MCAC Classes & Workshops:


Fall Registration Banner.  opens July 24th.  Members early bird July 22nd at noon!

Whether you're looking to take a one-time workshop or to join a class that meets weekly,

MCAC offers a variety of affordable opportunities to exercise your creativity! 


We believe in small class sizes and quality instructors.

Basic supplies are always included in our course fees. 


Registration Policies: 

  • Your class registration is not complete until your payment is processed. (Registration may be canceled if payment has not been received within 3 days of registering.) This helps us offer open spots to our community.
  • You may cancel your class registration up to 7 days before the start of class for a full refund. 
 (please note that reminder emails do not necessarily get sent out prior to this deadline)
  • No refunds or transfers within 7 days of a class' start date.  Please plan ahead.
  • No registrations or refunds are allowed after the start of a class.  
  • Enrolling in a class is an agreement to abide by all the points above, and the community rules and guidelines for all of our studio classes and spaces.  

Class fees pay the instructors and buy the supplies.  These policies help us offer you the widest variety of events, tools, and supplies possible!  Thank you for your cooperation!

CLASS FEES are calculated using a class rate times the number of sessions

Ceramics=$32.50/session    Painting/Drawing/Metal/Fabric= $25/session

(workshops and intensive costs may vary)


SPECIAL NOTE TO NEW CERAMIC PATRONS:

Sequence to qualify for Ceramics Open Studio & Advanced Ceramic Courses:

Due to the popularity of our open studio option we have streamlined the prerequisites to qualify for that option.

In order to ensure the best experience for all of our patrons by keeping the studios clean and safe we ask that you follow one of these pathways towards qualifying for open studio access and advanced classes.

First identify which circumstances apply to you and then fulfill those requirements.

When the requirements are fulfilled you will be ready to enroll in any of the open studios or any of the advanced classes that come with open studio access.

Are you completely new to Ceramics and MCAC?- if yes

Enroll in these three classes: Throwing Part A, Throwing Part B, Beginning Hand building.

Do you have some ceramics experience but are new to the MCAC? - if yes,

Enroll in the experience you’re lacking: Beginning Hand building or Throwing Parts A &/or B.

Are you well trained in both hand building and Throwing but are new to the MCAC? If yes,


Throwing Part A

4 sessions

Join us to explore the wonderful world of wheel thrown ceramics. This is a class for beginners to experience our MCAC community, the facility, and the wonder of creating a piece on the wheel. Learn the basics of creating a piece from beginning to end in the 4-week introductory course. No experience is necessary. (No Open Studio Access.)


Throwing Part B

4 sessions

If you can center the clay on the wheel and pull up the sides, but need more beginner level instruction, this class is for you. Learn to throw various shapes and play with assorted surface techniques as you improve your throwing skills. At the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to take the procedural test where you can go on to any of our advanced classes. (No Open Studio Access.)


 Beginner's Hand-building (any beginning hand-building class offered)


Ceramic Studio Procedures (FREE)

2 hours in length (1 session offered the first Sunday of each month)

Description: Familiar with clay but haven’t taken any classes at MCAC? You are an experienced ceramicist but not knowledgeable about this studio? Maybe you need a refresher on our updated space. Join us for a 2-hour introduction to the ceramic studio at MCAC. At the end of the class, after you pass a short quiz, you will be eligible to take any of our advanced courses (which come with open studio access) except Daytime Open Studio; that requires 1 advanced class completed.


EVENTS OFFERED:


Classes in the Ceramic Classroom have a Light Gray Background

Classes in the Painting/Drawing/Fiber/Jewelry Classroom have a Light Blue Background 

Classes Off Campus have a Light Orange Background


    • July 13, 2025
    • 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 0
    An acrylic painting of a sunset over a body of water. Instructor Meghan Moore



    P-7 Acrylic Painting: Introduction to Landscapes with Meghan Moore


    Sunday, 1 session


    July 13th;


    12:30-3:30pm


    Fee: $30 per person for non members 

    In this one day workshop you will be taught ways to create landscapes using acrylic paint.  You will be able to take home at least one finished painting.

    Be sure to look out for other workshops offered by Meghan to add to your skill set that you'll learn from this workshop.

    Lets grow together!


    This workshop is for beginners and intermediate students, teen through adult.

    Supplies provided.

