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Creative Classes
1-Day Workshop | Clay Sculpting: Dia de los Muertos (10/25)
Class Description:
In this class, students will use clay sculpting as a method to (re)connect with the earth. Focus will be on the Mexican holiday of Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), with time for exploring one’s own ancestral relationship to cultural holidays. Students will bring their imagination and voice to the medium of clay while learning sculptural techniques.
What to Expect:
This workshop will begin with gallery visits to view objects in the museum’s collections on display. Following this, students will research, sketch, and plan their vision for a Dia de los Muertos sculpture and build a paper armature. The remaining time will be spent on working with clay, sculpting, and finally painting.
Educator Bio:
Cal Duran is an artist and art educator focusing on connecting with his ancestors from an Indigenous and Latinx background. His work often explores parallels between hybrid identities found in myth, religion, and ritual. Duran has shown altars, installations and artwork in museums and galleries throughout the Denver Metro area and beyond. He continues to honor his ancestors and recently created a room at Meow Wolf in Denver, honoring the indigenous tribes of Colorado and the Americas.
Refund and Class Cancellation Policy:
The Denver Art Museum adheres to a no-refund, no-exchange policy. If you are unable to attend, please consider your payment a tax-deductible donation.
If a class or workshop is cancelled by the Denver Art Museum due to inclement weather or teacher illness, a make-up day will be scheduled on a FRIDAY or SATURDAY as the educator’s schedule allows.
Accessibility Statement:
To request large print materials, a sign language interpreter, CART or any other accessibility service, please email Access@DenverArtMuseum.org at least ten (10) business days in advance of the program. We will make every effort to provide accommodation for requests made outside of that window of time.
Please see further information about accessibility, parking, and directions to the DAM here: https://www.denverartmuseum.org/en/accessibility
1-Day Workshop | Collage: Embellishing for Dramatic Effect (5/10)
Class Description:
In this class, students will learn various collage techniques that focus on manipulating materials to tell stories. During each session, students will create layers and nuance to describe emotions, sequences of events, and the complexities of memories. As the class progresses, students will create scrap buckets full of self-made embellishments. As a culminating project, students will arrange their scraps into a collage and share their stories with the group.
What to Expect:
Students will walk away from classes with new strategies for exploring visual narratives and evaluating conversations introduced by artworks from the museum's galleries. By the end of the class, students will have clear ideas about creating unique embellishments in their personal artwork and how to develop collages with a unique approach to materials.
Class Cancellation Policy:
If a class or workshop needs to be cancelled due to inclement weather or teacher illness, a “make-up” day will be scheduled on a FRIDAY or SATURDAY as the educator’s schedule allows.
Materials:
All materials will be provided for students and are included in the price of this workshop.
Educator:
Moe Gram is a multidisciplinary artist living and working in Denver and uses a diverse array of media inluding painting, mural, collage, and installation. Gram graduated from California State University Bakersfield with a major in Visual Arts and a minor in Cultural Studies. Currently, Gram's art can be seen in murals throughout Colorado, an installation at the Denver Art Museum's Creative Hub, at the Acoma House in room 204, and at various locations throughout the Denver metro area. Through her playful color palette, messaging, and juxtaposition of unique embellishments and found objects, Moe’s work encourages the viewer to absorb and reflect- for the betterment of oneself and collectively for us all.
1-Day Workshop | Collage: Modern & Contemporary Mixed Media (10/11)
Class Description:
In this one day, 4-hour workshop, students will explore the art of collage while taking direct inspiration from the Denver Art Museum’s Modern and Contemporary Art Collection. Using provided collage making materials, students will be challenged to create an original collage or mixed media piece incorporating a photocopied image from the collection. This class is open to all abilities.
What to Expect:
At the start of class, students will tour the Modern and Contemporary Galleries for ideas and inspiration. Then students will choose one of the three select photocopied images from the collection to begin constructing a collage. Using as much or as little of the image, students will embellish their piece with the provided collage making supplies (i.e. tissue paper, magazine, text and found images). Making more than one piece is encouraged, folders will be provided if students wish to work on their piece further at home.
Educator Bio:
Robin Whatley is a mixed media collage artist, educator, and curator based in Denver CO. With a background in arts administration, she holds a BFA with a concentration in painting from Colorado State University, and studied at the Santa Chiara Italart in Castiglione Fiorentino, Italy. Her work examines old print ads like an archeological artifact of our ancestors. The nameless figures inked into aged pulp of 1960’s magazines are carefully rescued from the dehumanizing old Madison Ave world and safely released into a vivid and futuristic landscape. These seamlessly blended vintage paper cut-outs and water-based paintings transport the viewer into surreal and otherworldly landscapes where humanity and identity are explored beyond consumerism. Robin’s work has been included in numerous group and solo exhibitions around the US including Arizona, Colorado, Rhode Island, Florida and Washington. Her work has been published with Kolaj Magazine and The Curator’s Salon Magazine.
