"Bringing Art to the People and People to the Arts"


To allow our instructors adequate time to prepare for their class, registrations close 7 days prior to class start date. Classes not meeting the instructor’s minimum enrollment at that time will be cancelled. You are not registered until paid in full. Space will not be held for unpaid registrations. Material fees are included in the class price unless otherwise specified.


Upcoming Classes


Monthly Soft Pastel Workshop

Date: Thursday, April 24
Time: 1:00 – 4:00pm
Cost: $45 – must be a BRAC Member
Materials Fee: $5 for first class
Instructor: Cynthia Jones
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

CANCELLED.


Open Studio

Date: Monday – Thursday, April 28-May 1
Time: 9am – 8pm
Cost: $80 (must be a BRAC member)
No Instructor
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

In an Open Studio, you bring all of your supplies and there is no instructor, but you’ll be able to create all day for four days alongside fellow artists. All mediums are welcome! There are daily opportunities to learn from critique-inspired support any time you feel the need. Typically, the group does a critique session at lunchtime, for those interested in participating. Come and go as you like, but leave your supplies all set up for the next day! Bring your own supplies and we’ll provide a table space and an easel (if you need one).

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 8


Open Clay Studios

Date: Tuesdays in May
Time: 5:30 – 8:30pm
Cost: $30 ($25 BRAC Members) per session
Instructor: Wendy Converse
Skill Level: Some Experience Needed

Get your hands dirty and create some exciting new clay artwork. Spring is coming – how about some garden markers or flower pockets? Or maybe create a tray or bowl for a special occasion? Join us for an evening or two. There are no special projects planned for these open studio sessions, but Wendy and others in attendance are always happy to help you navigate the best building methods to achieve your clay goals. Some clay experience is helpful, but everyone is welcome. Sign up for as many days as you’d like or pay as you go.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 10


Watercolor: Let’s Paint Together

Date: Saturday, May 3 (9am-2pm)
Cost: $85 ($75 BRAC Members)
Instructor: Dale Cochran
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

This paint-along workshop touches on composition, values, color mixing, watercolor techniques and more. Participants will follow along, step-by-step as we paint a watercolor landscape from value study to finished painting. My one-on-one instruction meets you where you are in your watercolor journey. As we work on our watercolor painting, discussion about problems and discoveries encountered is encouraged. Click here to download the supply list.

Dale is a South Carolina artist who works primarily in watercolor and graphite. His interest in drawing started as a child using his surroundings of woods, creeks and his grandparents farm as inspiration. His work strives to reveal the uniqueness and beauty in things seemingly plain, illuminating the stories and spirits behind the ordinary.

Dale has been professionally involved in the arts for more than 45 years as an artist, illustrator, instructor, graphic designer, and creative director. He studied at Anderson University and Winthrop University receiving an Associate in Art and Bachelors of Visual Arts respectively. He has been involved in numerous art organizations, served on the board of the Southern Watercolor Society, and retired in 2022 from Clemson University where he held the position of executive director of creative operations for University Marketing. He is an artist member of the Artists Guild Gallery of Greenville.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 12


Painting Light

Date: Wednesday, May 14 (1-3pm) & May 18 (1pm until done)
Cost: $60 ($50 BRAC Members)
Instructor: Chris Cartledge
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

Chris will discuss and instruct creating effective light in your art. Whether your medium is pencil, ink, acrylic, watercolor or oils, techniques and philosophies can be equally applied. Color, form, value and gradation among other design principles will be featured. Bring the art supplies you need to create!

Chris started painting while a student at Clemson University in the late 80s studying under Professor Ireland Regnier, where he further developed his deep love for the arts and painting. Recently, one of his paintings won honorable mention and was featured in “The Best of Acrylic Artist Magazine and American Artist”. Currently, Chris is on the board of the Blue Ridge Arts Council in Seneca, SC, where he teaches drawing, painting (oil, acrylic, and watercolor), sculpture, and art theory. He creates from his home studio overlooking Lake Keowee.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 5


Technique And Critique

Date: Wednesday, May 21
Time: 1:00 – 3:00pm
Cost: $35 ($30 BRAC Members)
Instructor: Chris Cartledge
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

We will briefly discuss the composition of a Masters’ artwork explaining the composition and design principles, elements and color strategy used at the start of each class. Afterwards, the space will be an open studio and participants will be encouraged to bring in finished or unfinished works for critique and technique advice from a professional artist. Chris has a strong background in visual design as well as experience in drawing, pen and ink, watercolor, acrylics and oils.

