CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

FEED your own creativity or SHARE an exciting ART Class with some friends

 Scroll down or click on an area of discipline to see what we have to offer. We also have a CALENDAR VIEW 

Asian Art

Ceramics

Drawing

Glass Arts

Painting

Paper Art

Photography

Printmaking

Watercolor

Virtual Classes

Refund Policy: Registering for a class is a commitment. There are no prorations for classes missed in a series. Class Fees are NON-REFUNDABLE.  Only Gift Certificates will be issued in lieu of approved cases.  Safety Policy: Masks may or may not be worn by students and instructors. Although social distancing will be encouraged when possible, there may be times when students and instructors will be in close proximity to each other. If you need special attention, let the instructor know.

Classes at MDCA are held upstairs. There are no elevators. If you have mobility issues, consider an art class or workshop at one of our Satellite locations. We make Art accessible to All.

Satellite Classes at Waterman Village

MDCA now offers Art Instruction and fun workshops at Waterman Village. Class fee includes all materials. Registration closes 2 days before class date.

TWIST RIBBON CORSAGE MON SEPT 5  10am-12pm W/Jane Moody

 ILLUSTRATE! in WATERCOLOR, PEN and INK WED SEPT 7 or SEPT 21 9:30am-11:30am W/Mira Fallbeck

 SUMI-E (ASIAN INK ART) WED SEPT 14 or SEPT 28 10am-12pm W/Jane Moody

 HAPPY HOUR. DRINK AND DRAW THUR SEPT 15 or SEPT 29  4pm-6pm W/Maria Pirone

 PAINT A TOTE MON SEPT 19  10am-12pm W/Jane Moody

Classes are held in the Activities Center at Waterman Village 445 Waterman Way Mount Dora, FL

$45 MDCA members/ Waterman Residents   $65 Non members

Kids programs at MDCA

After School Clay Class

Mon/Wed/Fri 5-6:30PM. 3 session courses per week. Drop the kids off or sign up WITH THEM! This is an immersive after art camp program where kids can learn new techniques using clay in the studio. Stamp, coil, pinch and try the wheel. Instructor: Maria Pirone Kids 6 and up $100 member $125 non member
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Wednesday After Elementary School Art

Each monthly session includes four Wednesdays 2:30PM-4PM. Try out new art techniques while learning about art history, artists, and their different styles. $120/4 session month. No prorations. After-care available from 4-5:30PM for additional fee.
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Wednesday After Middle School Art

Each monthly session includes four Wednesdays 4PM-5:30PM. Try out new art techniques while learning about art history, artists, and their different styles. $120/4 session month. No prorations.
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After School Art camp for Little Kids

AUGUST SOLD OUT-Each week is one session. ELEMENTARY (Under 7yrs old) Tues & Thurs 3:30-5:15PM, Wed 2:30-5:15PM. Drop the kids off and keep them safe and creative with after school art camp. $70/week
Inquire about September

After School Art camp for Big Kids

AUGUST SOLD OUT-Each week is one session.
MIDDLE SCHOOL (8yrs and over) Tues & Thurs 4:30- 6PM, Wed 3:30-6PM. Drop the kids off and keep them safe and creative with after school art camp. $70/week
Inquire about September

Weekend Paint with Mira

Saturday August 27 - 9:30-10:30am | Instructor: Mira Fallbeck. Drop off the kids and enjoy your Saturday morning coffee downstairs at Foxtail coffee shop. Kids will work with acrylic paint and learn new techniques. $30/member $40/non member
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Ceramics at MDCA

Monthly Pottery Wheel Class

Each monthly series includes up to 6 sessions. Registration closes on the first of each month for that month. Learn or increase your knowledge using the pottery wheel. Studio hours are Wednesdays and Thursdays 5:30 - 7:30pm with Instructor John Schroeder. Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate. $175 member $215 non-member. Sorry, no children. No refunds or rollovers for unused sessions in a month.
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Kids Clay After School

Mon/Wed/Fri 5-6:30PM. 3 session courses per week. Drop the kids off or sign up WITH THEM! Learn new techniques using clay in the studio. Stamp, coil, pinch and try the wheel. Instructor: Maria Pirone Kids 6 and up $100 member $125 non member
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Adult Pottery Fun Night

Wed Sept 7 or Thurs Sept 8 or Wed Oct 5 or Thurs Oct 6 5:30-7:30pm| Instructor: John Schroeder or Maria Pirone This class is the perfect Date night or Girls night out Friday! BYOB and learn some basic slab work or pottery wheel instruction with hands on throwing Skill Level: Beginner $40/member $50/non member Adults 18+ BYOB.
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GLASS ART at MDCA

Glass Art Classes

Workshops resume in Fall 2022| Instructor: Rosemarie Brown
Get Notified

WATERCOLOR at MDCA

Basic Beginner Watercolor Session 1

Session 1 Basic Watercolor Sept. 26 through Oct 17. 2022 1pm to 3:30 (4 week session) Members $85 non members $115| Mondays 1-3:30pm Instructor: Susan Grogan Have fun while learning how to paint in watercolor. Each session will be a unique class, so even if you have taken basic watercolor, you will learn something new. This class will explore color, composition and watercolor techniques in this beginner and intermediate watercolor class. We will cover all the basics as we enjoy everything watercolor has to offer. All levels are welcome. especially newcomers to the medium. Students should refer to and bring the list of recommended supplies below. You are also encouraged to bring the supplies that you already have.
SIGN UP!