Refund and Class Cancellation Policy:
The Denver Art Museum adheres to a no-refund, no-exchange policy. If you are unable to attend, please consider your payment a tax-deductible donation.
If a class or workshop is cancelled by the Denver Art Museum due to inclement weather or teacher illness, a make-up day will be scheduled on a FRIDAY or SATURDAY as the educator’s schedule allows.
Accessibility Statement:
To request large print materials, a sign language interpreter, CART or any other accessibility service, please email Access@DenverArtMuseum.org at least ten (10) business days in advance of the program. We will make every effort to provide accommodation for requests made outside of that window of time.
Please see further information about accessibility, parking, and directions to the DAM here: https://www.denverartmuseum.org/en/accessibility
1-Day Workshop | Drawing: The Meandering Line
Drawing: The Meandering Line is an exciting 1-day Workshop all about using line in drawing. Students will learn how artists throughout history have used line to create and express. During the workshop students will practice contour line drawing of various subjects and use a variety of techniques and media to allow creativity to flourish all while developing foundational skills for their continued growth as artists.
Students will be given demonstrations in ink, marker, and graphite. The techniques and exercises in class will allow students to continue to practice independently using a variety of media and surfaces. The Arts of Asia and Arts of Oceania Galleries in the Denver Art Museum collections will be used to broaden student vision and explore possibilities with contour line.
What to Expect:
Students will be given a lecture on the use of line, look at examples, and practice several different exercises to develop sensitivity to line and the practical applications in the creation of art. Students will join the instructor in the DAM collections to practice the skills learned in the classroom setting.
Educator Bio:
J.R. Monks is a contemporary visual storyteller of the West. He works both directly in the field and in his studio and strives to be honest and bold in his approach creating images that speak to the beauty, grit, and spectacle of the Western United States. J.R. is a 4th generation Colorado rancher and maintains a studio in his small hometown on the eastern plains near the ranch where he was born and continues to live. J.R. feels a deep connection to the landscape and those who live closely in harmony with her, and his art is a humble homage to the infinite complexity of nature. J.R. is a Signature member of the Montana and Colorado Watercolor Societies, with his work included regularly in juried shows across the country.
Refund and Class Cancellation Policy:
The Denver Art Museum adheres to a no-refund, no-exchange policy. If you are unable to attend, please consider your payment a tax-deductible donation.
If a class or workshop is cancelled by the Denver Art Museum due to inclement weather or teacher illness, a make-up day will be scheduled on a FRIDAY or SATURDAY as the educator’s schedule allows.
Accessibility Statement:
To request large print materials, a sign language interpreter, CART or any other accessibility service, please email Access@DenverArtMuseum.org at least ten (10) business days in advance of the program. We will make every effort to provide accommodation for requests made outside of that window of time.
Please see further information about accessibility, parking, and directions to the DAM here: https://www.denverartmuseum.org/en/accessibility
1-Day Workshop | Sound Healing: The Power of Sound (11/8)
Class Description:
This class will focus on sound as a healing force through cross-cultural perspectives. Students will learn about meditation and sound bathing with the use of various musical instruments. Breathing techniques and body movements for healing will also be explored. Students will investigate how sound can be used in everyday life to release stress and to calm the body and mind.
What to Expect:
Students can expect to find a deeper understanding of how sound can help to heal the body and mind. No prior knowledge needed. The beginning of class will focus on discussion of the musical instruments used to help us heal. Then, students will experience sound bathing and meditation as a group. Time will be spent in galleries exploring instruments used in ceremonial practices and as healing tools by our ancestors. To conclude, students will be led through yoga positions, breath work, and mantras for healing.
Educator Bio:
Cal Duran is an artist and art educator focusing on connecting with his ancestors from an Indigenous and Latinx background. His work often explores parallels between hybrid identities found in myth, religion, and ritual. Duran has shown altars, installations and artwork in museums and galleries throughout the Denver Metro area and beyond. He continues to honor his ancestors and recently created a room at Meow Wolf in Denver, honoring the indigenous tribes of Colorado and the Americas.
Refund and Class Cancellation Policy:
The Denver Art Museum adheres to a no-refund, no-exchange policy. If you are unable to attend, please consider your payment a tax-deductible donation.
If a class or workshop is cancelled by the Denver Art Museum due to inclement weather or teacher illness, a make-up day will be scheduled on a FRIDAY or SATURDAY as the educator’s schedule allows.
Accessibility Statement:
To request large print materials, a sign language interpreter, CART or any other accessibility service, please email Access@DenverArtMuseum.org at least ten (10) business days in advance of the program. We will make every effort to provide accommodation for requests made outside of that window of time.
Please see further information about accessibility, parking, and directions to the DAM here: https://www.denverartmuseum.org/en/accessibility
1-Day Workshop | Watercolor Postcards (11/15)
Class Description:
In this class, students will experiment with different watercolor techniques to make a set of 10 postcards. Students will learn wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry techniques to create miniature paintings. Subjects for these paintings include DAM-inspired artwork, landscapes, flowers, and abstract designs. The instructor will demonstrate and have examples of each of these styles.
