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  • Pottery with Supervision- 12 weeks, PLUS Open Studio!

    This is open to those who have previously taken pottery at Access, or for those who are experienced potters and want access to a pottery studio. With access to the CVU pottery studio, you will have dedicated time, storage, and supplies to work independently on throwing or slab projects. A supervisor will be on hand to help field questions, introduce you to the studio, review processes, communicate requests, and run the kiln. Only 10 spots available! In this judgement-free environment, students will be encouraged to connect with fellow potters to continue to learn new techniques while expanding on your independent pottery practice. Each student will each receive one 25lb bag of stoneware, mid-fire clay, cone 6, access to all stocked glazes, dipping, and tools to use during class. NOTE: Only studio glazes and clay will be allowed. All clay, glazes, use of the studio, tools, as well as firing costs are included in the fee. BONUS: Free access to "Open Studio" is on Monday evenings 5pm-8pm starting 9/23-12/16. Wheel usage is on a first come basis. Wear comfortable clothing, prepared to get messy, and have a whole lotta fun!
  • Watercolor Studio with Ginny Joyner

    With 35 hours of instruction and 14 sessions, Ginny will supervise this studio style class and help you master your watercolor techniques! Improve your color palette and brush techniques as you work on more challenging class projects as well as your own projects. Each 2.5 hour session will take place in the visual art space at CVU. This course is designed for artists who have taken watercolor classes previously and are comfortable working independently. Some guided instruction and supervision will be available as you progress throughout this course. This is also great class to connect, gather and learn from other watercolor enthusiasts within our artistic community! Please bring your own watercolor paint, brushes, and paper to class. "Ginny creates a warm, constructive and friendly atmosphere. Terrific class. I've been taking it for over a dozen years."- Student "Ginny Joyner’s watercolor studio class is fabulous! She introduces new techniques to try, provides assistance to her students, and makes learning a fun process!"- Student
  • bradleypjohnson (flickr) (CC BY 2.0)

    Pottery Wheel for Intermediate/Advanced- 10 weeks!

    This class is designed for people who have previous experience on the pottery wheel and would like to take their pottery to the next level. Jessica LaBonte, owner of Cedar Tree Pottery, will start by reviewing the cylinder and bowl form, then we will refine our techniques by paying attention to weight, functionality, and consistency. More advanced forms and techniques will be covered upon student's interests. We will also discuss more advance techniques of glazing, color mixing, and dipping. Only 10 spots available! Each student will each receive one 25lb bag of stoneware, mid-fire clay, cone 6, access to all stocked glazes, dipping, and tools to use during class. NOTE: Only studio glazes will be allowed. All clay, glazes, use of the studio, tools, as well as firing costs are included in the fee. BONUS: Free access to "Open Studio" is on Monday evenings 5pm-8pm starting 9/23-12/16. Wheel usage is on a first come basis. Wear comfortable clothing, prepared to get messy, and have a whole lotta fun!
  • Watercolor for Beginners 2

    Watercolor 2 continues your foundational skill-building in mixing colors, layering washes, and design composition. If you have some knowledge of watercolor, but want to "brush" up on you skills then this 10 session (20 hour) course is for you! Ginny will use guided photos and content for this class. If you would prefer to use your own projects, that is possible as well, or you can join Watercolor Studio on Wed evenings. All ages and levels welcome! Quality materials are important in watercolor and we can supply you with brushes to keep and a reasonable amount of paint and paper. If you need a supply kit (valued at $75), please choose the option, "Including Supply Kit," when registering. This class will meet inside CVU. "Ginny Joyner is that rare combination -- she is both an excellent artist AND and a skilled teacher. This "I don't have an artistic bone in my body" old lady had an amazing experience and learned to love painting. Ginny creates an atmosphere where all sorts of unexpected growth just happens!" - student "Not only do Ginny's classes help foster a regular practice of creativity, but she's an incredibly gifted teacher. She creates a supportive, inclusive environment that helps folks of all abilities / styles discover their creativity and learn new watercolor techniques. I've taken her classes multiple times and will definitely be back for more!" Ginny Joyner- Fall
  • Watercolor for Beginners