Pallet with lid and mixing tray

Large water container

Drawing pencils: 2H and HB, kneaded eraser

Canson tracing paper 9 x 12”

Paper towels

Masking tape

Board to mount watercolor paper…gator board, foam board, or Masonite

Sketch paper

Graphite paper to transfer drawing

Inexpensive pad of watercolor paper (Strathmore or Masters Touch)

1 sheet of 140lb Arches rough watercolor paper

Paints: you may use whatever you have. For a beginner that is not sure about watercolor, you can purchase a small student grade paint. Masters Touch or Reeves 8pk tube watercolors are available at Hobby Lobby.

If you know you want to pursue watercolor, I recommend professional grade tube watercolors. Da Vinci, Daniel Smith, American Journey, Winsor Newton, etc.…These are the ones I use most often…

New Gamboge Quin Gold

Aureolin Burnt Sienna

Yellow Ochre Joe’s Red (American Journey)

Burnt Umber Cobalt Blue

Permanent Alizarin Crimson Phthalo Blue

Ultramarine Blue Mauve (Da Vinci)

Phthalo Green

Brushes: any watercolor brushes you have will do. I mostly use #1 liner, 12” round, flat wash brush 1” or 1 ½”, various flat brushes for lifting.

Exploring Watercolors - Session 1

Session 1 Exploring watercolor Sept 13 through Oct 18. 2022 ( no class Sept.20 and 27) 1pm to 4pm (4 week session) Members $87 non members $117 Instructor: Susan Grogan Skill Level: Intermediate/Advanced Learn to paint with the luminosity of watercolor and further your painting ability. This class is designed for advanced intermediates to advanced students. Challenge yourself with new techniques as well as sharpening your skills in basic watercolor. This class will cover value, color mixing, composition, and design. Come explore new ideas and experiences! Students must be pre-approved by the instructor. Students should refer to and bring the list of recommended supplies below. You are also encouraged to bring the supplies that you already have.
SIGN UP!

Pumpkin Paint Along

This is a one-day beginner paint along with instructor Susan Grogan. on Sept 12 from 1pm to 2pm. Supplies included $45
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Christmas Tree Paint Along

This is a one-day beginner paint along with instructor Susan Grogan. Oct 31 from 1pm to 2pm Supplies included $45
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Basic Beginner Watercolor Session 2

Session 2 Basic Watercolor Nov 7 through Dec. 5, 2022 1pm to 3:30 (5 week session) Members $106 non members $136 Instructor: Susan Grogan Have fun while learning how to paint in watercolor. Each session will be a unique class, so even if you have taken basic watercolor, you will learn something new. This class will explore color, composition and watercolor techniques in this beginner and intermediate watercolor class. We will cover all the basics as we enjoy everything watercolor has to offer. All levels are welcome. especially newcomers to the medium. Students should refer to and bring the list of recommended supplies below. You are also encouraged to bring the supplies that you already have.
SIGN UP!

Pallet with lid and mixing tray

Large water container

Drawing pencils: 2H and HB, kneaded eraser

Canson tracing paper 9 x 12”

Paper towels

Masking tape

Board to mount watercolor paper…gator board, foam board, or Masonite

Sketch paper

Graphite paper to transfer drawing

Inexpensive pad of watercolor paper (Strathmore or Masters Touch)

1 sheet of 140lb Arches rough watercolor paper

Paints: you may use whatever you have. For a beginner that is not sure about watercolor, you can purchase a small student grade paint. Masters Touch or Reeves 8pk tube watercolors are available at Hobby Lobby.

If you know you want to pursue watercolor, I recommend professional grade tube watercolors. Da Vinci, Daniel Smith, American Journey, Winsor Newton, etc.…These are the ones I use most often…

New Gamboge Quin Gold

Aureolin Burnt Sienna

Yellow Ochre Joe’s Red (American Journey)

Burnt Umber Cobalt Blue

Permanent Alizarin Crimson Phthalo Blue

Ultramarine Blue Mauve (Da Vinci)

Phthalo Green

Brushes: any watercolor brushes you have will do. I mostly use #1 liner, 12” round, flat wash brush 1” or 1 ½”, various flat brushes for lifting.