What to Expect:
Students will begin by roaming the galleries for a set period to look for inspiration. They will be challenged to re-create a loose, watercolor version of at least one chosen art piece for one of their experimental postcard designs. Participants will experiment with different techniques and subject matter and leave this workshop with several (10 or more) finished watercolor postcards that can be mailed or displayed.
Educator Bio:
Elizabeth Truskin is a Denver artist and instructor who specializes in community-driven public art, portrait painting, and multimedia artwork. She shows at galleries in the Santa Fe Art District and Next Gallery in the 40 West Arts District.
https://www.nextgallery.org/elizabethtruskin-1-1
Refund and Class Cancellation Policy:
The Denver Art Museum adheres to a no-refund, no-exchange policy. If you are unable to attend, please consider your payment a tax-deductible donation.
If a class or workshop is cancelled by the Denver Art Museum due to inclement weather or teacher illness, a make-up day will be scheduled on a FRIDAY or SATURDAY as the educator’s schedule allows.
Accessibility Statement:
To request large print materials, a sign language interpreter, CART or any other accessibility service, please email Access@DenverArtMuseum.org at least ten (10) business days in advance of the program. We will make every effort to provide accommodation for requests made outside of that window of time.
Please see further information about accessibility, parking, and directions to the DAM here: https://www.denverartmuseum.org/en/accessibility
1-Day Workshop | Watercolor: Rocky Mountain Landscape (8/23)
Class Description:
In Watercolor: The Rocky Mountain Landscape students will follow in the footsteps of artists who have captured the landscapes of the Rocky Mountains both on location, en plein air as well as in the studio. Students will learn fundamental landscape painting skills such as perspective of the landscape, value structures in the landscape, and color theory while studying excellent examples from the Denver Art Museum’s collections. Students will gain a great foundation for lifelong appreciation of landscape painting, particularly of the Rocky Mountains!
What to Expect:
Students will be exposed to watercolor materials and techniques through demonstrations. The main emphasis of the class will be learning and building fundamental landscape painting skills. Students will learn the basis of technique in this workshop in order to go forward exploring the wonderful medium of watercolor. Students will practice techniques in the classroom setting and visit the Western American Collection of the DAM to see examples of how artists use the fundamentals of landscape painting to create original works.
Educator Bio:
J.R. Monks is a contemporary visual storyteller of the West. He works both directly in the field and in his studio and strives to be honest and bold in his approach creating images that speak to the beauty, grit, and spectacle of the Western United States. J.R. is a 4th generation Colorado rancher and maintains a studio in his small hometown on the eastern plains near the ranch where he was born and continues to live. J.R. feels a deep connection to the landscape and those who live closely in harmony with her, and his art is a humble homage to the infinite complexity of nature. J.R. is a Signature member of the Montana and Colorado Watercolor Societies, with his work included regularly in juried shows across the country.
Refund and Class Cancellation Policy:
The Denver Art Museum adheres to a no-refund, no-exchange policy. If you are unable to attend, please consider your payment a tax-deductible donation.
If a class or workshop is cancelled by the Denver Art Museum due to inclement weather or teacher illness, a make-up day will be scheduled on a FRIDAY or SATURDAY as the educator’s schedule allows.
Accessibility Statement:
To request large print materials, a sign language interpreter, CART or any other accessibility service, please email Access@DenverArtMuseum.org at least ten (10) business days in advance of the program. We will make every effort to provide accommodation for requests made outside of that window of time.
Please see further information about accessibility, parking, and directions to the DAM here: https://www.denverartmuseum.org/en/accessibility
1-Day Workshop | Watercolor: Rocky Mountain Landscape (9/27)
Class Description:
In Watercolor: The Rocky Mountain Landscape students will follow in the footsteps of artists who have captured the landscapes of the Rocky Mountains both on location, en plein air as well as in the studio. Students will learn fundamental landscape painting skills such as perspective of the landscape, value structures in the landscape, and color theory while studying excellent examples from the Denver Art Museum’s collections. Students will gain a great foundation for lifelong appreciation of landscape painting, particularly of the Rocky Mountains!
What to Expect:
Students will be exposed to watercolor materials and techniques through demonstrations. The main emphasis of the class will be learning and building fundamental landscape painting skills. Students will learn the basis of technique in this workshop in order to go forward exploring the wonderful medium of watercolor. Students will practice techniques in the classroom setting and visit the Western American Collection of the DAM to see examples of how artists use the fundamentals of landscape painting to create original works.
