Our printmaking and book arts department celebrates a multi-faceted tradition by offering courses on relief and intaglio print processes, bookbinding and calligraphy. Students can create woodcuts, linocuts, collagraphs, silkscreens, monoprints, books and more. The printmaking studio houses one large and one medium sized intaglio press, and one relief press in addition to inks, acids and solvents.
For information about Access membership and the Printmaking studio, call 412-361-0455.

Classes for Beginners or All Levels:

Relief Printmaking 101

instructor: Ryan Day
PBA 101 - Level: All
Printmaking Studio
6 Tuesdays, 6:30 – 9:30 pm
February 3 – March 10

Learn about the simplest and most historic form of printmaking in this introductory class. Start with basic one color linoleum block and woodcut printing, and progress on to more complex color techniques including multi-block and reduction. Relief printing is immediate, and a lot of fun! Students will also visit the PCA galleries, including exhibitions by Associated Artists of Pittsburgh and Pat Bellan-Gillen.
$160 members, $185 non-members (one linoleum block and use of tools, inks, and solvents included in the fee)

Printmaking and Etching Techniques

instructor: Thomas Norulak
PBA 100 - Level: All
Printmaking Studio
8 Mondays, 6:30 - 9:30 pm
January 26 – March 16

Focus on both traditional and contemporary etching techniques in this multi-level class. Learn to apply relief, intaglio, and monoprinting techniques onto a variety of commercial papers. Make images you can hand color, collage and reproduce. Continuing students are welcome. Paper and plates can be purchased in class. Students will also visit the PCA galleries, including exhibitions by Marius Watz, Casey Reas and Pat Bellan-Gillen. $205 members, $230 non-members (fee includes use of tools, inks, and solvents).

Calligraphy

instructor: Myrna Rosen
PBA 103 – Level: All
2D Studio
8 Tuesdays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
January 20 – March 10

Explore the personal and storied art of calligraphy in this course, which is geared to the needs of each student. Beginners work with a basic calligraphic hand, while intermediate and advanced students pursue their choice of styles. Individual guidance provided for each student. Supply list sent upon registration. $185 members, $210 non-members

Artist Books, Sketchbooks and Journals (new!)

instructor: Mauren Antkowski
PBA 303 – Level: All
Children’s Studio
2 Wednesdays, 6:30 – 9:30 pm
March 4 and 11

Learn bookbinding techniques to construct artist books, sketchbook and journals. Choose from several types of bookmaking that will influence individual exploration in the creation of your own unique books! A supply list will be sent upon registration. $75 members, $100 non-members

Celtic Knotwork Workshop                                         
intsructor: Marlene Boyle
PBA 115 - Level: All
Children’s Studio
3 Tuesdays, 6:30 – 9:30 pm
March 3 – March 17

Learn the basic technique used to construct and draw Celtic knotwork, a major decorative device used in Irish and Anglo-Saxon manuscripts (i.e., Book of Kells and Lindesfarne Gospels). Start with simple designs and progress to more complex shapes and patterns. Designs applicable to all types of decorative work. A supply list sent upon registration. $80 members, $125 non-members

 

With 16 electric potter’s wheels, 12 sculpture stands, a slab roller, a finishing station with over a dozen high fire glazes, electric kilns, a portable Raku kiln, the Mr. and Mrs. Ira H. Gordon Pavilion, and the region’s largest gas car kiln, our facilities are modern enough for the experienced potter, but also accessible for the eager newcomer. Classes are taught by the region’s best professional artists and are designed for students to explore the full range of the medium. Regardless of skill level, students leave with a variety of self-made creations, from functional vases and bowls to decorative busts and tiles. For information about Access membership and the Ceramics studio, please call 412-361-0455.

Included with registration for any wheelthrowing class are lab times each week. There is no instruction during these times, but a monitor will be on hand. Lab times give you the opportunity to practice techniques you have learned in class, refine your skills, glaze your work, and make more pots! Interested students must sign up for lab time on the sheet provided in the wheel room. Winter lab time sessions will be Tuesdays from 1:00 – 4:00pm and 6:00 – 9:00 pm during the regular term dates.