    In this introduction to watercolor painting, this is a 10 session (20 hours) will promise to give you the skills required to enjoy watercolor as your new loved hobby! Learn the foundations of this versatile and creative medium: Design layouts, color palettes, composition, texture, and light will all be covered. Ginny Joyner, a professional watercolor illustrator, leads everyone through exercises designed to explore the many techniques associated with watercolor. No previous art experience required. Open to all ages and levels! Quality materials are important in watercolor and are included in the fee, valued at $75. Kits will be available the first day of class. This class will meet inside CVU. "Watercolor for beginners with Ginny was a truly delightful experience. Ginny taught me important watercolor skills and gave me the confidence to keep painting! I would definitely take a class with her again."- EP "I was delighted with my beginner watercolor class. Ginny was so encouraging and supportive. You couldn’t help but learn and improve, no matter your level of ability. I will definitely sign up for more". JG Watercolor- Pears by Ginny Joyner
  • Oil Painting for Intermediate to Advanced Painters!

    Calling all oil painting enthusiasts! This class is a wonderful opportunity for those artists with experience in oil painting who would like to advance their skills as well as enjoy the weekly camaraderie of fellow artists with a keen interest in oil painting. Led by artist, Emily Moore, this 8-week course will elevate your painting skills and color knowledge. The beginning of the first three classes, I will start with a brief presentation of the following topics: Week 1: Color (we will never stop talking about color!) Week 2: Contrast of temperature, value, & size. Week 3: Mark-making & Edges. Weeks 4- 8: As you paint, Emily will walk through the class answering questions and/or giving advice. The last 40 minutes of class we will be a group discussion and observation about each individual piece. “What is working ? What is not working?” Students, please bring your own painting materials together with photos, objects, or ideas of what you want to explore in paint. A comprehensive suggested materials list will be provided at the time of registration. Table top easels are available for use during class. (Note: Only odorless solvents are allowed in the CVU building such as Terpenoid or Gamsol) Recommended age: 18+ This class will take place inside CVU. Please check in at the front entrance of CVU on your first day of class.
  • Let's Draw Faces!

    You may think that drawing people is the most difficult of any type of drawing but… it isn’t. Drawing faces is not as hard as you think! There are many proportions that almost every face adheres to, and it’s just a matter of learning how to measure and apply them within the structure of each individual face. For example, did you know that everyone’s eyes are approximately one eye width apart? Teresa's Trace & Transfer method sets students up for success as they draw a wide variety of portraits. We use photographs in this fun and engaging class and students learn to truly see and believe their eyes while experiencing the satisfaction of catching the likeness of a person. Students will have the opportunity to draw a portrait of someone of their own choosing. All supplies will be provided and all levels of drawing ability are welcome.
  • Learn How to Turn a Wooden Bowl!

    Join Andrew Duling, a professional wood turner, to make your first hardwood bowl! Each participant will receive a hardwood blank and have their own lathe to use during class. Learn how to use and work safely on a lathe. Turn a blank into a beautiful wooden bowl and gain the confidence needed to start a new hobby! Safety practices, proper tool use, and properties of wood will be covered. All materials and use of equipment included in the fee. Bring safety eye goggles and wear closed toed shoes. No loose clothing! Wear your hair tied back or wear a hat. Appropriate for high-school aged students and older. Watch the life of a wooden bowl turner...https://youtu.be/B4or0amjL2w "Andy is very knowledgeable and incredibly patient with students. He is a great instructor!" "Very knowledgeable teacher and very patient, great at explaining, cannot say enough how good he was!"
  • Knit a Pair of Mittens!