Educator Bio:
J.R. Monks is a contemporary visual storyteller of the West. He works both directly in the field and in his studio and strives to be honest and bold in his approach creating images that speak to the beauty, grit, and spectacle of the Western United States. J.R. is a 4th generation Colorado rancher and maintains a studio in his small hometown on the eastern plains near the ranch where he was born and continues to live. J.R. feels a deep connection to the landscape and those who live closely in harmony with her, and his art is a humble homage to the infinite complexity of nature. J.R. is a Signature member of the Montana and Colorado Watercolor Societies, with his work included regularly in juried shows across the country.
Refund and Class Cancellation Policy:
The Denver Art Museum adheres to a no-refund, no-exchange policy. If you are unable to attend, please consider your payment a tax-deductible donation.
If a class or workshop is cancelled by the Denver Art Museum due to inclement weather or teacher illness, a make-up day will be scheduled on a FRIDAY or SATURDAY as the educator’s schedule allows.
Accessibility Statement:
To request large print materials, a sign language interpreter, CART or any other accessibility service, please email Access@DenverArtMuseum.org at least ten (10) business days in advance of the program. We will make every effort to provide accommodation for requests made outside of that window of time.
Please see further information about accessibility, parking, and directions to the DAM here: https://www.denverartmuseum.org/en/accessibility
2 Week | Drawing: Discovering Butterflies
Class Description:
Join the Butterfly Pavilion and the Denver Art Museum for a two-part artistic adventure! In part one, students will learn to draw butterflies by exploring their representation in artworks from the Denver Art Museum’s collections, while also discovering the fascinating anatomy of butterflies through the presentation of preserved specimens. In part two, students will be given a guided tour and immersed in the Butterfly Pavilion’s lush conservatory, surrounded by thousands of free-flying butterflies. They will continue to refine their drawing practice in this natural setting with the opportunity to nature journal and draw from live or preserved specimens. This two-part Workshop is perfect for artists and nature enthusiasts alike and does not require any prior technical knowledge.
What to Expect:
Students can expect to engage with butterfly specimens, both living and preserved, and examples of artistically represented butterflies in the collections of the Denver Art Museum. Instruction will cover both the art of illustrating butterflies and the science of their anatomy and coloration. Through the connection of art, science, and nature, students will develop skills in drawing the shapes, patterns, values, and colors of butterflies. They will gain a deeper understanding of nature and butterflies through the exploration of the Butterfly Pavilion and the Denver Art Museum’s collections.
Class Cancellation Policy:
If a class or workshop is cancelled due to inclement weather or teacher illness, a “make-up” day will be scheduled on a FRIDAY or SATURDAY as the educator’s schedule allows.
Materials:
All materials will be provided. Students are welcome to bring their own sketch books and preferred drawing materials, but it is not necessary.
Educators:
Anna Kaye was born in Detroit, Michigan and now lives in Denver where she works in her studio creating drawings, paintings, videos, and sculptures that are inspired by the natural world. Witnessing the urban decay from de-industrialization as a child enhanced her sense of empathy, compassion, love for diversity and justice, and reverence for the natural world. She earned her B.S. in geology and fine art at Skidmore College, NY. She continued her education at Yale in painting, drawing, printmaking, and photography. She earned her M.F.A. at Washington University in St. Louis where she was awarded the Laura and William Jens Scholarship and a teaching on record position. Anna Kaye’s artwork is a part of international, private, public, corporate, and museum collections. Kaye donates a percentage of all sales annually to environmental funds. She curates large-scale exhibitions that promote social action and connectivity. She currently teaches at the Denver Art Museum and Denver Botanic Gardens.
Megan Schulz is the Adult Programs Coordinator at Butterfly Pavilion, where she develops engaging programs that connect adults with the natural world. With a background in environmental education, Megan has expanded the Pavilion’s offerings to include diverse workshops, lectures, and hands-on activities centered around invertebrates. She is passionate about building inclusive, interactive learning experiences. In her free time, Megan enjoys nature photography, reading, and spending time with her pets.
https://www.instagram.com/nature_by_megan6/?hl=en#
Additional Notes:
Please be aware that the May 17th class session will take place at the Denver Art Museum and the May 24th class session will take place at the Butterfly Pavilion. General admission on the day of the workshop is included in your registration fee.
2-Day Workshop | Cherokee Basket Weaving
Class Description:
Students will learn the history of Cherokee basket making materials from pre-European contact through to contemporary Oklahoma Cherokee weaving. Following Sarah H. Hill in her book, Weaving New Worlds: Southeastern Cherokee Women and Their Basketry, we will meet some notable weavers and touch on different material traditions. The DAM Indigenous Arts of North America has a small selection of basketry from the Original Peoples of the Southeastern US and their descendants, and this class will both expose students to more examples of these traditions and give them an opportunity to weave their own round reed Oklahoma style Cherokee basket.
What to Expect:
Week 1
The instructor will spend the first 60 – 90 minutes presenting a close look at Cherokee basket weaving traditions and weavers, students are welcome to move around as needed during lecture and discussion. The instructor will spend 20 – 30 minutes demonstrating starting, shaping/forming, and finishing a basket. For the remainder of the class, the instructor will provide step-by-step instruction to the group, followed by one-on-one support. After the demonstrations, students are free to take breaks, including lunch, as needed. Every student will be able to finish at least one basket, possibly more.
