Creative Classes

This one-day workshop will explore the Indigenous design practice of parfleche. The name parfleche was initially used by French fur traders and derives from the French language parer meaning "to parry" or "to defend", and flèche meaning "arrow". Parfleche was used to describe tough rawhide shields carried by Plains Indian warriors but was later used primarily for decorated rawhide containers. Plains Indian tribes often had an abundant source of hides in the buffalo they hunted, but, as they were nomadic, they had little opportunity to tan the skins. Parfleche, or rawhide, was prepared by cleaning and dehairing the skin and then by stretching it and allowing it to dry in the sun. This process created a stiff but durable leather that was used for many items, including bags, boxes, envelopes, and war shields. Designs historically consisted of geometric shapes and symbols in primary colors. Today, many contemporary Plains Indian artists evolved the idea of parfleche by making earrings, bracelets, wallets, etc. Students will learn about parfleche techniques and create their own keychain or earrings using their newfound knowledge.

In this 2-week workshop, students will create unique, personal, free verse tapestries inspired by Tracey Emin’s work, in particular, her appliqued blankets and tapestries. This class will explore textiles, typography, the personal in art, materiality, and more. This workshop also offers a fun entry point for writers to experiment with fiber art! No experience is necessary for this class, beginner artists and writers are welcome as well as experienced artists interested in exploring fiber arts and the personal in their art practice.

This 4-week introductory oil painting class is an excellent opportunity to learn about the materials and techniques of painting in the oil medium. Students will start by asking what makes oils unique and how to celebrate this beautiful and expressive medium. Students will use a variety of subjects to practice the working methods and techniques presented in class. The focus will be alla-prima painting; however, students will discover simple glazing techniques to adjust their paintings. This creative journey in oils will also include instruction in drawing with the brush, color theory and mixing, understanding the importance of judging values and using a variety of edges to give a painting added depth and interest. Oils are incredibly versatile, and the Denver Art Museum's collections will inspire students and reinforce concepts discussed in class. Students will look at representational and abstracted works to dive deeper into their personal painting journey.

Students will purchase their own materials and should expect to spend $120-$180.

This all-level studio class explores the art of paper and bookmaking through the lens of Modern & Contemporary Art as well as cross-cultural traditions. Students will learn hands-on techniques in papercraft and book arts—ranging from folded and stitched book structures to sculptural paper forms—while drawing inspiration from African, Asian, Ancient American, and Latin American artistic practices.

Throughout the course, students will engage with select works from the Denver Art Museum’s Collections and exhibitions, using these as catalysts for creative exploration. By studying pattern, symbolism, and material traditions across cultures, students will discover how book arts can become a vessel for storytelling, cultural exchange, and personal expression.

The class emphasizes experimentation with media such as handmade and recycled papers, collage and mixed media. Students will leave with a series of unique artist books and paper-based projects that reflect both technical skill and imaginative interpretation.

No prior experience is required, only curiosity and a willingness to explore the possibilities of paper.