     

    • July 15, 2025
    • 5:15 PM - 6:45 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center - 601 N. East St., Bloomington, IL 61701
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Community Mural Project - Workshop #20

    with Jeremy Langston

    Tuesday, July 15th

    5:15 - 6:45 PM 

    Free! No cost to attend

    Join MCAC Director of Education, Jeremy Langston for this free mural workshop, where you will create up to three approximately 8" x 10" grey-scale self-portraits on primed poly-tab material to be permanently affixed to McLean County Arts Center's exterior public space. 

    This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a permanent mural on the exterior of our buildings here at MCAC! By participating in this project, you will become part of something meaningful for our community. This mural will represent the diversity and creativity of our residents and will be a lasting testament to our community's collective spirit. 

    We invite you to express yourself however you like with these self-portrait paintings. Whether it be realism, abstract, silhouette, or any other style that speaks to you, show us your creativity! 

    This workshop is open to all skill levels; no prior painting or drawing experience is needed. All materials will be provided free of charge! 

    If possible please come with a black and white print out of the portrait you will be drawing to maximize time during the workshop.

    Participation Agreement: All finished self-portraits will be owned by McLean County Arts Center to be used for this Community Mural Project. 

    For more detailed information on this project, please visit: https://mcac.wildapricot.org/Mural-Project/

    • July 17, 2025
    • 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center - 601 N. East St., Bloomington, IL 61701
    • 18
    Register

    Community Mural Project - Workshop #21

    with Amy Yeager

    Thursday, July 17th

    11:30 AM - 1:30 PM 

    Free! No cost to attend

    Join MCAC Curator, Amy Yeager for this free mural workshop, where you will create up to three approximately 8" x 10" grey-scale self-portraits on primed poly-tab material to be permanently affixed to McLean County Arts Center's exterior public space. 

    This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a permanent mural on the exterior of our buildings here at MCAC! By participating in this project, you will become part of something meaningful for our community. This mural will represent the diversity and creativity of our residents and will be a lasting testament to our community's collective spirit. 

    We invite you to express yourself however you like with these self-portrait paintings. Whether it be realism, abstract, silhouette, or any other style that speaks to you, show us your creativity! 

    This workshop is open to all skill levels; no prior painting or drawing experience is needed. All materials will be provided free of charge! 

    If possible please come with a black and white print out of the portrait you will be drawing to maximize time during the workshop.

    Participation Agreement: All finished self-portraits will be owned by McLean County Arts Center to be used for this Community Mural Project. 

    For more detailed information on this project, please visit: https://mcac.wildapricot.org/Mural-Project/

    • July 17, 2025
    • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center - 601 N. East St., Bloomington, IL 61701
    • 18
    Register

    Community Mural Project - Workshop #22

    with Doug Johnson

    Thursday, July 17th

    3:00 - 5:00 PM 

    Free! No cost to attend

    Join MCAC Executive Director, Doug Johnson for this free mural workshop, where you will create up to three approximately 8" x 10" grey-scale self-portraits on primed poly-tab material to be permanently affixed to McLean County Arts Center's exterior public space. 

    This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a permanent mural on the exterior of our buildings here at MCAC! By participating in this project, you will become part of something meaningful for our community. This mural will represent the diversity and creativity of our residents and will be a lasting testament to our community's collective spirit. 

    We invite you to express yourself however you like with these self-portrait paintings. Whether it be realism, abstract, silhouette, or any other style that speaks to you, show us your creativity! 

    This workshop is open to all skill levels; no prior painting or drawing experience is needed. All materials will be provided free of charge! 

    If possible please come with a black and white print out of the portrait you will be drawing to maximize time during the workshop.

    Participation Agreement: All finished self-portraits will be owned by McLean County Arts Center to be used for this Community Mural Project. 

    For more detailed information on this project, please visit: https://mcac.wildapricot.org/Mural-Project/

    • July 17, 2025
    • 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 8
    Register
    An acrylic painting of a sunset over a body of water. Instructor Meghan Moore



    P-8 Acrylic Painting: Introduction to Landscapes with Meghan Moore


      Thursday, 1 session


    July 17th;


    5:30-8:30pm


    Fee: $30 per person for non members 

    In this one day workshop you will be taught ways to create landscapes using acrylic paint.  You will be able to take home at least one finished painting.

    Be sure to look out for other workshops offered by Meghan to add to your skill set that you'll learn from this workshop.

    Lets grow together!


    This workshop is for beginners and intermediate students, teen through adult.

    Supplies provided.

