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Summer and Fall Schedule 2022

As Summer and Fall approach in the US, my class schedule will be altered to accommodate the active lives and vacation times of Outschool Learners and families. Family time is one of the most important aspects of a child's life and I want to make sure to honor that throughout the Summer and Fall for everyone!

LABOR DAY                           NO CLASSES          MONDAY SEPT 5th
FALL BREAK 			        NO CLASSES 	SEPT 29 - Oct 9th
HALLOWEEN 		        NO CLASSES		October 31st

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Welcome to Pencil Drawing Basics: Realistic Animals and Insects 

In this lively and interactive art class, learners will build a sense of foundational realistic drawing skills with simple art tools: a set of graphite pencils, erasers, and blending tools. 

Weekly Schedule:

Feb 1: Alligator
Feb 8: Koi Fish
Feb 15: Axolotl
Feb 22: Great White Shark
March 1: King Cobra
March 8 and March 15 (NO CLASS SPRING BREAK)
March 22: Elephant
March 29: Gazelle
April 5: Cicada
April 12: Monarch
April 19: Fennec Fox
April 26: Wolf
May 3  NO CLASS
May 10: Big Floppa Caracal Cat
May 17: Sea Turtle
May 24: Chicken
May 31: Sugar Glider


Each week we will focus on breaking animals or insects down into simple shapes while utilizing the seven elements of art: lines, shapes, color, value, form, texture, and space. 

Please note in this class we take our time making art while enjoying the process in order to grow an understanding that art does not need to be rushed. We focus on details, highlights, lowlights, and textures which will inevitably take more time than is allotted during class. The shorter class style is intentional to inspire artists to take their time and enjoy the process while working on growing their artistic confidence and independence each week, rather than relying solely on a complete "step by step" process. Most learners who have taken this class always have more work to do on their piece outside of class. 

While giving each learner a good start using "step by step" techniques, I set them free and encourage them to continue their projects outside of class so they can work on fine details, play around with lighting, and try the techniques learned in class on their own without judgment and in a comfortable way.  This method encourages young artists to learn how to find references for their work and play around with their materials, proportions, find and fix mistakes and create styles all their own at a pace that works well for them.

It's worth noting, my art classes focus on more than art, we work together to build a community for young artists creating a fun social outlet with like-minded kids their age. My classes have a great mix of seasoned artists and rookies, as well as kids who just want to take a break from the stresses of schoolwork and try something new. 

Moments are carved out where artists have the chance to participate in casual conversations with one another. Classes are approached in a relaxed and chill fashion with a focus on creativity to foster their "Artistic Confidence".  Artistic Confidence helps artists think more about composition, color theory, value, tone, and the creation of personal styles on their own which is important for young creatives, in order to feel successful.

I strive to create an atmosphere where all learners feel welcome and enjoy experimenting with art techniques, design choices, and creating a style all their own. 

Learning Goals:

Learners will acquire the skills and knowledge needed to take their artwork to the next level from cartoony to realistic through the understanding of composition, shapes, and shading/blending techniques. By drawing realistic animals, learners will begin to understand how animals and insects move and interact with our surroundings and environment which will inspire them to experiment on their own when sketching. 

Supplies needed:
Drawing Paper or A Sketchbook
A variety of graphite pencils or set and mechanical pencils
Blending Tools: Dry paintbrushes, tortillons/paper blending tools, or cotton swabs, 
Erasers