Studio Arts

Watercolor II: October Skies

Friday, October 2 ~ 2pm to 4:30pm

Watercolor enthusiasts will enjoy exploring different approaches to painting skyscapes, from a variety of cloud formations to the changing colors and light throughout the day. We’ll spend the first part of class practicing color mixing, brushstrokes, and blending techniques that apply specifically to clouds and the sky.

In the second part of class, participants will put those techniques into practice with inspiration from puffy clouds on a crisp October day and other types of skyscapes. Each participant will receive two 5 x 7 inch sheets of watercolor paper, one hot-pressed and one cold-pressed, and one 10 x 14 inch sheet of rough watercolor paper, providing an opportunity to experiment with a variety of paper textures. Participants are encouraged to bring their own cloud and sky photos for additional inspiration.

Prerequisite: This class is designed for those with prior watercolor experience. Participants must have completed Watercolor 101.

577 Staff Instructor: Connie Stose

Exploring Gouache: Paint Your Pets

Friday, October 2 ~ 6pm to 8:30pm

Have fun trying a different painting medium while commemorating your beloved pet or pets in a seasonal painted illustration. Gouache is easier to use than it is to pronounce, and participants will learn how to do both while exploring the ways “watercolor’s chalky cousin” can be used on its own and alongside other art materials. No art experience is needed!

Participants will begin with practice exercises before learning how to turn their pet or pets into a simple illustration, transfer the design, and paint their image onto watercolor paper. Completed projects will be approximately 8″ x 8 inches, suitable for framing and great to keep or give as a gift. All experience levels are welcome, and all supplies are included.

Class Note: Each participant must bring a clear photo of each animal they would like to include in their painting for reference during class. Photos may be printed or viewed on a phone. Participants are also encouraged to email one or two pet photos to Connie before class so she can be better prepared to help with each illustration. Photos can be emailed as a PNG or PDF attachment.

577 Staff Instructor: Connie Stose

Urban Sketching with Merrill Rainey: Cemeteries

Two-part Class:

Monday, October 5 ~ 5pm to 7pm

Monday, October 12 ~ 5pm to 7pm

Explore the art of Urban Sketching in this two-part workshop series with award-winning author and illustrator Merrill Rainey. Connect with fellow creatives while learning techniques for capturing the world around you through sketching.

Urban Sketching is the practice of drawing or painting on location in cities, towns, and public spaces while capturing life as it happens. Merrill will teach his unique techniques, focusing on sketching with pen, graphite, and watercolors, while sharing how he applies inspiration gathered on location to his illustration work. Open to all skill levels, and no drawing experience necessary – only the desire to learn and create!

Session 1 on October 5: Merrill will demonstrate Urban Sketching techniques to help everyone get comfortable with the concept. Participants will get a taste of sketching tombstones by using shorthand techniques and by creating forms with the use of black and white tonal values.

Session 2 on October 12: Everyone will meet at an off-site location, Fort Meigs Union Cemetery, to begin Urban Sketching on location. This workshop will include light instruction, time to work, and feedback on art created. The group will return to 577 for a brief show-and-tell of each artist’s work.

Class Note: Participants can either bring their own travel artist supplies to use or borrow supplies from the instructor. During the off-site session at Fort Meigs Union Cemetery, participants are expected to follow all cemetery rules and guidelines and to be respectful of the grounds, monuments, and those laid to rest there. In the event of bad weather, the October 12 session will be in the Green Door Studio at 577.

Community Instructor: Merrill Rainey

Introduction to Hand Lettering

Tuesday, October 6 ~ 6pm to 8pm

Get ready to upgrade your handwriting as we explore the mechanics of hand lettering. Enjoy a fun evening of hands-on learning as we break down the essential hand lettering strokes and practice how to manipulate line weight and flow to help you refine your own signature style.

After practicing our new skills, everyone will create a custom-lettered, 4.25″ x 5.5″ note card featuring a favorite word or phrase. Participants will also receive a dot-ruled notebook and two (2) hand lettering pens to continue using their new skills at home. Whether you want to elevate your snail mail or just find a new creative outlet, you’ll leave with the confidence to keep creating.

Class note: Don’t forget your reading or magnifying glasses, if you use them.