     

    • July 18, 2025
    • 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center - 601 N. East St., Bloomington, IL 61701
    • 18
    Register

    Community Mural Project - Workshop #23

    with Amy Yeager

    Friday, July 18th

    2:30 - 4:30 PM 

    Free! No cost to attend

    Join MCAC Curator, Amy Yeager for this free mural workshop, where you will create up to three approximately 8" x 10" grey-scale self-portraits on primed poly-tab material to be permanently affixed to McLean County Arts Center's exterior public space. 

    This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a permanent mural on the exterior of our buildings here at MCAC! By participating in this project, you will become part of something meaningful for our community. This mural will represent the diversity and creativity of our residents and will be a lasting testament to our community's collective spirit. 

    We invite you to express yourself however you like with these self-portrait paintings. Whether it be realism, abstract, silhouette, or any other style that speaks to you, show us your creativity! 

    This workshop is open to all skill levels; no prior painting or drawing experience is needed. All materials will be provided free of charge! 

    If possible please come with a black and white print out of the portrait you will be drawing to maximize time during the workshop.

    Participation Agreement: All finished self-portraits will be owned by McLean County Arts Center to be used for this Community Mural Project. 

    For more detailed information on this project, please visit: https://mcac.wildapricot.org/Mural-Project/

    • July 18, 2025
    • 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 0
    Join waitlist
    A group of young ceramicists. Instructor Sarah Hurley



    C-23 Date Night Throw Down 

    with Sarah Hurley


       Friday, 1 session


    July 18;


    6:30-9pm


    Fee: $40 per person for non members (both members of a couple must register seperately or use guest option. Please provide name if guest option is used) 

    Join Sarah for an engaging workshop where creativity and community come together! Whether you’re new to working with clay or simply looking for a relaxed, social atmosphere, this class offers the perfect opportunity to learn, connect, and have fun. Through hands-on instruction you’ll explore the art of ceramics in a friendly, supportive space that encourages collaboration and conversation. BYOB! (open to participants who are 21 and older only)

    Grab your significant other and head down to the studio for a night of fun! Whether you're seasoned artists or complete beginners, this laid-back workshop will have you both making pottery while bonding over something new and exciting. Learn to throw on the wheel and make something together or have a little friendly competition. It’s the perfect way to get creative, laugh, and create lasting memories together!

    This workshop is for all levels, no prior clay experience is needed. 

    Participants will go home with 2-3 wheel thrown pieces.

    All supplies provided.

      

    Does not include a shelf at the MCAC and access to open studio hours. Guest registration allowed for this option.

    • July 19, 2025
    • 9:00 AM
    • July 20, 2025
    • 3:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 3
    Register

    Enamel Pendants using Copper Mesh. Instructor Nisa Blackmon

    M-3 Enamels Special Topics: Copper Mesh

    with Nisa Blackmon

    Saturday & Sunday,  2 sessions

    July 19, 20;

    9am-3pm, 

    Fee: $150 (Non Member)

    Completion of either the Introduction to Enameling class OR the Introduction to Liquid Enamels class at MCAC is required for enrollment.  

    If you have basic enameling training outside of MCAC and would like to take this class, contact instructor for approval.

    Special topics are designed to teach new techniques to students with basic enameling experience. For this Topic, students will learn to create small three-dimensional forms out of copper mesh, which will then be coated in the beautiful colors of liquid, sifted and other forms of enamel. Jewelry pieces (such as earrings or pendants), small vessels or decorative objects will result.

    Finished jewelry pieces or small tiles will result.

    All tools and materials will be provided.

    • July 20, 2025
    • 3:30 PM
    • August 10, 2025
    • 6:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 0
    Join waitlist
    Ceramic Bowls. Instructor Sarah Hurley


    C-24 Intro to Throwing A

    with Sarah Hurley

       Sundays, 4 sessions

       July 20, 27, Aug. 3, 10;

    3:30-6 pm

    Fee: $130 for non members

     

    Join us to explore the wonderful world of wheel thrown ceramics. This is a class for beginners to experience our MCAC community, the facility, and the wonder of creating a piece on the wheel. Learn the basics of creating a piece from beginning to end in the 4-week introductory course.

    No experience is necessary.


    The fee includes access to firing, glazes, & 10 lbs of clay, Includes a shelf at the MCAC.


    Does not include access to open studio hours.


    Guest registration allowed for this option.

    • July 21, 2025
    • 6:30 PM
    • August 25, 2025
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 3
    Register

    enamel set up on stilts. Bags of powdered enamels. Instructor Nisa Blackmon



    M-4 Enamels Open Studio Class

    with Nisa Blackmon

    Mondays,  6 sessions

    July 21, 28, Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25;

    6:30-9:00 pm, 

    Fee: $225 (Non Member)


    Completion of either the Beginning  Enameling class

    OR

    the Beginning Liquid Enamels class at MCAC is required for enrollment.


