The West Hartford Art League, Inc. 
A Regional Center for the Visual Arts

FALL 2005 Classes

Daytime Classes for Adults

Monday

COMPOSITION, RHYTHM AND COLOR VISION: Ilona Levitz
This class will focus on how to get beyond the tight interpretation of the object. Compositions will be composed with a rhythmic flow, allowing you to let go of the photo image sooner. You will also learn how the great colorists from Matisse to present day geniuses use color and light to inform the surface of the painting. Individual and group instruction. All medium – Not For Beginners. Please bring an example of your work to the first class. Come prepared to work: with canvas, paint, paper, brushes etc.
IL 111 – Upstairs Schoolhouse
Begins September 19
Monday: 9:30 – 12:30 P.M. 
Fee: Member $180.00; Non-member $200.00

 

NATURAL EQUATIONS – A COURSE IN COMPOSITION & SACRED GEOMETRY: Lauren Zarambo - 8 weeks
In this course we will contemplate the golden ratio, that proportion in nature that has been used as the foundation for many of the world’s greatest masterpieces of art and architecture. Using student provided paper, pencil, straight edge, and compass, we will explore the golden proportion, rectangle and spiral, Platonic Solids and the Squaring of the Circle. These keys for the contemplation of universal creation will inspire and help in the composition of your work. Select the medium of your choice to create new works, which will be used for class critique and discussion.
LZ113 – Clubhouse Classroom
Begins September 19 - 8 weeks
Monday: 10:00-12:30 P.M. 
Fee: Member: $125.00; Non-member: $145.00

Tuesday

WATERCOLOR WORKOUT: Bob Norieka
Let’s get into shapes. Let’s pump up our values. Let’s tone up and stretch to become more fluid. This class will concentrate on warm-up exercises and cool down using glowing colors. After working to build our strengths, we will concentrate on spontaneity. During the spring and fall, we will work outdoors when weather permits. Winter work will be indoors with focus on still life and winter landscapes using a variety of techniques. All levels of students are welcome.
RN213 – Clubhouse Classroom
Begins September 20
Tuesday: 9:00 – 12:00 noon
Fee: Member $180.00; Non-member $200.00

IT’S FUN TO BE CREATIVE: Diane Marinaro
Have you always wanted to paint? Now is the time. The emphasis in class is on composition, including color, value, and line. In class you will develop your own style. Bring paints, pastels, etc., three black felt-tipped pens (fine, medium, and heavy), a sketch book (9x12) that will take paint, and tracing paper about the same size as the sketch book.
DM211 – Upstairs Schoolhouse
Begins September 20
Tuesday: 9:30-12:30 P.M. 
Fee: Member $180.00; Non-member $200.00

WATERCOLOR PLUS (TRADITIONAL TO EXPERIMENTAL): Carol Ganick
In addition to traditional transparent watercolor painting or acrylic painting exercises, interested students will be encouraged to experiment with masking, gouache, watercolor pencils, collage and various watercolor techniques. Students will supply their own materials. For any level student willing to experiment or looking to improve a traditional painting approach.
CG223 – Clubhouse Classroom
Begins September 27
Thursday: 1:30 –4:30 
Fee: Members: $180.00; Non-members: $200.00

Wednesday

PURITY OF COLOR: Catherine M. Elliott
This class will emphasize the mixing and application of varying values that create pure color in our paintings. Techniques and theories will be inspired by Monet, Childe Hassam and other Impressionistic painters both modern and past. Some painting experience is recommended. Supply list will be distributed at the first class, which is a demonstration. www.catherinemelliott.com
CE313 – Clubhouse Classroom
Begins September 21
Wednesday: 9:30-12:30 
Fee: Member $180.00; Non-member $200.00

PAINTING 1: Sara Prentis Brown - 8 weeks
Designed to build basic painting skills, observe values, shapes and use line with limited color. We will build towards a full palette through color exercises. We will paint from still lives, models and landscapes (weather permitting). Oil paint, acrylic, pastel, opaque watercolor (tempura) can be choice of media. Bring 16 x 20 or preferably a 18x24 canvas drawing pad (not newsprint) and your choice of medium, brushes and palettes. Palette may be mat board or Plexiglas.
SP311 – Upstairs Schoolhouse
LATE START: Begins October 5
Wednesday: 9:30 –12:30
Fee: Member $147; Non-member $167.00

LANDSCAPE PAINTING: John LoPresti
The landscape will be the primary subject with an emphasis on composition, simplified perspective, color and value. Different source materials will be used: photographs, drawings, and direct observation. All mediums are encouraged. Please bring an 18x24 pad, drawing paper, ebony pencil and/or charcoal to the first class.
JL313 – Upstairs Schoolhouse
Begins September 20
Wednesdays: 1:00-4:00 
Fee: Member $180.00; Non-member $200.00

