MCAC Adult Classes: 17+


Whether you're looking to take a one-time workshop or 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. Supplies are always included in our course fees. 

Registration Policies: Your class registration is not complete until your payment is processed. (You do not need to pay to register for classes or workshops, but we ask that you pay within a week of registration or call us at the MCAC to make other arrangements.) This helps us offer open spots to our community.

Class registration may be cancelled up to 7 days before the start of class for a full refund.  Class registration may be transferred up to 7 days before the start of class. Only one transfer is allowed, per registration/payment. 

  • P5 - Monday Evening Oil Painting for Beginners with Deana Moore Schoolcraft

    • October 24, 2022
    • 6:30 PM
    • December 05, 2022
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 4
    • 5 registrants
    Registration is closed

    Mondays, October 24th - December 5th, 2022

    (No class on November 28th)

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $150 (Non Member)


    Join MCAC instructor Deana Moore Schoolcraft for an introduction to basic painting techniques, processes, materials and color principles for those who have minimal painting experience.  In this six week class you will use water-soluble oils, and students will create a simple still life or landscape painting using and blending the three primary colors plus white. 

    This is a great class for those who are looking to start painting. Great for adults or teens. All materials are provided: paints, brushes, painting surfaces, palettes, knives, etc.  

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  • C8 - Thursday Ceramics with Claire Hedden

    • October 27, 2022
    • 6:30 PM
    • December 08, 2022
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 0
    • 8 registrants
                       

    Thursdays, October 27th - December 8th, 2022

    (No class the week of Thanksgiving)

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $195 (Non Member)


    Join instructor Claire Hedden for this six-week ceramics course. No experience is necessary, all skill levels are welcome. Students have the option of working on the potter's wheel, using hand-building techniques... or both!  

    Enrollment in this class provides access to MCAC's kilns and our full range of ceramic glazes. Enrolled students may also work on their own during open studio hours, at no additional charge. 

    Class size is limited to nine to allow for individual instruction. Early registration is encouraged; seats typically sell out in advance. Experienced potters are welcome to join this class to experiment and learn new techniques. Student work is fired on-site by our ceramics studio assistant, allowing everyone to take home finished pieces.
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  • C10 - Tuesday Delicate Forms With Paper Clay Class with Alanna Veitch

    • November 01, 2022
    • 6:30 PM
    • December 06, 2022
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 3
    • 6 registrants
    Registration is closed
        


    Tuesdays, November 1st - December 6th, 2022

    6:30-9:00pm

    Fee: $195 (Non Member)

    Join instructor Alanna Veitch for this six-week ceramics course. Get ready to be intricate! Using paper clay, we will be sculpting organic flower-like forms to experiment with the material, creating many things from smaller intricate work to bigger flowing forms. We will also experiment with different techniques to create textures by stamping, carving, and accentuating the forms of the object with different finishing/glazing techniques. This is a sculpting class for intermediate to advanced students.  

    Enrollment in this class provides access to MCAC's kilns and our full range of ceramic glazes. Enrolled students may also work on their own during open studio hours, at no additional charge. 

    Class size is limited to nine to allow for individual instruction time. Early registration is encouraged; seats typically sell out in advance. Experienced potters are welcome to join this class to experiment and learn new techniques. Student work is fired on-site by our ceramics studio assistant, allowing everyone to take home finished pieces. 
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  • C4 - Hand Building For Beginners with Kirsten Heteji

    • November 02, 2022
    • 12:30 PM
    • December 14, 2022
    • 3:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 6
    • 3 registrants
    Registration is closed
                

    Wednesdays, November 2nd-December 14th, 2022

    (No Class on November 23rd Due To Thanksgiving)

    12:30-3:00 PM

    Fee: $195 (Non Member)

    Join instructor Kirsten Heteji for this six-week ceramics course. This class is great for those with no ceramic experience to learn the basics of hand building ceramics. Learn pinch, slab and coil techniques with surface decoration throughout. 

    Enrollment in this class provides access to MCAC's kilns and our full range of ceramic glazes, plus tool and 12.5lbs of clay. Enrolled students may also work on their own during open studio hours, at no additional charge. 