Ceramics Boot Camp

instructor: Layne Wyse
CES 100 – Level: All
Ceramics Studio
4 Fridays, 2:00 – 5:00pm
February 6 – 27

Learn the basics of wheelthrowing and handbuilding in this quick, fun class! If you’ve never played with clay before and want a “get your feet wet” introduction, this is the place to start. Make ceramic pots for your home, for friends or loved ones! $120 members, $145 non-members (fee includes lab time, 25 pounds of recycled clay, glazes, bisque and gas firing)

Beginning Wheelthrowing

instructor: Cynthia Young
CES 102 – Level: All
Ceramics Studio
8 Wednesdays, 6:30 – 9:30pm
January 21 – March 11

Learn techniques in both wheelthrowing and handbuilding functional and decorative ceramic pieces. Includes an introduction to tools, equipment, surface finishes and glazes. Learn the basics of pottery! Students supply clay tools. $235 members, $260 non-members (fee includes lab time, 25 pounds of clay, glazes, bisque and gas firing)

The Potter’s Wheel

Ceramics Studio
Session 1: CES 200 – Level: All
instructor: Valda Cox ... 8 Thursdays, 6:30 – 9:30pm
January 22 - March 12

Ceramics Studio
Session 2: CES 300 – Level: All
instructor: Cynthia Young ... 8 Sundays, 2:00pm – 5:00pm
January 18 – March 8

This class is designed for both beginners and students working at more advanced levels. Develop skills in wheelthrowing and handbuilding using stoneware clay. Focus on developing a personal style with decorating and glazing. Beginning and returning students work side-by-side in an open environment. Students supply clay tools. $235 members, $260 non-members (fee includes lab time, 25 pounds of clay, glazes, bisque and gas firing)

2-D Tile Design with Low Fire Glazes (new!)

instructor: Tom Ladousa
CES 113 – Level: All
Sculpture Studio
8 Sundays, 2:00 – 5:00pm
January 18 – March 8

Work in 2-dimensions to create beautiful ceramic wall hangings. Get your hands muddy as you learn how to make molds and pour liquid slip. Design and decorate your work with colorful low fire glazes, chalks and pencils. Mount your stunning new creations on hand decorated wooden boards for an astonishing final effect. $235 members, $260 non-members (fee includes lab time, 25 pounds of clay, glazes, bisque and gas firing)

LaDousa's ceramic wall hangings will be on display in the 2nd Floor elevator gallery at the Scaife Building from November 14 through January 25. His work is also currently on exhibit at Gallerie Chiz, 5831 Ellsworth Ave.

Wood Fired Ceramics (new!)

instructors: Joseph Sendek and Justin Rothshank
CES 600 – Level: All
Ceramics Studio (PCA) and The Union Project
4 Mondays, 1:00 – 4:00pm
February 23 – March 16, and the firing (March 20)

PCA and Union Project come together for a great new collaborative project! Spend the first three session throwing or handbuilding with Joseph Sendek at PCA, with special attention given to making forms that fire well in a wood kiln. Also cover glazing and decorating in the third session. The fourth session will meet at Union Project in Stanton Heights for a “wadding party,” to prepare all the materials for the wood firing. Then, in late March, participate in all aspects of firing the work in the Union Project’s wood kiln in Mt. Pleasant. Shifts will be designated for participants. Previous experience in clay is recommended, but not necessarily required.

Firing schedule: loading, March 19 – 20; diring: March 20 – 23; unloading: March 27 – 28.

The wood kiln is a programmatic partnership between Union Project and Laurelville Mennonite Church Center. The kiln is managed by the ceramics staff and co-op members of Union Project. Lodge and meal options can be found at http://www.laurelville.org/Program/Kiln/index.html. An information sheet will be sent upon registration. $225 members, $250 non-members (fee includes 25 pounds of clay, glazes, bisque and firing)

Whistle Workshop (new!)

instructor: Alberto Almarza
CES 112 – Level: All
Sculpture Studio
3 Tuesdays, 1:00 – 4:00pm
March 3 – 17

Make pottery that’s musical as you use hand-building techniques and simple tools to construct functional clay whistles. Also experiement with more complex multi-whistles and resonant chambers. $100 members, $125 non-members (fee includes lab time, 12 pounds of clay, glazes, bisque and gas firing)

Copper Sculpture Workshop

instructor: Melissa Davenport
CES 301 – Level: All
Jewelry Studio
1 Saturday, 9:00am – 4:30pm (half hour for lunch)
January 17

Transform flat copper sheeting into a 3-dimensional wall sculpture using mallets and sand bags. Covern pattern making and design cutting as well as light soldering and proper use of hammers. Make a beautiful copper wall sculpture, as big as 1 X 2 feet! Students purchase materials directly from the instructor ($30 to $60 depending on the size of your project). $70 members, $95 non-members

Raku Party Workshop!