Thursday

ADVENTURES IN WATERCOLOR: Frank Federico - 4 weeks
We will explore the capricious nature of watercolor painting by working wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry, using all watercolor paper surfaces. Some exploration with transparent watercolor, acrylic and gouache techniques. Subject matter will vary; color and personal design will be emphasized. Student interaction is encouraged. Demonstrations by the instructor each class with new innovations! Intermediate to advanced students only.
FF411A – Upstairs Schoolhouse – Class is limited to 15 students
Note early start date: Sept. 8, 15, 29 and Oct. 13
Thursday: 9:30 – 12:30 
Fee: Member $130.00; Non-member $150.00

MORE ADVENTURES IN WATERCOLOR: Frank Federico - 3 weeks
We will explore the capricious nature of watercolor painting by working wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry, using all watercolor paper surfaces. Some exploration with transparent watercolor, acrylic and gouache techniques. Subject matter will vary; color and personal design will be emphasized. Student interaction is encouraged. Demonstrations by the instructor each class with new innovations! Intermediate to advanced students only.
FF411B – Upstairs Schoolhouse – Class is limited to 15 students
November 17, December 1, December 8
Thursday: 9:30 – 12:30 
Fee: Member $100.00; Non-member $120.00

COLLAGE: Hannah Libman
This class will offer the beginner and advanced student the opportunity for greater freedom of expression and spontaneity. We will combine a variety of media (painting, photography, drawing and found objects) during this class. Demonstrations and critiques will help direct innovative and creative growth. Everyone can expect to complete several successful works of art. $10 material fee payable at first class. Please call 236-2461 for more information.
HL413 – Clubhouse Classroom
Begins September 22 Thursday: 9:30 – 12:30 
Fee: Member $180.00; Non-member $200.00

Friday

MASTER CLASS IN ADVANCED PAINTING: Paul Zimmerman N.A.
An advanced painting class for the individual who feels secure in the crafts of drawing and painting. Concentration on composition and structure instead of skills. Classes devoted entirely to group discussions and individual critique of work, which has been executed outside of class.
PZ511-Upstairs Schoolhouse
Begins September 23
Friday: 9:00-12:00 
Fee: Member: $180.00; Non-member: $200.00

BASIC DRAWING: Marcia Lewis 
This class is designed to build or reinforce basic drawing skills. We will explore still-life, landscape, the figure, portraiture, and your imagination. Both classical and experimental drawing medium potential will be explored. A model fee will apply for some classes and be shared by the class. Please bring a drawing paper pad and both wet and dry drawing materials with you to the first class.
ML513 – Clubhouse Classroom
Begins September 23
Wednesday: 9:00 – 12:00 P.M. 
Fee: Member $180.00; Non-member $200.00

Saturday

DROP INAND DRAW: Brian Colbath
There will be an instructor on hand for guidance or questions in this informal drop-in weekly session. No pre-registration requitred, limit 15 artists. All mediums welcome. Still-lifes set-ups and occasional live models.
Upstairs Schoolhouse
Sept. 24, Oct. 15, Oct. 22, Oct. 29, Nov. 5, Nov. 12, Nov. 19, Nov. 26
Saturday: 2:00-4:00 
Fee: $10 per two hour session

Evening Classes for Adults

Monday

WATERCOLOR, BEGINNING AND INTERMEDIATE: Carol Ganick
This class will focus on the student’s individual needs in watercolor painting. Beginners will receive direct instructions in how to effectively apply watercolor paint. Based on your willingness to practice techniques you will become confident with mixing colors and applying paint using wet-on-wet and dry brush methods. Intermediate students will receive general direction and critiques at the end of each class. For these students, composition, value and color will be the main concern. Beginners will be given a list of required basic materials and may call Carol Ganick at 860-543-0122 for this or other information.
CG143 Clubhouse Classroom
Begins September 19
Monday 6:00 –9:00 
Fee: Member $180.00; Non-member $200.00

PAINTING PORTRAITS IN OIL: Jim DeCesare
Painting a portrait in oil may have the greatest mystique of all processes. Working from live models (not photos!), students will be guided through classic "direct" painting methods with emphasis on tonal relationships, color quality, and draftsmanship. Students will develop studies that will demystify the portrait painting process. As aspiring painters in oil, each will grow in ability and confidence. For intermediate and advanced painters. Live models will be used at each class and the class tuition includes the model fee.
JD141 Upstairs Schoolhouse
Begins September 19
Monday 6:00-9:00 
Fee:  $225.00; Non-member $245.00