    Enamels & Jewelry Open Studio provides supervised work time for students with basic enameling and jewelry/metals skills.

    Students will work on their own projects using any techniques and materials in which they have previously been trained during MCAC courses (instructor approval required for students with training received elsewhere). Nisa will be present each night for guidance and problem-solving, but no formal instruction or lectures will be scheduled except for orientation on the first night.

    Tools and materials will be provided. Students may also bring their own and are encouraged to begin building their own palette of

    enamels. The instructor will be happy to guide them in making their first purchases

    of enamels, metals or tools.


    • July 22, 2025
    • 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center - 601 N. East St., Bloomington, IL 61701
    • 17
    Register

    Community Mural Project - Workshop #24

    with Doug Johnson

    Tuesday, July 22nd

    5:00 - 7:00 PM 

    Free! No cost to attend

    Join MCAC Executive Director, Doug Johnson for this free mural workshop, where you will create up to three approximately 8" x 10" grey-scale self-portraits on primed poly-tab material to be permanently affixed to McLean County Arts Center's exterior public space. 

    This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a permanent mural on the exterior of our buildings here at MCAC! By participating in this project, you will become part of something meaningful for our community. This mural will represent the diversity and creativity of our residents and will be a lasting testament to our community's collective spirit. 

    We invite you to express yourself however you like with these self-portrait paintings. Whether it be realism, abstract, silhouette, or any other style that speaks to you, show us your creativity! 

    This workshop is open to all skill levels; no prior painting or drawing experience is needed. All materials will be provided free of charge! 

    If possible please come with a black and white print out of the portrait you will be drawing to maximize time during the workshop.

    Participation Agreement: All finished self-portraits will be owned by McLean County Arts Center to be used for this Community Mural Project. 

    For more detailed information on this project, please visit: https://mcac.wildapricot.org/Mural-Project/

    • July 22, 2025
    • 6:30 PM
    • August 26, 2025
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 0
    Join waitlist
    classroom of painters. Instructor Jeremy Langston


    P-3 Tuesday Evening Painting 

    with Jeremy Langston

       Tuesdays, 6 sessions

     July 22, 29, Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26;

    6:30-9pm

    Fee:$150

    Do you like the idea of being able to paint whatever subject matter you like but have a professional artist on hand to answer any questions that come up while you're painting?


    Then this is the class you want! 


    Join painters of all levels for an evening of self-paced painting.  You bring in photos that you'd like to paint or set up a still life in person and our instructor Jeremy Langston will guide you with techniques, skills & tips catered to what you're working on.


    Your subject matter, your pace, no stress, just fun! 

    Come improve your painting skills with us at the McLean Co. Arts Center.


    *All materials are provided: paints, brushes, painting surfaces, palettes, palette knives, etc. 



    • July 23, 2025
    • 6:30 PM
    • August 27, 2025
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 1
    Register
    Instructor Amy Yeager. A watercolor and colored pencil draweing by Amy Yeager


    P-4 Wednesday Evening Painting 

    with Amy Yeager

       Wednesdays, 6 sessions

     July 23, 30, Aug. 6, 13, 20, 27;

    6:30-9pm

    Fee:$150

    Do you like the idea of being able to paint whatever subject matter you like but have a professional artist on hand to answer any questions that come up while you're painting?


    Then this is the class you want! 


    Join painters of all levels for an evening of self-paced painting.  You bring in photos that you'd like to paint or set up a still life in person and our instructor Amy Yeager will guide you with techniques, skills & tips catered to what you're working on.


    Your subject matter, your pace, no stress, just fun! 

    Come improve your painting skills with us at the McLean Co. Arts Center.


    *All materials are provided: paints, brushes, painting surfaces, palettes, palette knives, etc. 



    • July 25, 2025
    • 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center - 601 N. East St., Bloomington, IL 61701
    • 18
    Register

    Community Mural Project - Workshop #25

    with Jeremy Langston

    Friday, July 25th

    2:30 - 4:30 PM 

    Free! No cost to attend

    Join MCAC Director of Education, Jeremy Langston for this free mural workshop, where you will create up to three approximately 8" x 10" grey-scale self-portraits on primed poly-tab material to be permanently affixed to McLean County Arts Center's exterior public space. 

    This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a permanent mural on the exterior of our buildings here at MCAC! By participating in this project, you will become part of something meaningful for our community. This mural will represent the diversity and creativity of our residents and will be a lasting testament to our community's collective spirit. 