Sculpture Studio
Session 1: CES 109 – Level: All
instructor: Layne Wyse ... Friday, February 27, 6:00 – 10:00 pm

Session 2: CES 209 – Level: All
instructor: Layne Wyse ... Friday, March 20, 6:00 – 10:00 pm

Join the party! A base fee of $60 ($85 non-members) includes a full kiln shelf, typically 4 or 5 bisque-fired pieces (an additional $15 per shelf if you need to fire more). Minimum of 4 participants. We will discuss all aspects of the Raku process. Wear clothing that completely covers your body. Glazes and tongs provided. Students participate in all aspects of the firing. For people who want to experience the process but don’t know how to make their own vessels, you can have fun glazing and take two already made small pieces home with you for $30.

The Body Human: The Figure

instructor: Matt Marino
CES 108 – Level: All
Sculpture Studio
8 Mondays, 6:30 – 9:30pm
January 26 – March 16

Throughout the ages, civilizations have been inspired to represent the human figure in a variety of sculptural materials. This life modeling class will lead the student through the various stages of modeling in clay to create a small-scale figure. This is the perfect introductory class for anyone who has ever had the impulse to sculpt the figure, or for those with prior experience. $275 members, $300 non-members (fee includes 7 sessions with a model, 25 pounds of clay and firing)

Mosaics and Creative Tilemaking

instructor: Cynthia Young
CES 106 – Level: All
Sculpture Studio
8 Wednesdays, 10:00am – 1:00pm
January 21 – March 11

Build beautiful mosaics from scratch! Begin by designing and building your own custom ceramic tiles using stoneware clay and colorful glazes. Learn techniques for cutting, adhering and finishing tiles as you construct your mosaics. Combine handmade tiles with mosaics materials on 2 or 3-dimensional surfaces to create something unique for your home, or as a gift! $220 members, $245 non-members (fee includes mosaics materials, 25 pounds of clay, glazes, bisque and gas firing)

Woodcarving

instructor: Joe King
CES 206 – Level: All
Sculpture Studio
8 Wednesdays, 6:00 – 9:00pm
January 21 – March 11

Learn various methods of woodcarving such as low relief, chip carving, and carving in the round. Wood sculpting demonstrations will include: knife, chisel, power carving, tool sharpening and maintance. A number of projects will be covered to get you started carving! A supply list sent upon registration. $195 members, $220 non-members.

Handbuilding with Terra Cotta Clay

instructor: Cynthia Young
CES 306 – Level: All
Sculpture Studio
8 Thursdays, 6:00 – 9:00pm
January 22 – March 12

Utilizing the slab, coil and extrusion methods for handbuilding, explore both figurative and abstract forms using the classic red, terra cotta clay. Make sculptures for your garden, for your home, or friends or loved ones! Express yourself in three dimension with this versatile clay medium. $205 members, $230 non-members (fee includes mosaics materials, 25 pounds of clay, glazes, bisque and gas firing)

Wheelthrowing and Handbuilding Basics 2

instructor: Jennifer Bechak
CES 125 – Level: INTERMEDIATE
Ceramics Studio
8 Mondays, 6:30 – 9:30pm
January 26 – March 16

Continue to develop your wheelthrowing and handbuilding skills. Special attention will be given to surface decoration and glazing techniques, including sgraffito. Also play with altering wheelthrown forms off the wheel. Class will combine demonstrations with plenty of time for hands-on creativity! If you have prevoious wheelthrowing experience, you can take this class without having taken the Fall prerequisite. $235 members, $260 non-members (fee includes lab time, 25 pounds of clay, glazes, bisque and gas firing)

Jennifer Bechak will follow-up this class in Spring 2009 with a great continuation course. Keep building on what you've already learned! In the same Monday night time slot, we’ll be offering: Wheelthrowing and Handbuilding Basics 3 [March 30 – June 1, no class April 20] with special attention given to pulling handles and throwing matching items, plates, lidded teapots and larger and sectional forms.

Decals and Lusters (new!)

instructor: Justin Rothshank
CES 114 – Level: INTERMED./ADV.
Sculpture Studio
3 Tuesdays, 6:00 – 9:00pm
February 3 – 17

Learn several different methods of decal transfer and surface decoration techniques. Create personal laser decal transfers. Prepare images in Photoshop and learn how to apply them to ceramics in all stages. Cost of the class includes five sheets of decal paper and five commercial decals. Students may bring their own decals in addition. Students should bring bisqueware to the first class. $125 members, $150 non-members (fee includes glazes, five decals, paper and bisque and gas firing)

Advanced Wheelthrowing

instructor: Valda Cox
CES 202 – Level: INTERMED./ADV.
Ceramics Studio
9 Wednesdays, 1:00 – 4:00pm
January 14 – March 11

This class provides the perfect opportunity to refine and experiment with more complex methods including centering larger amounts of clay, throwing sets, stacked and sectional forms, pitchers and more. Take your work to the next level! Students supply clay tools. $255 members, $280 non-members (fee includes lab time, 25 pounds of clay, glazes, bisque and gas firing)

 

Everyone has a story to tell, but not everyone has the means and confidence to get that story down on paper. Classes at PCA bring writers from all walks of life together in workshop environments. Classes are taught by published writers who can help guide students’ work from a simple idea to a polished text or help established writers hone their skills.