Exploring Watercolors - Session 2

Session 2 Exploring Watercolor Nov 1 through Dec. 6, 2022 1pm to 4pm (6 week session) Members $130 nonmembers $160 Instructor: Susan Grogan Skill Level: Intermediate/Advanced Learn to paint with the luminosity of watercolor and further your painting ability. This class is designed for advanced intermediates to advanced students. Challenge yourself with new techniques as well as sharpening your skills in basic watercolor. This class will cover value, color mixing, composition, and design. Come explore new ideas and experiences! Students must be pre-approved by the instructor. Students should refer to and bring the list of recommended supplies below. You are also encouraged to bring the supplies that you already have.
SIGN UP!

Pallet with lid and mixing tray

Large water container

Drawing pencils: 2H and HB, kneaded eraser

Canson brand, tracing paper 9 x 12”

Paper towels

Masking tape

Board to mount watercolor paper…gator board, foam board, or Masonite

Sketch paper

Graphite paper- (X-Press It Transfer paper, graphite) brand, works well to transfer drawings

Inexpensive pad of watercolor paper

140lb Arches rough watercolor paper

Paints: you may use whatever you have. You do not need to have all the colors I use.

I recommend professional grade tube watercolors. Da Vinci, Daniel Smith, American Journey, Winsor Newton, etc.…These are the colors ones I use most often, but you can always use what you have…

New Gamboge Quin Gold

Aureolin Burnt Sienna

Yellow Ochre Joe’s Red (American Journey)

Burnt Umber Cobalt Blue

Permanent Alizarin Crimson Phthalo Blue

Ultramarine Blue Mauve (Da Vinci)

Phthalo Green Aussie Red Gold (Daniel smith)

Brushes: any watercolor brushes you have will do. I mostly use #1 liner, 12” round, flat wash brush 1” or 1 ½”, various flat brushes for lifting.

Line and Wash Watercolor

2 Day Workshop | JAN 12 & 23, 2023 | FEB 9 & 10, 2023 | MAR 9 & 10, 2023 9:30AM-4:30PM w/lunch break Instructor: Paul Allen Taylor “Finally, watercolor made simple.” Line and Wash was once a popular method of creating a watercolor painting. Artists have used many different tools to create entertaining drawings before adding the watercolor. Essentially, the process of making a watercolor painting with a dynamic drawing is easier. The act of painting becomes less laborious as focus is on creating the illusion of depth shape by shape while the ink line provides a clear structure for the image. Paul will share his method of working with damp saturated paper to extend working time and achieve cleaner, more saturated colors. Day 1 will open with a practice doodle and painting session. In the afternoon a guided drawing of the class painting will take place intermixed with Paul will sharing his knowledge and experience with this approach to watercolor. Day 2 will be painting day. Paul will work along with you as the painting progresses at a manageable pace. In the afternoon an evaluation period will take place for all works done in the class. Problems areas will be identified, and solutions suggested. Class fee: $140.00 member / $170 non member includes all materials. Students are encouraged to bring their own supplies when possible. See the supplies list for further information. Recommended viewing: Youtube “Working with Matchstick and Ink” on Paul’s channel.
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Sumi-e Watercolor painting

1 day Workshop held at Waterman Village Activity Center | Sept 14 or 28, 2022 10am-12pm Instructor: Jane Moody Skill Level: Beginner The art of Sumi-e originated in China about 6000 years ago as calligraphy and led to a beautiful fluid art style emphasizing spontaneity and life in the brushwork. $45 member $65 nonmember
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Open Studio Art Room

Tuesdays 9am-4pm This is an open studio session with no instruction. Tables for crafting and Easels available for use. Bring your own materials. $10 each session or $35 for 4 sessions
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PAINT in ACRYLIC or OIL at MDCA

Loosen Up!

Saturday October 15 / 12:30PM-4:30PM / Instructor: Souby Boski Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced Learn how to loosen up and apply paint in a gestural, painterly manner using acrylic or oil. Techniques and observations on what it takes to "loosen-up" your paintings. Nearly all of these tips have a common denominator - simplification. The more you simplify what you do, the more it frees your mind to concentrate on staying loose. Students will practice using bigger brushes, more paint and working faster. We will take color to new unexpected places by working with various colors and departing from realism. Bring several canvases and reference photos. $85 member $105 non member
NO proration for unattended classes
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Everyone has his or her own favorite colors, brushes, mediums, and canvases. Any supplies you have will be fine.

Minimum required supplies: Paints:

Primary colors of your choice

Secondary colors suggested

Lots of white

Painting Surfaces:  

Several primed canvases, boards or gessoed heavy paper of assorted sizes

Brushes: Artists brushes of different sizes. And ordinary house painting brushes (1 – 2 in.) 