    We invite you to express yourself however you like with these self-portrait paintings. Whether it be realism, abstract, silhouette, or any other style that speaks to you, show us your creativity! 

    This workshop is open to all skill levels; no prior painting or drawing experience is needed. All materials will be provided free of charge! 

    If possible please come with a black and white print out of the portrait you will be drawing to maximize time during the workshop.

    Participation Agreement: All finished self-portraits will be owned by McLean County Arts Center to be used for this Community Mural Project. 

    For more detailed information on this project, please visit: https://mcac.wildapricot.org/Mural-Project/

    • July 25, 2025
    • 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 4
    Register
    Ceramic wall pockets hung from ropes filled with small plants or nic naks. Instructor Sarah Hurley



    C-25 Wall Pockets 

    with Sarah Hurley


       Friday, 1 session


    July 25;


    6:30-9pm


    Fee: $40  for non members

    Join Sarah for an engaging workshop where creativity and community come together! Whether you’re new to working with clay or simply looking for a relaxed, social atmosphere, this class offers the perfect opportunity to learn, connect, and have fun. Through hands-on instruction you’ll explore the art of ceramics in a friendly, supportive space that encourages collaboration and conversation. BYOB! (open to participants who are 21 and older only)

    Add a touch of handmade charm to your home with our Wall Pocket Workshop! In this creative session, you'll learn how to design, shape, and decorate your very own clay wall pocket—a perfect piece to hold plants, pens, or small treasures.

    Participants will go home with one wall pocket.


    All supplies provided.

      

    Does not include a shelf at the MCAC and access to open studio hours. Guest registration allowed for this option.

    • July 27, 2025
    • 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 5
    Register
    A monochromatic portrait made with acrylic paint. Instructor Meghan Moore



    P-9 Acrylic Painting: Introduction to Portraits with Meghan Moore


      Sunday, 1 session


    July 27th;


    12:30-3:30pm


    Fee: $30 per person for non members 

    In this one day workshop you will be taught ways to create portraits using acrylic paint.  You will be able to take home at least one finished painting.

    Be sure to look out for other workshops offered by Meghan to add to your skill set that you'll learn from this workshop.

    Lets grow together!


    This workshop is for beginners and intermediate students, teen through adult.

    Supplies provided.

     

    • July 27, 2025
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center - 601 N East St., Bloomington, IL 61701
    • 29
    Register

    Next to Normal Story Slam - Storyteller Workshop

    When: Sunday, July 27th from 1:00 - 4:00 PM 

    Where: McLean County Arts Center - 601 N East St., Bloomington, IL 61701

    Organized and hosted by Devon Lovell and John Bowen 

    Join us at MCAC to learn tips, tricks, and tools to effectively communicate, enthrall and delight your audience every time. You will leave this workshop with the skills to tell the best stories! 

    You don't want to miss out. Register today! 

    Registration is $10 and will be refunded to you upon arrival. 

    We can't wait to see you there!

    • July 28, 2025
    • 10:00 AM
    • August 22, 2025
    • 4:30 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 5
    Register

    Colorful Ceramic Dishes


    C-26 Daytime Ceramic's OPEN STUDIO

    AUGUST

    (members only)

    July 28- Aug. 22 (four weeks)

    10am-4:30pm access (Mon.-Fri. only) 

    no instructor on hand

    $130.00

    The MCAC will have an open studio option for Advanced Ceramic MEMBERS with at least a year of classes at the McLean Co. Arts Center and at least one advanced class with one of our instructors. This is not an instructed time but you will have access to supplies and resources at the MCAC.

    The fee includes a shelf, kiln firing, 10 lbs of clay, and glazes.

    No guest option available

    "EXTRA OPEN STUDIO WEEK" DOES NOT APPLY

    Please observe the dates listed and only use the studio within those dates.  Showing up for open studio before or after dates specified could result in being banned from signing up in future daytime open studios.

    Weekends do not apply. Please let those registered in classes with instructors have room on the weekend for their open studio time slots.

    See Open Studio Policies for more information.


    • July 28, 2025
    • 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center - 601 N. East St., Bloomington, IL 61701
    • 18
    Register

    Community Mural Project - Workshop #26

    with Jeremy Langston

    Monday, July 28th

    2:30 - 4:30 PM 

    Free! No cost to attend

    Join MCAC Director of Education, Jeremy Langston for this free mural workshop, where you will create up to three approximately 8" x 10" grey-scale self-portraits on primed poly-tab material to be permanently affixed to McLean County Arts Center's exterior public space. 

