in both Leeds, England and St. Louis, MO.
Carve, Ink, Print: Relief Printmaking
In this 8 week class, students will learn fundamental teachings and techniques of the classic printmaking process of woodcut relief. This course will cover basic tool styles and mark making, the inking and printing process, and insight into tricks of the trade. We will explore the diverse and exciting ways artists use woodcut printmaking in the creation of multiple editions while utilizing this unique art medium to their personal advantage.
Travis Lawrence is an artist and printmaker who received his studies in print from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. His work has been shown in various juried exhibitions and has been involved with several group projects. Travis works in multiple media, yet primarily focuses on woodcut printmaking.
Contour Drawing for Putters
This course will build skills in hand-eye coordination, visual thinking and focused observation that can transfer into improved putting abilities. We will practice visualizing the movement of line and form with charcoal, graphite, and ink using drawing techniques - gesture, blind contour and cross contour - to find form, directional and flow patterns. No drawing experience needed, enthusiasm for improved putting accuracy required. »Read more...
Painting for the Beginner and Intermediate
In this 8 week class, students will compose a preliminary drawing from a still life then translate that drawing to a canvas. A painting will be completed by the end of the course. During this process students will explore the palette, experiment with color mixing, and learn ways to apply paint. Students will begin to learn how to interpret our three dimensional world onto the illusionary world of the two dimensional canvas and will also discuss other visual possibilities by looking at master works from the past and present. »Read more...
Appropriate, Manipulate, Duplicate
Learning the process of wood cut and silkscreen transfers in this 8 week class, students will learn how to make unique works on paper. Found images, materials from the world at large and the students’ own stash are welcome additions to the creative process. Using a great feature of printmaking–the multiple–students are encouraged to print many and take each piece in a separate direction. Class includes a culminating print exchange-everyone will take home a portfolio of their peers’ work! »Read more...
Bookbinding
This 8 week class will explore a variety of traditional and non-traditional book structures. Students will learn from historical approaches to constructing the codex form, including the single signature pamphlet, the multi-signature case binding, the coptic and the medieval long stitch. Students will also learn Japanese binding and its many variations. Several contemporary structures will be introduced, including the accordion. Finally, students will learn how to construct simple boxes and portfolios. »Read more...
Breaking the Rules: Art on the Cheap
This course will explore drawing with atypical tools. We will find the easiest and cheapest way to use materials that would not be found in the typical classroom setting. Students are encouraged to experiment and think outside of the box.
Michael Draga is primarily known as a fine art photographer who has headlined numerous shows in the area, though he is also a painter and potter. His degree is in Art Education from Webster College 1974. He has taught in various schools in the St. Louis area, and has also been a staff writer and photo editor of Intermission Magazine.
Beginning Black and White Darkroom Photography
This 8 week class will teach the fundamentals of black and white photography, using the Artists Guild’s brand new darkroom. Students will learn the technical aspects of developing their own film, enlarging and producing their own photographs, and applying basic rules of light and composition. Shooting together and on their own, students will try landscapes, portraits, fashion photography, street photography - you name it!
Form and Content in Artist Made Books
This 8 week class will welcome all ages and skill levels to use whatever tools they have to express an idea or story – their idea or story. We will look at the historical forms that books have taken and alter them for the needs of the content. Students will learn simple basic forms of books and their construction and start the conceptual practice of developing a theme or idea before creation begins, and how to allow the intent of the artist to guide the form at every stage of creation. »Read more...
Transparent Structures and Light Sculptures
With the use of simple tools like dowel rods, tissue paper, glue, scissors and paint, students will learn how to create works both grand and inclusive as well as small and personal. We will create unique light sculptures and fixtures that can be utilized in the home, outside or as ephemeral works of art. The safe use of materials and tools will be emphasized, along with proper studio etiquette and maintenance. »Read more...
Introduction to Art Journaling
In this 8 week class, through combining recycled materials and very inexpensive papers, students will create an art journal and learn how to develop images and pages with everyday objects. Each week will offer a different theme where we will begin new pages and inspirations. This course is great for a range of experience levels in art or craft from beginner to advanced.
Visual Conundrums: combining ideas, materials, and meaning in a series of artwork
This 8 week class is designed for intermediate to advanced artists interested in working within a conceptual framework to create a series of themed two-dimensional works. Emphasis will be placed on subject development, personal meaning, concept, setting goals and visually communicating your idea effectively. Participants may bring in any artworks that are in progress. All artists should bring in any source materials for ideas that they are interested in using to create their series. This is a mixed media course, and you may bring materials that you enjoy working with. There will be brief demos of mixed media art techniques at several of the classes (and as need arises). »Read more...
Solar Plate Printmaking
This is a process heavy workshop that is meant to introduce and develop solar plate processing/printing techniques for novice to advanced print-interested participants. Quick, super high quality, non-toxic results allow for ease and heightened speed of production. Shape of matrix and modularity on the press will be emphasized. »Read more...
Fuji is Not Just a Mountain: Alternative Photography
Transform your photographs with simple and creative techniques by exploring two alternative processes, image transfers and emulsion lifts using Fuji instant film. No previous darkroom or printmaking experience necessary. Participants should bring a variety of 35mm slides and/or 4” X 6” prints.
Barbara Zucker has a degree in educational media and museum studies . She exhibits her work extensively and has given numerous demonstrations and talks as well as published material on the topic.
Tai Chi
In this 6-week course, taught by Violet Li, participants will learn Chen Style Tai Chi Fitness and Wellness Warm-up, Silk-Reeling and Chen Style 18 Form.
Chen Style Tai Chi is the origin of all Tai Chi Styles. Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei, one of the top ten martial artists in China and a lineage holder of the Chen Style Tai Chi, created Chen Style 18 Form for health and fitness purposes. This short form encompasses all Tai Chi essences and is easy to learn. It is promoted by the Chinese government and is taught at all universities and government-sponsored Tai Chi programs. It is ideal for people with a challenging schedule. »Read more...
Art of Autumn
Acrylic painting done ‘plein air” on the grounds of the Guild. Students will paint a landscape inspired by the natural beauty surrounding us in Oak Knoll Park. Students should bring their own stretched canvas or canvas board 9x12” minimum, 18x24” maximum. Paint and brushes will be provided. Ages middle through adult welcome. No experience necessary. The perfect class to do as a family! »Read more...