    Class size is limited to nine to allow for individual instruction time. Early registration is encouraged; seats typically sell out in advance. Experienced potters are welcome to join this class to experiment and learn new techniques. Student work is fired on-site by our ceramics studio assistant, allowing everyone to take home finished pieces. 
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  • C13 - Wednesday Advanced Ceramics with Erin Furimsky

    • November 09, 2022
    • 6:30 PM
    • December 07, 2022
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 0
    • 9 registrants
    Registration is closed
                       

    Wednesdays, November 9th - December 7th, 2022

    (No Class on November 23rd)

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $130 (Non Member)


    Calling all advanced ceramic students! If you've taken multiple ceramic classes at the MCAC (3 sessions or a year working with clay) and you are looking to learn some new techniques that are more advanced, then this is the class for you! Join MCAC Instructor Erin Furimsky for this four-session class, you will receive one on one instruction along with learning from other advanced students.  

    Enrollment in this class provides access to MCAC's kilns and our full range of ceramic glazes 12.5 pounds of clay and a large assortment of tools. Enrolled students may also take advantage of Open Studio at no extra charge. This is a great resource to use the ceramic studio whenever the MCAC is open and there's not another Ceramic Class using the space. 

    Class size is limited to nine to allow for individual instruction. Early registration is encouraged; seats typically sell out in advance. Student work is fired on-site by our ceramics studio assistant on Fridays, allowing everyone to take home finished pieces.
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  • P5 -Tuesday Morning Intermediate Chinese Brush Painting with Su Ge

    • November 15, 2022
    • 9:00 AM
    • December 06, 2022
    • 12:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 5
    • 3 registrants
    Registration is closed

         

    Tuesdays, November 15th-December 6th, 2022

    9:00am-12:00pm

    Fee: $150 (Non- Member)


    In this four session class, students will learn how Chinese calligraphy is linked to Chinese Brush Painting and how you judge the quality of the line. The difference between Chinese Brush Painting and western watercolor painting will be discussed.  More advanced skills in handling the brush and ink will be introduced, demonstrated and applied.  We will also explore the design and composition of the Chinese Brush Painting in more detail.  At the end of the workshop, students will paint Lotus Flowers in ink and color.

    This is an intermediate class, it's a great option for someone who has already taken a workshop or intensive with Su Ge at the McLean Co. Arts Center or at Heartland.  

    *The fee includes all materials and instruction.

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  • P3 - Tuesday Evening Painting Class with Jeremy Langston

    • November 15, 2022
    • 6:30 PM
    • December 20, 2022
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 0
    • 10 registrants
    Registration is closed

    Tuesdays, November 15th - December 20th, 2022

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $150 (Non Member)


    Interested in painting with acrylics or water mixable oils? Join instructor Jeremy Langston for this six-week painting course. No experience is necessary, all skill levels are welcome. Students may bring reference photos from home or use images available in the classroom library. This course covers a variety of acrylic fundamentals: materials and care, layering, brush work, and masking. You'll also Learn the flow of how to work with water-mixable oils, color-mixing, and different techniques. Students can expect to leave with a finished painting or two!

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

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  • C15 - Holiday Ceramic Class with Kirsten Heteji

    • November 20, 2022
    • 9:30 AM
    • December 11, 2022
    • 12:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 1
    • 7 registrants


    Sundays, November 20th-December 11th, 2022

    9:30am-12:00pm

    Fee: $130 (Non Member)

    Join instructor Kirsten Heteji for this Sunday-Funday four-week winter wonderland ceramics course. You will work on and create three projects just in time for the Holidays! Pinched pinecone ornaments, soft slab snow tree lanterns, and hard slab cozy home incense burner. After class, you can stick around for open studio to continue to work on your projects on your own till 2pm. The first three weeks will be focused on creating the items and getting them ready for the kiln, the last class will be spent finishing up any glazing or last minute details to complete your three items. This is a great class for beginners or advanced students, all levels are welcome. 

    Enrollment in this class provides access to MCAC's kilns and our full range of ceramic glazes. Enrolled students may also work on their own during open studio hours, at no additional charge. 

