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In this four-session class, students will be taught the basics of drawing a realistic pencil portrait from a reference photo. The instructor will provide reference photos of faces and demonstrate a systematic approach to capturing a good likeness. There will be a focus on learning to draw what is seen rather than “symbols” of features. Students will be provided with reference photos to work with between sessions. All materials will be provided.

Liz Purcell is a native of Clemson who has been drawing and painting portraits for 30 years. Liz has exhibited her work in juried shows at the Blue Ridge Arts Center, Anderson Arts Center, Gateway Arts Center and the South Carolina Watermedia Society’s annual show. She was a selected artist in the Las Vegas Portrait Project in 2018.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 8

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Join us at the Arts Center for our open clay studio. All supplies, including clay is provided. Just come with an idea and some enthusiasm and Wendy will help you make your ideas reality. Get your hands dirty as you sculpt, carve and create in three dimensions. With Spring just around the corner, why not create some hanging plant pouches or garden stakes or a large planter? Or just have fun, in a relaxing and supporter environment. Some experience is helpful, but our group of artists will help guide you and give you helpful tips to make the best of your experience. All work will dry for several weeks before being fired then you’ll come back to glaze your piece(s).

Wendy’s passion for clay started in college, where she earned a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts with a focus in Ceramics and Printmaking. After which, she spent 14 years in Massachusetts studying under numerous ceramic and sculpture artists in order to expand her vision and skills. In 2014, Wendy relocated to Salem, SC to focus on her art and family. Her work has been shown in galleries up and down the East Coast and resides in private collections across the country.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 8

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Looking for a space to spread out and create your next masterpiece? Join our week-long open studio session and you’ll get a dedicated workspace with access any time of day that is convenient for you! Bring your own supplies (paper, canvas, paints, pencils, clay, etc.) and join other artists in this communal studio space. There is no instructor, but other artists are always happen to lend a hand or an eye and offer assistance or critique if desired. We’ll provide a 8′ table and easel (if desired), you bring everything else. Set up on the first day and leave everything in place for the week. So come in out of the heat and space the last days of summer creating amazing artwork.

Gallery offers air conditioning, bathrooms, full kitchen with refrigerator and ample space to work.

There is no specific time for this open studio. You are welcome to come and go as you like, while leaving your supplies all set up for the next session/day!

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 8

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Are you a true beginner or intermediate on your watercolor journey? If so, then this class is for you! We will focus on reinforcing basic techniques of speed/ timing of execution and paint consistency, PLUS learning how to create “carrot people” (figures). You will learn different applications of strategy along with new brush types to obtain the rainy reflective nature of this scene.

This class is a great follow on to our Watercolor for Dummies class. There’s no preparation other than procurement of materials in advance (download supply list)

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. 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. 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.  Enrollment will close August 19 to allow time for procurement of items.

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Looking for a space to spread out and create your next masterpiece? Join our week-long open studio session and you’ll get a dedicated workspace with access any time of day that is convenient for you! Bring your own supplies (paper, canvas, paints, pencils, clay, etc.) and join other artists in this communal studio space. There is no instructor, but other artists are always happen to lend a hand or an eye and offer assistance or critique if desired. We’ll provide a 8′ table and easel (if desired), you bring everything else. Set up on the first day and leave everything in place for the week. So come in out of the heat and space the last days of summer creating amazing artwork.

Gallery offers air conditioning, bathrooms, full kitchen with refrigerator and ample space to work.

There is no specific time for this open studio. You are welcome to come and go as you like, while leaving your supplies all set up for the next session/day!

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 8

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This fun project will be held over 2 sessions. At the first session, participants will learn how to make the Sunburst Granny Square. Their personal squares completed at this session will be measured to determine how many squares each person will need for their sweater (since some might like a shorter sweater, while others may prefer a longer sweater).

Participants will come back to session 2 with their completed squares and we will work together to put the squares together and add the wrist cuffs, neck and front panel edgings.

Participants should bring to class NUMBER 4 acrylic yarn (see photo here with information circled in red) in a minimum of 4 separate colors, as well as a 5.5mm crochet hook (you might consider also bringing a 5mm and 6mm crochet hook in case the 5mm doesn’t work for your squares), darning/yarn needle, stitch markers, tape measure and scissors. As always, available for purchase will be a 107- piece crochet kit, if you had rather have one of those (highly recommended).

This class is great for confident beginners (who already know basic crochet stitches), intermediate and advanced crocheters, however all levels are welcome.

A native of Oconee County, I have been crocheting for more than 55 years and teaching the art of crochet via private lessons and to small groups for nearly 20 years. I am a member of The Crochet Guild of America. You can find photos of some of my work here: Album: Crochet Arts

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 10

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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

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WATERCOLOR: LET’S PAINT TOGETHER is a paint-along workshop. The workshop touches on composition, values, color mixing, watercolor techniques and more. Participants will follow along, step-by-step as we paint a watercolor landscape. As we work on our watercolor painting, discussion about problems and discoveries is encouraged.

