Explore color, texture, composition, light movement, space, and narrative while making collages from scratch. Materials for the collages will include your own painted and printed papers, magazine transfers, and other original textural elements. Emphasis will be on making and learning in a joyous and supportive space. Dennis will share examples, stories, and readings; provide one on one consultation; and encourage group discussion to inspire your work and create a rich communal experience. No experience necessary; all levels welcome.

Notes from Dennis

I intend for my classes to be active art- making sessions for you with a smattering of different techniques. It is my belief that if we can make something with our hands, then life is easier and less anxiety provoking. Above all else I want my classes to be invigorating yet relaxing, contemporary yet unpretentious and wide open to total beginners, as well as experienced artist needing a jump start.

Learn how to create colorful paste papers to use in collage making, illustration, or book arts. You will apply colors mixed with a thick paste to create beautifully textured designs on paper. Each paste paper is unique, and it is an easy and joyful process. No previous experience is necessary. The paste recipe will be provided as a handout.

 There will be a half hour lunch break (bring your own lunch; water and gf cookies provided). Participants will need to arrange to pick up their work outside of the workshop time to allow the paste papers to dry.

The workshop will be taught by Diane St. Jean, resident printmaker at the Art Center and member of The Boston Printmakers.

Using a book you created or one you bought, this workshop will guide you through drawing byfocusing on the object in front of you. This type of drawing is a good technique for improving your observational skills. We’ll use objects from nature to practice line drawing and shading techniques. Letting yourself get “in the zone” is a great way to find a sense of calm. This workshop is more about skills to practice rather than creating a masterpiece, so beginners arevery welcome.

Come explore “cereal box collagraphs,” though any recycled packaging will do. The magic of inking and wiping the plate and printing on damp paper = collagraph love! All materials and tools for this workshop will be provided. No previous experience is necessary. Advanced Printmaking with Upcycled Paperboard Materials will be offered in the future, and this workshop will provide the required experience for the advanced class.

There will be a half hour lunch break (bring your own lunch; water and gf cookies provided).

The workshop will be taught by Diane St. Jean, resident printmaker at the Art Center and member of The Boston Printmakers.

Unleash your creativity in our Experimental Printmaking workshop, where art, music, and community come together for an inspiring hands-on experience! Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned artist, this workshop invites you to explore the magic of relief printing, from carving your own designs to printing them on t-shirts. Each session is a vibrant mix of guided instruction, creative freedom, and lively discussions, all set in a relaxed, music-filled environment with snacks to keep the energy flowing. By the final week, you’ll not only have a collection of unique prints but also be part of a creative community that celebrates artistic expression. Join us for an exciting journey of discovery, experimentation, and artistic growth!

Using a book you created or one you bought, this workshop will guide you through drawing by focusing on the object in front of you. This type of drawing is a good technique for improving your observational skills. We’ll use objects from nature to practice line drawing and shadingtechniques. Letting yourself get “in the zone” is a great way to find a sense of calm. This workshop is more about skills to practice rather than creating a masterpiece, so beginners arevery welcome.

We will learn to make and paint with the ancient medium of Egg Tempera that the Egyptians and Babylonians used. It was the preferred paint medium of Michaelan gelo, Chagall, Andrew Wyeth and presently James Lynch, and Koo Schaffer. We’ll work in layers building transparency that glow from within! Most of our materials will be provided: boards, eggs, and an array of mineral color. You will bring your favorite large and small soft haired brushes — flat and bright are preferred. This class is suitable for still life, landscape, portraits, figurative  and abstract.

Please bring photographs or work in progress with you as prompts to paint. Julie Serrano works in many mediums and plays with much subject matter !