Drawing Courses
Drawing Foundations
Description: Drawing truly is the foundation of all art, which makes it such a great place to start. This course will help students discover the foundational skills of drawing that can give them the confidence to explore other art forms, create their own art and/or build on these foundational skills by deepening them with further skills in the future.
In this course, students will learn the basic elements of drawing like line, shape, value, perspective and texture. We will also be digging into the basic principles of design such as balance, contrast, proportion, pattern/rhythm, emphasis and flow. As we dive into these topics, we will be exploring examples of well-known artists and styles as they apply. As a class, we will be exploring different techniques such as pencil handling, various paper surfaces, different graphite pencils, blenders and other drawing tools. The students will learn how to use these materials and practice using each of them to achieve their desired goal. Students will layer the skills learned through various unique drawing exercises that will allow for opportunities of creative growth, exploration and expression. We will also be holding discussions to practice how to critique honestly and kindly, how to encourage and support each other in their own individual processes of creating. We often are our own worst critic, so learning how to quiet that voice, step out in courage and grow in self confidence is a huge passion of mine in what I teach. Oftentimes, we need the help, encouragement and perspectives of caring people around us to do that.
Pablo Picasso said that “art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” My belief is that art should not be stressful. It should be fun and filled with a lot of exploration. It should be a way to wash away the dust of everyday life from our souls. I believe it can be an incredible opportunity to connect with the best Creator there is - the One who created us. Just like when we explore places in life, we find places we love and places we don’t. We find beauty and mess. We discover what works well and what doesn’t work at all. We practice. We gain knowledge, wisdom and information that helps us shape our thoughts and feelings. We gain experiences and memories. I seek to structure my classes in such a way that exploration is one of the most foundational experiences. I want my students to learn about themselves, to connect with one another and find tools that work for them to express themselves while also learning the foundational elements and design of drawing that will help them continue to grow in their ability to create art and express themselves.
Tutor: Alyssa Ronchak
Length: One semester
Level: 7th-12th grade
Prerequisite: None Homework: 15-20 minutes for daily drawing practice
Class Tuition: See registration form for current prices. The tuition rate includes a sketchbook and a kit of quality drawing supplies. The tutor will provide additional supplies to be used in class.
Description: Drawing truly is the foundation of all art, which makes it such a great place to start. This course will help students discover the foundational skills of drawing that can give them the confidence to explore other art forms, create their own art and/or build on these foundational skills by deepening them with further skills in the future.
In this course, students will learn the basic elements of drawing like line, shape, value, perspective and texture. We will also be digging into the basic principles of design such as balance, contrast, proportion, pattern/rhythm, emphasis and flow. As we dive into these topics, we will be exploring examples of well-known artists and styles as they apply. As a class, we will be exploring different techniques such as pencil handling, various paper surfaces, different graphite pencils, blenders and other drawing tools. The students will learn how to use these materials and practice using each of them to achieve their desired goal. Students will layer the skills learned through various unique drawing exercises that will allow for opportunities of creative growth, exploration and expression. We will also be holding discussions to practice how to critique honestly and kindly, how to encourage and support each other in their own individual processes of creating. We often are our own worst critic, so learning how to quiet that voice, step out in courage and grow in self confidence is a huge passion of mine in what I teach. Oftentimes, we need the help, encouragement and perspectives of caring people around us to do that.
Pablo Picasso said that “art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” My belief is that art should not be stressful. It should be fun and filled with a lot of exploration. It should be a way to wash away the dust of everyday life from our souls. I believe it can be an incredible opportunity to connect with the best Creator there is - the One who created us. Just like when we explore places in life, we find places we love and places we don’t. We find beauty and mess. We discover what works well and what doesn’t work at all. We practice. We gain knowledge, wisdom and information that helps us shape our thoughts and feelings. We gain experiences and memories. I seek to structure my classes in such a way that exploration is one of the most foundational experiences. I want my students to learn about themselves, to connect with one another and find tools that work for them to express themselves while also learning the foundational elements and design of drawing that will help them continue to grow in their ability to create art and express themselves.
Tutor: Alyssa Ronchak
Length: One semester
Level: 7th-12th grade
Prerequisite: None Homework: 15-20 minutes for daily drawing practice
Class Tuition: See registration form for current prices. The tuition rate includes a sketchbook and a kit of quality drawing supplies. The tutor will provide additional supplies to be used in class.