Classes for Beginners or All Levels

Building Your Confidence as a Writer (new!)

instructor: Deesha Philyaw
CRW 102 - Level: All
Children’s Studio
6 Mondays, 7:00 – 9:30 pm
February 2 – March 9

Using Anne Lamott's seminal guide, "Bird by Bird", students will build confidence in their skills as a writer--overcoming fears as well as internal and external censors which can inhibit the writing process. The class will also help students become disciplined about writing every day, and embracing revision as the lifeblood of writing. $120 members, $145 non-members

Fast Fiction: Writing the 1,000 Word or less Story (new!)

instructor: Damian Dressick
CRW 101 - Level: All
Children’s Studio
5 Wednesdays, 7:00 – 9:30 pm
February 4 – March 4

Always wanted to write but concerned about having enough time? Try Flash Fiction! Because Flash stories are shorter (taking less time to write), new writers can make rapid progress in the development of their story telling skills. Writing Flash also represents an outstanding way for experienced writers to get a firmer handle on story structure or economical use of language and affords the freedom to experiment with subject matter, style and a host of other variables. And with all the new markets opening up for Flash Fiction, it can be the quickest way to go from “writer” to “published author.” $100 members, $125 non-members

Poetry

instructor: Michael Wurster
CRW 100 - Level: All
Lecture Studio
8 Thursdays, 7:00 - 9:30 pm
January 22 – March 12

Explore the basic principles and techniques of poetry writing through readings, discussions, and exercises. Submit samples of your best work (no more than ten pages) with your registration. Beginners, please submit a brief statement of your expectations for this class. $150 members, $175 non-members

Travel Writing

instructor: Robert Isenberg
CRW 105 - Level: All
Lecture Studio
8 Sundays, 2:00 – 5:00 pm
January 25 – March 15

Since the first written words, travel literature has inspired readers with tales of adventure and discovery. You need not have traveled far – the intracacies of the journey are more important than the destinations. Learn how to set scenes, recreate characters, and illustrate exotic places and customs. Whether you’ve trekked down the Amazon in a rickety raft, or just camped outside of Erie, PA, your experiences and perspective are distinct and make for unique stories. $175 members, $200 non-members

Beginning Drawing

Marshall Annex
Session 1: DPA 100 – Level: All
instructor: Robert Huckestein ... 8 Tuesdays, 6:30 – 9:30pm
January 20 - March 10

Session 2: DPA 200 – Level: All
instructor: Jennie Kay Snyder ... 8 Saturdays, 1:00pm – 4:00pm
January 24 – March 14

This course covers lessons on line, form, value, texture and exploration of the creative process. Develop keener observation and perception skills using a variety of drawing materials. Students are encouraged to explore the potential of different media, approaches to finding a personal style of mark-making and drawing the figure and portrait. Supply list sent upon registration. $200 members, $225 non-members (fee includes one sessions with a model)

Beginning Oil Painting

instructor: Morton Brown
DEP 111 – Level: All
2D Studio
8 Thursdays, 6:30 – 9:30pm
January 22 – March 12

Have you always wanted to learn the basics of oil painting but didn’t know where to start? This class will cover all the necessary elements with a hands-on approach to materials, color mixing and learning to see as a painter. A supply list will be sent upon registration. $190 members, $215 non-members

Open Life Studio – Drop-In Sessions

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Marshall Annex
DPA 300: 1 Saturday, 9:30am – 12:30pm, January 24
DPA 400: 1 Saturday, 9:30am – 12:30pm, February 21
DPA 500: 1 Saturday, 9:30am – 12:30pm, March 14

PCA now offers Open Life drawing/painting sessions. There is no formal instruction. A Monitor will be on hand to time the poses. Work in the materials of your choice, at your own speed. Come for one session, two, or all four! $15 (fee includes one Saturday morning session with a model)

Color Theory Workshop (new!)

instructor: Ron Donoughe
DPA 105 – Level: All
Marshall Annex
2 Saturdays, 10:00am – 1:00pm
January 31 & February 7

Students will be lead through applied color theory as it relates to art in this hands-on workshop. Discover the power and subtleties of optics as you paint your own color system. The principles of organizing a composition will be described and applied in class projects. $65 members, $90 non-memberss

Children’s Book Illustration

instructor: Morton Brown
DPA 118 – Level: All
Marshall Annex
8 Tuesdays, 6:30 – 9:30pm
January 20 & March 10

Great children’s book illustration let’s you read the story without looking at the text. Find a short children’s story, folk tale, or poem, and explore the possibilities of character develoment and narrative technique by reading between the lines. Experience the entire creative process – thumbnails, research, sketch, character studies, color studies and finished illustration. Supply list sent upon registration. $190 members, $215 non-members.