    This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a permanent mural on the exterior of our buildings here at MCAC! By participating in this project, you will become part of something meaningful for our community. This mural will represent the diversity and creativity of our residents and will be a lasting testament to our community's collective spirit. 

    We invite you to express yourself however you like with these self-portrait paintings. Whether it be realism, abstract, silhouette, or any other style that speaks to you, show us your creativity! 

    This workshop is open to all skill levels; no prior painting or drawing experience is needed. All materials will be provided free of charge! 

    If possible please come with a black and white print out of the portrait you will be drawing to maximize time during the workshop.

    Participation Agreement: All finished self-portraits will be owned by McLean County Arts Center to be used for this Community Mural Project. 

    For more detailed information on this project, please visit: https://mcac.wildapricot.org/Mural-Project/

    • July 31, 2025
    • 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 8
    Register
    A monochromatic portrait made with acrylic paint. Instructor Meghan Moore



    P-10 Acrylic Painting: Introduction to Portraits with Meghan Moore


      Thursday, 1 session


    July 31st;


    5:30-8:30pm


    Fee: $30 per person for non members 

    In this one day workshop you will be taught ways to create portraits using acrylic paint.  You will be able to take home at least one finished painting.

    Be sure to look out for other workshops offered by Meghan to add to your skill set that you'll learn from this workshop.

    Lets grow together!


    This workshop is for beginners and intermediate students, teen through adult.

    Supplies provided.

     

    • August 01, 2025
    • 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 1
    Register
    Three Small rimmed Ceramic Plates with dried flowers pressed into them. Instructor Sarah Hurley



    C-27 Botanical Garden Plates

    with Sarah Hurley


       Friday, 1 session


    Aug. 1;


    6:30-9pm


    Fee: $40  for non members

    Join Sarah for an engaging workshop where creativity and community come together! Whether you’re new to working with clay or simply looking for a relaxed, social atmosphere, this class offers the perfect opportunity to learn, connect, and have fun. Through hands-on instruction you’ll explore the art of ceramics in a friendly, supportive space that encourages collaboration and conversation. BYOB! (open to participants who are 21 and older only)

    Summer is in full bloom so let’s capture its beauty in clay! In this workshop you’ll learn how to create three stackable hand built plates and press flowers and leaves into the clay to imprint your own design.

    Participants will go home with three glazed plates.


    All supplies provided.

      

    Does not include a shelf at the MCAC and access to open studio hours. Guest registration allowed for this option.

    • August 08, 2025
    • 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 6
    Register
    Two pairs of hands at the ceramic wheel. Instructor Sarah Hurley



    C-28 Date Night Throw Down 

    with Sarah Hurley


       Friday, 1 session


    Aug. 8;


    6:30-9pm


    Fee: $40 per person for non members (both members of a couple must register seperately or use guest option. Please provide name if guest option is used) 

    Join Sarah for an engaging workshop where creativity and community come together! Whether you’re new to working with clay or simply looking for a relaxed, social atmosphere, this class offers the perfect opportunity to learn, connect, and have fun. Through hands-on instruction you’ll explore the art of ceramics in a friendly, supportive space that encourages collaboration and conversation. BYOB! (open to participants who are 21 and older only)

    Grab your significant other and head down to the studio for a night of fun! Whether you're seasoned artists or complete beginners, this laid-back workshop will have you both making pottery while bonding over something new and exciting. Learn to throw on the wheel and make something together or have a little friendly competition. It’s the perfect way to get creative, laugh, and create lasting memories together!

    This workshop is for all levels, no prior clay experience is needed. 

    Participants will go home with 2-3 wheel thrown pieces.


    All supplies provided.

      

    Does not include a shelf at the MCAC and access to open studio hours. Guest registration allowed for this option.

    • August 09, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 9
    Register

    Sculptural Paper forms made by Shannon Brock


    GA-1 Sculptural Papermaking with Shannon Brock


    Saturday, August 9th

    10am-1pm  


    $25.00


    Take handmade paper from the fiber to the 3-dimensional! During this workshop, participants will form both the paper from recycled linen fabric pulp and the spandex armature framework to be used to shape a small sculptural bowl or rock. Using an overlapping technique, students will then apply torn pieces of their newly formed paper to their armature. Directions will be given for separating the form from the armature later, once the drying stage is complete. A hollow, seamless paper sculpture is created. Basic pulp preparation, sheet forming, and armature building will be reviewed. This class is open to all skill levels.