Tuesday

PAINTING AND DRAWING: Zbigniew Grzyb
This class, which uses an academic approach, is geared for the beginner to advanced artist. We will concentrate on basic drawing and painting skills working from still-life set-ups and life models. Come to the first class with large drawing pad (20x30), 5B drawing pencil, and kneaded eraser. Additional supplies will be discussed at first class. Maximum 10.
ZG241 Upstairs Schoolhouse
Begins September 20
Tuesday. 6:30 –8:30 
Fee: Member $125.00; Non-member $145.00

THROW SOMETHING!: Susan Perl – 8 weeks
Get dirty and enjoy every minute as we try to master the age-old techniques of throwing pottery on the wheel. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned thrower, enjoy the company of like-minded artists as we learn the basics or pick up new tricks in this self-directed class. Various glazing and finishing techniques will be presented, and select handbuilding techniques will be explored. Personal discovery and experimentation will be encouraged. Come with a smock and your sense of adventure. Please bring $20 to first class to cover the cost of 25lbs. of clay and glazes.
SP242 Downstairs Schoolhouse – Class is limited to 6 students
Begin September 22
Tuesday 6:30-9:30 
Fee: Member $170.00; Non-members $190.00

STILL LIFE IN WATERCOLOR: Lauren Zarambo
From the start of planning a still life set-up to knowing when to stop painting at the height of completion, this class will instill the skills of watercolor painting. Upon a foundation of drawing, we will create the illusion of light and the depth of watercolor’s richest pigments using a limited palette, which will be discussed in the first class demonstration.
LZ243 Clubhouse Classroom
Begins September 20
Tuesday. 6:30 –9:00 
Fee: Member $147.50; Non-member $167.50

Wednesday

OIL PAINTING FOR BEGINNERS AND INTERMEDIATES: Brian Colbath
This class will start with basic perspective design and color theory. The students will then experiment with different styles of painting, providing a deeper understanding of art and the painting process. The ultimate goal will be the development of each student’s individual style. Please bring a 14x17 drawing pad to the first class. Additional materials will be discussed at the first session. Students at all levels are welcome.
BC341 Upstairs Schoolhouse
Begins September 21
Wednesday 6:30-9:30 
Fee: Member $180.00; Non-member $200.00

Thursday

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY: Craig Norton
This class will cover all aspects of digital cameras and photography. We’ll discuss camera and accessory features and benefits, computer/camera interaction, file management and image sizing and take an in depth look at PhotoShop Elements editing software. We’ll also cover inspiration, composition, lighting and share creative techniques that will give your photos that "WOW" factor. Fun assignments and an adventurous field trip. Bring a digital camera to each class.
CN441 Upstairs Schoolhouse
Begins September 22
Thursday: 7:00-9:00 PM 
Fee: Member $120.00; Non-member: $140.00

Classes for Middle and High School

Thursday

CREATIVE DRAWING FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL ARTISTS: Barbara McBrien
This class is for the middle school student who loves to draw. You will have the opportunity to work with a variety of media, including pencil, charcoal, ink and pastel, and learn techniques to assist you in drawing skillfully and creatively. Your imagination, combined with inspiration drawn from nature, photo and still-life, will help make your artwork an expression of your unique interests, talent and creativity. Instruction will accommodate beginning artists and those with more experience.
BM431 – Upstairs Schoolhouse
Begins September 22
Thursday: 4:00 - 5:15 
Fee: Member - $102.00; Non-member $122.0o

DRAWING FOR TEENS: Marcia Lewis
This class will offer the opportunity to explore drawing from observation and to develop self-expression through a variety of drawing experiences. Students will work with graphite, charcoal, pastel and ink. Open to teenagers of all drawing abilities, beginner to advanced. A $10.00 material feel is payable to the instructor at the first class.
ML441– Upstairs Schoolhouse
Begins September 24
Thursday: 7:00 – 9:00 
Fee: Member $125.00; Non-member $145.00

Saturday

CARTOONING FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL, AGES 11-AND UP: Elena Steier
This class is for students serious about cartooning, who wish to improve their drawing skills. The class will focus on 3 dimensional drawing techniques by practicing anime style cartooning, animation type character design, and comic book layouts.
ES611B – Upstairs Schoolhouse
Begins September 24
Saturday: 10:30-11:45 
Fee: Member $102.00; Non-member $122.00