Week 2
Class will begin with a shorter presentation on significant Cherokee weavers, during which students can feel free to work on baskets. The instructor will spend 20 – 30 minutes providing a demonstration of double walled basket weaving, followed by one-on-one support. Students are welcome to take breaks as needed.
Educator Bio:
Salix is a 35-year-old two-spirit, multiracial creator and educator of Muscogee/Cherokee descent. Salix has had baskets on display at the Evergreen Center for the Arts, and they teach basket weaving for Colorado Native Org's Native cultural night. You can also find them at events such as the Harvest of All First Nations Corn Festival, and áyA Con Denver.
https://www.instagram.com/salix.weaves/
Refund and Class Cancellation Policy:
The Denver Art Museum adheres to a no-refund, no-exchange policy. If you are unable to attend, please consider your payment a tax-deductible donation.
If a class or workshop is cancelled by the Denver Art Museum due to inclement weather or teacher illness, a make-up day will be scheduled on a FRIDAY or SATURDAY as the educator’s schedule allows.
Accessibility Statement:
To request large print materials, a sign language interpreter, CART or any other accessibility service, please email Access@DenverArtMuseum.org at least ten (10) business days in advance of the program. We will make every effort to provide accommodation for requests made outside of that window of time.
Please see further information about accessibility, parking, and directions to the DAM here: https://www.denverartmuseum.org/en/accessibility
4 Week | Collage: Outsider Art
Class Description:
Whether using paper or fabric, collage has long been practiced by women, people of color, and those without access to a formal art education. In this course students will examine the history of collage as an outsider art – how women and people of color used material at hand (paper and fabric scraps, for example) to create visual expressions that resonate powerfully today. Students will be asked to channel the spirit of these artists (many of whom remain unidentified) in creating their own works of art from the materials of daily life. The instructor will bring her expertise in history and collage to aid students in their exploration of this vibrant and accessible art form.
What to Expect:
The first three class sessions will include visits to the DAM Permanent Collection Galleries to provide students with inspiration in ways to think about collage. Each class session will include a discussion of different collage techniques and approaches to collage in addition to work time. Students are encouraged to practice their “collage eye” outside of class and will be given the opportunity to share their experiences with the instructor and/or the class. Students will be provided with a collage starter kit and will be given guidance in looking for additional materials to add to their collage collection.
Educator Bio:
Teresa Cribelli started her art career in the archive; inspired by the historical documents she used in her academic research in Brazil, she became interested in the ways that collage can bring the past and the present together. She was also inspired by the wheat paste street art of Rio de Janeiro. Part of Rio’s vibrant street art culture, wheat paste posters (graphic art printed on paper and pasted to walls) became a type of open-air collective collage she watched for on her daily commute. Inspired by the outsider artists who make street art, she began collecting and then experimenting with vintage papers to make her own collages.
Bringing her training as a historian to her practice (she taught Latin American History at the University of Alabama for 11 years) Teresa uses her small-scale analog collages to make visual statements about power, gender, and the environment told through the lens of history. Her work has been shown at Kolaj Fest in New Orleans and Paperworkers Local in Birmingham, Alabama among other venues. Her pieces are held in private collections and in the Doug and Laurie Kanyer Art Collection. Street art pieces based on her collages can be seen in Tuscaloosa and Birmingham, Alabama; Denver, Colorado; Barcelona, Spain; and São Luís, Brazil.
https://www.instagram.com/tacoflotilla/
Refund and Class Cancellation Policy:
The Denver Art Museum adheres to a no-refund, no-exchange policy. If you are unable to attend, please consider your payment a tax-deductible donation.
If a class or workshop is cancelled by the Denver Art Museum due to inclement weather or teacher illness, a make-up day will be scheduled on a FRIDAY or SATURDAY as the educator’s schedule allows.
Accessibility Statement:
To request large print materials, a sign language interpreter, CART or any other accessibility service, please email Access@DenverArtMuseum.org at least ten (10) business days in advance of the program. We will make every effort to provide accommodation for requests made outside of that window of time.
Please see further information about accessibility, parking, and directions to the DAM here: https://www.denverartmuseum.org/en/accessibility
4 Week | Drawing: Color Pencil (9/16)
Class Description:
This 4-week class will introduce students to techniques that will elevate their use of color pencil. Students will learn how to burnish the paper, mix colors, and see and match colors. The class will explore the instructor’s drawings, the works of CJ Hendry, as well as works in the DAM’s collection.
What to Expect:
During this class, students will be learning and making. The instructor will share inspiration drawings, demonstrate technique, and then allow time, guidance, and support for students to create. This class is for beginners as well as artists who have not been taught colored pencil technique before. No previous experience required. Students will be making small experiment drawings, though there will be time in the later weeks of class to create works based on what has been taught throughout the duration of the course.