Caricatures Workshop

instructor: Brandon Jennings
DPA 219 – Level: All
Marshall Annex
1 Saturday, 9:30am – 3:30pm (half hour for lunch)
March 14

Ever wish you could draw amusing and hilarious depictions of your friends, neighbors and loved ones? Learn how to identify the essential characteristics of appreance and personality, and then exaggerate them on paper for a grand comic effect. Bring a sketchpad, black design markers, pencils, erasers, and most importantly, a sense of humor. $65 members, $90 non-members

Colored Pencil Techniques

instructor: Brandon Jennings
DPA 110 – Level: All
Marshall Annex
6 Tuesdays, 6:30 – 9:30pm
February 3 – March 10

Achieve surprising color, depth and realism with this inexpensive, non-toxic medium. Colored pencil combines the control of drawing media with the transparency of watercolor. Create a variety of painterly effects with this exciting medium! Supply list sent upon registration. $145 members, $170 non-members

Collage and Assemblage

instructor: Sharon Wilson-Wilcox and Dafna Rehavia Hanauer
DPA 108 – Level: All
Printmaking Studio
8 Thursdays, 6:30 – 9:30pm
January 22 – March 12

Explore the methods (and fun!) of combining images, papers, fabrics and found objects to create unique works of art. During the first four sessions, work with Sharon to create an original 2-dimensional collage and explore collagraph printing. In the final four sessions, work with Dafna to explore the art of assemblage (combining elements into 2- and 3-dimensional works). Let yourself enter a process of involving imagination, play and intuition with elements from your own life, such as meaningful “found” and “ready made” objects, and original artwork. A supply list sent upon registration. $205 members, $230 non-members (fee includes collagraph ink and some materials)

Watercolor Mornings

instructor: Donna Haas
DPA 115 – Level: All
Marshall Annex
9 Tuesdays, 9:30am – 12:30pm
January 13 – March 10

Explore experimental watercolor techniques through washes, wet-on-wet, various resists, and the use of collage and other nontraditional media. Beginners and more experienced watercolorists are welcome. Emphasis is on individual instruction. Supply list sent upon registration. $210 members, $235 non-members

Chinese Brush Painting

instructor: Donna Haas
DPA 107 – Level: All
2D Studio
9 Tuesdays, 1:00 – 4:00pm
January 13 – March 10

Chinese brush painting is full of symbolism, philosophy, balance and continuity. Traditional and contemporary techniques illustrate subject matter from nature. Work with ink or watercolor, and learn brush handling and compositional development. Develop basic strokes, then focus on rendering nature’s beauty on rice paper. All supplies (approximately $26) may be purchased from the instructor. $210 members, $235 non-members

Painting without Paint (new!)

instructor: Nic Vincent
DPA 201 – Level: All
Marshall Annex
8 Wednesdays, 6:30 – 9:30pm
January 26 – March 16

Class will be a combination of art history lecture, exploring the history of mixed media painting, and hands-on time for students to create your own unique mixed media paintings. Use found objects and industrial materials you never thought of applying to a canvas before! Students will also visit the PCA galleries, including exhibitions by Associated Artists of Pittsburgh, Pat Ulbrich and Pat Bellan-Gillen. A supply list sent upon registration. $190 members, $215 non-members

Oil and Acrylic Painting

instructor: Patrick Daugherty
DPA 116 – Level: All
2D Studio
8 Wednesdays, 6:30 – 9:30pm
January 21 – March 11

Beginners receive a step-by-step introduction to the basics of painting, with an emphasis on understanding color. Intermediate and advanced students receive individual instruction in the area of their choice, from super-realism to abstraction. Supply list sent upon registration. $195 members, $220 non-members (fee include one sessions with a model)

Pen and Ink Basics

instructor: Sandra Ward
DPA 180 – Level: All
2D Studio
8 Thursdays, 2:00 – 5:00pm
January 29 – March 19

Rediscover drawing with pens, inks and colored washes. Learn how versatile, spontaneous, and yet precise the media is to work with. Master pen and ink techniques that will let you control the process of drawing. Experiment with washes of diluted ink and play with colored inks to obtain both vivid and subtle results, a f un alternative to watercolor. Supply list sent upon registration. $185 members, $210 non-members

