Arlington Arts Center
3550 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington VA 22201
Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 11:00am - 5:00pm
Slide Registry
Home

Art Classes

Download: 2008 Spring Catalog for Adults and Children
Download: 2008 Kids Summer Class Flyer
Download: Art Workshop Series at the AAC
Download: 2008 Winter Class Bibliographies

ART CLASSES FOR CHILDREN
Art supplies are provided and material fees are included in the cost of children's classes.

TINY PICASSOS: Age 3 – Grade 2

Jungle Journeys
Pre-K - K
Instructor: Hedieh Ilchi

Come explore rainforest animals, bugs, and plants.  We will learn about jungle creatures and their environment.  Using printmaking, making sculpture, drawings and mixed-media we will create our own rainforest imagery.

Tuesdays, 3:00 - 4:15 pm
4 weeks: 4/29 - 5/20                   $68                   English and Farsi                

 

Home Schooling: Medieval Magic
Pre-K – Grade 2
Instructor: Emily Shepardson
Come with us to explore the times of princes and princesses, knights and castles.  Learn medieval facts and listen to fairy tales as we weave a world in our imaginations.  We will design a castle, make a stained glass window, and create a dragon. Hop on a unicorn and come join us! Parents and home schooling educators are welcome to enroll in this class.

Wednesdays, 11:00 - 12:00 pm
4 weeks: 4/30 - 5/21                     $65 each person

 

Four Adventures in Four Days
Grades K – 2
Instructor: Emily Shepardson
Using a variety of materials and media – from pen and ink to printmaking to painting – students will explore a different theme each day, including outer space, dinosaurs, and sea animals.

Wednesdays, 2:30 - 4:00 pm       
4 weeks: 4/30 - 5/21        
          $80

 

Art Is in Bloom
Pre-K and K
Instructor: Emily Shepardson

The leaves on the trees are budding, flowers are blooming and soft green grass appears under our feet. We will read stories, examine plant life and make art projects about spring.  Join us as we paint trees, draw bugs, and make flowers among many other projects.  There are many ways to appreciate the possibilities of spring!

Thursdays, 3:00 – 4:00 pm
4 weeks: 5/1 – 5/22                       $65

 

MINI-MATISSES: Grades 3 – 6

Dreaming Paintings
Grades 3 – 5
Instructor: Calvin Coleman
Prepare your canvas or background with acrylic paint, layered pieces of colored tissue paper, and fabric to create a setting for your expressionistic paintings. In this class, students will explore their imagination and use their setting as inspiration to create colorful imagery.

Tuesdays, 3:30 – 5:00 pm 
4 weeks: 4/29 - 5/20                     $80

 

Brushes & Easels
Grades 3 - 5
Instructor: Hedieh Ilchi
You'll learn and explore concepts of composition, color mixing, perspective, light, shadow, and contrast to create imaginative acrylic paintings. References to artists throughout art history will be introduced, relating their ideas your work and interests.

Wednesdays, 2:30 - 4:00 pm       
4 weeks: 4/30 - 5/21                    $80
English and Farsi

  

Photography: Capturing People, Places, and Light
Grades 3 – 6
Instructor: Allison Dinner
Do you love taking photographs or have an interest to start taking more? In this class you will learn to compose fun and interesting pictures with your camera.  Shoot dynamic pictures of people you know and places you go.  Students will also experiment with light in motion during a fun final day of class. 

*Bring a digital camera to class. Students will not need to develop pictures.  At home or during class students can upload their images.

Thursdays, 3:30 – 5:00 pm
4 weeks: 5/1 – 5/22                       $80

 

HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS

Introduction to Drawing
High School seniors welcome
Instructor: Mai Kojima
This is an adult class. However, mature high school seniors with recommendations from their art teachers are welcome to register. Students purchase class materials in advance; the cost is not included in the tuition.
Students will learn essential theories and techniques of perception while drawing in pencil, charcoal, ink, and experimental media. We will practice basic and classical principles of line, shading, value, proportion, and perspective. A majority of time will be spent drawing and working on specific exercises. This is an essential foundation class for those new to art classes, or for those wishing to sharpen their drawing and observational skills. We will work with still life arrangements and directly from environments and photos.

Saturdays, 2:30 – 4:30 pm  
4 weeks: 5/3 - 5/24           
        $80                              English and Japanese

 

ART CLASSES FOR ADULTS

The cost for adult classes does not include materials; a list of required materials will be emailed to students at least one week prior to the first class.   

PAINTING

Beginning Painting
Instructor: Hedieh Ilchi
Students will gain experience in a variety of techniques to develop a creative approach to painting. Various traditional and experimental methods will be explored through exercises, leading to finished art emphasizing color, composition, space and texture. Students may choose to work in either oil or acrylic paints, and will build a strong foundation for future art classes.