This class is designed to benefit beginner level artists through advanced level artists. We will focus on improving your knowledge of the art process and your art through practice and instruction.

Classes will take place on the third Wednesday of each month. While you are not required to attend every month, the sessions will build upon each other with each session including follow up, reinforcement and new material. Masters’ works will be discussed, and handouts will be provided. Plan to bring your own art and ideas for critique and constructive discussion. Participants should bring the materials needed to work on their personal projects.

Dates for 2025 series: February 19, March 19, April 16, May 21, June 18, July 16, August 20, September 17, October 15, November 19, December 17. You will need to sign-up for each session individually.

Chris started painting while a student at Clemson University in the late 80s studying under Professor Ireland Regnier, where he further developed his deep love for the arts and painting. Recently, one of his paintings won honorable mention and was featured in “The Best of Acrylic Artist Magazine and American Artist”. Currently, Chris is on the board of the Blue Ridge Arts Council in Seneca, SC, where he teaches drawing, painting (oil, acrylic, and watercolor), sculpture, and art theory. He creates from his home studio overlooking Lake Keowee.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 13


Monthly Soft Pastel Workshop

Date: Thursday, May 22
Time: 1:00 – 4:00pm
Cost: $45 – must be a BRAC Member
Materials Fee: $5 for first class
Instructor: Cynthia Jones
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

This soft pastel workshop meets monthly (except August & December) – come for one session or multiple.  Each session will begin with a technique demonstration by Cynthia (lasting no more than 15 minutes), then students will be free to work on their own chosen subject matter. Cynthia will make her rounds offering help and guidance, ensuring each participant gets individual attention and personal coaching based on their skill level. Beginner-level students are offered materials for their first session at a cost of $5. A materials list will also be available at the first session. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early to set up and stay an extra 15 minutes to clean up.

Cynthia Jones has been teaching pastel painting to beginner and intermediate artists for the past 15 years, first at Keowee Key and then at BRAC.  She has a BFA and teaching certification and has taught “art “ in many mediums to all ages throughout her life.  She no longer lives on Lake Keowee, but continues her connection with BRAC by having this monthly workshop.

To register, call or email Cynthia at 404-242-5038 or cpj928@yahoo.com. Payment will be made at the door (please bring cash or check). Maximum Participants: 8.


Make a Coiled Kudzu Basket

Date: Saturday, May 24
Time: 9:00am – Noon
Cost: $45 ($40 BRAC Members)
Materials Fee: $10 (pay to instructor)
Instructor: Nancy Basket
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

Come coil kudzu together after you split it! Using raffia, you will start at the bottom and sew the strips together. Find out all about the vine that ate the South, the myth and the facts! No experience needed. Examples will be shown.

Nancy has been teaching since 1980, including at Haygood Mill and Holly Springs Center in Pickens. She has been an artist in education since 1990. See her work online at www.nancybasket.com.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 15


Technique And Critique

Date: Wednesday, June 18
Time: 1:00 – 3:00pm
Cost: $35 ($30 BRAC Members)
Instructor: Chris Cartledge
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

We will briefly discuss the composition of a Masters’ artwork explaining the composition and design principles, elements and color strategy used at the start of each class. Afterwards, the space will be an open studio and participants will be encouraged to bring in finished or unfinished works for critique and technique advice from a professional artist. Chris has a strong background in visual design as well as experience in drawing, pen and ink, watercolor, acrylics and oils.

This class is designed to benefit beginner level artists through advanced level artists. We will focus on improving your knowledge of the art process and your art through practice and instruction.