Community Instructor: Melissa Owens

Creative Card Making: Christmas Card Palooza

Thursday, October 8 ~ 4:30pm to 8pm

Get ready for the holidays while creating a collection of twelve (12) handmade holiday cards to send to loved ones or add a special touch to holiday packages. Participants will create four different card designs, making three of each design for a total of twelve cards to take home.

Enjoy an evening of creativity, conversation, and refreshments while learning techniques for making beautiful handmade cards. Handmaking and sending greeting cards is a meaningful way to share love, appreciation, and connection with the people we care about, letting someone know they are valued.

No experience is required, and all are welcome. Feel free to add to the festive spirit by wearing your favorite holiday apparel! Class Note: We recommend wearing older clothes or an apron to protect clothing from ink and glue. Card designs may vary from those pictured.

Community Instructors: Pat Szymanowski & Pat Piper

Watercolor 101

Monday, October 12 ~ 1pm to 4pm

Saturday, November 21 ~ 2pm to 5pm

Discover the joys of watercolor painting through a series of fun and easy exercises designed to explore a variety of basic techniques. You’ll also enjoy learning how to choose the right supplies for your needs, gain an understanding of common watercolor terms, and see examples of the wide possibilities of this amazing medium.

Participants will create a personalized 5″ x 7″ watercolor sketchbook filled with their practice exercises, notes, color samples, and charts. This sketchbook will serve as the perfect resource for beginners and a valuable reference tool for expanding and deepening existing skills. With individual attention provided in a supportive environment, you’ll gain the confidence to continue your artistic journey.

Class Note: This class is a prerequisite for advanced watercolor courses at 577.

577 Staff Instructor: Connie Stose

Watercolor II: Exploring Watercolor Pencils

Monday, October 12 ~ 6pm to 8:30pm

Enjoy exploring the creative possibilities of watercolor pencils while practicing with a colorful and forgiving seasonal subject: pumpkins! Through simple exercises, participants will experiment with different ways to use watercolor pencils, create a variety of effects, and layer them with watercolor paints for added color, texture, and interest.

Then, put your favorite techniques into practice while creating a small mixed-media pumpkin painting to take home. Each participant will receive a 9 x 12 inch piece of watercolor paper. All other supplies are included.

Prerequisite: This class is designed for those with prior watercolor experience. Participants must have completed Watercolor 101.

577 Staff Instructor: Connie Stose

Stained Glass Workshop: Moon

Tuesday, October 13 ~ 12pm to 3pm

Create your own moon in this beginner-friendly stained glass workshop. Join glass artist Kara O’Dea in the Green Door Studio as she guides you step-by-step through the basics of stained glass, including cutting, grinding, and soldering sheet glass using the Tiffany copper foil method.

This class is perfect for anyone curious about trying stained glass for the first time, as well as those looking to build a strong foundation and continue developing their skills. Each participant will complete a stained glass moon, ready to hang and measuring approximately 8 × 6 inches.

Class Notes: For your safety, closed-toed shoes are required for this class. Please plan to arrive on time. Due to the nature of stained glass projects and the specialized tools and equipment needed to complete them, projects cannot be finished at home. Participants arriving more than 20 minutes after the class start time will not have enough time to complete their project and will not be able to join the class. Refunds will not be issued for late arrivals.

Community Instructor: Kara Cullenen-O’Dea

Stained Glass Workshop: 3D Pumpkin

Tuesday, October 13 ~ 5pm to 8pm

Create your own stunning 3D glass pumpkin in this beginner-friendly stained glass workshop. Join glass artist, Kara O’Dea, in the Green Door Studio as she guides you step-by-step through the basics of stained glass, including cutting, grinding, soldering sheet glass using the Tiffany copper foil method.

This class is perfect for anyone curious about trying stained glass for the first time, as well as those looking to build a strong foundation and continue developing their skills. Each participant will complete a stained glass pumpkin, ready to display, measuring approximately 6 × 6 × 5 inches.

Class Notes: For your safety, closed-toed shoes are required for this class. Please plan to arrive on time. Due to the nature of stained glass projects and the specialized tools and equipment needed to complete them, projects cannot be finished at home. Participants arriving more than 20 minutes after the class start time will not have enough time to complete their project and will not be able to join the class. Refunds will not be issued for late arrivals.

