Drawing, Painting + Crafts Classes for All Levels
Take classes with experienced teachers in drawing, painting, and crafts. As a community center, we strive to offer an inviting work environment where ideas, creativity, and laughs are shared. Working among peers—whether at a beginner or more advanced level—enriches the class experience. We offer drawing and painting classes in many mediums, including oil paints, acrylic paints, pastels, watercolors, charcoal, pencil, and more. We also offer classes in hands-on crafts such as embroidery and mosaics. All studio arts classes are in person.
EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT: Register for these three classes by Mar 30 and save $100 with the
code EARLYART24.
Modern Painting with Acrylics (Classes begin Apr 11)
Mixed Level Painting: Exploring Oil Painting (Classes begin May 2)
Mixed Level Painting: Paint Like an Impressionist (Classes begin May 2)
Gal Cohen is a New York City-based visual artist who works primarily in the painting and printmaking fields. Cohen is a member artist and a former artist in residence at Cornerstone Studios (NYC), a Scholarship Artist at Manhattan Graphic Center studios, a recent alumni of AIM fellowship at the Bronx Museum of the Arts, and a Chashama “Space to Connect” artist in residence for 2019-2020. Cohen earned her MFA in Fine Arts at Parsons School of Design and her BFA in Fine Arts at Bezalel Academy, Jerusalem. She has exhibited her work at The Bronx Museum of the Arts, Collar Works, the Laurie M. Tisch Gallery, the Arlington Arts Center, Bric Gallery, Fresh Paint Art Fair, Clemente Art Center, Spring/Break Art Show, and Westbeth Gallery.
Marika Hahn's artwork is inspired by nature and wildlife, even though New York City is home. In addition to her nature series, "Birdsong Cottage," she works with major publishers such as Simon & Schuster and Workman, illustrating books such as the best-selling "What to Expect When You're Expecting" series. Her artwork is used in advertising for companies such as Revlon, Estée Lauder, and Bloomingdale's, and her illustrations have appeared in Cosmopolitan, Family Circle, Glamour, Woman's World, and The New York Times.
Heidi Johnson was born in Providence, Rhode Island, and earned degrees from Tufts University and its School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. Spending her childhood peering at mud puddles and tree bark in the woods of rural Massachusetts instilled a deep appreciation for the minutiae that drives this world. She has received grants and fellowships from the Pollock-Krasner Foundation, the Sharpe-Walentas Studio Program, New York Foundation for the Arts, Boston Museum of Fine Arts, and Nordic Artists’ Centre, among others. Her work has been shown in numerous exhibitions in the U.S., Scandinavia, and Australia. She lives and works in Patterson, NY.
Leanne Staples is an artist, writer, photographer, and licensed New York City tour guide. She has been providing street photography workshops and mentoring hundreds of students from all ages, backgrounds, and levels of experience for more than 12 years. She believes that photography is the ultimate form of creative expression and that it is something that everyone can learn and find enjoyment in.
Jessie Kritt White is a Brooklyn-based fiber artist and teacher. She has always had a passion for crafting and currently she practices and teaches weaving, crochet, macrame, and indigo dyeing. She is passionate about creating community around crafting and hosts craft circles in addition to workshops. See her work on Instagram @the.weekend.weaver.
Our Facilities
- Brand-new easels
- Spacious studio with high ceilings
Lockers
Locker rentals are $20/semester for JCC members and $30/semester for the public. Between semesters, locker rentals are $10/month. Lockers are free for Open Studio Pass students. When you arrive to class, your instructor will help you rent a locker. A limited number of lockers are available.
Visual Arts Classes
Paint Your Pet with Oil Paint
Paint Your Pet with Oil Paint
Whether a favorite feline, preferred pooch, glamorous goldfish, or beloved budgie, learn how to paint fin, fur, and feather in this ten-week class. During the class, each student will learn the techniques necessary to depict your companion. Suitable for all levels.
Impressionist Expressions: Painting Techniques
Impressionist Expressions: Painting Techniques
Discover the essence of Impressionist styles and techniques in this immersive course. Each week, explore a different aspect of Impressionism as you create ten small paintings in oil or acrylic.