Educator Bio:
Charis Fleshner is a conceptual artist who lives and works in Greeley, Colorado. She earned her Master of Fine Arts from the University of New Mexico and teaches art at Aims Community College as well as the Denver Art Museum. Her work has been shown at the University of New Mexico Art Museum, the Fort Collins Museum of Art, and the Emmanuel Gallery in Denver. She has spent two artist residencies at the Elsewhere Museum in Greensboro, North Carolina. Her current art practice focuses on colored pencil drawing, craftivism, soft sculpture, and feminist art.
https://www.charismakesart.com/
Refund and Class Cancellation Policy:
The Denver Art Museum adheres to a no-refund, no-exchange policy. If you are unable to attend, please consider your payment a tax-deductible donation.
If a class or workshop is cancelled by the Denver Art Museum due to inclement weather or teacher illness, a make-up day will be scheduled on a FRIDAY or SATURDAY as the educator’s schedule allows.
Accessibility Statement:
To request large print materials, a sign language interpreter, CART or any other accessibility service, please email Access@DenverArtMuseum.org at least ten (10) business days in advance of the program. We will make every effort to provide accommodation for requests made outside of that window of time.
Please see further information about accessibility, parking, and directions to the DAM here: https://www.denverartmuseum.org/en/accessibility
4 Week | Exploring 2D Art Media
Class Description:
Exploring 2D Art Media is a hands-on class designed to introduce students to a variety of 2D art mediums, including gouache, paint pens, markers, colored pencils, and oil pastels. Throughout the course, students will experiment with these materials in creative and unconventional ways, learning different techniques and approaches for each medium. From layering and blending to texture creation and mixed-media compositions, students will have the opportunity to push the boundaries of their artistic expression. This class encourages exploration, allowing students to discover the unique qualities of each medium and how to combine them for dynamic, one-of-a-kind works of art. Ideal for those looking to expand their creative toolkit and develop new artistic skills.
What to Expect:
In Exploring 2D Art Media students can expect a hands-on, experimental approach to learning a variety of 2D art materials like gouache, paint pens, markers, colored pencils, and oil pastels. Over the course of four weeks, students will explore different techniques for each medium, experimenting with ways to layer, blend, and create unique textures. Students will visit DAM’s Modern and Contemporary Galleries to study how artists apply these mediums in innovative ways, providing real-world inspiration. By the end of the class, students will combine their new skills into a small mixed-media artwork, showcasing their creative exploration and understanding of how different 2D mediums can work together to create dynamic compositions.
Educator Bio:
Moe Gram is a multidisciplinary artist living and working in Denver, CO. She works in a diverse array of mediums that include murals, collages, large-scale installations, set design, and experimental works. Gram graduated from California State University Bakersfield with a major in Studio Visual Arts and a minor in Cultural Studies, during which, she participated in a 6-month museum studies and studio art program in Florence, Italy. Currently, Gram’s art can be seen in murals throughout Colorado, an installation in the Denver Art Museum's Creative Hub, Empower Field at Mile High, and at various locations throughout the Denver metro area and the state of Colorado. In 2022 Gram participated in a residency through the La Napoule Art Foundation in Mandelieu-La Napoule, France, where she developed her most recent body of work titled How to Earn Your Big Girl Panties. This work was exhibited in October 2024 at the University of Northern Colorado. Gram’s work is distinctive, engaging, and thoughtful. Her use of found objects and manipulated ready-mades engage in discussions with viewers about themes of empathy and human compassion. Through her playful color palette, messaging, and juxtaposition of unique embellishments and obscure collages, Gram’s work encourages the viewer to absorb and reflect- for the betterment of oneself and collectively for us all.
Refund and Class Cancellation Policy:
The Denver Art Museum adheres to a no-refund, no-exchange policy. If you are unable to attend, please consider your payment a tax-deductible donation.
If a class or workshop is cancelled by the Denver Art Museum due to inclement weather or teacher illness, a make-up day will be scheduled on a FRIDAY or SATURDAY as the educator’s schedule allows.
Accessibility Statement:
To request large print materials, a sign language interpreter, CART or any other accessibility service, please email Access@DenverArtMuseum.org at least ten (10) business days in advance of the program. We will make every effort to provide accommodation for requests made outside of that window of time.
Please see further information about accessibility, parking, and directions to the DAM here: https://www.denverartmuseum.org/en/accessibility
4 Week | Painting: Acrylic Color Theory
Class Description:
This 4-week class introduces students to the fundamentals of color theory through acrylic painting techniques. Participants will explore the color wheel, learn about color relationships such as complementary and analogous colors, and gain hands-on experience mixing paints to create dynamic compositions. The class will focus on applying color theory to enhance mood, depth, and visual harmony in artwork while developing acrylic painting skills such as layering, blending, and texture creation. This class is ideal for beginners and intermediate artists and will provide both technical knowledge and creative freedom to experiment with color in a supportive environment.