    Class size is limited to eight to allow for individual instruction time. Student work is fired on-site by our ceramics studio assistant, allowing everyone to take home finished pieces at the end of class. 
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  • C14 - Monday Advanced Ceramic Open Studio with Marjorie Hauge

    • November 21, 2022
    • 6:30 PM
    • December 12, 2022
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 0
    • 12 registrants
    Registration is closed


    Mondays, November 21st - December 12th, 2022

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $125 (Non Member)

    The MCAC will have an open studio option during the fall for our advanced ceramic students. This session on Monday nights is open to ceramic students 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 time will be proctored by our Ceramic Assistant Marjorie Hauge. This is not an instructed time but you will have access to supplies, recources and the wonderful advanced community of ceramicists at the MCAC.

    The $125 fee includes access to firing, glazes, 10 lbs of clay, a shelf at the MCAC and access to open studio during our open hours. No guest registration allowed for this option.

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  • F3 -Thursday Evening Japanese Temari Class with Heather Evert

    • December 01, 2022
    • 6:30 PM
    • December 15, 2022
    • 8:30 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 6
    • 3 registrants
    Registration is closed

    Thursdays, December 1st, 8th & 15th, 2022

    6:30-8:30 PM

    Fee: $75 (Non Member)

    Temari is an art form with hundreds of years of history in Japan. Ladies at the Imperial Court once made them to play games and compete on their embroidery skills. Before rubber balls, children used them for outdoor play. Modern temari are beautiful gifts for special occasions. 

    This three session class is open to beginners or those with some temari experience. There will be a little homework between sessions. Over the three weeks, learn a bit of the history of temari in Japan, and get practice, design guidance and feedback as you create your embroidery patterns. Week 1: lay down guidelines on a ball and how to wrap a new ball; Week 2: designs with wrapped bands and interlocking shapes; Week 3: decorating negative space and the classic kiku (chrysanthemum). All materials are supplied for this class by the MCAC.

    Heather is certified with the Japan Temari Association and was an MCAC Artisan Workshop Resident in November 2018 and 2019. 

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  • F4 - Felted Holiday Ornament Workshop with Heather Evert

    • December 07, 2022
    • 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington, IL 61701
    • 0
    • 8 registrants
    Join waitlist

     

    Wednesday, December 7, 2022

     6:30-9pm

    $25 (Non Member)

    Join MCAC Instructor Heather Evert for a festive night making felted ornaments! Using cookie cutters as a template, students will form shapes out of wool with felting needles, then embellish them with more wool colors, embroidery threads or beads. For an alternate ornament option, students start with a woolen ball shape and embellish it with more felted-on wools or beads. Students will leave with two or more small ornaments and holiday cookies will be served.

    *Open to teens and adults. All materials provided for the workshop by the MCAC.

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  • J1 -Saturday Creative Jewelry with Wire & Beads Intensive with Nisa Blackmon

    • December 10, 2022
    • 1:00 PM
    • December 17, 2022
    • 4:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 7
    • 1 registrant
    Register

         

    Saturdays, December 10th & 17th, 2022

    1:00-4:00pm

    Fee: $65.00  (Non Member)

    Student Tool Kit $35.00


    Simplicity can be incredibly beautiful.  Join instructor Nisa Blackmon for two sessions of beginning jewelry-making using nothing more than beads, wire and a few tools.  Students will learn elements of jewelry design and versatile wire-working methods, enabling them to make elegant and well-crafted earrings, necklaces and bracelets from non-precious metals and a variety of bead types.  At the end of both sessions, students will take home finished pieces of jewelry as well as the tools and knowledge to keep on creating!

    No experience is necessary.  Students will purchase a tool and supply kit specifically designed for this workshop that is theirs to keep after the workshop is over. Students are welcome to bring any additional beads and jewelry wire they may already have.  They should also bring pencils & paper or a sketchbook for notes and designs.

    *Please feel free to bring your own drinks and snacks to this intensive.     
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  • P1 - Tuesday Evening Painting Studio with Jeremy Langston

    • January 17, 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • February 21, 2023
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 9

    Tuesdays, January 17th-February 21st, 2023

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $150 (Non Member)


    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, knives, etc.  