Community Instructor: Kara Cullenen-O’Dea

Paper Flowers: Autumn Bouquet

Wednesday, October 14 ~ 6:30pm to 8:30pm

Create a vibrant paper flower bouquet of black-eyed susans, lavender, and other fall favorites with just a few folds, a couple of snips, and a touch of glue. Participants will learn all the skills needed, and everyone will take home a charming bouquet that will last long after your garden fades. All materials provided. Completed projects are approximately 10″ x 5″.

Community Instructor: Mary Willets

Upcycled Artsy Junk Journals

Thursday, October 15 ~ 6pm to 8pm

Transform an old book destined for the landfill into an artsy, personalized junk journal, sometimes called glue books or visual journals. Fill the pages with colorful collage spreads using found and repurposed materials such as tickets, receipts, tags, maps, notes and letters, stickers, travel brochures, and more. Art supplies and paints will also be available to add your own creative flair.

Each participant will leave with the start of a personalized junk journal, the perfect place to get lost in scrapbooking, scribbling, sketching, coloring, writing, and whatever else inspires you. Materials are provided, but participants are encouraged to bring their own special ephemera and found paper items to make their journal even more personal. Consider bringing movie or show tickets, letters and notes, wrappers, stickers, receipts, photos, postcards, scrapbook paper, magazine pages, or other meaningful pieces you’ve collected. You’re also welcome to bring your own blank or used notebook or book to transform. Provided notebook sizes will vary, ranging from approximately 5.5 x 8 inches to 9 x 12 inches.

577 Staff Instructor: Avery Bohman

Creating an Illustrated Field Journal

Friday, October 16 ~ 11am to 1pm

Friday, November 13 ~ 11am to 1pm

The seasonal changes in the natural world can often be overlooked when we don’t take the time to look closely at what is around us. By keeping an illustrated field journal, we can record not only our thoughts, but sketch and draw what we see, creating meaningful pages through the use of word and image.

Using the beautiful 577 grounds for inspiration, new participants in this session will be introduced to the concept of keeping this type of journal and will create their first entry, hopefully inspired to carry on and fill the remaining pages over time. Experienced students are also welcome–learn new tips, gain fresh inspiration in the ever-changing seasons, and build upon past lessons. No writing or drawing experience is necessary, only the desire to have some fun while exploring the natural world around us.

Community Instructor: David Lymanstall

Botanical Collage: Moody Book Cover Vignettes

Friday, October 16 ~ 2pm to 4:30pm

Capture the moodiness of the season as you create mixed-media botanical vignettes using watercolor, pen and ink, pressed flowers and botanicals, repurposed book covers, and your own imagination. No art experience is needed!

Participants can choose from three design templates or create an original design while exploring ways to layer watercolor, ink, and natural materials. Everyone will create two pieces and receive two repurposed book covers, six pressed botanicals, watercolor paper, and all additional supplies needed to complete their projects.

Class Note: Each completed piece will be approximately 5 inches by 8 inches, depending on the size of the available repurposed book covers.

577 Staff Instructors: Bennett O. Dowling & Connie Stose

Whimsical Watercolor & Ink Monsters

Friday, October 16 ~ 6pm to 8:30pm

Spend a fun Friday evening stretching your creative skills with 577 Staff Artists Bennett Dowling and Connie Stose as you explore watercolor and ink while creating your own whimsical monsters and fanciful creatures. No prior drawing or painting experience is needed. Bennett and Connie have you covered!

Class will begin with simple guided exercises to help everyone get comfortable working with watercolor and ink. Then, let your imagination take over as you create your own monsters and creatures with instructor support and optional prompts to help you loosen up, experiment, and get the creative juices flowing.

Each participant will receive several sheets of paper suitable for watercolor and ink, with plenty of room to explore and create.

577 Staff Instructors: Bennett O. Dowling & Connie Stose

Acrylic Painting: Pumpkin Harvest Wagon

Monday, October 19 ~ 10am to 2:30pm

Release your inner creativity as you learn how to paint a wagon loaded with pumpkins in this hands-on acrylic painting class. You will learn how to mix colors using a variety of brushes, painting tools and techniques while learning the stages of building an acrylic painting from start to finish. No prior experience needed! All supplies are provided for you to experience the fun of creating your own work of art on an 11″ x 14″ canvas.