SUPPLIES NEEDED

• Bring whatever watercolors you have

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: 12

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Learn the art of pyrography in this wood burning course for all skill levels! We will take things one step at a time as you familiarize yourself with a heated wood burning tool and learn to plan and shade an image onto a variety of surfaces.

Each participant will need to bring their own wood burner (you can find inexpensive tools at Walmart and most art supply stores). The instructor will provide wood, but if you want to experiment with other materials, you can bring your own heavy-weight paper, gourds, leather, or even bone/antlers!

Originally from rural Michigan, Abigail St. Clair is an artist in Greenville, South Carolina. She received her Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in painting and drawing from the South Carolina School of the Arts at Anderson University. Her paintings, drawings, and wood burnings have been shown around the upstate, and in local and national literary magazines. Abigail has plans to pursue a career in higher education and continue to teach courses at various art centers. You can view Abigail’s work online at: https://abigailstclair721.wixsite.com/portfolio/the-studio

REGISTER NOW. Minimum: 5 / Maximum Participants: 10

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Learn to oil paint with Bob Ross’ wet-on-wet technique from the Joy of Painting PBS show. “The creative process is therapeutic and healing. It makes you take pause and be in the moment. It really is about enjoying the steps and learning to move the paint with purpose.” Andrea is a Bob Ross Certified Instructor (CRFI, CRI) who loves to share the Joy of Painting! In this 3 hour oil painting class, she will lead you on a step-by-step journey thru the whole process, teaching you all the valuable Bob Ross techniques and tips!

All materials are provided, including a large 16×20 canvas and Bob Ross paint and brushes. Breaks will be provided. Please feel comfortable with bringing in your own snacks and beverages.

Andrea Williams has been an Artist/Owner of Errant Artistry for 10 years. She a Bob Ross Certified Instructor, teaching Florals, Seascapes and Landscapes. She travels to venues around the Upstate to conduct paint classes. You can view her website at www.ErrantArtistry.com and like/follow Errant Artistry on Facebook/Instagram.

REGISTER NOW. Minimum: 6 / Maximum Participants: 24

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If you have ever wanted to paint from nature and found the experience overwhelming and just plain frustrating, this class may put you on the right path! You’ll have the chance to discover many types of set-ups, explore a variety of materials, learn how different media and different locations can affect your preparation, set-up and flow. The first class will take place in the classroom at Blue Ridge Art Center and will demonstrate how to set up and how the use a carts, easels, chairs and materials can simplify the process. You will receive a list of absolutes to get you started, along with some suggestions, and room to add to it and personalize your check list for plein air painting. We will also touch on how to break down what you see allowing you to capture the essence of your painting from life and how this differs from studio painting using a photo for inspiration.

The second class is a field trip. We’ll spend time at a location and try out some of the things we learned in the first class. Some set-up items may be available to borrow for the day (such as easels, chairs and possibly a cart), while other items will need to be supplied by the artist. You can of course bring any set-up items you already have to round out your plein air experience. You will also need to bring your own medium and supplies to paint your piece. Donna will demonstrate how she sets up and selects a subject in order to clarify and give an example to all. After painting, the group will gather to compare notes, show off our endeavors and discuss any problems we can dispel. Bring a lunch if you wish. Weather always impacts where to go and how long we stay at our location. So this will be fine tuned at our first class when we have a better idea of the weather predictions .

Donna O’Hara has been painting in plein air for over thirty years. Having taken several workshops in pastel and oil plein air painting, Donna has created her knowledge base along with hundreds of hours painting experience on her own. She belongs to 2 plein air groups and a Pastel group. She has also participated and competed in many plein air competitions across the South East and has won awards for her work in pastel and clay.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 12

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Katherine Reay is a national bestselling and award-winning author of twelve novels and one non-fiction work. A Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Northwestern University, her writing has appeared in numerous publications, including Redbook, USA TODAY, The Daily Beast, Criminal Element, and many more. She holds a master’s in marketing from Northwestern University as well. Katherine resides in Montana with her husband and their dogs. 

Watch for tickets to go on sale in September. Ticket includes attendance, a signed book and refreshments.

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This is an acrylic class.

Choose a composition that inspires you and make it your own, then critique it by using the elements of design. All artists are welcome. This class will be a reinforcement of using the elements of design with the goal of internalizing more painting knowledge. Students are asked to provide their own supplies for this class. Download the supply list.

Martha served on the Blue Ridge Arts Center Board and is a past president. Her reputation as an excellent teacher and an award-winning, innovative painter are recognized by her previous students, fellow artists, and the community at large. As the facilitator of Blue Ridge Arts Center’s Critique-Inspired Support, Life Drawing and Painting Artists Groups, her guidance is sought by professional and amateur artists alike.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 12

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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 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 future watercolor classes!

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 between sessions 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 yourself, something to take notes on, 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. 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. 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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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

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This class is intended for intermediate adventurers in watercolor although all skill levels are welcome as there is plenty to learn! You will utilize the concept of “seeing” and reinforce color harmonization strategies as you learn to use layering and watercolor’s transparent qualities to paint a glass subject. You will also learn new techniques utilizing drafting tape and tracing paper to drive crisp clean edges. This 3-part class will have a homework element as you work to achieve the level of detail you desire for this piece.