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  • C1 - Advanced Ceramics (Focus On Lidded Forms) with Erin Furimsky

    • January 18, 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • February 22, 2023
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 8
                       

    Wednesdays, January 18-February 22, 2023

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $195 (Non Member)


    Calling all advanced ceramic students! If you've taken multiple ceramic classes at the MCAC (3 sessions or a year working with clay) and you are looking to learn some new techniques that are more advanced, then this is the class for you! Join MCAC Instructor Erin Furimsky for this six-session class, you will receive one on one instruction along with learning from other advanced students. In this class Erin will demonstrate handbuilt lidded forms and also how to throw a lid on the wheel. 

    Enrollment in this class provides access to MCAC's kilns and our full range of ceramic glazes 12.5 pounds of clay and a large assortment of tools. Enrolled students may also take advantage of Open Studio at no extra charge. This is a great resource to use the ceramic studio whenever the MCAC is open and there's not another Ceramic Class using the space. 

    Class size is limited to eight to allow for individual instruction. Early registration is encouraged; seats typically sell out in advance. Student work is fired on-site by our ceramics studio assistant on Fridays, allowing everyone to take home finished pieces.
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  • C2 - Thursday Pottery Wheel for Beginners with Claire Hedden

    • January 19, 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • February 09, 2023
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 8

       

    Thursdays, January 19-February 9, 2023

    6:30-9:00pm

    Fee: $130 (Non- Member)


    In this 4 session beginner's ceramic class, MCAC instructor Claire Hedden will teach students multiple techniques to center a ball of clay and create various forms on the potter’s wheel - cups, bowls, vessels, etc. You will learn the basics of the pottery studio, wheel throwing and basic glazing. This workshop is a great opportunity for students of all levels to explore clay on the potter’s wheel in a fun and creative atmosphere.

    *All materials supplied by the MCAC including clay body, glazes, tools, open studio time and kiln use. 

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  • P2 - Beginner Portrait Class with Billie Jean Hill

    • January 23, 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • February 27, 2023
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 8

    Mondays, January 23rd-February 27th, 2023

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $150 (Non Member)


    In this six week class, students should expect to learn the basics of facial construction, develop drawing and painting techniques, and have fun practicing the art of portraiture! MCAC Instructor, Billie Jean Hill will demonstrate useful methods from gridding to underpainting, working from photography and life. Students will learn to troubleshoot common stumbling blocks that may impede their progress in an encouraging environment as they grow valuable skills to create realistic portraits.


    Supplemental drawing assignments outside of class will augment student’s progress and assist Billie in determining student’s needs. Students should expect to complete three finished portraits over the course of this class. All necessary supplies will be provided by the art center, however students are encouraged to bring whatever tools they feel most comfortable using if they already paint at home.


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

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  • C20 - Advanced Decals & Transfers Ceramic Class with Kirsten Heteji

    • January 27, 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • February 17, 2023
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 8


    Fridays, January 27th-February 17th, 2023

    6:30-9:00pm

    Fee: $130 (Non Member)

    Join instructor Kirsten Heteji for this four-week advanced ceramics course. Do you have glazed works that need a little something extra? Let’s spruce it up with some decals! Like stickers for ceramic work, we can collage by adding images to your almost finished pieces. We will also work with underglaze transfers to experiment with adding some pattern and imagery to your work. This class is best suited for experienced ceramicist who know how to build or throw. You will need fired and glazed pieces already made at the beginning of this course to learn how to use the decals.


    Enrollment in this class provides access to MCAC's kilns and our full range of ceramic glazes. Enrolled students may also work on their own during open studio hours, at no additional charge. 

    Class size is limited to eight to allow for individual instruction time. Student work is fired on-site by our ceramics studio assistant, allowing everyone to take home finished pieces at the end of class. 
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  • C3 - Family Workshops Making Ceramic Rattles with Marjorie Hauge

    • January 28, 2023
    • February 11, 2023
    • 2 sessions
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 5

        


    Saturdays, January 28th & February 11th

    9:30am-12:00pm

    Fee: $50.00 (Non- Member)

    Moms, dads, grandparents, uncles and aunts and guardians, we have a great opportunity for you and your little ones. Join MCAC Instructor, Marjorie Hauge for this wonderful set of workshops.