Classes will take place on the third Wednesday of each month. While you are not required to attend every month, the sessions will build upon each other with each session including follow up, reinforcement and new material. Masters’ works will be discussed, and handouts will be provided. Plan to bring your own art and ideas for critique and constructive discussion. Participants should bring the materials needed to work on their personal projects.

Dates for 2025 series: February 19, March 19, April 16, May 21, June 18, July 16, August 20, September 17, October 15, November 19, December 17. You will need to sign-up for each session individually.

Chris started painting while a student at Clemson University in the late 80s studying under Professor Ireland Regnier, where he further developed his deep love for the arts and painting. Recently, one of his paintings won honorable mention and was featured in “The Best of Acrylic Artist Magazine and American Artist”. Currently, Chris is on the board of the Blue Ridge Arts Council in Seneca, SC, where he teaches drawing, painting (oil, acrylic, and watercolor), sculpture, and art theory. He creates from his home studio overlooking Lake Keowee.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 13


Open Studio

Date: Monday – Friday, June 23-27
Time: 9am – 8pm
Cost: $100 (must be a BRAC member)
No Instructor
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

In an Open Studio, you bring all of your supplies and there is no instructor, but you’ll be able to create all day, all week alongside fellow artists. All mediums are welcome! There are daily opportunities to learn from critique-inspired support any time you feel the need. Typically, the group does a critique session at lunchtime, for those interested in participating. Come and go as you like, but leave your supplies all set up for the next day! Bring your own supplies and we’ll provide a table space and an easel (if you need one).

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 8


Open Studio

Date: Monday – Friday, June 30-July 4
Time: 9am – 8pm
Cost: $100 (must be a BRAC member)
No Instructor
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

In an Open Studio, you bring all of your supplies and there is no instructor, but you’ll be able to create all day, all week alongside fellow artists. All mediums are welcome! There are daily opportunities to learn from critique-inspired support any time you feel the need. Typically, the group does a critique session at lunchtime, for those interested in participating. Come and go as you like, but leave your supplies all set up for the next day! Bring your own supplies and we’ll provide a table space and an easel (if you need one).

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 8


Monthly Soft Pastel Workshop

Date: Thursday, June 26
Time: 1:00 – 4:00pm
Cost: $45 – must be a BRAC Member
Materials Fee: $5 for first class
Instructor: Cynthia Jones
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

This soft pastel workshop meets monthly (except August & December) – come for one session or multiple.  Each session will begin with a technique demonstration by Cynthia (lasting no more than 15 minutes), then students will be free to work on their own chosen subject matter. Cynthia will make her rounds offering help and guidance, ensuring each participant gets individual attention and personal coaching based on their skill level. Beginner-level students are offered materials for their first session at a cost of $5. A materials list will also be available at the first session. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early to set up and stay an extra 15 minutes to clean up.

Cynthia Jones has been teaching pastel painting to beginner and intermediate artists for the past 15 years, first at Keowee Key and then at BRAC.  She has a BFA and teaching certification and has taught “art “ in many mediums to all ages throughout her life.  She no longer lives on Lake Keowee, but continues her connection with BRAC by having this monthly workshop.

To register, call or email Cynthia at 404-242-5038 or cpj928@yahoo.com. Payment will be made at the door (please bring cash or check). Maximum Participants: 8.


Technique And Critique

Date: Wednesday, July 16
Time: 1:00 – 3:00pm
Cost: $35 ($30 BRAC Members)
Instructor: Chris Cartledge
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

We will briefly discuss the composition of a Masters’ artwork explaining the composition and design principles, elements and color strategy used at the start of each class. Afterwards, the space will be an open studio and participants will be encouraged to bring in finished or unfinished works for critique and technique advice from a professional artist. Chris has a strong background in visual design as well as experience in drawing, pen and ink, watercolor, acrylics and oils.

This class is designed to benefit beginner level artists through advanced level artists. We will focus on improving your knowledge of the art process and your art through practice and instruction.