Class Note: You are welcome to bring snacks to enjoy throughout class and we encourage you to bring a lunch for our midday break. (Refrigerator and microwave available).

Community Instructor: Mary Claire Roe

The Art of Alcohol Inks: Abstract Landscapes

Thursday, October 22 ~ 6pm to 8pm*

Discover the beauty and fluidity of alcohol inks in this beginner-friendly, hands-on class as you are guided through the process of creating abstract landscapes using alcohol inks and a few common household items. No two are ever alike!

Each participant will receive three (3) ceramic tiles, each measuring 4 inches, to transform into vibrant, one-of-a-kind art pieces

Class Note: Alcohol ink can be messy. Please wear old clothes or bring an apron.

New Date: Class moved from Friday, October 23  to Thursday, October 22 

Community Instructor: Melissa Thomas

Watercolor II: Owl & Moon

Two-part Class:

Friday, October 23 ~ 2pm to 4:30pm

Friday, October 30 ~ 2pm to 4:30pm

Owls hold a special place in the lore of harvest season, and in this two-part class, watercolor enthusiasts will stretch their skills by painting these wise and wondrous creatures in a nighttime scene.

During the first session on Friday, October 23, participants will choose from a variety of species and reference photos, then transfer their chosen design onto watercolor paper using a template or freehand drawing. After a few guided practice exercises, participants will begin building their paintings with the first layers of color in preparation for more detailed work during the second session.

On Friday, October 30, we’ll gather again in the Green Door Studio to continue building layers, adding deeper colors and finer details to bring dimension and depth to each nighttime scene. Completed paintings will make a lovely addition to a gallery wall, nature journal, or seasonal display.

Prerequisite: This class is designed for those with prior watercolor experience. Participants must have completed Watercolor 101.

577 Staff Instructor: Connie Stose

Painted Dot Mandala: Trick or Treat

Saturday, October 24 ~ 9am to 12pm

Learn the basic techniques of dot painting as we work to create a beautiful, Halloween-themed mandala. In the first part of class, participants will receive step-by-step guidance to practice common mandala elements such as symmetry, petals, and teardrops.

In the second part of class, participants will work independently to create their own beautiful painting on a 6″ x 6″ canvas board with instructor support as needed. All materials will be provided.

Class Note: To help us honor 577’s commitment to sustainability, please bring your tools if you are a returning participant. New participants will receive a new set of tools to keep.

Community Instructor: Shalene Germani

Hand Lettered Halloween

Saturday, October 24 ~ 1:30pm to 3:30pm *New Date

Get ready for some Halloween handwriting fun as we explore the mechanics of customizing a printed block font to create a seasonal decoration featuring Frankenstein and his bride. Participants will enjoy a fun evening of hands-on learning as we explore altering a printed block font for our theme to make a 5.5 x 8.5 piece of art on cardstock.

We will practice the stylized print, talk about sign layout tips, create a draft in our notebooks, and transfer registration marks to the cardstock to complete our final image. Everyone will take home their finished project, the two markers used in the class, and the skills to make more in the future.

Class note: Please bring a dot-ruled notebook if you have one and reading or magnifying glasses if you need them. *This class moved from September 10 to October 24.

Community Instructor: Melissa Owens

Green Door Open Studio Time

Monday, October 26 ~ 9am to 11:30am

Monday, November 16 ~ 5pm to 7:30pm

Saturday, November 21 ~ 9am to 11:30am

Relax and explore your creativity during Green Door Open Studio time. Whatever your experience or artistic goals, this choose-your-own art adventure led by a staff art instructor is the perfect opportunity to expand skills, experiment with new materials, and find inspiration in a supportive, non-competitive arts environment.

Open Studio begins with a mini demonstration to get the creative juices flowing, but the rest is up to you. Continue working on the featured skill or theme, start something new, bring in a project you are working on for some help getting unstuck, get support to repeat techniques you learned in another class, practice your skills, try new techniques, and enjoy the company of fellow art enthusiasts.