    A handful of clay and your fingers can make wonderous things. Come explore the fun of making rattles out of clay. This workshop is for an adult and child of any school age. You design the rattles and shape them in the first session. The second session you choose the glaze and play with color. Come prepared for fun! 

    *The fee includes price of class for 1 adult and up to two children, 2 pounds of clay that can make up to 4 rattles total, and glazes and kiln firing. This class is great for any school age child, if you have questions please call us at the Arts Center.

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  • P3 - Saturday Mixed-Media Workshop with Dale Evans

    • January 28, 2023
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 8

       

    Saturday, January 28th, 2023

    1:00- 4:00 PM

    Fee: $45


    Combining a variety of wet media - inks, watercolor, etc, with drawing ingredients - charcoal, graphite, and pastels, students will have a chance to explore landscapes utilizing provided and student supplied images. Bring an image you would like to recreate or use one provided by instructor Dale Evans. This is a workshop for intermediate to advanced students, strong drawing skills needed.

    *All materials are supplied for this class. Please fell free to bring your own drinks and snacks to this workshop.


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  • C4 - Monday Advanced Ceramic Open Studio with Marjorie Hauge

    • February 06, 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • February 27, 2023
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 10


    Mondays, February 6th - 27th, 2023

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $125 (Non Member)

    The MCAC will have an open studio option during the winter for our advanced ceramic students. This session on Monday nights is open to ceramic students 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 time will be proctored by our Ceramic Assistant Marjorie Hauge. This is not an instructed time but you will have access to supplies, recources and the wonderful advanced community of ceramicists at the MCAC.

    The $125 fee includes access to firing, glazes, 10 lbs of clay, a shelf at the MCAC and access to open studio during our open hours. No guest registration allowed for this option.

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  • PA1 -Intro To Pastels Workshop with Mandy Roeing

    • February 19, 2023
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 9

         

    Sunday, February 19th, 2023

    1:00-4:00pm

    Fee: $45  (Non Member)

    Interested in Pastels? Wondering were to start and how they work? Then join instructor Mandy Roeing for this Sunday afternoon workshop at the MCAC. Mandy will teach you all the techniques to start your pastel journey and each student will create and leave with a small piece of art. This is a great workshop for teens and adults. All materials provided by the MCAC.

    *Please feel free to bring your own drinks and snacks to this workshop.     
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  • C5 - Saturday Plaster Molds & Damp Box Workshop with Erin Furimsky

    • February 25, 2023
    • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 8

       

     Saturday, February 25th, 2023

    10:00am-12:30pm

    Fee: $50.00 (Non- Member)

    Join MCAC Instructor, Erin Furimsky for a fun morning of learning a simple way to make plaster molds and creating a damp box for your ongoing ceramic projects. The MCAC will provide the plaster, the plastic box for the damp box and all the instructions, all you need to bring is a plastic bowl or two, the size is up to you and some enthusiasm. This workshop is geared towards students who have previous ceramic experience.

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  • P4 - Tuesday Evening Painting Studio with Jeremy Langston

    • February 28, 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • April 04, 2023
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 9

    Tuesdays, February 28th-April 4th, 2023

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $150 (Non Member)


    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, knives, etc.  

    Show details

  • P5 - Daytime Watercolor with Dale Evans

    • March 01, 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • April 05, 2023
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 8

    Wednesdays, March 1st-April 5th, 2023

    12:30-3:00PM

    Fee: $150 (Non-Members)

    Join instructor Dale Evans for this six-week all-levels watercolor course. This course is appropriate for those with no experience painting on their own, as well as those who wish to expand upon their skills. All supplies are included.

    This course covers a variety of watercolor fundamentals: wash techniques, glazing, layering, brush work, and masking. Students will work with transparent still life objects and paint landscapes using photo references. All materials provided in fee.
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  • P10 - Beginner Oil Painting Session II with Deana Moore Schoolcraft

    • March 02, 2023
    • 12:30 PM
    • April 06, 2023
    • 3:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 9

    Thursdays, March 2nd-April 6th, 2023

    12:30 - 3:00 PM

    Fee: $150 (Non Member)


    Join MCAC instructor Deana Moore Schoolcraft for an introduction to basic painting techniques, processes, materials and color principles for those who have limited painting experience.  In this six week class your will use water-soluble oils, and students will create a simple still life or landscape painting using a limited palette. 