Wednesdays, 7:00 – 9:30 pm
4 weeks: 4/30 - 5/21                    $90
English and Farsi

 

DRAWING 

Beyond Basic Drawing
Instructor: Mai Kojima
This is an essential foundation class for those new to art classes, or for those wishing to sharpen their observational and drawing skills. We will cover drawing techniques in pencil, charcoal, ink, oil pens and experimental media and the basics of line, shading, value, proportion, and perspective. We’ll choose a variety of subjects, working from photos, still life arrangements, and directly from environments. Students will be encouraged to use new media and vellum layering techniques. Narrative content will be explored in this course.

Thursdays, 7:00 – 9:30 pm  
4 weeks: 5/1 - 5/22                      $90
English and Japanese

 

Life Drawing Sessions
Draw from the nude model using the art materials of your choice.  Professional skilled models are scheduled each week.  This is an open session drawing class with out an instructor.  Hone your figure drawing skills at your own pace while working within a warm and supportive community. No reservation is necessary for these ‘drop by’ sessions; come as frequently as you like.

Wednesdays, 7:00 – 10:00 pm
weekly until 5/21
(no session 3/19) $15 per session; $60 for a 6-session pass

 

Introduction to Drawing
Instructor: Mai Kojima
Students will learn essential theories and techniques of perception while drawing in pencil, charcoal, ink, and experimental media. We will practice basic and classical principles of line, shading, value, proportion, and perspective. A majority of time will be spent drawing and working on specific exercises. This is an essential foundation class for those new to art classes, or for those wishing to sharpen their drawing and observational skills. We will work with still life arrangements and directly from environments and photos. (Mature high school seniors with recommendations from their art teachers are welcome to attend.)

Saturdays, 2:30 – 4:30 pm  
4 weeks: 5/3 - 5/24           
        $80                              English and Japanese

 

PHOTOGRAPHY

Reflecting the Human Spirit through Evocative Portraiture
Instructor: Steven L. Miller
Learn to capture the essence of the human spirit through evocative portraiture. Explore ways to heighten your awareness of subjects, both informal and formal, as a first step towards making images that reflect a person's essence. Then, discover simple compositional elements that help you turn every day images into ones that command attention and convey mood and meaning. Taught by Steven L. Miller, a Washington DC based image maker with nine photographs in the permanent collection of The Smithsonian, the class will also explore how one paints with light in portraying the subject as well as directing the eye of the viewer. In addition to helping students compose better images, Miller also addresses camera basics as well as tips for making better prints using ink jet printers.

Tuesdays, 7:00 – 9:00 pm
4 weeks: 4/29 - 5/20                     $80

 

Eye of the Photographer:
Beginning and Intermediate
Instructor: Steven L. Miller
This class is geared for early-stage camera enthusiasts and experienced "shooters" aiming to polish their skills Taught by one of our most popular teachers, you will learn to utilize essential fundamental skills while developing a personal photographic style. You’ll get to know your camera, while exploring the process of selecting subject matter and discovering what makes an interesting image. From day one, students will be given photo assignments, while sharing and celebrating new work with classmates every week. Basic technical concepts for both digital and film cameras will be addressed; however, this class does not introduce film developing or printing skills. Students must have film or digital images prepared at home or via a professional service provider.

Thursdays, 7:00 – 9:00 pm
4 weeks: 5/1 – 5/22                       $80

 

SCULPTURE

Exploring Sculpture
Instructor: Carolina Mayorga

This class provides a brief introduction to different three-dimensional techniques and materials, and provides a great opportunity to learn to “see” while better understanding space. Students will learn essential sculptural concepts while exploring and referencing three-dimensional art and practicing a variety of techniques, including carving, modeling, mold-making, pre-casting processes and assemblage. This is a great starting point to test your innate skills and undiscovered talents.

Tuesdays, 7:00 – 9:30 pm
4 weeks: 4/29 - 5/20                    $90
English and Spanish

 

ArtVENTURES – an art program designed for seniors

A free introductory workshop will be offered for both classes below.  Tuition, transportation and supply assistance and is available for low-income seniors.

Inquire about our registration and tuition assistance forms by calling 703-248-6800. Please submit your paper work early as spaces in classes are first come first served.

Non-senior status adults may register on a waiting list.  Until April 9, spaces will be held for seniors only.

