We're excited to introduce The Studio at The Nixon Centre, a welcoming creative space and an all-new series of art classes designed to inspire creativity and connection. These classes invite our community to continue learning, explore new artistic skills, express themselves, and connect with others through the arts.
No experience? No problem! These classes are less about being a “great artist” and more about making, connecting, and enjoying something new.
Check out our Fall 2026 classes below and register today.
Space is limited, so don't miss out.
All supplies are provided, just bring your creativity!
Hand Lettering and Illustrated Cards
September 16, 2026
|
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
|
$50
Create a collection of one-of-a-kind cards while exploring lettering styles, simple illustrations, decorative borders, and eye-catching layouts. Experiment with new ideas, mix and match techniques, and leave with a set of finished cards that are uniquely your own.
Pen and Ink Techniques:
Line, Texture, and Pattern
September 23, 2026
|
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
|
$50
Explore the creative possibilities of ink through hatching, crosshatching, stippling, contour line, repeated marks, and decorative patterns. Experiment with techniques that add depth, texture, and personality to your work, then create a finished ink drawing that showcases your unique style.
Marzipan Sculpting:
Edible Mini Figures and Decorations
October 7, 2026
|
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
|
$65
Turn almond paste into edible works of art! Learn how to sculpt charming fruits, flowers, animals, holiday figures, and decorative cake toppers using simple shaping, texturing, and coloring techniques. You'll leave with a collection of handcrafted marzipan creations ready to gift, display, or enjoy at your next celebration.
Perspective Drawing:
Rooms, Streets, & Simple Architecture
October 21, 2026
|
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
|
$50
Bring your drawings to life by learning the fundamentals of perspective. Explore horizon lines, vanishing points, and one- and two-point perspective as you create a room, street scene, or building with depth, dimension, and a strong sense of space.
Pet Portraits:
Expressive Animal Faces in Paint or Pastel
November 4, 2026
|
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
|
$50
Celebrate your favorite furry friend by creating a pet portrait from a favorite photo. Learn techniques for capturing personality, proportions, expressive eyes, and realistic fur while building color and texture with layered strokes. Leave with a finished or nearly finished portrait and the skills to create more animal artwork on your own.
Polymer Clay Christmas Ornaments:
Mini Wreaths, Houses, and Charms
November 18, 2026
|
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
|
$65
Get creative with polymer clay while making your own one-of-a-kind holiday ornaments! Learn how to shape, build, and decorate fun designs like cozy houses, festive trees, cheerful animals, stars, wreaths, and more. Add your own colors, textures, and personality, then leave with handmade ornaments ready to hang, gift, or enjoy for years to come.
Meet Your Instructors
Susan Krause is a talented and accomplished professional artist with a master’s degree in art from Yale University and is a 30-year veteran in art education at the college level. She currently offers college preparation classes and coaching workshops at Blue Merle Studios, in Avondale Estates.
Steve Jarvis is an artist and fabricator with a master’s degree from UC Davis and 15 years experience teaching foundations and Sculpture at the college level. He has presented multiple workshops ranging from mixed media sculpture to 3D scanning.