1 Day Workshop: Art, Courage & Creativity: Taking it Further - WRK024

This second version of the popular one day workshop hosted by Karen Leeds introduces new activities designed to help novices and experienced artists alike, relax, revive and reinvent themselves. We still use rich and colorful oil pastels and paper -- and throw in a few delightful twists along the way -- to gently free us from beliefs and habits that may be holding us back. All materials are supplied; all you need to do is show up. While there is ample basic technique taught, the emphasis is on creating truly original art by intuition, and on learning to hear, recognize and act upon the inner guidance of your own unique voice. This session encourages abstract exploration but anything goes; portraits, landscapes or whatever emerges. Students often complete works of art suitable for framing. This workshop is appropriate for both newcomers and graduates of Karen’s other sessions. $20 fee payable to instructor on day of class covers the cost of supplies. One hour lunch break.

1-Day Mosaic Pot Workshop - MOS008

Learn to combine traditional mosaic techniques with a variety of materials including ceramic tile, glass, stone, pebbles, broken china, shells, beads and more to create an eclectic and unique mosaic pot. Instruction will include basic design, use of tools for cutting and shaping tiles, laying techniques, and mixing and applying adhesive and grout. Focus will be given to the role of color for lively and impactful results. Workshop discussion will include mosaic terminology, resources, tools and materials. Students are encouraged to bring design inspiration and ideas. All materials are provided, but students are welcome to bring their own non-porous items to add a personal touch to their project. All skill levels welcome. Materials fee $45.00 payable to the instructor.

1-Day Paper Clay Workshop: Human or Animal Sculpture (with Mixed Media) - WRK037

Take your paper clay or sculpting experience to the next level by learning how to create a human or animal sculpture in this 1-day workshop. Emphasis will be on composition, proportion and form. Armatures will be supplied by instructor Dennis Weber to help support your piece. Students can add optional mixed media elements (glass, shells, wood, etc) to their work. There's lots of room for creativity in this workshop. Paper clay does not require kiln firing and is very easy to change or reshape. Enjoy the spontaneity of the moment! There is a $15 supply fee payable to the instructor that will include the paper clay, armatures and use of tools. Bring pictures as reference materials for your sculpture. For intermediate level or for those with some sculpting or paper clay experience.

1-Day Workshop: Abstract Art - New York, circa 1945-55 - WRK049

If you want to create abstract art, this is the workshop for you! In this 1-day workshop students will explore the period's interests in creating ambiguous space, use of dynamic compositions along with an active brushstroke. Instructor Matt Mays will cover techniques used by the painters of the era which include the use of thin washes, poured paint and insight into the abstract artist's use of color.

1-Day Workshop: Exploring Landscape Painting Using the Monoprint - PRT017

Learn to create a landscape using the monoprint process. Students of all levels will learn this exciting printing technique with the use of brayers, plexi plates, painting, washes, etching press and print transfer process. Instructor Michael Dicken will demonstrate the monoprint process and give each student personal one-on-one assistance to help them create their own unique landscape prints. Get watercolor effects!

2-Day Pastel Still Life Workshop: Expressing Color With What's In Your Box - PST008

Using a container as a subject, we will focus on how to combine clear brilliant tones and muted colors that we see in today's market. Work with the basics of composition for focus and interest using large shapes of color and pattern. You may bring your own boxes, use some that will be provided, or bring a photo of containers you have composed at home. In any case, instructor Liz Kenyon can help you set up your still life. Examples: Hat boxes, cigar boxes, toyboxes, paint, bread or toolboxes, shoeboxes, music and tackle boxes, flower boxes, and candy boxes. Be sure to bring colorful items to fill your boxes. To make your work more compatible with current trends, instructor will demonstrate today's new color combinations and show examples of hot interior design fashions and she will provide one-on-one attention. Plan on working on several pastel paintings. We will discuss numerous materials and techniques and have helpful critiques. All levels welcome, but some experience with the soft pastel medium is helpful, so start practicing now if you are a beginner.

2-Day Watercolor Workshop: Painting Italian Landscapes - WTR016

Be transported to Italy while learning to paint the undulating hills and patterns of the Italian landscape! Instructor Yvonne Joyner will review the elements of a well-designed composition and then demonstrate a direct, flowing, fresh approach to watercolor painting. Photos provided but students are encouraged to also bring their own.

Acrylic Painting All Levels - PTG008

Develop creative and aesthetic sensibilities through the expressive art of acrylic painting. This course is aimed not only for the beginner to learn the basics, but for a more advanced student to enjoy a "boot camp" environment where paint application, composition, and use of color will be emphasized. Instructor Susan Falcon-Hargraves will discuss a variety of subject matter through demonstrations, examples, and critiques and everyone will receive lots of personal attention aimed at their individual projects.