    Winter is coming and knitted mittens will keep your hands warm when walking or driving in your car. Handmade knitted mittens also make a wonderful and special gift for the recipient. Krista will have patterns for youth and adult sizes. Techniques practiced in class: Casting on, knitting, purling, ribbing, increasing for the thumb gusset, decreasing for the top of the mitten, and casting off. If you’ve done a bit of knitting before, this class is just the thing to take you through the next steps in your journey! Required Materials: You can choose between a DK or a Worsted weight yarn, and this will determine the needle size needed. You will need two sizes of double-pointed needles (DPN's); the smaller needles are for the cuff, and the larger needles are for the thumb and body of the mitten. If you do not want to knit with DPN's, buy circular needles at least 32" long for magic-loop. DK Option- DK is a thinner yarn. Berroco Vintage DK or Berroco Ultra Wool DK are examples of DK yarns. Yarn: Adult Size Large needs at least 220 yards. Knitting Needles: US 3 and US 5 needles Worsted Weight Option- Worsted weight is a thicker yarn. Berroco Vintage, Berroco Ultra Wool, and Malabrigo Rios are examples of Worsted Weight Yarn. Yarn: Adult Size Large needs at least 200 yards. Knitting Needles: US 5 and US 7 needles Other Tools: Darning Needle, Stitch Marker (or scrap yarn), scissors If you choose to visit Must Love Yarn to purchase any of the supplies needed for class, you can enjoy a 15% discount. Mention at checkout that you are taking a CVU Access class with Krista Atkeson.
  • Fused Glass Ornaments

    Come to this workshop to learn about fused glass and make your own Holiday Ornaments, or sun catchers while you're at it. You will be able to make 3 items during class; either 3 individual ornaments, or combine your pieces into a single sun catcher. This workshop will include instruction on using hand tools to cut the glass and using a grinder to get the shape you want. All materials are included in the class fee. Micaela will take your finished product after the class to fire them in a glass kiln; they will be available for pick-up at CVU a week later. No experience required. For students ages 13 and older. Students aged 8-12 are welcome; they should register with an adult who is also registered for the class, and plan to have one dedicated adult for each child attending. This class will meet inside CVU.
  • Needle-Felted Holiday Ornaments

    Come learn the art of needle felting and create a three-dimensional wool sculpture using a special barbed needle. We will use cookie cutters to help create a fun holiday shape (trees, candy canes, etc.) Add a pin to turn your design into a brooch, or add some string to create a hanging ornament. Needles, wool roving, cookie cutters, and other felting materials will be provided. No experience necessary. Ages 12 and up. Students aged 8-11 are welcome with a caregiver who should also register for the class. This class will meet inside CVU.
  • Crafting a Charcuterie Board from Repurposed Woods

    Join us for a delightful hands-on experience as we delve into the enchanting world of charcuterie board-making. In this hands-on class, you will learn the art of creating visually stunning charcuterie boards that will impress your guests on any occasion. During the workshop, students will choose from a wide variety of new and repurposed fine woods to create a visually stunning piece that can last a lifetime. Prepared woods may include Maple, Ash, Purple Heart, Walnut, Birch, Australian Eucalyptus, Brazilian Cherry, Oak, Coconut Wood, Ipe, and others. All materials are included in the fee for this course. Week 1: Students will decide on the design they wish to use and choose their woods. Since the wood will be of various thicknesses, students will need to plane them to an equal thickness and then glue and clamp the wood to form the board. Tools used: mitre saw, table saw, planer, and clamps. Week 2: For this class, the students will take their glued-up boards and sand or plane them to get a uniform smooth surface. They will then draw and cut their handle design on the board. Tools used: planer, sander, band saw, scroll saw. Week 3: Once cut all sharp edges need to be sanded and rounded. Boards will then be thoroughly cleaned and coated with food-grade oils to penetrate and seal the boards. Extra oil will be given to each student. Tools used: Sander. Note: The electric tool usage can create a bottleneck in the shop, so please be patient and use this time to learn and help others during class time. Please bring safety glasses and a dust mask if you have one. We have a small supply on hand. Long hair will need to be tied back and no open toed shoes. "Tony is a very dedicated, enthusiastic teacher with a clear love of his craft. He was so generous with his time, often starting class early and always willing to stay late to make sure everyone left with a satisfying product. I recommend his class whole-heartedly!"
  • Weaving an Adirondack Pack Basket