    Sculptural paper forms and a spandex armature made by Shannon Brock

    BIO

    Shannon Brock; Hand papermaker, artist, and Founder of Gaptoothed Studio. In her work, Shannon tells stories from her childhood growing up in rural Missouri and explores the dynamics of family. She has traveled nationally and internationally teaching hand papermaking techniques and establishing paper studios, as well as exhibiting her paper works. Brock received her BFA in Fiber from the Kansas City Art Institute in 1995. She has served on several boards including Hand Papermaking Magazine and North American Hand Papermakers (formerly Friends of Dard Hunter). Shannon is a current member of The Pulparazzi, a group of exhibiting hand papermakers focusing on pulp painting. Her work can be found in many personal collections and museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC.




    • August 10, 2025
    • 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 8
    Register
    An acrylic painting of a sunset over a body of water. Instructor Meghan Moore



    P-11 Acrylic Painting: Intermediate Landscapes with Meghan Moore


    Sunday, 1 session


    August 10th;


    12:30-3:30pm


    Fee: $30 per person for non members 

    In this one day workshop you will be taught ways to create more complex landscapes using acrylic paint.  You will be able to take home at least one finished painting.

    Be sure to look out for other workshops offered by Meghan to add to your skill set that you'll learn from this workshop.

    Lets grow together!


    This workshop is for beginners and intermediate students, teen through adult.

    Supplies provided.

     

    • August 11, 2025
    • 6:30 PM
    • August 25, 2025
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 4
    Register
    Instructor Marjorie Hauge. Hands shaping clay form


    C-29 Monday Evening Ceramics Open Studio 

    with Marjorie Hauge

       Mondays, 3 sessions

       Aug. 11, 18, 25;

    6:30-9pm

    Fee: $97.50 for non members

    This is for advanced ceramic students only (18 and older).  All students must pass procedural class before enrolling.

     This time will be proctored by our Ceramic Assistant, Marjorie Hauge. This is not an instructed time but gives you access to supplies, resources, and the wonderful, advanced community of ceramicists at the MCAC. 


    Enrollment in this class provides access to MCAC's kilns and our full range of ceramic glazes, plus tools and 10lbs of clay, a shelf, and access to open studio hours.


    No guest registration allowed for this option.


    • August 12, 2025
    • 6:30 PM
    • August 26, 2025
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 4
    Register

    a shallow relief sculpture made out of clay of an owl flying throught he woods glazed in color. Instructor Erin Furimsky

    C-30 Texture Tiles with Erin Furimsky

       Tuesdays, 3 sessions

        Aug. 12, 19, 26;

    6:30-9pm

    Fee: $97.50 (Non Member)

    Join Erin to work with low relief sculpting techniques on tiles creating landscape and plant themed tiles. This is a great chance to transform an image or memory from summer travels into ceramic art. All skill levels are welcome. We will draw out a simple plan and then used both additive and reductive sculpting methods to create a small wall hanging. The third and final class will be used to add under-glazes and glazes for color.

    You will create 2 low relief wall tiles with surface work.


    Enrollment in this class provides access to MCAC's kilns and our full range of ceramic glazes, plus tools, clay, a shelf, and access to open studio hours (for those who have passed the intro level courses and the studio procedures workshop).


    • August 14, 2025
    • 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 8
    Register
    An acrylic painting of a sunset over a body of water. Instructor Meghan Moore



    P-12 Acrylic Painting: Intermediate Landscapes with Meghan Moore


      Thursday, 1 session


    August 14th;


    5:30-8:30pm


    Fee: $30 per person for non members 

    In this one day workshop you will be taught ways to create more advanced landscapes using acrylic paint.  You will be able to take home at least one finished painting.

    Be sure to look out for other workshops offered by Meghan to add to your skill set that you'll learn from this workshop.

    Lets grow together!


    This workshop is for beginners and intermediate students, teen through adult.

    Supplies provided.

     

    • August 15, 2025
    • 6:30 PM
    • August 29, 2025
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 4
    Register
    Examples of ceramic windchimes. Instructor Kirsten Heteji



    C-31 Wind Chimes Workshop 

    with Kirsten Heteji


       Fridays, 2 sessions


    Aug. 15, 29; (skips Aug. 22)


    6:30-9pm


    Fee: $65  for non members

    Join MCAC instructor, Kirsten Heteji, for this workshop where you will create wind chimes for your back yard out of ceramic clay.

    This workshop is for all levels, no prior clay experience is needed. 

    Students will leave with a wind chime or two.


    All supplies provided.