Beginning Painting With Betty Leonelli - PTG039

Have you ever thought about painting (in oil or acrylic) but were afraid to start? This class is aimed at TRUE beginning students....or those who wish to have a refresher course. The class will address all your needs – where to start, what to paint, how to “see”, what brushes to use, and basic principles of art (composition, color, design). Instructor Betty Leonelli will demonstrate various techniques at each class. Tips and gentle guidance will be provided to each student on an individual basis. Don’t be intimated anymore. If you’re ready for a “no fear” approach, this class is for you. Come join others for fun and creativity!

BRIO Members Gallery Creation - BMG001

This is an easy step-by-step, one-on-one art gallery creation and guidance program that will aid you in posting your images on the world wide web. Instructor and web expert, Fiona Purdy will assist each student in taking pictures of your images, saving them on your computer and uploading them to the BRIO Members gallery page. Students will learn how to get great photo results of their 2-D and 3-D artwork. Learn how to make simple adjustments for maximum results. The course fee INCLUDES a one-year individual gallery of up to 40 images and your artists profile on the BRIO Members gallery page. Instructor will work with each student on an individual basis at BRIO, or any other convenient location, at a mutually agreed upon time & date.

Colored Pencil Techniques - DRW026

For those who are already using colored pencils or those looking for a new medium, learn about the tools and techniques of color pencil drawing. Learn blending and layering colors, burnishing, and using solvents to create textures such as shiny metal, flower blossoms, reptile scales, animal fur and more. Students will create their own colored pencil artwork by working with a variety of subjects from reference photos and still life. Class will be a combination of lecture, discussion, demonstration and one-on-one personal attention. For all levels!

Conquering Fears & Having Fun With Oil Painting - PTG036

Painting is a daunting challenge for all artists. A blank canvas can be very intimidating, especially so for the new painter. This class is designed to help the new to intermediate artist remove some of the mystery and myth from what should be a really fun experience. Through the process of demonstration and individual help, the student will be carefully guided through the painting process in this class. Step by step, the class will explore the principles of drawing, exciting value ranges, color, composition, edgework and texture. The class will help you learn and appreciate those essential painting elements and stir your creativity.

Drawing Boot Camp - DRW025

Drawing Boot Camp is an art process-driven program that runs weekly for 3 hours. It is conducted in a structured, indoor environment, coupled with the most innovative and creative exercises in drawing. Boot Camp weekly drills include exercises in line, form, structure, value, proportion and composition. Susan Falcon-Hargraves provides one-on-one instruction plus the enjoyment that comes with the support and motivation working with a group of fellow artists. Drawing Boot Camp is for all fitness levels! All activities are structured so that you can choose the appropriate intensity for your own level. BRIO Drawing Boot Camp is all about learning the basics, motivation, having fun and seeing real results! Motivation is a key to your success. A fitness assessment critique will be performed at the end of the last class. You get the best of both worlds, at a fraction of the cost.

Explore Color Beyond The Visual - PTG049

Why do we like or dislike certain colors? Not a "how to" class, this explores the psychology of color choice and how it affects each person. Students will study and discover their own color proportion, weight, harmony, disharmony, balance and tension. Instructor Kathleen Hope will take students on a psychological and painting journey into their own personal palettes and preferences that connect to shapes and lines. Students will paint and color their way to engage their senses to the fullest. You will never think or see color the same. You do not need to be a painter to take this class, as this applies to any artist who works with color in their art or environment.

Exploring Mixed Media - PTG105

Create unique mixed media and collage paintings by using products not found in an art store. Create your own vision and creative direction using everyday materials such as fine art and magazine papers, reproductions and your own recycled art. Embellish with pencil, charcoal, pens, inks, acrylics and pastels. Learn how to manipulate unusual textures and create fossil-like impressions and raised textures. Class includes demonstrations, individual attention & group discussions. A $10 supply fee (payable to instructor Kathleen Hope) will include all glue, brushes for glues, a large variety of collage papers, plaster and metallics. Let loose & have some fun!! For all levels!

Funtography - PHO008

Turn your snapshots into photos of distinction by learning to use the basic functions of your camera and the elements that make better photos. Understand the role of the lens and shutter, improving sharpness of image, the use of flash and reflective light, and close-up portrait photography with simple light. Have fun while learning simple techniques that you won't find in any manual. Course includes 3 class room meetings at BRIO and two group field trips to practice night photography skills (that includes painting with flash and multiple exposures). Bring your camera (and optional tripod) and have fun with other photographers!

Gift Certificate - CERT01

Gift certificate can be used for classes, supplies or online gallery.

Introduction To Printmaking - PRT016

Perfect for all levels, this 5-week introductory class will offer students a wide variety of techniques. Students will get familiar with the use of Akua water-based inks and the proper use of the etching press. Subjects covered will include monoprinting, stenciling, collagraphs, relief printing and intaglio drypoint. Come and learn about this exciting and direct art process.