Classes will take place on the third Wednesday of each month. While you are not required to attend every month, the sessions will build upon each other with each session including follow up, reinforcement and new material. Masters’ works will be discussed, and handouts will be provided. Plan to bring your own art and ideas for critique and constructive discussion. Participants should bring the materials needed to work on their personal projects.

Dates for 2025 series: February 19, March 19, April 16, May 21, June 18, July 16, August 20, September 17, October 15, November 19, December 17. You will need to sign-up for each session individually.

Chris started painting while a student at Clemson University in the late 80s studying under Professor Ireland Regnier, where he further developed his deep love for the arts and painting. Recently, one of his paintings won honorable mention and was featured in “The Best of Acrylic Artist Magazine and American Artist”. Currently, Chris is on the board of the Blue Ridge Arts Council in Seneca, SC, where he teaches drawing, painting (oil, acrylic, and watercolor), sculpture, and art theory. He creates from his home studio overlooking Lake Keowee.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 13


Monthly Soft Pastel Workshop

Date: Thursday, July 24
Time: 1:00 – 4:00pm
Cost: $45 – must be a BRAC Member
Materials Fee: $5 for first class
Instructor: Cynthia Jones
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

This soft pastel workshop meets monthly (except August & December) – come for one session or multiple.  Each session will begin with a technique demonstration by Cynthia (lasting no more than 15 minutes), then students will be free to work on their own chosen subject matter. Cynthia will make her rounds offering help and guidance, ensuring each participant gets individual attention and personal coaching based on their skill level. Beginner-level students are offered materials for their first session at a cost of $5. A materials list will also be available at the first session. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early to set up and stay an extra 15 minutes to clean up.

Cynthia Jones has been teaching pastel painting to beginner and intermediate artists for the past 15 years, first at Keowee Key and then at BRAC.  She has a BFA and teaching certification and has taught “art “ in many mediums to all ages throughout her life.  She no longer lives on Lake Keowee, but continues her connection with BRAC by having this monthly workshop.

To register, call or email Cynthia at 404-242-5038 or cpj928@yahoo.com. Payment will be made at the door (please bring cash or check). Maximum Participants: 8.


Technique And Critique

Date: Wednesday, August 20
Time: 1:00 – 3:00pm
Cost: $35 ($30 BRAC Members)
Instructor: Chris Cartledge
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

We will briefly discuss the composition of a Masters’ artwork explaining the composition and design principles, elements and color strategy used at the start of each class. Afterwards, the space will be an open studio and participants will be encouraged to bring in finished or unfinished works for critique and technique advice from a professional artist. Chris has a strong background in visual design as well as experience in drawing, pen and ink, watercolor, acrylics and oils.

This class is designed to benefit beginner level artists through advanced level artists. We will focus on improving your knowledge of the art process and your art through practice and instruction.

Classes will take place on the third Wednesday of each month. While you are not required to attend every month, the sessions will build upon each other with each session including follow up, reinforcement and new material. Masters’ works will be discussed, and handouts will be provided. Plan to bring your own art and ideas for critique and constructive discussion. Participants should bring the materials needed to work on their personal projects.

Dates for 2025 series: February 19, March 19, April 16, May 21, June 18, July 16, August 20, September 17, October 15, November 19, December 17. You will need to sign-up for each session individually.

Chris started painting while a student at Clemson University in the late 80s studying under Professor Ireland Regnier, where he further developed his deep love for the arts and painting. Recently, one of his paintings won honorable mention and was featured in “The Best of Acrylic Artist Magazine and American Artist”. Currently, Chris is on the board of the Blue Ridge Arts Council in Seneca, SC, where he teaches drawing, painting (oil, acrylic, and watercolor), sculpture, and art theory. He creates from his home studio overlooking Lake Keowee.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 13


Open Studio

Date: Monday – Friday, August 25-29
Time: 9am – 8pm
Cost: $100 (must be a BRAC member)
No Instructor
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

In an Open Studio, you bring all of your supplies and there is no instructor, but you’ll be able to create all day, all week alongside fellow artists. All mediums are welcome! There are daily opportunities to learn from critique-inspired support any time you feel the need. Typically, the group does a critique session at lunchtime, for those interested in participating. Come and go as you like, but leave your supplies all set up for the next day! Bring your own supplies and we’ll provide a table space and an easel (if you need one).