Drawing with Color
Description: This course will help students discover the foundational skills of drawing with color. Students will be exploring drawing through the medium of colored pencils. There is no prerequisite required to join this class. While there will be a brief overview of the elements of drawing that we go into depth with in Foundational Drawing, this class will focus largely on the element of color, the principles of design and color theory. This class will be a great option for students who are looking to try out an art class, as well as for those who are looking to continue to grow and expand their drawing skills, specifically with color.
In this class, we will be learning about the element of color. Along with this comes the concept of color mixing, hues, various blending techniques, contrast and balance and how to use these skills with colored pencils. As a class we will be exploring and learning about the basic principles of design such as balance, contrast, proportion, pattern/rhythm, emphasis and flow. The students will learn how to use these materials and practice using each of them to achieve each student's desired goal. Students will compile the skills learned through various unique drawing exercises that will allow for opportunities of creative growth, exploration and expression.
Art is a language of its own. Just like learning any new language, lots of practice is required. The best way to improve at anything is through practice. Each student will be required to complete 15 minutes of drawing 3-4 days a week for homework. If each student applies themselves and puts in the practice, they are sure to see growth in their skills throughout the semester.
Tutor: Alyssa Ronchak
Length: One semester
Level: 7th-12th grade
Prerequisite: None Homework: 15-20 minutes for daily drawing practice
Class Tuition: See registration form for current prices. The tuition rate includes a sketchbook and a kit of quality drawing supplies. The tutor will provide additional supplies to be used in class.
Description: This course will help students discover the foundational skills of drawing with color. Students will be exploring drawing through the medium of colored pencils. There is no prerequisite required to join this class. While there will be a brief overview of the elements of drawing that we go into depth with in Foundational Drawing, this class will focus largely on the element of color, the principles of design and color theory. This class will be a great option for students who are looking to try out an art class, as well as for those who are looking to continue to grow and expand their drawing skills, specifically with color.
In this class, we will be learning about the element of color. Along with this comes the concept of color mixing, hues, various blending techniques, contrast and balance and how to use these skills with colored pencils. As a class we will be exploring and learning about the basic principles of design such as balance, contrast, proportion, pattern/rhythm, emphasis and flow. The students will learn how to use these materials and practice using each of them to achieve each student's desired goal. Students will compile the skills learned through various unique drawing exercises that will allow for opportunities of creative growth, exploration and expression.
Art is a language of its own. Just like learning any new language, lots of practice is required. The best way to improve at anything is through practice. Each student will be required to complete 15 minutes of drawing 3-4 days a week for homework. If each student applies themselves and puts in the practice, they are sure to see growth in their skills throughout the semester.
Tutor: Alyssa Ronchak
Length: One semester
Level: 7th-12th grade
Prerequisite: None Homework: 15-20 minutes for daily drawing practice
Class Tuition: See registration form for current prices. The tuition rate includes a sketchbook and a kit of quality drawing supplies. The tutor will provide additional supplies to be used in class.
Photography Courses
Photography 1
Level 1
Description: Photography is an art form that allows the artist to present a unique view of the world. This 14-week class will help you go beyond the “snap shot” and learn the proper technique when shooting. You will learn how light affects each shot you take and how to use it to your advantage. You will learn how to manipulate your camera to work for you in manual mode and understand the relationship between ISO, aperture, and shutter speed. Discover how to see objects in a different way through the lens of your camera.
Tutor: Kian Wentzlaff
Length: One Semester
Level: 7th – 12th grade
Prerequisite: None
Homework: 2 hours per week, including photo shoots and printing projects on home printer or from a photo lab.
Text: (to be purchased by parents) Better Photo Basics, by Jim Miotke. Available on Amazon.
Students should bring: A digital camera, a “point and shoot” or a DSLR with interchangeable lenses. Be sure the battery is working and the memory card has available space. A 3-ring binder with 5 plastic sleeve page protectors.
Class Tuition: See the registration form for current prices.
Level 1
Description: Photography is an art form that allows the artist to present a unique view of the world. This 14-week class will help you go beyond the “snap shot” and learn the proper technique when shooting. You will learn how light affects each shot you take and how to use it to your advantage. You will learn how to manipulate your camera to work for you in manual mode and understand the relationship between ISO, aperture, and shutter speed. Discover how to see objects in a different way through the lens of your camera.
Tutor: Kian Wentzlaff
Length: One Semester
Level: 7th – 12th grade
Prerequisite: None
Homework: 2 hours per week, including photo shoots and printing projects on home printer or from a photo lab.
