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Get your hands dirty and create some exciting new clay artwork. 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

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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.

Participants in the August Leatherworks class are invited to return to the December class to finish their projects (no cost) or start a new one (regular price).

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 Number of Participants: 16

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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

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Don’t know your frisket from your ferrule, or your wash from your water? This is the class for you!
This class is for true beginners in watercolor. We’ll learn together about all of the tools and tricks of using this challenging and fun medium to create art. You will do the exercises alongside the instructor, be able to ask questions about each step, and leave this series of classes feeling confident that you can begin your own journey and/ or hold your own in any watercolor classes you want to attend in the future! Your instructor, D Percy, has a lifetime of creative experience, in creating engaging adult education, and believes that you’re never ‘done’ learning watercolor. She says “It’s the medium of choice for beginners, life-long learners and recovering perfectionists”. Classes will be held in-person and have a ‘homework’ element ahead of each subsequent session to make the most valuable use of your instruction time. A materials list will be provided in advance. NOTE: Class 1 – No materials are required. Bring yourselves, something to take notes upon, and a non-alcoholic beverage of your choosing. We’ll learn all about materials so that you can make informed choices that align with your budget and time available to devote to the adventure.

From the wild landscapes of my youth to the vibrant cultures I’ve encountered across the globe, my journey has always been rooted in a deep reverence for the natural world. Though my early path led me into Wildlife Biology and a decades-long international career far from the studio, the call of creativity never left me—it simply waited for the right moment to resurface. Now, as a watercolor artist, I bring a lifetime of observation, curiosity, and global perspective to each piece I create. Watercolor, with its luminous unpredictability and delicate precision, has become my chosen medium, a perfect match for both my scientific eye and my artistic soul. I’m drawn to its ability to evoke depth and emotion within the constraints of two dimensions, and I embrace its challenges as opportunities for growth. My work is rooted in realism, not as a pursuit of photographic replication, but as a tribute to the intricate beauty of nature. Each brushstroke is a study in detail, a meditation on form, and a celebration of the palette that the natural world offers. I strive to create art that is instantly recognizable yet emotionally resonant. I want to create art that invites viewers to reconnect with the landscapes and creatures that surround us. As an emerging artist, I’ve begun exhibiting and selling professionally, with my first works featured at the Blue Ridge Arts Center. I’m an active member of the South Carolina Water Media Society and the National Watercolor Society, and I continue to refine my craft through ongoing study and exploration. This next chapter is not a return—it’s a reinvention. I paint to honor the wild, to share its stories, and to inspire others to see the world with fresh eyes.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 12

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Learn the art of pyrography with Abigail St Clair. If you’ve ever wanted to try wood burning but didn’t know where to start, this class is for you! You’ll learn how to safely use a pyrography pen, different types of mark making, shading strategies, and learn a little about types of wood. By the end, you’ll finish your own personalized piece to take home—perfect for gifting or displaying. No experience required! Just bring your curiosity and creativity.

For this course, wood will be provided, but you will need to bring a wood burning tool. You can typically find them for under $15 (a few options will be suggested in your confirmation email).

My name is Abigail St. Clair, and I am a senior art student at Anderson University. I eventually plan to teach at the college level, and I have a passion for portrait drawing and landscape painting. I have taught classes at Belton Middle School and the Foothills Retirement Community. I have been working with charcoal for 6 years and drawing portraits for 12. You can see some of my work on Instagram @Abigail_St.Clair. I look forward to working with you!

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 15

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This workshop meets on the third Thursday of each month (except April and August). Participants should expect a techniques discussion at the beginning of the workshop. Each student, working on their own chosen subject matter, gets individual attention from the instructor as she makes rounds offering help and guidance throughout the studio. If you are new to pastels, a supply list will be provided at your first class. Always bring your reference photos!

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 2 checks (or cash) – one for $33 payable to Cynthia and one for $12 payable to BRAC). Maximum Participants: 8.

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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.

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