Green Door Open Studio participants each receive one 9″ x 12″ piece of watercolor or drawing paper per class and have access to all of the studios art mediums, including paints (acrylic, watercolor, gouache), pencils (graphite, colored, water soluble), inks, pastels (chalk & oil), tools (brushes, easels, gelli plates, etc) and lots more. A variety of additional practice papers for sketching, planning, or collaging are also available. Participants are always encouraged to bring sketchbooks or junk journals.

Class Note: Participants must have taken the Intro to Green Door Open Studio class to register.

577 Staff Instructor: Connie Stose

Acrylic Pour Painting: Rainbow Swipe

Monday, October 26 ~ 6pm to 7:30pm

In this special Rainbow Swipe Acrylic Pour class, you’ll create a vibrant abstract painting using bright rainbow colors and a swiping technique that produces stunning cells and movement. No experience is needed, just come ready to have fun and express yourself through art. Each participant will create a one-of-a-kind, 11″ x 14″ pour painting.

Class Note: Participants will receive an email with more information when the paintings are dry and available for pickup in 577’s Welcome Center. 

Community Instructor: Thomas Craley

Jewelry Making: Mixed Metals ~ Stars & Hearts

Wednesday, October 28 ~ 1pm to 3pm

Learn how to turn scrap metal into unique wearable art with just a few tools. Participants will receive support and guidance as they create, customize, and assemble star- and heart-shaped jewelry using copper, brass, or German silver.

Choose to create a pair of earrings and a necklace, or two pairs of earrings, mixing and matching stars and hearts to make each piece your own. All experience levels are welcome. Each participant will also receive a gift box for their finished creations.

Class Note: Please bring reading or safety glasses. All other supplies are included. This class is a themed version of the class previously offered as Jewelry: Industrial Chic Necklace & Earrings.

Community Instructor: Snookie Viviano

Watercolor as Meditation: Stacking Stones

Friday, October 30 ~ 6pm to 8:30pm

Relax into your weekend and get lost in your favorite color through the calming practice of watercolor painting. Begin by exploring the differences between watercolor paints and watercolor inks through simple practice exercises. No painting experience is needed!

Then, settle into peaceful, quiet creative time accompanied by soft music, allowing everyone the space to focus on their painting in a calm, stress-free atmosphere. Using stacks of stones, also known as cairns, as inspiration, participants will create three to four paintings while experimenting with color, materials, and techniques introduced during class.

Each participant will receive one 9 x 12 inch piece of watercolor paper and two 4 x 9 inch pieces of gesso-coated canvas. Completed paintings will vary in size based on each participant’s artistic choices.

577 Staff Instructor: Connie Stose

Whimsical Watercolor House Portraits

Monday, November 2 ~ 1pm to 3:30pm

Spend a fun afternoon creating a personalized ink pen and watercolor house portrait with 577 Staff Artists Bennett Dowling and Connie Stose. No prior drawing or painting experience is required ~ Bennett and Connie have you covered!

The class begins with Bennett, who will guide you through the simple process of transferring your house image onto watercolor paper. You’ll start with some practice exercises before learning how to enhance the unique details of your house using an ink pen. Next, Connie will walk you through simple watercolor techniques, helping you bring your house to life with washes of color. She’ll provide plenty of support as you add color and character to your artwork, ensuring a beautiful result.

Whether you’re recreating your childhood home, your current residence, or any special place in between, this finished 8″ x 8″ painting will make a perfect keepsake or a thoughtful gift.

Class Note: Each participant must bring to class or email in advance, a clear, front-facing, 5″ x 7″ photo of their chosen home. Photos must be printed on computer paper OR photos can be emailed as a PNG or PDF attachment, and they will be printed for you and ready for class.

577 Staff Instructors: Bennett O. Dowling & Connie Stose

Painting Festive Folk Art

Tuesday, November 3 ~ 6pm to 8:30pm

Spend a creative evening exploring the colorful and charming style of folk art painting while creating two (2) heart ornaments, two (2) cards, and a festive seasonal tree. Begin with practice exercises to explore simple brushstrokes, designs, and color combinations before putting those new skills to work.

The rest of class will be spent getting into the creative flow as participants paint, decorate, and personalize their ornaments, tree, and cards. Follow the demonstrated designs or add your own creative touches to make each piece uniquely yours.