Text: (to be purchased by parents) Better Photo Basics, by Jim Miotke. Available on Amazon.
Students should bring: A digital camera, a “point and shoot” or a DSLR with interchangeable lenses. Be sure the battery is working and the memory card has available space. A 3-ring binder with 5 plastic sleeve page protectors.
Class Tuition: See the registration form for current prices.
Photography 2
Level 2
Description: Photography brings the world around you to life. This class will explore all genres of photography; studio, nature, still life and sports photography. You will learn how to incorporate the skills and proper technique from Photography 1, build on it and tell a story with your camera. You will learn about artificial and natural lighting techniques, along with a multitude of photography equipment and how to use it to your advantage.
Tutor: Kian Wentzlaff
Length: One semester
Level: 7th – 12th grade
Prerequisite: Photography 1
Homework: 2-5 hours per week
Text: None
Students should bring to class: A digital DSLR, and a speed light. Be sure the battery is working and the memory card has available space. A three-ring binder with 5 plastic sleeve page protectors.
Class Tuition: See the registration form for current prices. Tuition will cover the cost of supplies.
Homework: 10 per week, including photo shoots and printing projects from a photo lab.
Students should bring to class: DSLR, all available lenses, tripod and speed light. 3 ring binder with 10 plastic sleeves.
Class tuition: See the registration form for current prices. Tuition will cover some supplies.
Level 2
Description: Photography brings the world around you to life. This class will explore all genres of photography; studio, nature, still life and sports photography. You will learn how to incorporate the skills and proper technique from Photography 1, build on it and tell a story with your camera. You will learn about artificial and natural lighting techniques, along with a multitude of photography equipment and how to use it to your advantage.
Tutor: Kian Wentzlaff
Length: One semester
Level: 7th – 12th grade
Prerequisite: Photography 1
Homework: 2-5 hours per week
Text: None
Students should bring to class: A digital DSLR, and a speed light. Be sure the battery is working and the memory card has available space. A three-ring binder with 5 plastic sleeve page protectors.
Class Tuition: See the registration form for current prices. Tuition will cover the cost of supplies.
Homework: 10 per week, including photo shoots and printing projects from a photo lab.
Students should bring to class: DSLR, all available lenses, tripod and speed light. 3 ring binder with 10 plastic sleeves.
Class tuition: See the registration form for current prices. Tuition will cover some supplies.
Theater Courses
Theater
1st Semester - Level 1 Theater class
Description: Are you interested in exploring the world of acting? Do you need a class to fulfill your fine arts requirement? Or maybe you are simply looking for a fun elective class to take. Well, then Theater is the class for you! In this class you will learn about the basics of theater and acting. You will tap into your creative side by participating in fun theater activities, exciting acting improvisations, and creating original group skits. You will develop skills in vocal projection and clarity, the use of vocal and facial expressions, the use of body language and gestures, and proper staging techniques. You will also learn the basics of character analysis and how to develop a believable character. These skills will all be applied to scene work and monologues which will be rehearsed and performed in class. This unique class will increase self-confidence, develop creativity, build teamwork, and teach you the basic techniques of acting--all done in a fun, positive environment. Students should expect an average of two hours of weekly homework, and full, active class participation is required!
Theater is a prerequisite for any Level 2 class.
Tutor: Julie Nelson
Length: One semester
Level: 7th - 12th grade
Prerequisite: None
Homework: 2 hours per week
Text: None
Students should bring to class: a notebook, a folder, writing utensils, and a highlighter.
Class Tuition: See the registration form for current prices. Tuition will cover the cost of supplies.
1st Semester - Level 1 Theater class
Description: Are you interested in exploring the world of acting? Do you need a class to fulfill your fine arts requirement? Or maybe you are simply looking for a fun elective class to take. Well, then Theater is the class for you! In this class you will learn about the basics of theater and acting. You will tap into your creative side by participating in fun theater activities, exciting acting improvisations, and creating original group skits. You will develop skills in vocal projection and clarity, the use of vocal and facial expressions, the use of body language and gestures, and proper staging techniques. You will also learn the basics of character analysis and how to develop a believable character. These skills will all be applied to scene work and monologues which will be rehearsed and performed in class. This unique class will increase self-confidence, develop creativity, build teamwork, and teach you the basic techniques of acting--all done in a fun, positive environment. Students should expect an average of two hours of weekly homework, and full, active class participation is required!
Theater is a prerequisite for any Level 2 class.
