Visual Arts
Adult Classes
showcasing talented local instructors and creatives
The Gunnison Arts Center believes the arts should be accessible to all through affordable classes. If you need financial assistance for a class, please click the bottom left button below and apply for a scholarship.
Notice: Scholarships are only available for classes that do not serve alcoholic beverages.
Important Reminder:
All classes require prior registration. Check spam folders for registration confirmation.
Registration closes 24 hours before the class begins.
⚠️ Classes that do not meet the minimum enrollment will be canceled, so be sure to register early to secure your spot!
Visual Arts Fall Adult Classes
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Boss Ross | Ages 10+
Happy little trees await! Join artist Sarah Sharsmith for a joyful and relaxed night of painting inspired by the legendary Bob Ross. Follow along step-by-step as you create your own serene landscape using Bob’s signature techniques—gentle brushstrokes, fluffy clouds, and of course, plenty of happy accidents.
Saturday, August 30th | 6:00 - 9:00 PM
Location: GAC Blue Box Theatre
All Materials included in registration costs
Non-Member: $50
Member: $42.50
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Beginner Watercolor | Ages 15+
4 Wednesdays, September 10th -October 1st | 5:30 - 7:30
Instructor: Karen Hill
Join local artist Karen Hill for a relaxed, beginner-friendly watercolor class. Learn essential techniques like brushwork, color mixing, and layering through guided exercises and creative projects. All materials provided—just bring your curiosity!
Location: GAC Upstairs Art Classroom
$160 | Non-Member
$140 | Member
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.
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FREE | Vision Train Local Art Jam | All Ages
Thursdays | 5:00 - 8:00 PM
September 11th, October 9th, November 13th, + December 11th
Instructor: Amanda Sage
Bring your own project and materials to join a supportive, collaborative space where we create together in real time. The Goldcast is a weekly radio show hosted by sound sculptor and DJ Goldcap (Berge Sahakian). Since 2016, Goldcap has collaborated with visionary artist Amanda Sage, co-hosting weekly Art Jams on the Vision Train—where music becomes the muse for visual creation.
Location: GAC Cy Baird Main Gallery/Blue Box Theatre
FREE
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Beginner Oil Painting | Ages 15+
4 Mondays, September 15th - October 6th | 10:00 - 12:30 PM
Instructor: Karolina Szumilas
Explore the beauty of oil painting in this beginner-friendly class with artist Karolina Szumilas. Learn the basics of materials, color mixing, and brush techniques in a relaxed, supportive setting. No experience needed—just bring your curiosity!
Location: GAC Upstairs Art Classroom
$170 | Non-Member
$144 | Member
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.
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BYO-Vase Flower Arranging Workshop | Ages 15+
Tuesday, September 16th | 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Instructor: Annie of Janniebird Farm
Create your own stunning garden-style arrangement in this hands-on workshop using fresh, locally grown blooms from Janniebird Farm. Bring your own unique vessel—anything from a favorite vase to a mason jar—and learn foam-free design techniques, tips for prolonging vase life, and ways to highlight seasonal flowers. All flowers, tools, and supplies (except your vase) are provided. No experience needed—just bring your creativity!
Location: GAC Cy Baird Main Gallery
$65 | Non-Member
$55 | Member
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.
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Resin Coasters | Ages 12+
Friday, September 19th | 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Instructor: Shana Vogel
Get creative with resin in this hands-on class led by artist Shana Vogel! Learn the basics of working with resin while designing your own unique set of coasters. Choose from a variety of colors, additives, and effects to make each piece your own.
Location: GAC Courtyard (weather permitting)
$55 | Non-Member
$46 | Member
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.
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Alla Prima: Pet Portraits | Ages 15+
6:00 - 8:00 PM | Thursdays, September 25th OR October 23rd
Instructor: Karolina Szumilas
Paint your furry (or feathered) friend in this fun, beginner-friendly class! Using the grid method and alla prima technique, you'll create an 8x8 oil portrait from a photo reference. Bring a square photo of your pet’s face or email it in advance—all skill levels welcome!
Location: GAC Art Classroom
$55 | Non-Member
$46 | Member
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.
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Drawing the Figure | Ages 18+
Fridays | 5:30 - 8:30 |(4) Sessions in total
September 26th, October 17th, November 21st, + December 19th
Explore gesture, proportion, and expression while drawing from a live nude model in this dynamic, studio-style class. Led by artist Karolina Szumilas, it’s perfect for beginners or those refining their skills. All levels welcome—just bring your curiosity!
Location: GAC Blue Box Theatre | Instructor: Karolina Szumilas
$50 | Non-Member | All (4) $175
$44 | Member | All (4) $149
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.
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Stitching Stories: Colcha Embroidery for Beginners | Ages 15+
Saturday, September 27th | 12:00 - 4:00 PM
Instructor: Sandy Dolak
Join artist and cultural advocate Sandy Dolak to explore the beauty and resilience of Colcha Embroidery, a traditional folk art of northern New Mexico and southern Colorado. Founder of the Huajatolla Heritage Foundation, Sandy brings a contemporary approach to this centuries-old technique. Using just one simple stitch, you’ll create anything from delicate motifs to intricate tapestries while learning the rich cultural heritage behind the craft. Perfect for beginners.