Trees and ornaments are made of paper/cardboard. Trees include a stand, and heart ornaments include choice of ribbon or string. Greeting cards will vary in size.

577 Staff Instructor: Connie Stose

Drawing is for Everyone: Portraits for Beginners

Two-Part Class:

Wednesday, November 4 ~ 6pm to 8:30pm

Wednesday, November 11 ~ 6pm to 8:30pm 

Drawing is for everyone! This two-part class is perfect for anyone who has wanted to try portrait drawing but wasn’t sure where to start or doubted their drawing abilities. Through approachable exercises and plenty of step-by-step guidance, participants will explore the basics of drawing faces in a relaxed, supportive setting.

During the first session on Wednesday, November 4, we’ll take some of the fear out of drawing faces by focusing on each facial element one at a time. Participants will discover the secrets of simplifying shapes before working together to sketch the same portrait through a simple, step-by-step process.

Bring those new skills into the second session on Wednesday, November 11, when you’ll choose a person to draw and create a portrait of your own with step-by-step guidance and support along the way. Most participants will complete at least one finished portrait during the second session. You’ll also receive a helpful handout and guidance for continuing your practice or completing any unfinished work at home.

577 Staff Instructor: Sarah Kinney

Stained Glass Workshop: Cardinal

Thursday, November 5 ~ 12pm to 3pm

Create your own cardinal bird in this beginner-friendly stained glass workshop. Join glass artist Kara O’Dea in the Green Door Studio as she guides you step-by-step through the basics of stained glass, including cutting, grinding, and soldering sheet glass using the Tiffany copper foil method.

This class is perfect for anyone curious about trying stained glass for the first time, as well as those looking to build a strong foundation and continue developing their skills. Each participant will complete a stained glass cardinal, ready to hang and measuring approximately 4 × 6 inches.

Class Notes: For your safety, closed-toed shoes are required for this class. Please plan to arrive on time. Due to the nature of stained glass projects and the specialized tools and equipment needed to complete them, projects cannot be finished at home. Participants arriving more than 20 minutes after the class start time will not have enough time to complete their project and will not be able to join the class. Refunds will not be issued for late arrivals.

Community Instructor: Kara O’Dea

Stained Glass Workshop: Maple Leaf

Thursday, November 5 ~ 5pm to 8pm

Create your own maple leaf in this beginner-friendly stained glass workshop. Join glass artist Kara O’Dea in the Green Door Studio as she guides you step-by-step through the basics of stained glass, including cutting, grinding, and soldering sheet glass using the Tiffany copper foil method.

This class is perfect for anyone curious about trying stained glass for the first time, as well as those looking to build a strong foundation and continue developing their skills. Each participant will complete a stained glass maple leaf, ready to hang and measuring approximately 6 × 6 inches.

Class Notes: For your safety, closed-toed shoes are required for this class. Please plan to arrive on time. Due to the nature of stained glass projects and the specialized tools and equipment needed to complete them, projects cannot be finished at home. Participants arriving more than 20 minutes after the class start time will not have enough time to complete their project and will not be able to join the class. Refunds will not be issued for late arrivals.

Community Instructor: Kara O’Dea

Creative Card Making: Christmas Card Palooza

Thursday, November 5 ~ 4:30pm to 8pm

Keep the holiday creativity going with a brand-new collection of twelve (12) handmade Christmas cards to send to loved ones or add a special touch to holiday packages. Participants will create four (4) different card designs, making three (3) of each design for a total of twelve cards to take home. All four designs will be different from those featured in the October Christmas Card Palooza, so returning participants can add even more handmade cards to their holiday collection.

Enjoy an evening of creativity, conversation, holiday music, and refreshments while exploring a variety of card-making techniques, including dry and heat embossing, masking, stamping, layering, and embellishing. Beautiful specialty papers, including some with metallic foils, will add an elegant and classic touch to the finished cards.

Handmaking and sending greeting cards is a meaningful way to share love, appreciation, and connection with the people we care about, letting someone know they are valued. No experience is required, and all are welcome. Feel free to add to the festive spirit by wearing your favorite holiday apparel!

Class Note: We recommend wearing older clothes or an apron to protect clothing from ink and glue. Card designs may vary from those pictured.