    In this fabulous course, participants will weave and outfit their own Adirondack Pack Basket! The pack basket is carried on a person's back using fitted straps. The Adirondack Pack Basket is perfect for foraging, fishing, picnics, camping and much more. The pack basket will be made out of sustainably harvested reed and will last for years to come. All other materials will be responsibly sourced. This class will require 4-sessions for completion. Come and learn a new craft and take home an heirloom to keep or gift! All high-quality materials included. Feel free to bring a special strap or belt if you want to personalize your basket. Please check-in at the CVU main entrance before the start of the first class. "Ben is a wonderful instructor and this was my second class with him. Supply of materials and tools to complete the project are superior, all you need to bring is your creativity. Ben is patient and supportive instructor who takes the time to help you understand the craft and encourages you to "make it your own." Friends that see both of the projects I have finished are amazed that a novice like me could complete such a professional looking basket!"
  • Intro to Beaded Necklaces & Bracelets

    Join us to learn foundational techniques in making wire, chain, and beaded necklaces and bracelets. Participants will learn how to secure clasps and jump rings to wire using crimp beads, make necklaces using a mix of chain and beads, stylistically space out bead clusters on a wire using crimp beads, and connect several necklaces (or bracelets) to make two- or three-strand necklaces (or bracelets). Participants are welcome to bring their own beads, though ample will be provided along with the beading wire, bending wire, and chain. The goal will not be to create necklaces that exactly match those in the photos, but to learn transferable jewelry-making techniques. This will also allow participants to use beads better suited to their taste. This class is one in a series on making jewelry with wire, chain, and beads. If you have a set of flat nose/chain nose, round-nose (super fine preferred), and cutting pliers, please bring them to class. Or we will have them available to borrow.
  • Stained Glass for Beginners with Charlotte Sylvester

    We are excited to introduce Stained Glass this year as a new course offering at the ACCESS program! Charlotte Sylvester has been practicing stained glass since 2020 and is looking forward to guiding you through the process from start to finish. During this 5-session course, students will learn the fundamentals of the Copper Foil Method, and create one stained glass suncatcher, approx 6"x 8", to cherish or gift. Choose an entry level "cartoon" or template in the shape of a Sun, Hummingbird, or Lotus Flower, and learn the nuances of glass cutting, shaping, grinding and soldering with copper foil. Please join us in this exciting adventure as we discover the beauty of stained glass! This class is for beginners or intermediate levels, age requirement: 18+. All materials and tools are provided for use during this course. Please note that this class is NOT recommended for those that are pregnant or breastfeeding due to the possible exposure of lead solder. Requirement: Closed-toed shoes and Pants. Safety glasses will be provided, or feel free to bring your own. Limited spots available!
  • Stephen and Helen Jones (flickr) (CC BY 2.0)

    Hand-building with Clay

    Join Jessica LaBonte, owner of Cedar Tree Pottery, in this 6-session course on hand-building pottery. Learn techniques and work with your hands to make beautiful pottery without the wheel! Students will learn pinch, coil, and slab techniques in this beginner class, and then work on independent, teacher-supported projects based on those techniques. Each student will each receive one 25lb bag of stoneware, mid-fire clay, cone 6, access to all stocked glazes, dipping, and tools to use during class. NOTE: Only studio glazes and clay will be allowed. All clay, glazes, use of the studio, tools, as well as firing costs are included in the fee. Only 10 spots available! Min age: 16+ Wear comfortable clothing, prepared to get messy, and enjoy this creating beautiful hand sculptured pottery!
  • Turn a Wooden Rolling Pin!