Essentials of Oil Painting
Essentials of Oil Painting
From mastering the intricacies of setting up your palette to honing color mixing and paint handling techniques, this course on oil painting covers it all. Discover the art of determining optimal compositions on canvas as you create ten small paintings throughout the ten-week program.
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Sep 6
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Sep 6
Virtual. Create beautiful compositions through this unique rhythmic art form, suitable for artists at all levels. In no time, the simple steps allow tanglers to access delicious pleasure and calm.
Creative Watercolor + Illustration
Creative Watercolor + Illustration
With a different theme or inspiration each week, classes start with a demonstration of techniques for using liquid watercolors, including wet on wet, wet on dry, layering/glazing, and brush strokes. The class approaches watercolor using graphic illustration, with an emphasis on fun and creativity.
Dreamscapes: Painting Inspired by Inner Worlds
Dreamscapes: Painting Inspired by Inner Worlds
Step into the enchanting world of dreams with this one-of-a-kind art class. Here, you'll explore the depths of your subconscious through painting, embracing a judgment-free space to create, discuss, and reflect on the surreal and magical landscapes of your mind.
Beginner Sewing: From Pattern to Perfect Fit
Beginner Sewing: From Pattern to Perfect Fit
In Person. In this class, instructor Hilla Shapira will guide you through exciting sewing projects, teaching you essential skills like reading patterns, playing with fabric textures, and mastering 3D sewing techniques.
Mosaics: Modern Techniques in Glass Art
Mosaics: Modern Techniques in Glass Art
Discover the art of mosaic and glass fusing in innovative ways. Learn to cut and adhere glass, creating unique projects inspired by personal experiences and surroundings. All levels welcome; materials and equipment included.
Advanced Drawing + Mixed Media
Advanced Drawing + Mixed Media
In Person. Perfect for students familiar with drawing basics, this class encourages breaking traditional rules to discover your individual style.
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Sep 13
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Sep 13
Virtual. Create beautiful compositions through this unique rhythmic art form, suitable for artists at all levels. In no time, the simple steps allow tanglers to access delicious pleasure and calm.
Intermediate and Advanced Drawing: Drawing in the Moment
Intermediate and Advanced Drawing: Drawing in the Moment
In Person. Learn essential drawing skills to enhance observation and hand-eye coordination. Discover how to be present in the moment, seeing objects anew and capturing their essence. Using B–8B pencils, master grayscale tonality, contour lines, shapes, shading, proportion, and composition.
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Sep 20
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Sep 20
Virtual. Create beautiful compositions through this unique rhythmic art form, suitable for artists at all levels. In no time, the simple steps allow tanglers to access delicious pleasure and calm.
Back to school : Sip + Paint with Live music
Back to school : Sip + Paint with Live music
In Person. Gather your family for a painting session where both kids and parents can bond and create together. With a brush in one hand and a glass of juice (or mocktail) in the other, unleash your inner artist in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. No prior experience necessary!
Custom Challah Cover Workshop
Custom Challah Cover Workshop
Craft a meaningful challah cover for Rosh Hashanah using fabric pieces that hold special memories—such as old clothes, a cherished tablecloth, or a beloved apron. This personal touch will infuse your holiday table with sentimental value, making the celebration even more special.
Festive Watercolor + Illustration Workshop
Festive Watercolor + Illustration Workshop
This watercolor workshop is perfect for anyone who loves experimenting with color. Participants
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Sep 27
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Sep 27
Virtual. Create beautiful compositions through this unique rhythmic art form, suitable for artists at all levels. In no time, the simple steps allow tanglers to access delicious pleasure and calm.
Abstract painting class : Gestural Abstraction
Abstract painting class : Gestural Abstraction
In Person. Explore the foundational principles of Abstract Expressionism in this course, designed to empower you to tackle the blank canvas with confidence.
Advanced Sewing: Tailored Techniques
Advanced Sewing: Tailored Techniques
In Person. This workshop is perfect for students who have some familiarity with sewing and want to upgrade their skills. We will delve into the world of tailoring, patterns, custom-made designs, knitwear, and finishing techniques.