Creative Watercolor

instructor: Teri Geever
DPA 119 – Level: All
2D Studio
6 Thursdays, 9:30am – 12:30pm
January 29 – March 5

Explore alternative watercolor painting techniques and color theory. Although drawing skills are addressed, the focus will be on painting. Class consists of discussions and critiques, as well as plenty of time to paint. Supply list sent upon registration. $145 members, $170 non-members

Painting Seminar

instructor: Paula Garrick Klein
DPA 112 – Level: INTERMED./ADV.
2D Studio
8 Saturdays, 1:00 – 4:00pm
January 24 – March 14

Prerequisite: Beginning Painting or previous painting experience. Develop your own personal style of expression in oils or acrylics while working from either a changing still life and model or on your own projects. Continue to hone your skills and explore color, composition and technique through individual instruction and group critiques. Students will also visit the PCA galleries, including exhibitions by Associated Artists of Pittsburgh, Pat Ulbrich, Pat Bellan-Gillen and the Society of Yoruba Bead Artists. A recommended supply list sent upon registration. $205 members, $230 non-members (fee includes 2 sessions with a model)

Watercolor Explorations

instructor: Kathleen Zimbicki
DPA 114 – Level: INTERMED./ADV.
2D Studio
8 Mondays, 6:30 – 9:30pm
January 26 – March 16

Previous drawing experience recommended. New lessons are presented each week including washes, scrubbing, splashing, resist, spraying and multifaceted view. Color theory and composition will be explored. Advanced students are encouraged to experiment with painting strategies. Supply list sent upon registration. $190 members, $215 non-members

Painting with Patrick

instructor: Patrick Daugherty
DPA 117 – Level: INTERMED./ADV.
2D Studio
8 Wednesdays, 10:30am – 3:00pm (half hour for lunch)
January 21 – March 11

Prerequisite: previous painting experience. Working in oils or acrylics, this seminar class gives students an opportunity for greater productivity through individual instruction. Develop your personal style and artistic vocabulary. All styles from abstract and nonobjective to super-realism are welcomed. Supply list sent upon registration. $255 members, $280 non-members (fee includes two sessions with a model)

Painting Miniatures

instructor: Brooke Rothshank
DPA 104 – Level: INTERMED./ADV.
2D Studio
8 Wednesdays, 6:30 – 8:30pm
January 21 – March 11

Prerequisite: Previous painting experience. Explore the tradition of miniature painting in Egg Tempera through the process of making your own gesso, mixing your own paint and learning miniature painting techniques to reproduce Vermeer’s Girl with the Pearl Earring. Some painting experience is helpful. Patience and a love for detail is a must! A supply list sent upon registration. $150 members, $175 non-members (fee includes some basic materials)

Experimental Painting Techniques

instructor: Mary Collins
DPA 103 – Level: INTERMED./ADV.
Marshall Annex
6 Thursdays, 6:30 – 9:30pm
February 5 – March 12

Prerequisite: Previous painting experience. Experiment with different painting techniques and media, include use of egg tempera, encaustics and non-traditional oil and acrylic formulas. Learn paint recipes, grind your own pigments and create colorful arrays of paints! Students will also visit the PCA galleries, including exhibitions by Associated Artists of Pittsburgh, Pat Ulbrich, Pat Bellan-Gillen and the Society of Yoruba Bead Artists. A supply list sent upon registration. $160 members, $185 non-members (fee includes some basic materials)

PCA’s weaving studio houses 20 floor looms of all sizes, as well as a selection of yarns. Fiber artists work in a wide variety of media with students to create scarves, place mats, wall hangings, sculptures, sweaters and lots more.

Classes for Beginners or All Levels:

Weaving

instructor: Nancy Bishop
FDC 101 - Level: All
Fiber Studio, Marshall Building
8 Saturdays, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
January 24 – March 14

Learn to warp, dress the loom, sample various patterns, read drafts and understand color interactions. Advanced students may work independently.$190 members, $215 non-members

Fabric Collage

instructor: Sandy Kephart
FDC 108 - Level: All
Children’s Studio
4 Wednesdays, 1:00 – 4:00 pm
February 25 – March 18

Fiber is a fascinating medium with all its textures, pattern and color. The possibilities are endless. We’ll explore the artful coordination of fabrics, fibers, threads and findings to create collage imagery. This exciting and free form process will take your creativity to new heights. You’ll also learn how to frame works in fiber. A supply list sent upon registration. Purchase those supplies on your own or from the Instructor for $25. Students will also visit the PCA galleries, including exhibitions by Associated Artists of Pittsburgh and the Society of Yoruba Bead Artists. $105 members, $130 non-members

Making a Story Quilt (new!)

instructor: Tina Brewer
FDC 109 - Level: All
Children’s Studio
7 Thursdays, 6:30 – 9:30 pm
January 22 – March 5

This course guides students through each step of producing a story quilt, from yardage calculations and color selection to binding and displaying the finished product. Choose a traditional story quilt pattern or design your own. Supplies discussed at the first class. Open to all levels. $165 members, $190 non-members

Tina Brewer is also a Resident Artist in our School & Community Programs.