Tutor: Julie Nelson
Length: One semester
Level: 7th - 12th grade
Prerequisite: None
Homework: 2 hours per week
Text: None
Students should bring to class: a notebook, a folder, writing utensils, and a highlighter.
Class Tuition: See the registration form for current prices. Tuition will cover the cost of supplies.
Theater: Acting Improvisation
1st Semester - Level 2 Theater Class
Description: Take the stage with improvisation! We will study the art of acting improvisation by learning and implementing the “rules of improv” in a wide variety of improv games and activities. Be creative, think on your feet, react quickly, and have lots of fun! Acting Improvisation helps actors in many ways: it builds confidence, courage, creativity, and teaches them to trust their instincts. Students will perform a short live improv show at the end of the semester, and will also have the opportunity to perform in a larger improv show at the Lakeville Area Arts Center on January 17th!
Tutor: Julie Nelson
Length: One semester
Level: 7th - 12th grade
Prerequisite: Level 1 theater class with Julie Nelson or tutor approval
Homework: 2 - 3 hours per week
Text: Acting for Young Actors: The Ultimate Teen Guide (cost for book included in the supply fee)
Students should bring to class: a notebook or paper, a folder, writing utensils, class book, and a highlighter.
Class Tuition: See the registration form for current prices. Tuition will cover the cost of supplies.
1st Semester - Level 2 Theater Class
Description: Take the stage with improvisation! We will study the art of acting improvisation by learning and implementing the “rules of improv” in a wide variety of improv games and activities. Be creative, think on your feet, react quickly, and have lots of fun! Acting Improvisation helps actors in many ways: it builds confidence, courage, creativity, and teaches them to trust their instincts. Students will perform a short live improv show at the end of the semester, and will also have the opportunity to perform in a larger improv show at the Lakeville Area Arts Center on January 17th!
Tutor: Julie Nelson
Length: One semester
Level: 7th - 12th grade
Prerequisite: Level 1 theater class with Julie Nelson or tutor approval
Homework: 2 - 3 hours per week
Text: Acting for Young Actors: The Ultimate Teen Guide (cost for book included in the supply fee)
Students should bring to class: a notebook or paper, a folder, writing utensils, class book, and a highlighter.
Class Tuition: See the registration form for current prices. Tuition will cover the cost of supplies.
Theater: Acting Techniques
2nd Semester - Level 2 Theater class
Description: Now that you've learned the basics of theater and acting, it's time to take it a step further by studying a variety of acting techniques and methods to bring your acting skills to the next level. In Acting Techniques you will learn about The Stanislavsky Method, Method Acting, and other techniques used to create a believable performance, such as the Who Am I Chart, Objectives, Intentions, Subtext, Substitution, Raising the Stakes, Packing an Emotional Suitcase, The Moment Before, and more. These techniques will be used and developed as we work on a variety of theater activities, monologues, and scene work. Reading, writing, and discussions will also be a part of this class as we study the book "Acting for Young Actors: The Ultimate Teen Guide". Cost for the book is included in the supply fee, and you will receive your book on the first day of class. Consistent attendance and full participation is important for success in this class.
Tutor: Julie Nelson
Length: One semester
Level: 7th - 12th grade
Prerequisite: Theater – Level 1- with Julie Nelson or tutor approval
Homework: 2 - 3 hours per week
Text: Provided by tutor-Acting for Young Actors: The Ultimate Teen Guide (cost for book included in the supply fee)
Students should bring to class: a notebook or paper, a folder, writing utensils, class book, and a highlighter.
Class Tuition: See the registration form for current prices. Tuition will cover the cost of supplies.
2nd Semester - Level 2 Theater class
Description: Now that you've learned the basics of theater and acting, it's time to take it a step further by studying a variety of acting techniques and methods to bring your acting skills to the next level. In Acting Techniques you will learn about The Stanislavsky Method, Method Acting, and other techniques used to create a believable performance, such as the Who Am I Chart, Objectives, Intentions, Subtext, Substitution, Raising the Stakes, Packing an Emotional Suitcase, The Moment Before, and more. These techniques will be used and developed as we work on a variety of theater activities, monologues, and scene work. Reading, writing, and discussions will also be a part of this class as we study the book "Acting for Young Actors: The Ultimate Teen Guide". Cost for the book is included in the supply fee, and you will receive your book on the first day of class. Consistent attendance and full participation is important for success in this class.
