Guided by an Ann Arbor Art Center Instructor, families will learn how to talk about what they see and how to create art themselves. In each workshop, parents and children will explore a different artist, artifact or art movement from the permanent collections.  All materials included. Price includes 2 family members and supplies for one shared project. No children under 5, all children must be accompanied by an adult. Must register at least 3 days in advance. This class meets in the multi-purpose room in UMMA\'s Frankel wing.

The best artists, designers, and architects have a strong foundation in drawing and observation. In this four day workshop we will use historical and contemporary artists as an inspiration point to further our drawing skills and begin to develop our personal style. Students will have access to a variety of drawing medium including pencil, graphite, charcoal and conte. All materials are included.

Mon-Thurs, July 8-11

Explore styles of illustration from Doré to anime! Starting with a poem, story or quote we will investigate a variety of drawing and painting styles inspired by some of the greatest illustrators and graphic artists of all time. These techniques will broaden students’ horizons and help them find their own unique visual voice. This class is perfect for students with an interest in creative writing who want to translate their ideas into images. All materials included. 

Mon-Thurs, August 5-8

Delve into the challenge for working from a clothed model and develop your skills of observation using charcoal techniques. Learn the principles of contour, value, proportion, perspective and composition while developing your personal style.  This is a great class for developing a portfolio. All materials included.

Mon-Thurs, August 12-15

Learn to beautifully capture the plants, flowers, and landscape in one of Ann Arbor’s premier gardens this spring. Work in the medium of your choice for six weeks on location at Matthaei Botanical Gardens.  Emphasis is placed on learning to simplify your compositions while organizing form, value, and color. Discover tips to strengthen your work all while enjoying the abundance of color. Class meets indoors in case of inclement weather. Bring your preferred medium, supplies, and a portable easel. Please note that all day parking at the Botanical Gardens is $5, so we\'ve reduced the cost of the class to cover your out of pocket expense.

Students meet on the front steps of the Gift Shop at Matthaei Botanical Gardens on Dixboro Rd.

6 Wednesdays: July 10, 17, 24, 31, August 7, 14 

Influenced by the beautiful photography of Brett Weston and other works in the collection, this drawing and painting workshop is an investigation of the landscape. Each session will include a gallery experience and working outside, weather permitting, to explore the definition of landscape and to work from direct observation.  This class focuses on traditional landscape drawing and painting in the media of your choice.  Be sure to bring your walking shoes, a pop-up easel or blanket to sit on, as well as any drawing/painting materials that you are interested in working with (charcoal or pastels are ideal). A large sketchpad will be provided. This class meets at the Universitiy of Michigan Museum of Art (in the multi-purpose room located in the Frankel Wing). Must register at least 3 days in advance

We\'re taking a cue from the Impressionists who sketched in Paris cafes with this social drawing class held at Grizzly Peak Brewing Company. Sip on a drink and make new friends while you learn the basics of drawing, including shading, texture, perspective, and form. Exercises include drawing glassware, people, and investigating the play of light and shadow. The first class will meet at the Ann Arbor Art Center, and then the group will walk over to Grizzly Peak. Please bring a sketchbook and pencil for the first class.

6 Tuesdays: July 23, 30,  August 6, 13, 20, 27

Learn how to draw the portrait from life in this course for beginners. Students will become familiar with anatomy, muscles of expression, lighting, shading, and developing personal style. Group and individual instruction will be given with emphasis on building observational skills. Classes will include an art vocabulary, which will be used throughout the course. Positive critiques will be given to encourage students to make their drawings be the best they can be. Materials will be discussed on the first day of class.

6 Wednesdays: July 31, August 7, 14, 21, 28, September 4