      

    Does not include a shelf at the MCAC and access to open studio hours. Guest registration allowed for this option.

    • August 16, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • The McLean County Arts Center
    • 29
    Register

    Building a Life in the Arts - Panel Discussion + Workshop

    Saturday, August 16, 2025 / 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM 

    at the McLean County Arts Center!

    $10 Registration Fee required and will be refunded upon attendance

    The McLean County Arts Center welcomes you to an engaging and informative panel discussion / workshop covering building a life in the arts! 

    Join us for a dynamic conversation with renowned panelists Stephen Asma, Dan Addington, Jeff Hirst, and more as they share personal stories, professional insights, and practical strategies for shaping a future in the creative world.

    Stephen Asma: Professor of Philosophy and Distinguished Scholar at Columbia College Chicago. He is also a Senior Fellow of the Research Group in Mind, Science, and Culture at Columbia College Chicago. Asma has also served as lead guitarist for Howard & The White Boys blues group, as well as served as commentator and co-host of the popular podcast "Paul Giamatti's CHINWAG with Stephen Asma." 

    Dan Addington: Gallery Owner, Nationally Exhibiting Artist, Event Organizer, former MCAC Curator. Dan will share the inside scoop of gallery representation and current issues in the Art Market. 

    Jeff Hirst: Hirst exhibited his work throughout the United States and Europe since 1987. His work has been showcased at national and international venues including the Minneapolis Institute of Art; Addington Gallery, Chicago; McKinney Contemporary, Dallas; and Bienal do Douro, Portugal.

    Come explore what living a life in the arts means for you and take the next step on your own creative path. 

    • August 21, 2025
    • 6:30 PM
    • August 28, 2025
    • 8:30 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 9
    Register

    Instructor Pamela Cather. Photograph of a Crested Fisher bird


    PH-4 Photo Organization in Lightroom

    Thursday, 2 Sessions

    August 21, 28;

    6:30-8:30pm


    Fee: $50 (Non Member)

    Some Experience Preferred


    As photographers we love to shoot photos.  But what do we do with them?  Which ones do we keep? And most importantly - How in the world do I find that one photo I took a few years back? 

    We will be working with Lightroom Classic to organize our photos.   Using hands-on exercises, I’m going to explain to you where I store my photos on my hard drive and how I get them there. I’ll show you how I use the rating stars and colors to select what to keep and what to delete, allowing me to cull my images very quickly. I’ll explain the keyword hierarchy I use, making key-wording easy and allows for quick image retrieval. 

    My goal will be to give you as many tips and tricks as possible along the way, so that when you leave you’ll be ready to use my system or devise one of your own. 

    What to bring:

    You will need to bring a Laptop with the most current version of Lightroom Classic already loaded on it. 


    To follow along you will also need to bring approximately 100 photos on a Flash drive. Please make these JPG files (not RAW) to save class time.  There must be at least 3 different types of photos (animals, people, buildings, landscapes, etc) AND they must be from at least 3 different locations and dates. 

    _____________________________________________________________

    If you’re not already using the most current version of Lightroom Classic…..

    You can get a free 7 day Trial.  

    READ THIS VERY CAREFULLY Go to the link below and download the free trial for the $19.99 a month - 1T Lightroom and Photoshop plan. Then download Lightroom Classic onto your laptop before coming to class. I suggest that you don’t do this until the day before the class so you have a few days of use before the trial is over. 

    Once the class is over you can either keep it, cancel it or switch to the $9.99 a month - 20gb plan that I use.  

    DO NOT. I repeat DO NOT download the Lightroom only plan.  It does not contain Lightroom Classic. 

    https://www.adobe.com/creativecloud/photography.html


    • August 24, 2025
    • 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 8
    Register
    A monochromatic portrait made with acrylic paint. Instructor Meghan Moore



    P-13 Acrylic Painting: Intermediate Portraits with Meghan Moore


      Sunday, 1 session


    August 24th;


    12:30-3:30pm


    Fee: $30 per person for non members 

    In this one day workshop you will be taught ways to create more advanced portraits using acrylic paint.  You will be able to take home at least one finished painting.

    Be sure to look out for other workshops offered by Meghan to add to your skill set that you'll learn from this workshop.

    Lets grow together!


    This workshop is for beginners and intermediate students, teen through adult.

    Supplies provided.

     


Mission Statement: We encourage and promote the appreciation, study, cultivation, development, and practice of art for the benefit of all the people, cultures and communities of McLean County. 


    
        "This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council through federal funds provided by the National Endowment for the Arts"

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