Studio II Class Schedule

All teen classes are ongoing unless specified by dates. There will be no teen classes on 9/4/23 (Labor Day), 10/31/23 (Halloween), 11/22/23 - 11/24/23 (Thanksgiving), 12/23/23 - 1/5/24 (Winter Break), 3/23/24 - 3/29/24 (Spring Break), 5/27/24 (Memorial Day) and 7/4/24 (Independence Day).

FAQs:

What do students learn in class?

Each new student starts with 8 weeks of charcoal drawing. This gives students a great foundation in the fundamentals of drawing. They learn how to break down a subject to it’s simplest form using basic shapes, learn how to measure and get proper proportion relationships between objects, and develop a good understanding of values. They will do 3 finished charcoal studies from life when they begin. This normally takes 8-10 weeks for your average student.

After students finish charcoal, they can continue drawing, but most students move on to oil painting. They will learn some color theory by doing a color wheel, and understanding its value in the painting process, as well as two small painting studies, that help them understand and experience the oil paints properties. After this, students can move on to choosing a painting that they would like to start. We have them copy paintings the first few months, to learn color mixing, brush work and various techniques. The teacher will demonstrate how to start and develop their paintings through various stages. The students are given the space and freedom to tap into their creativity to choose subjects that interest them, after they have a good understanding of the fundamentals.

Do you provide supplies?

We do not provide supplies for our teen students. We have a list of charcoal and oil paint supplies that students will need. You can purchase all of the supplies you need at Mainstreet. Students buy charcoal supplies when they begin taking classes. When they’re ready to move on to painting (after they finish their 3 charcoal studies) they will need to purchase oil supplies. We offer a good selection of paints, brushes and canvases at comparable prices as the art stores.

How long are the sessions?

The sessions are 8 consecutive weeks (unless there is a holiday). Students have the opportunity to do make-up classes for any missed classes, within their session, not to be added on at the end.

How many students are in a class?

Classes are generally 8-12 students with two spots for make-ups.

Are there only beginning students in the class?

Classes are mixed level. Beginning students are in the same class as advanced students. This works well. Each student is given instruction at their own level of development. Everyone is supportive and the new students learn a lot by watching the advanced students work.

Is art class a good fit for my student?

If your student is interested in growing their creativity and developing art skills, Mainstreet classes would be a good fit. Mainstreet Art Center is a fine art school. The students are not craft focused. We strive to develop fine art skills, using a classical approach to drawing, measuring, understanding values, explore various painting techniques, and art interpretations during class. Our teachers and students at Mainstreet are very supportive of beginners who may be nervous or lack confidence to start. Students receive direction from the teacher, but are also expected to be able to follow directions and work independently during some parts of the class as a teacher makes their rounds to each student. We are not a good fit for students who need one-to-one help throughout the class.

Can my student do a trial class?

We do not offer trial classes. You’re welcome to come and take a tour of the studio.

Can adults stay with the student during class?

We ask that you drop your student off to class. We do not allow adults to stay in the classroom with their students.