Mixed Media Classes in Chicago, IL

More experienced mask makers get involved with more expensive materials, develop their own tool kit and pursue projects of their own with guidance from our resident master Jeff Semmerling. Note:  You should already took intermediate course. Price does not include the materials fee.

Students will create dynamic, multi-layered compositions with a variety of materials: watercolor/acylic/water soluable oil paint, ink, images, found objects, and pastels. Techniques explored will include photo transferring, collage, monotype printing, drawing, painting, and assemblage. Emphasis is on conceptual practice and personal process.

Students learn fundamental mask construction, making masks in cardboard, Venetian Style papier mache', found objects and plaster gauze. Please note: Most materials are included.

Brings focus on the importance of exploring materials that fuse and combine with the encaustic medium. Discover and develop the creative process using a variety of materials; the encaustic medium will be the “glue” that brings a multitude of materials together during this transformative workshop.

Learn the basics of silicone mold making. Create one- and two-part molds from a variety silicones and rubbers, either taken from a created or found object. A variety of materials can be used alongside our molds, including wax, plastic, clay, plaster, and concrete. Designed to help you with production and will allow you to make multiples quicker, whether...

Start with casting your own face for two mask making matrices, then learn sculpting and casting your own creations in paper mache'. Note: You should take beginner mask making before this class. Session price includes materials.

This class is designed for students with prior drawing experience interested in investigating new subjects and themes while developing technical and conceptual skills through experimentation with a variety of methods and materials. Creative exploration will include exercises addressing scale, mixed-media processes, drawing formats, and series. Individual...

Examine different types of collage, altered art, and other forms of mixed-media utilized by Dada, Surrealist, and contemporary artists. The first few classes will focus on different types and approaches to collage, with the final weeks focusing on combining collage and other media.  Techniques and practices covered include Photomontage, Text...

Acrylics are versatile paints, and this class explores a range of techniques from traditional to contemporary. From experimenting with the lines of paints to using different mediums, we will work on projects such as layering, making gel skins for abstract landscapes, subtractive painting pouring, mono printing, and more!  First day of class,...

Learn to mix accurate, exciting color including the vivid, specific hues of flowers, the bright and subdued greens of leaves, and the deep, subtle colors in shadows. You will make charts for permanent reference and then apply this knowledge as you paint flowers and leaves from live specimens.  You will work in watercolor, but exercises apply...

Monoprinting is a form of printmaking that favors organic, gestural, textural, and ephemeral marks and imagery. This process is incredibly immediate, playful, and a multi-faceted type of printmaking, and therefore well suited to first time printers and artists who typically work with paint, mixed media, and sculpture. These prints usually begin from...

This course offers an introduction to drawing as an exciting means of expression through writing, discussion, sketchbooks, and individual and group projects. Students explore a variety of drawing techniques and approaches to build their technical, spatial, and creative abilities, including essential elements of 2D design and art.  Working with...

This course is for students that have a background in drawing, but little to no painting experience. Drawings serve as the foundation for acquiring new painting skills and students are encouraged to develop their own ideas and goals with instructor guidance. Skills such as line, volume, space, materiality, form and function, and palette are explored...