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 8


Leatherworks

Date: Saturday, August 30
Time: 10:00am – 4:30pm
Cost: $118 ($108 BRAC Members)
Instructor: Tom Slavicek
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

You will have time to make a leather shoulder bag of your choice or choose any project from the following: Leather belt, passport wallet, journal, phone pouch with braided strap, drawstring pouch, clutch purse, or a tote. Depending on the project you choose, you may even have time to make another one. It is recommended that first-time students make a leather shoulder bag as their first project. You will be able to learn techniques of cutting leather, using basic tools, and stitching styles. If desired, you can learn how to use a wood burning tool to inscribe a design directly on to the leather and then colorize it.

All leather, materials, use of tools, and instructions are provided, along with templates. No artistic ability is necessary, nor is any previous leather working experience. The class typically runs from 10am to 4:30pm. You do not need to bring anything except lunch, enthusiasm, and your desire to make something beautiful! Be sure to indicate which project you want to work on when you register. Deadline for registration is the Wednesday, August 27th.

Option 1: Leather Shoulder Bag

Option 2: Passport Wallet

Option 3: Phone Pouch

Option 4: Clutch Purse

Option 5: Leather Belt

Other Options:

Option 6: Journal
Option 7: Drawstring Pouch
Option 8: Tote

Tom Slavicek has been a leather crafter since 1985. He teaches about 35 classes annually in multiple art centers in north Georgia and North Carolina and he and his wife, Karen, do about 10 art festivals each year and have been recognized as “Best in Show” several times. After serving as a director of a national youth organization for 37 years they retired to the mountains of north Georgia in 2011. Tom’s hobbies include leather crafting, reading, Bible studies and teaching classes, and playing/performing classical music on the piano. He serves on the boards of the Chestatee Artists art group in Dahlonega, GA and the Georgia Musicale Group.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 16


Open Studio

Date: Monday – Friday, September 1-5
Time: 9am – 8pm
Cost: $100 (must be a BRAC member)
No Instructor
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

In an Open Studio, you bring all of your supplies and there is no instructor, but you’ll be able to create all day, all week alongside fellow artists. All mediums are welcome! There are daily opportunities to learn from critique-inspired support any time you feel the need. Typically, the group does a critique session at lunchtime, for those interested in participating. Come and go as you like, but leave your supplies all set up for the next day! Bring your own supplies and we’ll provide a table space and an easel (if you need one).

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 8


Technique And Critique

Date: Wednesday, September 17
Time: 1:00 – 3:00pm
Cost: $35 ($30 BRAC Members)
Instructor: Chris Cartledge
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

We will briefly discuss the composition of a Masters’ artwork explaining the composition and design principles, elements and color strategy used at the start of each class. Afterwards, the space will be an open studio and participants will be encouraged to bring in finished or unfinished works for critique and technique advice from a professional artist. Chris has a strong background in visual design as well as experience in drawing, pen and ink, watercolor, acrylics and oils.

This class is designed to benefit beginner level artists through advanced level artists. We will focus on improving your knowledge of the art process and your art through practice and instruction.

Classes will take place on the third Wednesday of each month. While you are not required to attend every month, the sessions will build upon each other with each session including follow up, reinforcement and new material. Masters’ works will be discussed, and handouts will be provided. Plan to bring your own art and ideas for critique and constructive discussion. Participants should bring the materials needed to work on their personal projects.

Dates for 2025 series: February 19, March 19, April 16, May 21, June 18, July 16, August 20, September 17, October 15, November 19, December 17. You will need to sign-up for each session individually.