Palette Knives

Oil Painters – Your favorite mediums

Containers: Oil Painters – Plastic peanut butter type jars with tight lids for mixing medium.

Acrylic Painters – Large Jars for water 

Palettes: Disposable Artist’s palettes for mixing paint.  

Rags:   Clean cotton cloth rags, old terry cloth towel or paper towels.

SUGGESTED MATERIALS LIST                        

Paints:      

Cadmium Yellow Light 

Cadmium Orange 

Cadmium Red Light

Alizarin Crimson 

Cobalt Blue 

Ultramarine Blue 

Kings Blue

Cobalt Violet 

Ultramarine Violet 

Dioxazine Purple

Sap Green

Permanent Green

Naples Yellow   150 ml tube suggested

White (lots) 150ml tube suggested

PHOTOGRAPHY at MDCA

Intro to Digital Photography

INTRODUCTION TO DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY 2- Class Series 2-5pm | May 3 and 10 Instructor: Paul Morris Skill Level: Beginner Learn how to create great photographs with any contemporary digital camera. Participants will explore the many functions of their digital cameras with guided instruction on topics such as exposure modes, controlling focus, shutter speed and aperture, white balance, file formats and more. Required materials: DSLR digital camera with memory card or an advanced compact camera. Classes are limited to 6 students. $150 member $175 non member
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Required Materials:
DSLR or advanced compact digital camera with memory card and manual for detailed reference if needed.
Suggested:
Laptop computer and memory card reader.

 

We will review examples that illustrate how different camera settings can affect the final image.  Students will practice these skills on photo walks where they will learn hands-on how to create better photos.  We will be introduced to downloading photos to a computer, the basics of digital workflow, digital darkroom, and how to enhance your photos.

Day 1 – Getting to know your camera

Origins of photography
How does a digital camera work
Types of digital cameras
Understanding camera controls
Exposure modes
Exposure triangle
Color temperature and white balance
File formats and sizes
How a lens works and controlling depth of field
Hands on photo walk to test your skills

Day 2 – From the camera to the digital darkroom

Hands on photo walk
Composition basics
Learn how to see like a photographer
Types and quality of light
Choosing the right lens for your subject
Downloading and backing up your photos
Introduction to the digital darkroom and computer software

Digital Workflow
downloading and working with your digital photos
Basic concepts of photo editing
Output settings
Printing and archive

IPhone Photography

1 Day Workshop Thurs 2-5pm | May 26 Instructor: Paul Morris Skill Level: Beginner Learn how to take great photos every time with your iPhone. Join us for a hands-on seminar where we will look under the hood at the features and settings for your iPhone camera. Requires an iPhone. Classes are limited to 6 students. $55 member $65 non member
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Required Materials: Apple iPhone, any model

Given that most smartphones have amazing features that most users don’t even know about, this workshop will cover the following points:

  • Hour 1 – In class
    Learn about camera setup and settings, what they are for and when to use them. How to make better videos with your smartphone.

  • Hour 2 – Photo walk
    Using the options we learned in class we will go outside and take a short walk shooting photos along the way.

  • Hour 3 – Back in class
    We will go over enhancing your photos and sharing options.

    Required Materials: Apple iPhone, any model

ASIAN ART at MDCA

Chigiri-e Still Life

1 day Workshop | Date TBD 10am-1pm Instructor: Ery Yoshida Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced. This traditional collage technique has been used for centuries in Japan. We will use colored mulberry paper to create a Still life on heavyweight Mixed Media paper. Works will be matted at the end of the workshop. $65 member $75 non member
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Temari Ball

1 day Workshop | Saturday Date TBD 10am-2pm Instructor: Ery Yoshida Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced. Temari is a Japanese folk art that involves embroidering decorative geometric patterns on the surface of soft balls. Originally, the balls were made of material and threads taken from worn-out silk kimonos. $70 member $80 non member
Email to get notified

Sumi-e Watercolor painting

1 day Workshop | Wednesday Date TBD 10am-1pm Instructor: Jane Moody Skill Level: Beginner The art of Sumi-e originated in China about 6000 years ago as calligraphy and led to a beautiful fluid art style emphasizing spontaneity and life in the brushwork.. $50 member $60 non member
Email to get notified

Virtual Art Classes

Virtual Musical Theatre and Movement Classes for students with disabilities, age 18 and up

Class Description: With professional instruction from Nanci Dorau, students with disabilities can participate in these weekly classes. This series presents musical theatre & movement with appropriate accommodations so that anyone can enjoy the experience When: Thursdays, August 18 through October 20, 2022 Time: 5-6PM (EST). Where: Zoom Please contact Karla Aguayo, Director of Programs at karlaa@usf.edu or 813-974-0715, if you have questions.
Inquire Here