Community Instructors: Pat Szymanowski & Pat Piper

Glass Mosaic: Tray or Coaster Set

Friday, November 6 ~ 12pm to 3pm

Explore the colorful art of glass mosaic while creating a functional piece to enjoy at home. This beginner-friendly class will introduce participants to the basics of laying out and properly spacing tiles, adhering glass, mixing and applying grout, and cleaning a finished mosaic piece.

Using an assortment of tumbled glass scraps, participants will bring their own design to life while choosing between two projects: a serving tray or a set of four (4) coasters. From arranging the glass to grouting and finishing, you’ll work through each step of the mosaic process and leave with a completed piece ready to take home.

Finished serving trays measure approximately 6 x 6 inches. Coasters measure approximately 3 x 3 inches each.

Class Notes: For your safety, closed-toed shoes are required for this class. Please plan to arrive on time. Due to the nature of glass projects and the specialized tools and equipment needed to complete them, projects cannot be finished at home. Participants arriving more than 20 minutes after the class start time will not have enough time to complete their project and will not be able to join the class. Refunds will not be issued for late arrivals.

Community Instructor: Kara O’Dea

Soft Pastels: Autumn Hills

Saturday, November 7 ~ 1pm to 3:30pm

Wednesday, November 11 ~ 1pm to 3:30pm

Capture the colors and beauty of an autumnal landscape with soft pastels while exploring color, expressive mark-making, perspective, and the basics of working with pastels. No drawing or pastel experience is necessary, and beginners are welcome.

Completed paintings will be approximately 9 x 12 inches. All supplies are included, and each participant will receive an instructional handout.

Community Instructor: Molly Carroll

Watercolor II: Leaf Layers with Negative Painting

Monday, November 9 ~ 6pm to 8:30pm

Ready to take your watercolor skills in a new direction? Explore the negative painting technique as we create a small pile of colorful, layered leaves. We’ll spend the first part of class practicing this method and discovering different ways to approach leaf shapes, layers, and possible compositions.

In the second part of class, participants will select leaf shapes to draw or trace before creating a watercolor painting using the color palette of their choice. Participants are welcome to bring their own leaves to use as references or to trace.

Prerequisite: This class is designed for those with prior watercolor experience. Participants must have completed Watercolor 101.

577 Staff Instructor: Connie Stose

Watercolor as Meditation: Colors & Curves

Friday, November 13 ~ 5:30pm to 8pm

Settle into a relaxing evening of watercolor as you create a colorful abstract painting during this soothing Create Calm experience. Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush for the first time or looking for a peaceful way to practice your skills, this class offers plenty of room to slow down and create.

Class will begin by getting familiar with watercolor paints, choosing a color scheme, and getting into the flow with the first layers of color. The second part of class will transition into quiet creative time as participants finish their paintings and add the curved, dark lines characteristic of neurographic-inspired art. Using markers, you’ll define organic shapes and watch the abstract composition come together.

Create Calm classes are designed to give anyone the opportunity to enjoy a simple creative project in a soothing environment. Watercolors, quiet work time, and gentle music encourage participants of all experience levels to slow down, focus, and enjoy the process of creating.

Finished paintings will measure approximately 9 x 11 inches. No experience is necessary, and all supplies are provided.

577 Staff Instructor: Connie Stose

Painted Dot Mandala: Ornaments

Saturday, November 14 ~ 10am to 1pm

Learn the basic techniques of dot painting while creating four (4) ornaments for the holidays. Participants will be guided in creating common mandala elements and techniques such as petals, teardrops, lollipops, and walking-the-dots.

All materials and acrylic paints will be provided along with step-by-step patterns, allowing participants to work at their own pace with instructor support. Each ornament is approximately four (4) inches.

Class Note: To help us honor 577’s commitment to sustainability, please bring your tools if you are a returning student. New participants will receive a new set of tools to keep.

Community Instructor: Shalene Germani

Acrylic Painting: Autumn Birch Trees

Monday, November 16 ~ 10am to 2:30pm

Release your inner creativity as you learn how to paint autumn birch trees in this hands-on acrylic painting class. You will learn how to mix colors, using a variety of brushes, painting tools, and techniques while learning the stages of an acrylic painting from start to finish. All supplies are provided for you to experience the fun of creating your own work of art on an 11″ x 14″ canvas.