Chris started painting while a student at Clemson University in the late 80s studying under Professor Ireland Regnier, where he further developed his deep love for the arts and painting. Recently, one of his paintings won honorable mention and was featured in “The Best of Acrylic Artist Magazine and American Artist”. Currently, Chris is on the board of the Blue Ridge Arts Council in Seneca, SC, where he teaches drawing, painting (oil, acrylic, and watercolor), sculpture, and art theory. He creates from his home studio overlooking Lake Keowee.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 13


Monthly Soft Pastel Workshop

Date: Thursday, September 25
Time: 1:00 – 4:00pm
Cost: $45 – must be a BRAC Member
Materials Fee: $5 for first class
Instructor: Cynthia Jones
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

This soft pastel workshop meets monthly (except December) – come for one session or multiple.  Each session will begin with a technique demonstration by Cynthia (lasting no more than 15 minutes), then students will be free to work on their own chosen subject matter. Cynthia will make her rounds offering help and guidance, ensuring each participant gets individual attention and personal coaching based on their skill level. Beginner-level students are offered materials for their first session at a cost of $5. A materials list will also be available at the first session. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early to set up and stay an extra 15 minutes to clean up.

Cynthia Jones has been teaching pastel painting to beginner and intermediate artists for the past 15 years, first at Keowee Key and then at BRAC.  She has a BFA and teaching certification and has taught “art “ in many mediums to all ages throughout her life.  She no longer lives on Lake Keowee, but continues her connection with BRAC by having this monthly workshop.

To register, call or email Cynthia at 404-242-5038 or cpj928@yahoo.com. Payment will be made at the door (please bring cash or check). Maximum Participants: 8.


Drawing Exercises that Will Improve Your Art

Date: Saturday, October 11
Time: 9:00am – 1:00pm
Cost: $60 ($50 BRAC Members)
Instructor: Dale Cochran
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

Drawing is fundamentally about learning to see, and to transport that vision onto a surface through a variety of mark making techniques. This workshop will introduce exercises that will improve your ability to draw what you see. Please plan to bring: HB or 2B graphite pencil, drawing or sketch pad, kneaded eraser, pencil sharpener, and small ruler or straight-edge.

Dale is a South Carolina artist who works primarily in watercolor and graphite. His interest in drawing started as a child using his surroundings of woods, creeks and his grandparents farm as inspiration. His work strives to reveal the uniqueness and beauty in things seemingly plain, illuminating the stories and spirits behind the ordinary.

Dale has been professionally involved in the arts for more than 45 years as an artist, illustrator, instructor, graphic designer, and creative director. He studied at Anderson University and Winthrop University receiving an Associate in Art and Bachelors of Visual Arts respectively. He has been involved in numerous art organizations, served on the board of the Southern Watercolor Society, and retired in 2022 from Clemson University where he held the position of executive director of creative operations for University Marketing. He is an artist member of the Artists Guild Gallery of Greenville at 200 N Main Street.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 16


Technique And Critique

Date: Wednesday, October 15
Time: 1:00 – 3:00pm
Cost: $35 ($30 BRAC Members)
Instructor: Chris Cartledge
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

We will briefly discuss the composition of a Masters’ artwork explaining the composition and design principles, elements and color strategy used at the start of each class. Afterwards, the space will be an open studio and participants will be encouraged to bring in finished or unfinished works for critique and technique advice from a professional artist. Chris has a strong background in visual design as well as experience in drawing, pen and ink, watercolor, acrylics and oils.

This class is designed to benefit beginner level artists through advanced level artists. We will focus on improving your knowledge of the art process and your art through practice and instruction.

Classes will take place on the third Wednesday of each month. While you are not required to attend every month, the sessions will build upon each other with each session including follow up, reinforcement and new material. Masters’ works will be discussed, and handouts will be provided. Plan to bring your own art and ideas for critique and constructive discussion. Participants should bring the materials needed to work on their personal projects.

Dates for 2025 series: February 19, March 19, April 16, May 21, June 18, July 16, August 20, September 17, October 15, November 19, December 17. You will need to sign-up for each session individually.

