Looking for Kids Courses? – Click Here to Visit OCAFKids!

February

Advanced Poetry Writing Workshop – Heidi Nilsson – Thursdays, February 13 – April 17

In this course, experienced poets will develop and challenge theories of the nature and purpose of their own literary work. We’ll consider each author’s poems individually while also considering the thematic umbrella beneath which the poems will fit in a manuscript. This workshop is designed for poets who have taken several poetry writing classes, have amassed a body of work, and are looking for advanced critique.

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Creative Writing: Unleash Your Voice – Heidi Nilsson – Tuesdays, February 18 – April 29

Whether you’re beginning your first writing project or seeking fresh momentum on an existing manuscript, this course will offer structured support and creative inspiration. Through carefully crafted prompts and guided discussion, you’ll develop your unique voice while making concrete progress on your memoir, novel, or poetry collection.

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Introduction to Watercolor – Lauren Adams

Learn everything you need to build a strong foundation for getting started in watercolor, considered by some to be the most challenging painting medium. Receive detailed information on paper, paint, and brushes explained clearly and demonstrated in class. Practice mixing colors, learn how to do basic washes, and learn about techniques unique to watercolor. No experience Necessary!

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Introduction to Acrylic Painting – Lauren Adams  March  2025

Learn the techniques of painting using versatile acrylic paints. Explore the foundations of value, color, and composition in a relaxed and supportive setting with demos, presentations, group discussion, and plenty of individual attention. Course is open to all levels of experience from absolute beginner to more advanced artists.  Bring several images/ideas/or sketches with you.

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Creative Writing Workshop – Heidi Lynn Nilsson

This creative writing workshop creates a supportive space for writers ready to share and refine their works-in-progress. Through focused discussion and guided critique, you’ll gain valuable insight into how readers experience your work while developing your editing skills.

Each session draws inspiration from participant submissions, offering personalized guidance to strengthen your novel, memoir, or poems. Our collaborative workshop environment combines literary discussion with nurturing feedback, helping you move your manuscript forward with confidence.

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March

ELEMENTS of ART-“YOU CAN LEARN TO BE AN ARTIST” with Eileen Driscoll

I have heard so many people say “I’m not an artist because I can’t draw and I wasn’t born with natural talent“. In this one-day workshop, we will explore the Elements of Art (Line,Shape,Value,Texture,Color,Form & Space)and create artwork that incorporates them. It will be a fun and relaxing day in a supportive environment.

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Portrait Painting in Oils with Abner Cope

This class is designed to help artists enhance their skills in painting portraits. All skill levels from beginner to advanced are welcomed. While painting from the live model, artists will employ various techniques for achieving accurate proportions, and for properly placing the model on the canvas. Participants will receive instructions on starting the portrait with a solid structural drawing done in monochromatic lines and tones on a stained canvas. Emphasis will be placed on mixing color and observing color on the model. We will utilize a system that employs a limited palette of colors for developing the portrait from the darks to the middle tones, and to the lights in the model. Instruction will be based on demonstrations, discussions, and individual critiques.

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April

Beginning Pottery on the Wheel: Cylinders with Rebecca Seidl

This class will cover the basics of throwing on the potter’s wheel. Our focus will be on cylinders, specifically mugs, vases, pitchers, and bottles. We will learn through the entire process to a finished piece, including pulling handles, wedging, and glazing. You will get messy in this class, so please dress accordingly.

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May

PRINCIPLES of DESIGN -“YOU CAN LEARN TO BE AN ARTIST” series with Eileen Driscoll

When creating a piece of artwork, regardless of the medium, there are simple ways to make it interesting for the viewer to look at. This is not rocket science :). We will learn the 7 PRINCIPLES of DESIGN – (Unity, Variety, Balance, Emphasis, Movement & Rhythm, Contrast & Pattern) and create a piece of artwork that incorporates them.

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