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Oct 11
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Oct 11
Virtual. Create beautiful compositions through this unique rhythmic art form, suitable for artists at all levels. In no time, the simple steps allow tanglers to access delicious pleasure and calm.
Zentangle: Intro to Therapeutic Drawing: Take All Five and Save
Zentangle: Intro to Therapeutic Drawing: Take All Five and Save
Virtual. Zentangle is easy to learn, relaxing, and fun. Drawing patterns, called tangles, allows you to focus and get lost in repetition while creating beautiful art. The main goal is to relax your mind, relieve stress, and achieve a meditative state.
Zentangle: Intro to Therapeutic Drawing: Week 1: Exploring Contrasts
Zentangle: Intro to Therapeutic Drawing: Week 1: Exploring Contrasts
Virtual. Zentangle is easy to learn, relaxing, and fun. Drawing patterns, called tangles, allows you to focus and get lost in repetition while creating beautiful art. The main goal is to relax your mind, relieve stress, and achieve a meditative state.
Zentangle: Intro to Therapeutic Drawing: Week 2: String Things
Zentangle: Intro to Therapeutic Drawing: Week 2: String Things
Virtual. Zentangle is easy to learn, relaxing, and fun. Drawing patterns, called tangles, allows you to focus and get lost in repetition while creating beautiful art. The main goal is to relax your mind, relieve stress, and achieve a meditative state.
Zentangle: Intro to Therapeutic Drawing: Week 3: Shading Techniques
Zentangle: Intro to Therapeutic Drawing: Week 3: Shading Techniques
Virtual. Zentangle is easy to learn, relaxing, and fun. Drawing patterns, called tangles, allows you to focus and get lost in repetition while creating beautiful art. The main goal is to relax your mind, relieve stress, and achieve a meditative state.
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Nov 1
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Nov 1
Virtual. Create beautiful compositions through this unique rhythmic art form, suitable for artists at all levels. In no time, the simple steps allow tanglers to access delicious pleasure and calm.
Zentangle: Intro to Therapeutic Drawing: Week 4: Fragments
Zentangle: Intro to Therapeutic Drawing: Week 4: Fragments
Virtual. Zentangle is easy to learn, relaxing, and fun. Drawing patterns, called tangles, allows you to focus and get lost in repetition while creating beautiful art. The main goal is to relax your mind, relieve stress, and achieve a meditative state.
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Nov 8
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Nov 8
Virtual. Create beautiful compositions through this unique rhythmic art form, suitable for artists at all levels. In no time, the simple steps allow tanglers to access delicious pleasure and calm.
Zentangle: Intro to Therapeutic Drawing: Week 5: High-Focus Tangles
Zentangle: Intro to Therapeutic Drawing: Week 5: High-Focus Tangles
Virtual. Zentangle is easy to learn, relaxing, and fun. Drawing patterns, called tangles, allows you to focus and get lost in repetition while creating beautiful art. The main goal is to relax your mind, relieve stress, and achieve a meditative state.
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Nov 15
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Nov 15
Virtual. Create beautiful compositions through this unique rhythmic art form, suitable for artists at all levels. In no time, the simple steps allow tanglers to access delicious pleasure and calm.
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Nov 22
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Nov 22
Virtual. Create beautiful compositions through this unique rhythmic art form, suitable for artists at all levels. In no time, the simple steps allow tanglers to access delicious pleasure and calm.
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Dec 6
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Dec 6
Virtual. Create beautiful compositions through this unique rhythmic art form, suitable for artists at all levels. In no time, the simple steps allow tanglers to access delicious pleasure and calm.
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Dec 13
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Dec 13
Virtual. Create beautiful compositions through this unique rhythmic art form, suitable for artists at all levels. In no time, the simple steps allow tanglers to access delicious pleasure and calm.
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Dec 20
Zentangle: Beyond the Basics Class Dec 20
Virtual. Create beautiful compositions through this unique rhythmic art form, suitable for artists at all levels. In no time, the simple steps allow tanglers to access delicious pleasure and calm.