Life Drawing (Days) With Ernie Shapiro - DRW022

Finally, a Figure Drawing Class that will help students learn to see! Ernie Shapiro, experienced Valley art and prominent Life Drawing instructor, presents his class at BRIO. This class approaches the life form as a true source of inspiration. Ernie believes that the human form presents the artist with the ultimate challenge that is, the artist learns to see, while at the same time learns all of the elements of art: perspective, composition, line, value and proportion. For intermediate and advanced students. Live models each week. Cost includes model fee.

Life Drawing (Evenings) - The Undressed Art of Figure Drawing - DRW023

This class will explore the timeless art of figure drawing. The figure is arguably the most difficult, frustrating and beautiful of all the subjects an artist has the priviledge of drawing. This class will help the student not only to see the model as a living person but, more importantly, what the model is doing. You will learn strategies and techniques that will help solve the many mysteries of the human figure. Live models will be used in each class and will be varied both in gender and stature. Warning! This class is addictive! The class is open to both beginners and those with more experience.

Modern Cubism in The 21st Century - PTG047

Create paintings in the Cubistic style with Gouache paint! Using your own personal photos, you will learn techniques how to simplify complex shapes and lines, work with light and shadows and see how value and negative space work together to create a unique contemporary style. Instructor Joseph Wolves Kill will show students how they can incorporate new shapes into their paintings. For all levels.

Open Studio - Evenings ($30 per session - drop-in) - PTG050

Creatively stuck? Open Studio sessions are the perfect opportunity to try something new or make a change to a current piece. Eat, drink & be merry! Paint, draw, and work in any media. Work on your individual projects at your own pace under the guidance of BRIO Director & instructor Diane Sanborn. Chocolate/coffee/water is available. Meet someone new, have fun & join us in the spirit of creativity. Register for all sessions at discounted price on web or simply drop-in at $30/session.

Open Studio - Mornings ($30 per session - drop in) - PTG046

Creatively stuck? Open Studio sessions are the perfect opportunity to try something new or make a change to a current piece. Eat, drink & be merry! Paint, draw, and work in any media. Work on your individual projects at your own pace under the guidance of BRIO instructor Susan Falcon-Hargraves. Chocolate/coffee/water is available. Meet someone new, have fun & join us in the spirit of creativity. Register for all sessions at discounted price on web or simply drop-in at $30/session.

Painting From Your Favorite Photos - PTG048

Students will bring to class a picture of a family member, friend, or the family pet. You can also bring a still life item such as fruit, flowers, cup, books, toys or any other thing that you can think of. An arrangement still life will be set up as an example. Students will begin by roughly drawing their image onto their canvas. Emphasis will be on composition, color, and positive and negative space. Students may work in any medium. Instructor Joseph Wolves Kill will show how to use fresh color to get the best results!

Practical Color Applications For Figures, Faces & Places - PTG043

Explore hands-on techniques that will fill your work with rich, exciting color! Fine artist and veteran BRIO instructor Susan Falcon-Hargraves will guide you through a series of exercises that will give you the tools to make your work glow. Learn simple techniques for using color to express depth, dimension, spatial relationships and to create a specific mood, and work towards developing your own original vocabulary of expressive color choices. Work in your choice of acrylic or oil. Some painting experience preferable.

Representational Watercolor Painting Based On Abstract Logic - WTR014

Most of us begin our artistic efforts trying to capture some sense of a consistent light direction, accurate local color and realistic space in our paintings. For many artists, the pursuit of these goals is reward enough to last a lifetime. But, if you've ever wanted to look beyond that approach, to explore other painting possibilities, we invite you to join instructor Dick Phillips this fall. You will be engaged in watercolor painting adventures beyond the basic facts of "what is" that can open a whole potential world of watercolor painting opportunities. Instruction will be by lecture, painting challenges, individual help and group critique. The class is not recommended for complete beginners.

See The Light - Drawing Portraits - DRW016

The class is designed to help the artist to better understand the complexities of the human head and to learn strategies that will enable the achievement of a good likeness of the model. Through discussions and demonstrations with live models, the student will be shown how to proceed with establishing the size, attitude and planes of the head. The student will be given an abundance of time to practice and hone skills by drawing live models. The instructor will provide one-on-one guidance during the sessions.

Transforming Your Photographs Into Great Paintings - PTG037

Judith Spitz will teach students how to begin with a photograph, choose the essential forms and shapes and then transform it into a great composition. Instructor will demonstrate during the first class, taking students in an easy-to-understand process about how to work with their chosen photographs. Whether a portrait or landscape, bring it to the first class for a personal analysis. Watch the magic happen! For pastel, oil and acrylic painters.