PAINTING FOR TEENS: Barbara McBrien
Develop artistic skills and learn new techniques as you explore painting using a variety of media, including acrylic, watercolor, tempera and ink. Learn the importance of color, form and texture in composition as you paint from nature, still-life and photo. Instruction is geared to address individual levels of experience and interest.
BM613– Clubhouse Classroom
Begins September 24
Saturday: 11:30 – 1:30 
Fee: Member $125.00; Non-member $145.00

Classes for Young Artists; ages 5 - 12

Monday

ART FOR YOUNG CHILDREN, AGES 5-7: Judy Hough
For the young child who loves art. This class will introduce your child to a variety of art materials and techniques while encouraging them to use their imagination as they explore the basic concepts of line, shape, color, and design through colorful collage, tempera and watercolor paints, crayons and pastels. Some projects prefaced by music and storytelling of well known children’s classics in literature including international folklore, fables and fairytales as well as more contemporary children’s stories.
JH133 – Clubhouse Classroom
Begins September 19
Monday: 4:00 – 5:15 
Fee: Member $102.00; Non-member $122.00

MOSTLY SCULPTURE, AGES 8-13: Joan Shapiro
Express your unique art style. We will draw with pencil, oil pastel and charcoal; paint on canvas and art boards; collage opportunities as well. We will create small alabaster stone sculptures using rasps and files and finish the forms to a smooth and shiny surface. You may decide to create clay animal pieces or other forms. An exciting and varied 10-week program. $8. material fee payable to instructor at first class.
JS132 – Downstairs Schoolhouse
Begins September 19
Monday 4:00 – 5:15 
Fee: Member $102.00; Non-member $117.00

Tuesday

MOSTLY SCULPTURE, AGES 8-13: Joan Shapiro
Express your unique art style. We will draw with pencil, oil pastel and charcoal; paint on canvas and art boards; collage opportunities as well. We will create small alabaster stone sculptures using rasps and files and finish the forms to a smooth and shiny surface. You may decide to create clay animal pieces or other forms. An exciting and varied 10-week program. $8. material fee payable to instructor at first class.
JS232 – Downstairs Schoolhouse
Begins September 20 (no class Oct. 4)
Tuesday 4:00 – 5:15 
Fee: Member $102.00; Non-member $117.00

Wednesday

WHEEL THROWING FOR BEGINNERS, Ages 10 AND UP: Beth Reynolds 6 weeks Beth Reynolds
This course offers an introduction to basic wheel techniques. Through demonstration and practice, students will learn how to center clay and throw simple shapes on the wheel. Different methods can be used to decorate the pieces before and after a bisque firing. All pieces will be finished by glazing. The materials fee is included in the class fee.
BR322 – Downstairs Schoolhouse - Class is limited to 6 students
Six weeks beginning: September 21
Wednesday : 2:30-4:30 
Fee: Member $75.00; Non-member $95.00

CREATIVE ADVENTURES WITH THE MASTERS, 4TH – 6TH GRADERS: Mary Smeallie 8 weeks
This course will combine art history with hands-on painting experience. Students will learn about the life and times of artists from various time periods. Explore Picasso, Monet, VanGogh and more. Each student will produce a painting in the style of a different artist each week using his or her own ideas and images. Please bring a smock to each class.
MS323 – Clubhouse Classroom - October 12
Wednesdays: 3:00-4:30 
Fee: Member $85.00; Non-member $105.00

Saturday

Special note to 8-10 year olds… Why not bring a snack and make a morning of it! 
9:00-10:15 Cartooning ES611A and
10:30 – 11:30 Handbuilding BR612B

ART CLUB, AGES 6-10: Barbara McBrien
Young artists will enjoy creating through painting, drawing, printmaking, collage, paper mache and more. Activities are designed to encourage individual expression and inspire creativity while providing the child with an opportunity to explore a wide range of art media and develop art skills. Projects are geared to stimulate and challenge both new and returning students. For students entering 1st grade and up.
BM613– Clubhouse Classroom
Begins September 24
Saturday: 9:30 – 10:45 
Fee: Member $102.00; Non-member $122.00

CARTOONING, AGES 8-10: Elena Steier
Manga is the Japanese word for comics. This class covers basic drawing techniques by exploring the world of manga. Every lesson takes characters from video games, trading cards, and comic books, and deconstructs them so children become familiar with underdrawing, basic shapes, perspective, design and composition. Each child is responsible for building his or her own character based on universal drawing concepts, which are used by artists who create manga. In addition, everyone will use these new cartooning skills to create stories and comic strips.
ES611A – Upstairs Schoolhouse
Begins September 24
Saturday 9:00-10:15 
Fee: Member $102.00; Non-member $122.00