Chris started painting while a student at Clemson University in the late 80s studying under Professor Ireland Regnier, where he further developed his deep love for the arts and painting. Recently, one of his paintings won honorable mention and was featured in “The Best of Acrylic Artist Magazine and American Artist”. Currently, Chris is on the board of the Blue Ridge Arts Council in Seneca, SC, where he teaches drawing, painting (oil, acrylic, and watercolor), sculpture, and art theory. He creates from his home studio overlooking Lake Keowee.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 13


Monthly Soft Pastel Workshop

Date: Thursday, October 23
Time: 1:00 – 4:00pm
Cost: $45 – must be a BRAC Member
Materials Fee: $5 for first class
Instructor: Cynthia Jones
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

This soft pastel workshop meets monthly (except December) – come for one session or multiple.  Each session will begin with a technique demonstration by Cynthia (lasting no more than 15 minutes), then students will be free to work on their own chosen subject matter. Cynthia will make her rounds offering help and guidance, ensuring each participant gets individual attention and personal coaching based on their skill level. Beginner-level students are offered materials for their first session at a cost of $5. A materials list will also be available at the first session. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early to set up and stay an extra 15 minutes to clean up.

Cynthia Jones has been teaching pastel painting to beginner and intermediate artists for the past 15 years, first at Keowee Key and then at BRAC.  She has a BFA and teaching certification and has taught “art “ in many mediums to all ages throughout her life.  She no longer lives on Lake Keowee, but continues her connection with BRAC by having this monthly workshop.

To register, call or email Cynthia at 404-242-5038 or cpj928@yahoo.com. Payment will be made at the door (please bring cash or check). Maximum Participants: 8.


Open Studio

Date: Monday – Friday, October 27-31
Time: 9am – 8pm
Cost: $100 (must be a BRAC member)
No Instructor
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

In an Open Studio, you bring all of your supplies and there is no instructor, but you’ll be able to create all day, all week alongside fellow artists. All mediums are welcome! There are daily opportunities to learn from critique-inspired support any time you feel the need. Typically, the group does a critique session at lunchtime, for those interested in participating. Come and go as you like, but leave your supplies all set up for the next day! Bring your own supplies and we’ll provide a table space and an easel (if you need one).

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 8


Open Studio

Date: Monday – Friday, November 3-7
Time: 9am – 8pm
Cost: $100 (must be a BRAC member)
No Instructor
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

In an Open Studio, you bring all of your supplies and there is no instructor, but you’ll be able to create all day, all week alongside fellow artists. All mediums are welcome! There are daily opportunities to learn from critique-inspired support any time you feel the need. Typically, the group does a critique session at lunchtime, for those interested in participating. Come and go as you like, but leave your supplies all set up for the next day! Bring your own supplies and we’ll provide a table space and an easel (if you need one).

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 8


Technique And Critique

Date: Wednesday, November 19
Time: 1:00 – 3:00pm
Cost: $35 ($30 BRAC Members)
Instructor: Chris Cartledge
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

We will briefly discuss the composition of a Masters’ artwork explaining the composition and design principles, elements and color strategy used at the start of each class. Afterwards, the space will be an open studio and participants will be encouraged to bring in finished or unfinished works for critique and technique advice from a professional artist. Chris has a strong background in visual design as well as experience in drawing, pen and ink, watercolor, acrylics and oils.

This class is designed to benefit beginner level artists through advanced level artists. We will focus on improving your knowledge of the art process and your art through practice and instruction.

Classes will take place on the third Wednesday of each month. While you are not required to attend every month, the sessions will build upon each other with each session including follow up, reinforcement and new material. Masters’ works will be discussed, and handouts will be provided. Plan to bring your own art and ideas for critique and constructive discussion. Participants should bring the materials needed to work on their personal projects.

Dates for 2025 series: February 19, March 19, April 16, May 21, June 18, July 16, August 20, September 17, October 15, November 19, December 17. You will need to sign-up for each session individually.