What to Expect:
Students can expect to dive into the world of color theory through a hands-on approach using acrylic painting techniques. Students will begin by visiting museum galleries to explore various artworks and develop inspiration for unique color palettes. Through these visits, students will learn how to identify and extract color combinations that resonate with them. Back in the studio, students will practice color mixing and matching to build confidence in creating the perfect hues for their paintings. The class will also encourage personal exploration, helping each student identify their own color preferences and how to incorporate them into their artwork. By the end of the 4 weeks, students will have a deeper understanding of color relationships, enhanced acrylic painting skills, and the ability to express their creative vision through thoughtful use of color.
Educator Bio:
Moe Gram is a multidisciplinary artist living and working in Denver, CO. She works in a diverse array of mediums that include murals, collages, large-scale installations, set design, and experimental works. Gram graduated from California State University Bakersfield with a major in Studio Visual Arts and a minor in Cultural Studies, during which, she participated in a 6-month museum studies and studio art program in Florence, Italy. Currently, Gram’s art can be seen in murals throughout Colorado, an installation in the Denver Art Museum's Creative Hub, Empower Field at Mile High, and at various locations throughout the Denver metro area and the state of Colorado. In 2022 Gram participated in a residency through the La Napoule Art Foundation in Mandelieu-La Napoule, France, where she developed her most recent body of work titled How to Earn Your Big Girl Panties. This work was exhibited in October 2024 at the University of Northern Colorado. Gram’s work is distinctive, engaging, and thoughtful. Her use of found objects and manipulated ready-mades engage in discussions with viewers about themes of empathy and human compassion. Through her playful color palette, messaging, and juxtaposition of unique embellishments and obscure collages, Gram’s work encourages the viewer to absorb and reflect- for the betterment of oneself and collectively for us all.
Refund and Class Cancellation Policy:
The Denver Art Museum adheres to a no-refund, no-exchange policy. If you are unable to attend, please consider your payment a tax-deductible donation.
If a class or workshop is cancelled by the Denver Art Museum due to inclement weather or teacher illness, a make-up day will be scheduled on a FRIDAY or SATURDAY as the educator’s schedule allows.
Accessibility Statement:
To request large print materials, a sign language interpreter, CART or any other accessibility service, please email Access@DenverArtMuseum.org at least ten (10) business days in advance of the program. We will make every effort to provide accommodation for requests made outside of that window of time.
Please see further information about accessibility, parking, and directions to the DAM here: https://www.denverartmuseum.org/en/accessibility
4 Week | Painting: Watercolors & Plants
Class Description:
In this course, students will explore both expressive and representational techniques in watercolor. Using seasonal, botanical subjects such as branches and flowers, students will complete drawings that incorporate texture, color, and depth. Students will learn a variety of water media techniques including mixing colors, creating washes, and building transparent vs. opaque layers. Through instruction and gallery visits, students will connect to works in the DAM’s Arts of Asia Collection and look at contemporary uses of watercolor in the DAM’s Modern and Contemporary Collection, including drawings by Los Carpinteros and Laura Ball.
What to Expect:
This class welcomes both beginners and students who have some drawing or painting experience. Students will visit the galleries together to discuss water media work in the DAM's collections and then spend time learning new techniques in small studies in the classroom. They will then use these new approaches in a larger, finished drawing from observation of botanical subjects. Students will have the option to work outdoors from life in the Sensory Garden or focus indoors on seasonal flowers, branches and leaves.
Educator Bio:
Mindy Bray is a painter and muralist based in Denver, CO. Her work investigates the intersection of natural and built environments through pattern, reduction, and physical space. Bray earned her Master of Fine Arts in Painting from the University of Iowa in 2005 and has taught drawing and foundations at the University of Denver and Metropolitan State University. Her work has been exhibited nationally at galleries including Goodwin Fine Art, Rule Gallery, Ironton, and the Urban Institute for Contemporary Art. She has been featured in New American Paintings, The Denver Post, Modern in Denver magazine, art ltd., and Luxe Interiors and Design. Bray’s public commissions include permanent works at the Westin Hotel at Denver International Airport and the Colorado Convention Center, and her private commissions can be found in commercial and residential spaces throughout Denver. Bray is a current member of Tank Studios and serves on the board of Tilt West.
Refund and Class Cancellation Policy:
The Denver Art Museum adheres to a no-refund, no-exchange policy. If you are unable to attend, please consider your payment a tax-deductible donation.
If a class or workshop is cancelled by the Denver Art Museum due to inclement weather or teacher illness, a make-up day will be scheduled on a FRIDAY or SATURDAY as the educator’s schedule allows.
Accessibility Statement:
To request large print materials, a sign language interpreter, CART or any other accessibility service, please email Access@DenverArtMuseum.org at least ten (10) business days in advance of the program. We will make every effort to provide accommodation for requests made outside of that window of time.