    This is a great class for those who have taken Deana's Beginning Oil Painting Class or whom have some basic knowledge of oil painting techniques and materials. Great class for adults or teens. All materials are provided: paints, brushes, painting surfaces, palettes, knives, etc.  

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  • C6 - Advanced Wheel Intensive with Claire Hedden

    • March 02, 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • March 16, 2023
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 9

    Thursday, March 2nd-16th, 2023 

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $100.00

    Join instructor Claire Hedden for this three-week ceramics intensive. This class is geared towards students with one full year of ceramic classes at the MCAC and at least two classes that involve wheel work. In this three week intensive Claire will work with you so that you can refine your throwing techniques and create advanced work on the wheel. 


    Enrollment in this class provides access to MCAC's kilns and our full range of ceramic glazes & 10 pounds of clay body. Enrolled students may also work on their own during open studio hours, at no additional charge.

    Class size is limited to nine to allow for individual instruction time. Early registration is encouraged; seats typically sell out in advance. Student work is fired on-site by our ceramics studio assistants, allowing everyone to take home finished pieces throughout the class. 
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  • C19 - Berry Bowls & Bird Feeders Ceramic Class with Kirsten Heteji

    • March 03, 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • March 24, 2023
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 8

    Fridays, March 3rd-24th, 2023

    6:30-9:00pm

    Fee: $130 (Non Member)

    Join instructor Kirsten Heteji for this four-week springtime ceramics course. You will work on and create two large projects just in time for the birds & berries! Multilevel Birdfeeders & Berry Bowls. The first two weeks will be focused on handbuilding the items and getting them ready for the kiln, the third & fourth sessions will be spent finishing up any glazing or last minute details to complete your two items. This is a great class for beginners or advanced students, all levels are welcome. 

    Enrollment in this class provides access to MCAC's kilns and our full range of ceramic glazes. Enrolled students may also work on their own during open studio hours, at no additional charge. 

    Class size is limited to eight to allow for individual instruction time. Student work is fired on-site by our ceramics studio assistant, allowing everyone to take home finished pieces at the end of class. 
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  • D1 - Drawing With Powdered Graphite Saturday Workshop with Jeremy Langston

    • March 04, 2023
    • 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 9


      

      Saturday, March 4th, 2023

    11:00am - 4:00pm

    Fee: $75.00 (Non Member)

    Love to draw with graphite but struggle getting those darks dark enough without a heavy shine?  MCAC Instructor, Jeremy Langston will guide you with techniques and tips on how to take your graphite art to the next level in this one day workshop.  Bring photos to draw or set up a still life for direct observation practice. The fee includes all supplies needed for the workshop.

    *Please feel free to bring your own drinks, snacks and lunch to this workshop, or pop out for lunch out in downtown Bloomington.     
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  • C7 - Monday Advanced Ceramic Open Studio with Marjorie Hauge

    • March 06, 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • March 27, 2023
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 10


    Mondays, March 6th-27th, 2023

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $125 (Non Member)

    The MCAC will have an open studio option during the winter for our advanced ceramic students. This session on Monday nights is open to ceramic students 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 time will be proctored by our Ceramic Assistant Marjorie Hauge. This is not an instructed time but you will have access to supplies, recources and the wonderful advanced community of ceramicists at the MCAC.

    The $125 fee includes access to firing, glazes, 10 lbs of clay, a shelf at the MCAC and access to open studio during our open hours. No guest registration allowed for this option.

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  • C8 - Glaze Exploration on Test Tiles with Erin Furimsky

    • March 08, 2023
    • April 05, 2023
    • 3 sessions
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 10

       

     Wednesdays, March 8th, 22nd & April 5th, 2023

    6:30-9:00PM

    Fee: $100 (Non- Member)


    Understanding how ceramic materials and glazes behave when fired is essential to taking your work to the next level. And the best way to gain this understanding is to test! When working with clay you make a piece and then glaze it. Making those surface decisions can be very exciting and challenging. Here is a chance to work on developing some underglaze and glaze combinations first, before you make a piece. Come to this workshop series to develop surfaces so you will have unique combinations to work with when it comes time to glaze your own work. We will focus on layering different glazes, doing multiple firings, taking risks by mixing glazes, and even putting underglazes on top of glazes. We will experiment and break some rules on test tiles, not final pieces. 