Balms, Butters and Lotions

instructor: Adriane Pacella
FDC 111 - Level: All
Children’s Studio
1 Monday, 6:30 – 9:30 pm
February 16

Learn how to make homemade lotion, nail butter, lip butter and body bars. Get creative in their shapes and containers. Receive hand-outs of the recipes demonstrated and continue making them at home! Your skin will appreciate the use of all natural ingredients. Purchase materials directly from the instructor for $5 to $10. $40 members, $65 non-members

Classes for students with previous experience

Weaving II

instructor: Deb Meteney
FDC 102 – Level: Int./Adv.
Fiber Studio, Marshall Building
8 Tuesdays, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
January 20 – March 10

For those who have had three or more terms of weaving classes or have prior experience, this will be a continuation of Beginning Weaving. Advanced students may work on a project of their choice with individual instruction. $190 members, $215 non-members

Our fully equiped jewelry studio houses a soldering station, hydraulic press, drill press, band saw, rolling mill and several kilns, as well as a variety of hand tools such as hammers, files, pliers and forging equipment. Students create a wide variety of creations from necklaces to earrings to beads and rings.

in collaboration with the PITTSBURGH GLASS CENTER

Classes for Beginners or All Levels

Fused Glass Pendants and Wire Jewelrymaking (new!)

instructor: Heather Joy Puskarich and Adina DeRoy Stouffer
JMG 600 - Level: All
Jewelry Studio (PCA) and Pittsburgh Glass Center
4 Thursdays, 6:30 – 9:30 pm
February 19 – March 12

PCA and the Pittsburgh Glass Center come together for a great new collaboration! Make beautiful fused glass pendants, then set them with silver and wire for stunning finished jewelry. The first two sessions will take place at the Pittsburgh Glass Center (5472 Penn Avenue in Pittsburgh's East End). Learn about cutting glass, glass and kiln properties and composition as you design your own colorful glass pendants. Then join Adina at PCA for the final two sessions, setting your glass cabachons in silver and wire. Class will combine demonstrations with plenty of time for hands-on creativity. Precious metals can be purchased directly from Adina at the PCA sessions (approx. $30). An information sheet will be sent upon registration. $200 (fee includes all glass supplies)

Enameling Workshop

instructor:Tina Lazzarine
JMG 205 - Level: All
Jewelry Studio
1 Saturday, 1 Sunday, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
January 17 and 18

Create a beautiful pendant and/or earrings using basic enameling techniques. Enameling uses heat to fuse glass to metal, resulting in colorful and creative designs. Cover stenciling, sifting, sgraffito and basse taille, and use materials like glass beads/chips, sand and foil to decorate your work. Experience with materials is not required. Bring a bag lunch each day. Most materials are included in the fee, others can be purchased from the instructor (approx. $25). $110 members, $135 non-members (fee includes enamels and firing costs)

Lost Wax Casting

instructor: Arlene Crissman
JMG 102 - Level: All
Jewelry Studio
9 Mondays, 6:30 - 9:30 pm
January 12 – March 16, no class January 19

Explore this unique form of jewelry making. Build designs in wax to form a mold, then cast metals and heat to very high temperatures. The final product is a finished piece of jewelry. Gold or silver metals are available for purchase from the instructor. $240 members, $265 non-members (fee includes waxes and casting materials)

Jewelry Design

instructor: James Frape
JMG 103 - Level: All
Jewelry Studio
9 Tuesdays, 6:30 - 9:30 pm
January 13 – March 10

This course covers basic principles of constructing metal jewelry including how to saw, file, shape and solder. Advanced students will have the opportunity to explore new, creative designs and techniques including the use of stones, wood and ivory. Materials may be purchased in class. $210 members, $235 non-members

Jewelrymaking Basics

instructor: Pat Falbo
Session 1:        JMG 105 - Level: All                                               
                        8 Saturdays, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
                        January 24 – March 14
Session 2:        JMG 205 – Level: All                                   
                        8 Saturdays, 1:00 – 4:00 pm
                        January 24 – March 14

