Library Series Workshops
Mixed Media Painting: Working Outside the Box | Free
with Anne Mormile | King Memorial Library, Machias, July 22 & 23, 6:30–8:30pm | Call 716-353-9915 to register
Library of Little Valley | July 29 & 30, 6:30–8:30pm | Call 716-938-6301 to register
This two-day free workshop will focus on opening the mind to the possibilities of viewing and using paint. Participants will begin with the same blank canvas that many have stared at in the past, only this time we start with texture. Though you may have an initial idea of what you want to paint, we’ll begin our work intuitively. Using sand, tissue paper, wire, etc., we’ll build a surface before we ever touch the paint. The second class will be focused on adding color. Using both acrylic and watercolor paints, we’ll learn to blend colors together without letting them get muddy. Whether you want to paint a sky, landscape, old twisted tree, or an abstract design, each of your paintings will be unique and beautiful. Supplies included. Ages 12 and up.
Allegany State Park Series Workshops
To register, call Allegany State Park at 716-354-9101 ext. 236.
Printing from Nature
with Joan Pingitore | attend one on July 15, 22, 29 | 10am-12pm | Free
This fun two-hour workshop will give kids a chance to create art from nature. First, participants will have a little lesson about art, learn how to make a good composition, and the basics of printmaking. Participants will then go out into the grounds and look for interesting “nature components” and bring their pieces back to our workshop to create interesting works by using inks and printing on large paper. They will be making their own decisions and learn a bit of problem-solving in the process, while having a great time! Ages 8-14. All supplies included.
Fine Art Oil Painting
with Todd Plough, | attend one on July 17, 24, 31 | 9am-12pm | Free
During this relaxing half-day workshop, students will set up a sketch, learn the basics of oil painting, and capture the natural beauty of Allegany State Park. A nationally recognized artist and member of the Copley Society and Lyme Art Association, Plough will also focus on achieving clean color, good value relationships, balanced compositions, and working outdoors. All supplies will be provided. Adults ages 15 and up. Class size limited to 8 per class.
Nature Sketching and Journaling
with Deb Eck | attend one on Aug 6, 13, 20 | 2-4pm | Free
Instructor Deb Eck will lead a two-hour workshop for adults and kids on creative journaling and sketching. Participants will make a simple nature journal sketchbook from recycled materials, which will even hold your pencil. Then participants will head out into the park, absorbing the sights and sounds of the beauty of Allegany State Park, capturing observation in sketches and words “in the moment.”
Plein Air Series Workshops
Summer plein air groups are back! Join us this spring, summer, and fall for a series of plein air sessions. The term “plein air” simply means working outdoors and that’s what we’ll be doing, all over the county.
Each plein air meeting will be moderated by an experienced artist, to guide and moderate the day (not teach). Unless otherwise noted*, participants will meet at 9am, head out to create, and meet back at 12pm to share with others and eat together. Artists of all experience levels are welcome. Bring a lunch. Dress for the weather. Call CCAC at 372-7455 or email us at artscouncil@verizon.net to rsvp for any/all of the meetings. All sessions are free.
Saturday, July 26 | Rock City | meet outside gift shop | moderated by Sean Huntington
Saturday, August 16 | Shinglehouse Community Park | meeting place across from the Oswayo Elementary School | moderated by Tammy Skiver-Maxon
Saturday, September 20 | Griffis Sculpture Park | meeting place tbd | moderated by Todd Plough
Saturday, October 18 | Allegany River Trail | 10am-1pm* | meet at the Gargoyle Park pavilion | moderated by Joan Pingitore
Also see our list of indepth Community Art & Pottery Studio art classes.