Class Note: You are welcome to bring snacks to enjoy throughout class and we encourage you to bring a lunch for our midday break. (Refrigerator and microwave available).

Community Instructor: Mary Claire Roe

Art of Alcohol Inks: Christmas Spirit

Tuesday, November 17 ~ 6pm to 8pm

Get into the spirit of Christmas as you explore the beauty and spontaneity of alcohol inks. In this beginner-friendly class, you’ll learn the basics of this low-stress, high-reward medium while creating abstract tree designs on ceramic tiles. Each participant will receive three (3) 4″ tiles to work with. No experience is necessary. All supplies are included.

Class Note: Alcohol Inks can be messy. Please wear old clothes or bring an apron.

Community Instructor: Melissa Thomas

Winter Glow: Illustrated Paper Village Luminaries

Tuesday, November 17 ~ 6pm to 8:30pm

Brighten up gloomy winter days with festive paper luminaries for your tabletop. Participants will receive templates and learn different illustration techniques to transform them into charming, foldable cardstock buildings. After cutting out the windows and placing battery-powered votives inside, each building comes to life with a warm glow, creating the feel of a cozy home on a cold winter day.

Participants will create three paper village luminaries and receive three battery-powered votives to take home with their finished buildings.

577 Staff Instructor: Bennett O. Dowling

Jewelry: Industrial Chic Necklace & Earrings

Friday, November 20 ~ 2pm to 4pm

Learn how to turn scrap metal into unique wearable art with just a few tools. Each participant will receive support and guidance to create, customize, and assemble their choice of a pair of earrings and a necklace, or two pairs of earrings, using copper, brass, or German silver metals. 

All experience levels are welcome. Each participant will receive a polishing cloth and a gift box. The size of completed earrings will vary but will be approximately one to two inches.

Class Note: Please bring reading or safety glasses. All other supplies are included.

Community Instructor: Snookie Viviano

Intro to Green Door Open Studio

Monday, November 23 ~ 2pm to 4:30pm

Discover 577’s newest creative haven — the Green Door Studio! This fun and hands-on orientation class is your introduction to the studio and serves as the prerequisite for monthly Green Door Open Studio times and activities.

Learn how to use and enjoy the space while exploring a wide variety of art materials, tools, and techniques. Participants will gain an overview of the available supplies, watch art demonstrations, and enjoy plenty of hands-on practice in mediums such as watercolor and acrylic paints, chalk and oil pastels, colored pencils, watercolor pencils, pen and ink, and more. Along the way, you’ll learn tips and tricks to spark creativity, make the most of your open studio sessions, and move past the “fear of the blank page.”

The class also covers how to care for the studio and tools so everyone can enjoy this shared creative space. We’ll wrap up with a relaxing mini–open studio experience, giving you a chance to create freely, experiment, and begin your artistic journey at your own pace.

Everyone who completes this orientation class will qualify to register for future open studio times. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, you’ll find inspiration, community, and space to create at the Green Door Studio. All supplies are included.

577 Staff Instructor: Connie Stose

Watercolor II: Paint & Pen Tree Portraits

Monday, November 23 ~ 6pm to 8:30pm

Spend a creative evening exploring pen-and-ink and watercolor tree portraits with 577 Staff Artists Bennett Dowling and Connie Stose, using the trees of 577 as inspiration. Building on skills introduced in Watercolor 101, participants will explore how watercolor and pen-and-ink can work together to capture the unique character of a tree.

The first part of class will focus on guided practice exercises exploring line, texture, color, and other details found in trees. Bennett and Connie will demonstrate techniques for combining pen-and-ink with watercolor while helping participants build confidence with these materials. In the second part of class, participants will put those skills to work using a selected image of a 577 tree to create a tree portrait of their own. Demonstrations, creative guidance, and plenty of support from Connie and Bennett will be provided along the way.

Participants will receive practice paper and a 9 x 11-inch piece of watercolor paper to use during class. Finished projects may vary in size based on each participant’s creative choices.

Prerequisite: This class is designed for those with prior watercolor experience. Participants must have completed Watercolor 101.

577 Staff Instructors: Connie Stose & Bennett O. Dowling