Please see further information about accessibility, parking, and directions to the DAM here: https://www.denverartmuseum.org/en/accessibility
6 Week | Drawing Fundamentals: The Art of Seeing
ClassDescription:
In this 6-week class, students will focus on the fundamental aspects of drawing. Instruction will cover methods such as the Sight to Size technique, shape and shape relationship, foreshortening, perspective, and overlap. Students will also study light and value – the identification of the pieces and parts of light on an object. Students will discuss composition and how lights and darks contribute to the movement, directional forces, and emotional content of the piece they are creating.
What to Expect:
This course is geared towards the beginner but can also benefit the advanced student. Students do not need any prior knowledge to begin the class. During the 6-week course, students will work on several pieces, leaving the class with at least three to four finished artworks. The instructional approach will be academic, each class will open with lectures and demonstration with work time to follow. The instructor will give individualized attention during this time. Each session will close with discussion and/or critique. There will be multiple opportunities for students to review and study the approaches of the masters in order to problem-solve their own work.
Educator Bio:
Elizabeth Truskin is a Denver artist and instructor who specializes in community-driven public art, portrait painting, and multimedia artwork. She shows at galleries in the Santa Fe Art District and Next Gallery in the 40 West Arts District.
https://www.nextgallery.org/elizabethtruskin-1-1
Refund and Class Cancellation Policy:
The Denver Art Museum adheres to a no-refund, no-exchange policy. If you are unable to attend, please consider your payment a tax-deductible donation.
If a class or workshop is cancelled by the Denver Art Museum due to inclement weather or teacher illness, a make-up day will be scheduled on a FRIDAY or SATURDAY as the educator’s schedule allows.
Accessibility Statement:
To request large print materials, a sign language interpreter, CART or any other accessibility service, please email Access@DenverArtMuseum.org at least ten (10) business days in advance of the program. We will make every effort to provide accommodation for requests made outside of that window of time.
Please see further information about accessibility, parking, and directions to the DAM here: https://www.denverartmuseum.org/en/accessibility
6 Week | Textiles: Tapestry Weaving
Class Description:
In this 6-week class, students will be introduced to the techniques of tapestry weaving while playing with texture and material. They will learn the basic elements of weaving (the loom, warp, and weft) and how to set up a frame loom for hand weaving. Instruction will cover the fundamental weaving patterns and tapestry design techniques, such as plain weave, color block design, and methods for creating texture in the weave. The course will engage with the many examples of woven works from the Denver Art Museum’s Indigenous Arts of North America and Textile and Fashion Collections as well as the work of contemporary weaving artists. Through this class, students will gain a deeper understanding of the textiles that we engage with in our everyday clothing, homes, and lives and become familiar with one of our oldest technologies: weaving.
What to Expect:
The first half of the class will focus on loom set-up, weave basics, and skill building. This class will offer a mix of hands-on making, art viewing, discussion, and designing. Students will view images of the work of contemporary tapestry weavers and visit DAM galleries to look at works from the museum’s collection as inspiration for designing a final tapestry project. As students develop their skills, they will be encouraged to experiment with the materials they use in their weavings, using non-traditional wefts and found materials. Students will leave the class with one sample weaving, one final piece, and a tapestry loom for future weaving. Students do not need any prior knowledge for this course.
Educator Bio:
Elizabeth Morisette is a graduate of NCSU College of Design and received an MFA from Maryland Institute College of Art. She has been exhibiting her weavings and sculptures throughout the country for 30 years. Her work has been featured in American Craft Magazine, Hyperallergic, The Denver Post, and the New York Times.
As a Fiber Artist living in Fort Collins, Colorado, her work focuses on using the leftovers from our society and making them into art using classical Fiber techniques such as basket making and weaving. These works are often surrounding a theme having to do with environmentalism and social constructs. Connecting art and community is an important aspect of Morisette’s career. She has worked as an Artist in Residence teaching classes for the Maryland State Arts Council, The Jewish Community Center of Greater Baltimore, Elderhaus Adult Care, Colorado State University, Fort Lewis College, New Belgium Brewery, The Museum of Art Fort Collins and The Denver Art Museum.
Refund and Class Cancellation Policy:
The Denver Art Museum adheres to a no-refund, no-exchange policy. If you are unable to attend, please consider your payment a tax-deductible donation.
If a class or workshop is cancelled by the Denver Art Museum due to inclement weather or teacher illness, a make-up day will be scheduled on a FRIDAY or SATURDAY as the educator’s schedule allows.
Accessibility Statement:
To request large print materials, a sign language interpreter, CART or any other accessibility service, please email Access@DenverArtMuseum.org at least ten (10) business days in advance of the program. We will make every effort to provide accommodation for requests made outside of that window of time.
Please see further information about accessibility, parking, and directions to the DAM here: https://www.denverartmuseum.org/en/accessibility