    This workshop will be in three 2.5 hour sessions every other week. The first night will be going over some very basic materials in glazes and discussing why glazes work the way they do and talking about what students want from their glazes. Attendees will apply glazes on prepared tiles and make more test tiles specific to their interests. Week two will be spent looking at the results and doing another round of testing in response to what was learned. Week three will be a deep dive into the results with time spent analyzing, compiling, and sharing all the information gathered from the tests. Please be willing to share what you learn with others in the class. There will be some time on the last night to do one more round of testing. This series is intended for students that have some experience with clay and glaze. 

    *All materials including clay, glazes, tools, Open Studio time and kiln firings included in fee.

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  • P12 - Advanced Portrait Class with Billie Jean Hill

    • March 20, 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • April 24, 2023
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 8

    Mondays, March 20th-April 24th, 2023

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $150 (Non Member)


    Continue your portrait studies with MCAC Instructor Billie Jean Hill in this six week advanced class! Featuring a greater emphasis on the rich history of portraiture, we will focus on three great historic portrait painters and recreate works from the past in order to learn from the masters. This class is for students who have taken the beginner course with Billie Jean or with Dale Evans and want to expand their skills as a portrait painter.


    In this course, students can expect to complete three finished portraits based on masterworks, cultivating a greater understanding about the context of the art that informs our practices today. Supplemental drawing assignments outside of class will again augment student’s progress and assist Billie in determining student’s needs as the course unfolds. All necessary supplies will be provided by the art center, however students are encouraged to bring whatever tools they feel most comfortable using if they already paint at home.


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

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  • C11 - Monday Advanced Ceramic Open Studio with Marjorie Hauge

    • April 03, 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • April 24, 2023
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 10


    Mondays, April 3rd-24th, 2023

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $125 (Non Member)

    The MCAC will have an open studio option during the spring for our advanced ceramic students. This session on Monday nights is open to ceramic students 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 time will be proctored by our Ceramic Assistant Marjorie Hauge. This is not an instructed time but you will have access to supplies, recources and the wonderful advanced community of ceramicists at the MCAC.

    The $125 fee includes access to firing, glazes, 10 lbs of clay, a shelf at the MCAC and access to open studio during our open hours. No guest registration allowed for this option.

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  • C21 - Friday Advanced Ceramic Open Studio with Kirsten Heteji

    • April 07, 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • April 28, 2023
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 10


    Fridays, April 7th-28th, 2023

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $125 (Non Member)

    The MCAC will have an open studio option during the spring for our advanced ceramic students. This session on Friday nights is open to ceramic students 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 time will be proctored by our Ceramic Instructor Kirsten Heteji. This is not an instructed time but you will have access to supplies, recources and the advanced expience of Kirsten & the of community of ceramicists at the MCAC.

    The $125 fee includes access to firing, glazes, 10 lbs of clay, a shelf at the MCAC and access to open studio during our open hours. No guest registration allowed for this option.

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  • D2 - Beginner Drawing with Dave Templeton

    • April 11, 2023
    • 12:30 PM
    • May 02, 2023
    • 3:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 9


    Tuesdays, April 11th-May 2nd, 2023

    12:30 - 3:00 PM

    Fee: $100 (Non Member)

    Join MCAC instructor Dave Templeton for this four-week beginner drawing class. Dave will teach you all the basics of drawing and students will practice depicting line, form, tone and texture. Projects will emphasize one-point and two-point perspective in order to produce drawings which accurately represent three-dimensional forms.

    This class is recommended for anyone wishing to start their drawing journey, and for painters who would like to create more accurate sketches before beginning to paint. No experience necessary! Students will be asked to complete simple homework assignments in a sketchbook that is provided by the MCAC. 

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  • P7 - Tuesday Evening Painting Studio with Jeremy Langston

    • April 11, 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • May 16, 2023
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 9

    Tuesdays, April 11th-May 16th, 2023

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $150 (Non Member)


    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, knives, etc.  