Tutor: Julie Nelson
Length: One semester
Level: 7th - 12th grade
Prerequisite: Theater – Level 1- with Julie Nelson or tutor approval
Homework: 2 - 3 hours per week
Text: Provided by tutor-Acting for Young Actors: The Ultimate Teen Guide (cost for book included in the supply fee)
Students should bring to class: a notebook or paper, a folder, writing utensils, class book, and a highlighter.
Class Tuition: See the registration form for current prices. Tuition will cover the cost of supplies.
Theater: Audition Methods
2nd Semester - Level 2 Theater class
Description: Improve your auditioning skills by taking the AUDITION METHODS class! This class will teach you everything you need to know about auditions: what to expect, cold readings, prepared auditions, audition sides, musical auditions, callbacks, managing those nerves, and how to successfully prepare to impress the director! You will also prepare an acting resume, choose and prepare a few monologues from different genres, and have headshots taken so you will be ready when the audition comes! We will also have several “mock auditions” of different styles in class to give you plenty of practice for the real thing!
Tutor: Julie Nelson
Length: One semester
Level: 8th - 12th grade
Prerequisite: Level 1 theater class with Julie Nelson or tutor approval
Homework: 1 - 2 hours per week
Text: none
Students should bring to class: a notebook or paper, a folder, writing utensils, class book, and a highlighter.
Class Tuition: See the registration form for current prices. Tuition will cover the cost of supplies.
2nd Semester - Level 2 Theater class
Description: Improve your auditioning skills by taking the AUDITION METHODS class! This class will teach you everything you need to know about auditions: what to expect, cold readings, prepared auditions, audition sides, musical auditions, callbacks, managing those nerves, and how to successfully prepare to impress the director! You will also prepare an acting resume, choose and prepare a few monologues from different genres, and have headshots taken so you will be ready when the audition comes! We will also have several “mock auditions” of different styles in class to give you plenty of practice for the real thing!
Tutor: Julie Nelson
Length: One semester
Level: 8th - 12th grade
Prerequisite: Level 1 theater class with Julie Nelson or tutor approval
Homework: 1 - 2 hours per week
Text: none
Students should bring to class: a notebook or paper, a folder, writing utensils, class book, and a highlighter.
Class Tuition: See the registration form for current prices. Tuition will cover the cost of supplies.
Watercolor Courses
Watercolor 1, 2, & 3
* The tutor will work with all three levels in each class period.
Description: Explore this simple, yet challenging medium with a gifted watercolor artist. This class will cover color theory and provide practice in mixing colors. Students will practice the skills necessary for washes and dry-brush. Whether or not a student has had previous exposure to watercolor, they will develop and improve their skills as well as deepen their appreciation for the beauty in the world around them through watercolor. Students with sufficient previous watercolor experience will discover new ways to enhance their skills with this challenging medium. Karen makes sure that each student receives quality, as well as, sufficient quantity of personalized instruction.
Tutor: Karen Rohrbach
Length: One Semester
Level: 7th – 12th grade
Prerequisite: None
Homework: varies
Text Requirement: none
Students should bring: At least five printed pictures that they might like to paint (e.g., photos, free domain downloads from the internet, calendar or magazine photos). Phones may not be used to refer to. If no pictures are brought, the tutor will have extra pictures to choose from.
Class Tuition: See the registration form for current prices. The tuition rate for Level I includes a kit of quality watercolor supplies. Levels II and III should bring this kit to class.
* The tutor will work with all three levels in each class period.
Description: Explore this simple, yet challenging medium with a gifted watercolor artist. This class will cover color theory and provide practice in mixing colors. Students will practice the skills necessary for washes and dry-brush. Whether or not a student has had previous exposure to watercolor, they will develop and improve their skills as well as deepen their appreciation for the beauty in the world around them through watercolor. Students with sufficient previous watercolor experience will discover new ways to enhance their skills with this challenging medium. Karen makes sure that each student receives quality, as well as, sufficient quantity of personalized instruction.
Tutor: Karen Rohrbach
Length: One Semester
Level: 7th – 12th grade
Prerequisite: None
Homework: varies
Text Requirement: none
Students should bring: At least five printed pictures that they might like to paint (e.g., photos, free domain downloads from the internet, calendar or magazine photos). Phones may not be used to refer to. If no pictures are brought, the tutor will have extra pictures to choose from.
Class Tuition: See the registration form for current prices. The tuition rate for Level I includes a kit of quality watercolor supplies. Levels II and III should bring this kit to class.