HANDBUILDING FOR KIDS, AGES 4-6 & PARENTS: Beth Reynolds 2 or 4 weeks
This workshop will be a special time for a parent and child to explore texture and pattern through clay. The teacher will demonstrate handbuilding methods and will have samples and ideas for projects. You might decide to make a tile, mug, bowl, or animal. The second day of the workshop will be devoted to painting or glazing your project. The four-week class offers more time for exploration with clay.
Downstairs Schoolhouse
Saturday: 9:15 – 10:15 for ages 4-6 accompanied by a parent
BR612A2 Two weeks: September 24 & October 1
Fee: Member $40.00; Non-member $60.00
BR612A4 Four weeks: Sept. 24, Oct. 1, Oct. 15 & Oct 22
Fee: Member $55.00; Non-member $75.00

HANDBUILDING FOR KIDS ONLY: AGES 7 AND UP: Beth Reynolds 2 or 4 weeks
Explore texture and pattern through clay as you make a gift for that special someone on your list – or for yourself! On the first day of the workshop, the teacher will demonstrate handbuilding methods and will have samples and ideas of projects. You might decide to make a tile, mug, bowl, or animal. The second day of the workshop will be devoted to painting or glazing your project. The four-week class offers more time for exploration with clay
Downstairs Schoolhouse
Saturday: 10:30 – 11:30
BR612B2 Two weeks: September 24 & October 1
Fee: Member $40.00; Non-member $60.00
BR612B4 Four weeks: Sept. 24, Oct. 1, Oct. 15 & Oct 22
Fee: Member $55.00; Non-member $75.00

Adults & Teens

ONE-DAY WORKSHOPS

CREATING LANDSCAPES WITH PAINTED PAPER: Carol Ganick
This workshop is for all levels and will involve working with paints, glue and painted papers to create landscapes. Students will be provided with landscape compositions, which they may choose to use as models. Some time will be spent painting papers to provide a variety of colors and textures from which to select.
Call the instructor for a list of materials 860-543-0122.
CG621 Upstairs Schoolhouse - Class is limited to 7 students
One day workshop: Saturday October 1
Saturday: 1:00 - 5:00 
Fee: Member $50.00; Non-member $60.00

CREATING PICTURE FRAMES: For All Ages!! Beth Reynolds
The West Hartford Art League used hand painted picture frames to promote ARTWALK in West Hartford Center. Discover her special techniques and tips as you design and paint two different frames that will be provided. Bring a selection of acrylic paints and brushes. (Additional frames may be purchased in class.)
FF611B – Clubhouse Classroom - Class is limited to 15 students
One-day workshop: October 1
Saturday: 1:30 – 3.00 
Fee: Member $30.00; Non-member $40.0

PREPARATION FOR PAINTING: Zbigniew Grzyb
All painters are welcome but the workshop is geared for BEGINNERS who have never stretched a canvas, for those who want to paint but do not know where to begin. Learn how to stretch a canvas and prepare the surface with gesso. Discover how to color the gesso and the canvas to start a painting. The instructor will demonstrate how to use the flexible medium of oil, as well as watercolor and pastels on the prepared canvas. Students should bring a stretcher and canvas.
ZG611 – Upstairs Schoolhouse - Class is limited to 15 students
One day workshop: October 8
Saturday: 1:30-4:30 
Fee: Member $40.00; Non-member $50.00

CARTOONING FOR EVERYONE!: Elena Steier
This workshop is open to adults, teens, and middle school students, which offers a fun opportunity for families to study together. Elena Steier is a talented political cartoonist and creator of numerous cartoon strips. Join her with an open mind and sense of humor. Bring an 11x14 sketch pad, pencils, pens,and/or charcoals.
ES622 – Downstairs Schoolhouse - Class is limited to 12 students
One day workshop: October 8
Saturday: 1:00-3:00 
Fee: Member $35.00; Non-member $45.00

OIL PAINTSTIKS – THE COTE SQUIGGLE: Diana Lyn Cote
Using Shiva Brand Oil Paintstiks this workshop will include a summary of various applications developed by the artist over the past decade to create unique color blending and texture in compositions. Combining the color theory of the Impressionists with the uninhibited expression of three year olds, the instructor will present her techniques for all skill levels. Beginner to accomplished artists will spark a new enthusiasm with this direct and spontaneous approach to painting. Come prepared with a variety of Shiva Brand Oil Paintstiks and either canvas or primed paper and be ready to spend a the day in child-like exploration of this surprisingly diverse medium.
DC621 – Upstairs Schoolhouse
One-day workshop: October 8
Saturday: 2:00 – 5:00 
Fee: Member: $40.00; Non-member $50.00

Please click here to use the Class Registration form to enroll.

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