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  • P8 - Evening Watercolor with Dale Evans

    • April 12, 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • May 17, 2023
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 8

    Wednesdays, April 12th-May 17th, 2023

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $150 (Non-Members)

    Join instructor Dale Evans for this six-week all-levels watercolor course. This course is appropriate for those with no experience painting on their own, as well as those who wish to expand upon their skills. All supplies are included.

    This course covers a variety of watercolor fundamentals: wash techniques, glazing, layering, brush work, and masking. Students will work with transparent still life objects and paint landscapes using photo references. All materials provided in fee.
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  • D3 - Advanced Drawing with Dave Templeton

    • April 13, 2023
    • 12:30 PM
    • May 04, 2023
    • 3:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 9


    Thursdays, April 13th-May 4th, 2023

    12:30 - 3:00 PM

    Fee: $100 (Non Member)

    Join instructor Dave Templeton for this four-week advanced drawing class. There’s a very specific process to drawing well. If you use all necessary stages in your drawing process, you’ll have control over the entire drawing, which means you’ll be able to produce a finished work that's close to achieving the effect you want. This is what Dave will teach in our class and you will practice these vital skills throughout the advanced drawing course refining your ability to discern the basic shapes in any object and to accurately render the play of light and shadow on the objects you draw.

    This class is for students who have taken at least one full class (four sessions) from Dave or another instructor at the MCAC. Students will be asked to complete simple homework assignments in a sketchbook that is provided by the MCAC. 

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  • PA2 -Intro To Pastels Workshop with Mandy Roeing

    • April 16, 2023
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 9

         

    Sunday, April 16th, 2023

    1:00-4:00pm

    Fee: $45  (Non Member)

    Interested in Pastels? Wondering were to start and how they work? Then join instructor Mandy Roeing for this Sunday afternoon workshop at the MCAC. Mandy will teach you all the techniques to start your pastel journey and each student will create and leave with a small piece of art. This is a great workshop for teens and adults. All materials provided by the MCAC.

    *Please feel free to bring your own drinks and snacks to this workshop.     
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  • C14 - Monday Advanced Ceramic Open Studio with Marjorie Hauge

    • May 01, 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • May 22, 2023
    • 9:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 10


    Mondays, May 1st-22bd, 2023

    6:30 - 9:00 PM

    Fee: $125 (Non Member)

    The MCAC will have an open studio option during the spring for our advanced ceramic students. This session on Monday nights is open to ceramic students 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 time will be proctored by our Ceramic Assistant Marjorie Hauge. This is not an instructed time but you will have access to supplies, recources and the wonderful advanced community of ceramicists at the MCAC.

    The $125 fee includes access to firing, glazes, 10 lbs of clay, a shelf at the MCAC and access to open studio during our open hours. No guest registration allowed for this option.

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  • C18 - Stamping With Nature Ceramic Intensive with Alanna Veitch

    • May 02, 2023
    • May 16, 2023
    • 2 sessions
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 8

        


    Tuesdays, May 2nd & 16th, 2023

    7:00-9:00pm

    Fee: $50.00 (Non- Member)

     

    Join MCAC Instructor Alanna Veitch for two Tuesday Evening sessions experimenting with creating textures in clay using things we find in nature. Bring your seeds, rocks, leaves, etc. to see what unique and interesting patterns we can create in clay. We will be making wall tiles, plates or bowls from our stamped slabs. This is open to all experience levels. Work will be fired at the MCAC and will be available for pick up a week after the second session.

    *All materials including clay, glazes, tools and kiln firings included in fee.

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  • P14 - Painting Clouds Saturday Workshop with Jeremy Langston

    • May 20, 2023
    • 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. Bloomington IL 61701
    • 8


      

      Saturday, May 20th, 2023

    11:00am - 4:00pm

    Fee: $75.00 (Non Member)

    Join us for a fun Saturday afternoon learning how to paint skies and dynamic clouds. MCAC instructor, Jeremy Langston will lead this workshop, and will teach you multiple techniques and skills to bring  your clouds to life! Bring in photos to practice color mixing and fluff building for those ever important skies of your landscapes. The fee includes all supplies needed for the workshop.

    *Please feel free to bring your own drinks, snacks and lunch to this workshop, or pop out for lunch out in downtown Bloomington.     
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