 

Eye of the Photographer:

Beginning and Intermediate
Instructor: Steven L. Miller
This class is geared for early-stage camera enthusiasts and experienced "shooters" aiming to polish their skills Taught by one of our most popular teachers, you will learn to utilize essential fundamental skills while developing a personal photographic style. You’ll get to know your camera, while exploring the process of selecting subject matter and discovering what makes an interesting image. From day one, students will be given photo assignments, while sharing and celebrating new work with classmates every week. Basic technical concepts for both digital and film cameras will be addressed; however, this class does not introduce film developing or printing skills. Students must have film or digital images prepared at home or via a professional service provider. 

FREE introductory workshop Wednesday, March 5
10:00 – 12:00 am at Walter Reid Senior Center.
To sign up for the workshop call
703-228-0955

5 weeks course at the AAC: 4/23 - 5/21           
Wednesdays, 10:00 – 12:00 am               $110
For course registration call 703-248-6800

 

Paint to Print
Instructor: Emily Shepardson

This class is designed for the artist and non-artist alike who are interested in exploring their creative side in a relaxed atmosphere. The focus is not so much how to render a perfect vase as it is seeing and portraying the vase in many faceted ways. Students will learn new techniques as well as practice more traditional drawing skills. Using watercolor and acrylic paint; printing with linoleum blocks, hand-made stamps and gelatin; and doing some collage we will build layered and expressive works of art.  Students should come away with some new ideas about creating exciting pictures.
 

FREE introductory workshop Friday March, 14
11:00 – 1:00 pm   located at Culpeppper Senior Center
To sign up for the workshop call
703-228-4403

5 weeks course at the AAC: 4/24 – 5/22
Thursdays, 11:00 – 1:00 pm                                  $110
For course registration call 703-248-6800

 

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & STUDIO

ART WORKSHOP SERIES AT AAC!

The following workshops are designed for those wishing to broaden their artistic skills, or for emerging artists planning a future in the arts. Classes are taught by the AAC faculty and local artists. 

Saturdays, 11:30 am – 2:00 pm
8 weeks: 2/16 – 4/5
(no class 3/22)
$25 per session; $180 for the series

To register please call: 703.248.6800. Spaces are limited. Please register soon.

Registration for Professional Development workshops are open until 4pm the Friday before the session is held.  For Studio Art Workshops, please register at least one week before to receive a supply list.

2/16  Professional Development: Writing Essentials for Artists
Though images are stronger than words, your artistic voice can help or hinder your art work. This workshop will help to strengthen your communication skills in your cover letter, resume, bio, and artist’s statement.  Instructor: Jennifer Riddell

2/23  Studio Art: Fearless Painting Skills
This workshop is designed for those feeling timid when considering the idea of painting or for painters wishing to go in a new direction. In this session you will learn several techniques that will enable you to pick up a brush and palette for the first time or anew. Instructor: Hedieh Ilchi

3/1   Professional Development: Photographing Your Artwork
Having trouble photographing your art work? Learn how to light your pieces to best display their true color and value. This class will also introduce digital image preparation for distribution.  Instructors: Pete & Allison Duval

3/8   Studio Art: Relief Printmaking
Using PVC (plastic) and linoleum you will explore cutting methods with commonly used tools and materials. Learn subtle and effective hand block printing techniques that you can continue at home.  Instructor: Linda Wilson

3/15  Professional Development: Grant Preparation for Artists
Learn the essentials of writing a clear grant narrative and budget proposal. How to best find appropriate funders will be addressed in this workshop.

3/29  Studio Art: Photographic Focused Mixed Media
In this class, you will extend your pallet and incorporate photographic imagery within your paintings. Learn to bring together your compositions with the use of color, rhythm and line techniques.  Instructor: Hedieh Ilchi

4/5   Professional Development: Press Package Preparation
This workshop will give you tips in compiling your CD images, bio, artist’s statement and press clippings for a professional press package.

4/12  Studio Art: Maquette or Masterpiece?

Creating sculptures is often a long term-proposition; welding, carving and casting are time consuming activities.  This workshop will introduce materials and techniques that will allow you to assemble sculptural sketches, large or small, in short order.  Instructor: Aaron Brophy  

To register call: 703-248-6800

Download the registration form

Download the catalog

The AAC is dedicated to presenting and supporting new work of contemporary artists in the Mid-Atlantic States. Located in the historic Maury School building, it holds exhibitions, rents studio spaces, and conducts educational programs for all ages. Normal public hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm. For more information, call 703.248.6800      

Arlington Arts Centerprograms are made possible through the generous support of the Virginia Commission for the Arts/NEA, the Arlington Commission for the Arts, Arlington County Division of Cultural Affairs, the Eugene and Agnes E. Meyer Foundation, Strategic Analysis, BB&T Bank, the Arlington Community Foundation, Arlington Catering, and our members.