Location: GAC Cy Baird Main Gallery
$50 | Non-Member
$44 | Member
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.
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Fundamentals of Linear Perspective | Ages 15+
5 Thursdays, October 2nd - 30th | 10:00 - 12:00 PM
Instructor: Don Seastrum
Master the basics of linear perspective in this foundational drawing class with artist Don Seastrum. Learn how to create depth, dimension, and accurate spatial relationships using one-, two-, and three-point perspective techniques. Perfect for artists of all levels looking to strengthen their drawing skills.
Recommended for those interested in traveling to Italy with Don Seastrum!
Location: GAC Upstairs Art Classroom
$135 | Non-Member
$115 | Member
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.
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Resin Creations: Spooky Edition | Ages 12+
Friday, October 10th | 5:30 - 7:30
Instructor: Shana Vogel
Get into the Halloween spirit with
artist Shana Vogel in this hands-on resin workshop! Using themed molds—think ghosts, skulls, pumpkins, and more—you’ll learn the basics of working with resin while crafting your own spooky keepsakes.
Location: GAC Upstairs Art Classroom
$40 | Non-Member
$34 | Member
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.
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Painting with Light | Ages 15+
Saturday, October 11th | 10:00 - 6:00 PM
Instructor: Amanda Sage
A one-day deep dive to explore merging inner + outer vision through paint! Amanda Sage will guide you through stages of developing and discovering a painting in acrylic. No prior experience needed - just a curious and open heart!
Location: GAC Cy Baird Main Gallery/Blue Box Theatre
$150 | Non-Member
$129 | Member
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.
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Felted Pumpkins | Ages 10+
Thursday, October 16th | 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Instructor: Sarah Sharsmith
Get crafty this fall with artist Sarah Sharsmith as she guides you through the art of needle felting! In this beginner-friendly workshop, you'll create adorable felted pumpkins—perfect for autumn décor or a handmade gift. All materials provided, no experience needed!
Location: GAC Upstairs Art Classroom
$35 | Non-Member
$29.75 | Member
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.
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Intermediate Oil Painting | Ages 15+
5 Tuesdays, October 21st - November 18th | 5:30 - 8:00 PM
Instructor: Karolina Szumilas
Take your oil painting skills to the next level in this intermediate class with artist Karolina Szumilas. Build on your foundational techniques while exploring color, composition, and personal style through guided projects and individual feedback. Ideal for those with previous painting experience looking to grow their practice.
Location: GAC Upstairs Art Classroom
$212 | Non-Member
$180 | Member
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.
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Intermediate Watercolor | Ages 15+
5 Wednesdays, October 22nd - November 19th | 5:30 - 7:30
Instructor: Karen Hill
Join local artist Karen Hill for an intermediate watercolor class designed to help you refine your skills. Explore advanced techniques in brushwork, layering, and color blending while working on guided projects that encourage personal expression. All materials provided—just bring your creativity!
Location: GAC Upstairs Art Classroom
$200 | Non-Member
$170 | Member
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.
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Boss Ross | All Ages
Saturday, November 15th | 5:30 - 8:30 PM
Instructor: Sarah Sharsmith
Happy little trees await! Join artist Sarah Sharsmith for a joyful and relaxed night of painting inspired by the legendary Bob Ross. Follow along step-by-step as you create your own serene landscape using Bob’s signature techniques—gentle brushstrokes, fluffy clouds, and of course, plenty of happy accidents.
Location: GAC Theatre
$50 | Non-Member | $25 Kids Tickets
$42.50 | Member | $21 Kids Ticket
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.
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Alla Prima: Cornucopia Still Life | Ages 15+
Monday, November 17th | 5:30 - 8:00 PM
Instructor: Karolina Szumilas
Capture the rich colors and textures of autumn in this alla prima oil painting class with Karolina Szumilas. Working wet-on-wet, you’ll paint a vibrant cornucopia still life while developing your brushwork and color blending skills. Perfect for painters ready to deepen their practice with a seasonal subject.
Location: GAC Upstairs Art Classroom
$55 | Non-Member
$46 | Member
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.
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Winter Wonder Watercolor | Ages 15+
3 Wednesdays, December 3rd - 17th | 5:30 - 7:30 PM
Instructor: Karen Hill
Celebrate the beauty of the season in this relaxing watercolor class with Karen Hill. Explore wintery scenes, cool color palettes, and essential techniques while creating your own seasonal works of art. Perfect for beginners and seasoned painters alike!
Location: GAC Upstairs Art Classroom
$110 | Non-Member
$93 | Member
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.
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Alla Prima: Poinsettias | Ages 15+
Monday, December 15th | 5:30 - 8:00 PM
Instructor: Karolina Szumilas
Capture the vibrant beauty of poinsettias in this seasonal alla prima (wet-on-wet) oil painting class with Karolina Szumilas. Learn to work quickly and expressively while creating a holiday-inspired still life. A perfect way to celebrate the season through art!
Location: GAC Upstairs Art Classroom
$55 | Non-Member
$46 | Member
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.