There are no pre-requisite classes, but you might hear reinforcement of things other students may have learned as a part of prior classes. Come join the fun! A high-level outline of process and approach will be provided in addition to traceable image and reference photos. Download supply list.

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. 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. 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: 15

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Explore the versatility and expressive possibilities of acrylic paint using a palette knife! This class is designed for beginner and intermediate artists who want to loosen up, experiment with texture, and create dynamic paintings – bring your smile, creativity and willingness to experiment!

Supplies:

• Canvas (suggested sizes: 11×14, 16×20 or 20×20) – it’s easier to work on details on a large canvas)
• Acrylic Paints: At least 1 red, 1 yellow, & 1 blue plus white and black. Any other colors welcome.
• Palette
• Paper towels
• 2 palette knives (any shape)
• Lunch

To get a head start, come with an under painting on your canvas, one color or multiple colors. This is simply painting over all of the white of the canvas.

Martha has served on the Blue Ridge Arts Center Board and is a past president and her reputation as an excellent teacher and an award-winning, innovative painter are recognized by her previous students, fellow artists, and the community at large. As the facilitator of BRAC’s Critique-Inspired Support, Life Drawing, and Life Painting Artists Groups, her guidance is sought by professional and amateur artists alike.

REGISTER NOW. Maximum Participants: 12

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Learn to oil paint with Bob Ross’ wet-on-wet technique from the Joy of Painting PBS show. “The creative process is therapeutic and healing. It makes you take pause and be in the moment. It really is about enjoying the steps and learning to move the paint with purpose.” Andrea is a Bob Ross Certified Instructor (CRFI, CRI) who loves to share the Joy of Painting! In this 3 hour oil painting class, she will lead you on a step-by-step journey thru the whole process, teaching you all the valuable Bob Ross techniques and tips!

All materials are provided, including a large 16×20 canvas and Bob Ross paint and brushes. Breaks will be provided. Please feel comfortable with bringing in your own snacks and beverages.

Andrea Williams has been an Artist/Owner of Errant Artistry for 10 years. She a Bob Ross Certified Instructor, teaching Florals, Seascapes and Landscapes. She travels to venues around the Upstate to conduct paint classes. You can view her website at www.ErrantArtistry.com and like/follow Errant Artistry on Facebook/Instagram.

REGISTER NOW. Minimum: 6 / Maximum Participants: 24

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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

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Tom is returning back by popular request. Join him to make a leather shoulder bag 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 chose, you may even have time to make a second item. It is recommended that first-time students make a leather shoulder bag as their first project. This will help you to learn the techniques of cutting leather, using basic tools, and stitching styles. If desired, you can learn to use a wood burning tool to inscribe a design directly onto 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. 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. 

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: 10

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Susan Beckham Zurenda taught English for 33 years on the college level and at the high school level to AP students. Her debut novel, Bells for Eli (Mercer University Press, March 2020; paperback edition March 2021), was selected the first place winner for Best First Book—Fiction in the 2021 IPPY (Independent Publisher Book Awards), a Foreword Indie Book Award finalist, a Winter 2020 Okra Pick by the Southern Independent Booksellers Alliance, a 2020 Notable Indie on Shelf Unbound, a 2020 finalist for American Book Fest Best Book Awards, and was nominated for a Pushcart Prize for 2021. Susan has won numerous awards for her short fiction, including winning the South Carolina Fiction Prize twice. Her second novel, The Girl From the Red Rose Motel (Mercer University Press, September 2023), was the recipient of the 2024 Patricia Winn Award in Southern Fiction, Gold Medal winner in the 2024 IPPY Awards for Southeast Fiction, a 2024 Pushcart Prize nominee, a Shelf Unbound 2023 Notable 100 books, and a finalist in the American Book Fest Awards. The author lives in Spartanburg, SC. 

Watch for tickets to go on sale in November. Ticket includes attendance, a signed book and refreshments.

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Learn to oil paint with Bob Ross’ wet-on-wet technique from the Joy of Painting PBS show. “The creative process is therapeutic and healing. It makes you take pause and be in the moment. It really is about enjoying the steps and learning to move the paint with purpose.” Andrea is a Bob Ross Certified Instructor (CRFI, CRI) who loves to share the Joy of Painting! In this 3 hour oil painting class, she will lead you on a step-by-step journey thru the whole process, teaching you all the valuable Bob Ross techniques and tips!

All materials are provided, including a large 16×20 canvas and Bob Ross paint and brushes. Breaks will be provided. Please feel comfortable with bringing in your own snacks and beverages.

Andrea Williams has been an Artist/Owner of Errant Artistry for 10 years. She a Bob Ross Certified Instructor, teaching Florals, Seascapes and Landscapes. She travels to venues around the Upstate to conduct paint classes. You can view her website at www.ErrantArtistry.com and like/follow Errant Artistry on Facebook/Instagram.

REGISTER NOW. Minimum: 6 / Maximum Participants: 24

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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