Chris started painting while a student at Clemson University in the late 80s studying under Professor Ireland Regnier, where he further developed his deep love for the arts and painting. Recently, one of his paintings won honorable mention and was featured in “The Best of Acrylic Artist Magazine and American Artist”. Currently, Chris is on the board of the Blue Ridge Arts Council in Seneca, SC, where he teaches drawing, painting (oil, acrylic, and watercolor), sculpture, and art theory. He creates from his home studio overlooking Lake Keowee.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 13


Monthly Soft Pastel Workshop

Date: Wednesday, November 12
Time: 1:00 – 4:00pm
Cost: $45 – must be a BRAC Member
Materials Fee: $5 for first class
Instructor: Cynthia Jones
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

This soft pastel workshop meets monthly (except December) – come for one session or multiple.  Each session will begin with a technique demonstration by Cynthia (lasting no more than 15 minutes), then students will be free to work on their own chosen subject matter. Cynthia will make her rounds offering help and guidance, ensuring each participant gets individual attention and personal coaching based on their skill level. Beginner-level students are offered materials for their first session at a cost of $5. A materials list will also be available at the first session. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early to set up and stay an extra 15 minutes to clean up.

Cynthia Jones has been teaching pastel painting to beginner and intermediate artists for the past 15 years, first at Keowee Key and then at BRAC.  She has a BFA and teaching certification and has taught “art “ in many mediums to all ages throughout her life.  She no longer lives on Lake Keowee, but continues her connection with BRAC by having this monthly workshop.

To register, call or email Cynthia at 404-242-5038 or cpj928@yahoo.com. Payment will be made at the door (please bring cash or check). Maximum Participants: 8.


Technique And Critique

Date: Wednesday, December 17
Time: 1:00 – 3:00pm
Cost: $35 ($30 BRAC Members)
Instructor: Chris Cartledge
Skill Level: All Levels Welcome

We will briefly discuss the composition of a Masters’ artwork explaining the composition and design principles, elements and color strategy used at the start of each class. Afterwards, the space will be an open studio and participants will be encouraged to bring in finished or unfinished works for critique and technique advice from a professional artist. Chris has a strong background in visual design as well as experience in drawing, pen and ink, watercolor, acrylics and oils.

This class is designed to benefit beginner level artists through advanced level artists. We will focus on improving your knowledge of the art process and your art through practice and instruction.

Classes will take place on the third Wednesday of each month. While you are not required to attend every month, the sessions will build upon each other with each session including follow up, reinforcement and new material. Masters’ works will be discussed, and handouts will be provided. Plan to bring your own art and ideas for critique and constructive discussion. Participants should bring the materials needed to work on their personal projects.

Dates for 2025 series: February 19, March 19, April 16, May 21, June 18, July 16, August 20, September 17, October 15, November 19, December 17. You will need to sign-up for each session individually.

Chris started painting while a student at Clemson University in the late 80s studying under Professor Ireland Regnier, where he further developed his deep love for the arts and painting. Recently, one of his paintings won honorable mention and was featured in “The Best of Acrylic Artist Magazine and American Artist”. Currently, Chris is on the board of the Blue Ridge Arts Council in Seneca, SC, where he teaches drawing, painting (oil, acrylic, and watercolor), sculpture, and art theory. He creates from his home studio overlooking Lake Keowee.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 13


Cancellations by the Art Center

Classes may be cancelled if enrollment does not meet minimums by the deadline date. Only those registered will be notified of cancellations. If Blue Ridge Art Center cancels a class, the student will have the option to transfer to another class or receive a 100% refund.

Cancellation by the Participant

We understand that life brings many surprises for us all and sometimes you will need to cancel your class reservation.

  • A refund is available if cancellation is made at least 3 days in advance.
  • No refunds will be made for “no shows” or if less than 3 days notice is provided.
  • Emergency cancellations will be addressed on a case-by-case basis.

Our community’s health and well-being is paramount to us and we encourage you to do everything in your power to keep yourself and others safe. If you are not feeling well, please do not attend class. Masks are not required, but they are available and welcome if you choose to wear one. We are also limiting our class sizes to ensure there is ample room for social distancing. Thank you for your understanding.