Learn the basics of jewelrymaking in metals while creating individual projects like rings and bracelets. Learn about jewelry design and construction, including lessons on sawing, filing, forming, joining and finishing metal. Some materials purchased in class. Class includes weekly demonstrations. $190 members, $215 non-members

Beaded Jewelry

instructor: Adina DeRoy–Stouffer
JMG 109 – Level: All
Lecture Studio
6 Tuesdays, 1:00 – 4:00 pm
February 3 – March 10

Master numerous techniques in this fun class. Each week will focus on another beading technique, showing multiple applications. Projects will range from simple crimping, to knotting, peyote stitch, multi-stranding, rosary beading, working with all types of findings and bead-wear design. Whether you're trying it for the first time, or a seasoned beader, you'll learn a ton! Materials may be purchased ahead of time, or from instructor. Approx. $35. Students will also visit the PCA galleries, including exhibitions by Pat Ulbrich and the Society of Yoruba Bead Artists. $140 members, $165 non-members

Introduction to PMC Jewelry

instructor: Donna Penoyer
JMG 112 - Level: All
Children’s Studio
2 Tuesdays, 6:00 – 9:00 pm
January 20 and 27

Have you always wanted to try Precious Metal Clay (PMC), but weren’t sure how you would fire your pieces? This fun beginner’s class may be the answer. Learn how to texture, form, fire, and finish PMC, an amazing form of fine silver that is malleable and worked like clay but fires to pure silver with a torch or kiln. Make at least two pieces, including 1) a pendant with a dichroic glass cabochon or a cubic zirconia, and 2) one or more small charms you will torch-fire yourself, using an inexpensive crème brulee torch. All tools and materials provided. $55 materials fee payable to the instructor at the first class. $65 members, $90 non-members

WORKSHOP IN COLLABORATION WITH THE SOCIETY OF YORUBA BEAD ARTISTS (exhibiting at the Center beginning February 8)

Beaded Beauty

instructor: Temujin Ekunfeo
JMG 300 - Level: All
Sculpture Studio
1 Saturday, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
April 11

In this workshop participants will design beads based on and/or inspired by classical bead design and personal preferences through the manipulation of Femo and Sculpy clay. The final project will be a simple, yet elegant stringed necklace. This is the workshop to relax and have fun as well as learn the history of beads as wealth/currency, emblems of social, religious, and economic status, and as an ancient form of adornment. Bring a bag lunch. Students will also visit the PCA galleries for the Society of Yoruba Bead Artists exhibit “Transformations.” $50 members, $75 non-members

WORKSHOP IN COLLABORATION WITH THE SOCIETY OF YORUBA BEAD ARTISTS (exhibiting at the Center beginning February 8)
FAMILY FRIENDLY WORKSHOP for Children and Adults!

Paper Bead Basics

instructor: Celeta Hickman
JMG 400 - Level: All
Lecture Studio
1 Saturday, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
March 14

Level: 9 years old through adult beginners (children should be accompanied by adult)

Classes for Students with Previous Experience

Jewelry Design Master Class

instructor: James Frape
JMG 104 - Level: Int./Adv.
Jewelry Studio
9 Tuesdays, 1:00 - 4:00 pm
January 13 – March 10

Prerequisite: advanced jewelry experience. Emphasis placed on exceptional design of metal jewelry. Designs drawn, discussed and executed in metal(s) of your choice. Personal instruction given to each student. Use of stones and woods may be incorporated into pieces. Registration by instructor interview. Materials purchased in class. $210 members, $235 non-members

Intermediate/Advanced Jewelrymaking

instructor: T. J. Fejka
JMG 201 – Level: Int./Adv.
Jewelry Studio
7 Sundays, 2:00 – 5:00 pm
January 25 – March 8

Learn about forming, joining, and finishing metal, while addressing design considerations as they relate to individual projects. Class includes weekly demonstrations of advanced techniques. Continuing students refine their skills while working on individual projects. Some materials can be purchased in class. $165 members, $190 non-members

Woven Wire Jewelry

instructor: Adina DeRoy-Stouffer
JMG 111 - Level: Int./Adv.
Jewelry Studio
8 Wednesdays, 6:30 - 9:30 pm
January 21 – March 11

Learn basic weaving patterns with sterling silver wire to create one of a kind works of art jewelry. Students will braid, weave and wrap various types of wire while making either a pendant or a cuff bracelet. Gemstones and beads may also be incorporated. Basic wire-working or metalsmithing skills are needed for this workshop. Materials may be purchased from the Instructor, or students can request a supply list. $185 members, $210 non-members

 

For course descriptions, please click here!