    Come learn the basics of turning and make a rolling pin with professional wood turner Andrew Duling. This is an excellent introduction to lathe work. Choose your wood and learn the basics to complete a beautiful and functional keepsake. Bring home an individualized rolling pin you can cherish for years, or give as a gift to an avid baker! Each student will complete turning of one rolling pin. Designs such as a tapered French or a handled rolling pin will be discussed at the start of class. Open to all ages 16+. No prior woodworking experience required and all experience levels welcome! All materials and use of equipment included in the fee. Bring safety eye goggles and wear closed toed shoes. No loose clothing! Wear your hair tied back or wear a hat.
  • Intro to Organizing, Editing and Publishing Digital Images Using Adobe Lightroom Classic- ONLINE

    Are you ready to take your digital photography to the next level? Do your photographs need editing to bring them to life? Do you have a well organized filing system for all the thousands of photographs saved and can you access them easily? There are just a few of the topics that will be covered during this 4-week, online, comprehensive course on using Adobe Lightroom Classic. Professional photographer, Bernhard Wunder, www.magiclens.net, will address a new topic, outlined below, to teach you the benefits of using this software to optimize your digital photography experience. If you are experienced in digital photography AND have basic knowledge of using Adobe Lightroom Classic, but would like to deepen your knowledge on how to maximize the use of this software, enrolling in week 3 and 4 is recommended. "Bernhard is a fountain of information which he is willing to share. I want to take any class he was signed up to teach. Actually, that is why I signed up for these 4 classes." - SL Course Outline by Week: Session 1 : Digital Workflow and Introduction to Adobe Lightroom Classic Workflow Overview & Tasks Backup Strategy What is Adobe Lightroom Classic? Key Concepts & Catalog Lightroom Interface Viewing Options Lightroom Catalog Lightroom Preferences Navigating your Library Session 2 : Importing and Culling Photos, Photo Organization Importing Photos from Filesystem or SD Cards Importing from Another Catalog Culling Why Organize Photos? Organizing Methods How to Best Use All of This Session 3 : Basic Photo Editing and Color Treatment Lens Corrections Cropping and Straightening, Perspective Transformation Exposure, Texture/Clarity/Dehaze Details (Sharpen & Noise) Tone Curve, Vibrance and Saturation Temperature and Tint Color Channel Tone Curve, Color Profiles Camera Calibration HSL Adjustments, Split Toning History, Snapshots and Virtual Copies Presets and Profiles Session 4 : Advanced Photo Editing and Sharing Your Work What are Local Adjustments? Traditional Masks: radial, gradient, brush AI Lightroom Masks: sky, subject, objects, people Photoshop Integration Working with Third Party External Editors File Formats and Layers Digital Publishing Options Physical Publishing Options Exporting from Lightroom REQUIRED: While Adobe offers a free trial license, it is only valid for 7 days. Please purchase, prior to the start of class, the monthly subscription model. You are able to cancel at anytime after the course completion.
  • Turn a Wooden Pen!

    Come learn the basics of pen turning with professional wood turner Andrew Duling. Pen turning is an excellent introduction to lathe work. It’s a quick, fulfilling, and inexpensive way to go from wood to finished product. Bring home a pen you can cherish for years or give as a gift. Each student will complete turning of one pen, with the option of turning an additional pen as time allows. Open to all ages 16+, students 12-16 welcome with an adult chaperone. All experience levels welcome! No prior woodworking experience required. All materials and use of equipment included in the fee. Bring safety eye goggles and wear closed toed shoes. No loose clothing! Wear your hair tied back or wear a hat.
  • Interactive Photo Editing with Adobe Lightroom Classic and Photoshop

    If you are an Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop user and know all the knobs and sliders, but would like to learn more about how to actually apply them to your own image, then join this interactive editing session. We will use real life examples of students’ photos (every student should bring 3…5 high resolution images to class) and see what magic can be done with Adobe’s photo editing tools. We’ll start with the basics of lens/perspective corrections, cropping as well as dust and distraction removal, then apply exposure corrections if needed. After that, we jump into color adjustments and noise reduction and finally look into adding some artistic effects. Required: We will use Adobe Photoshop on the CVU computers in the photo lab. Please arrive 15 min early to log-in and register. This class will take place inside CVU.