Get creative at the Torggler! We offer new classes for children and adults each season. Classes are held at convenient times throughout the week in brand new, well-appointed studio classrooms. Taught by qualified, experienced artists and art instructors, our classes focus on developing creative skills and self-expression, and range in duration from weekend workshops to eight-week courses.
Course Offerings
Intermediate and Advanced Drawing Tuesday
Description
This class is designed for more experienced students looking to fine-tune their drawing skills, develop their individual style, and progress as an artist. The focus of the class will be on portraiture. Students will work independently, using the materials and subjects of their choice. The class will include lectures, demonstrations, exercises, and critiques. A materials list will be emailed in advance if needed.Details
- Age: 18+
- Dates: Tuesdays
April 9 - May 28 - Time: 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Mary Lee Ruff is from Newport News. An award-winning artist, Mary has been creating art for over 30 years. Drawing with graphite pencil is a passionate adventure for her, providing balance and joy to her life. She has 10 years of teaching experience.
Watercolor An Artistic Eight Week Journey
Description
Join us for this eight-week, explorative journey into watercolors. Tailored for beginners and refreshers, students will delve into techniques like washes, glazing, wet-on-wet, dry brush, and more. Discover core elements: line, edges, value, color, texture, and composition. Customize your learning with topics such as Eastern techniques or collage. Find your artistic voice in this captivating watercolor course. A supply list will be furnished before the start of the class.Details
- Age: 18+
- Dates: Tuesdays
April 9 - May 28 - Time: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Jim Dees has taught watercolor classes at Peninsula Fine Arts Center, the Charles Taylor Visual Arts Center and Blue Skies Gallery in Hampton. A former president and a signature member of the Virginia Watercolor Society, Jim holds a bachelor’s degree from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, and a master’s from the College of William & Mary.
Wheel Throwing 101 Wednesday
Description
Indulge in a soothing and rewarding hobby as you delve into the world of wheel-thrown pottery. Whether you're a novice or looking to refine your ceramic skills, our introductory wheel-throwing class is designed for everyone. Over the course of six weeks, you'll be guided by an experienced potter who will be there every step of the way. From the initial stages to the final touches, you’ll engage in various throwing techniques, including centering, raising walls, trimming, handle pulling, intricate detailing, and glazing.
Supplies are provided. Please note that some creations may require additional time for proper drying and firing, up to a week after class ends. In such cases, you will be notified when to collect your work.
Details
- Age: 15+
- Dates: Wednesdays
April 10 - May 15 - Time: 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
- Cost: $130.00
Instructors
Rachel Rhodes holds a BFA in art education from Virginia Commonwealth University and teaches middle school art at Page Middle School in Gloucester, specializing in painting, ceramics, fiber, sculpture and collage.
Intermediate and Advanced Drawing Thursday
Description
This class is designed for more experienced students looking to fine-tune their drawing skills, develop their individual style, and progress as an artist. The focus of the class will be on portraiture. Students will work independently, using the materials and subjects of their choice. The class will include lectures, demonstrations, exercises, and critiques. A materials list will be emailed in advance if needed.Details
- Age: 18+
- Dates: Thursdays
April 11 - May 30 - Time: 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Mary Lee Ruff is from Newport News. An award-winning artist, Mary has been creating art for over 30 years. Drawing with graphite pencil is a passionate adventure for her, providing balance and joy to her life. She has 10 years of teaching experience.
Painting in Acrylics
Description
Whether you’re new to acrylics or seeking improvement and greater familiarity, this course is designed to aid students in building a strong foundation for acrylic painting. Participants will gain practical experience in various paint application techniques and the proper handling of materials. Additionally, they will improve their understanding of color theory and value. As the culmination of the course, students will utilize the knowledge and skills they've acquired to create a final, full-color painting of a subject of their preference. Throughout this course, participants can anticipate brief lectures, demonstrations, and personalized guidance. A list of necessary supplies will be provided upon registration.Details
- Age: 18+
- Dates: Saturdays
April 13 - June 15 - Time: 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
- Cost: $140.00
Instructors
Michael Jurist has been a resident of Newport News since retiring from the Air Force. He holds a master's degree from the Academy of Art University. Michael has taught drawing at the Peninsula Fine Art Center (PFAC) and has been an adjunct instructor at Virginia Peninsula Community College (VPCC) for the last three years, teaching drawing and 2D design.
Give it a Spin April
Description
Two-day Wheel-Throwing Workshop
Have you always wanted to try making pottery on the wheel? Tackling a new hobby can be intimidating. If you're not sure whether you want to commit to the craft, here is your chance to give it a try. In this three-hour workshop, participants will grasp the fundamentals of handling clay, setting up the wheel, and executing the steps to throw a form. On the second day, students will learn how to trim their pieces and add handles or embellishments if desired. All works will be glazed and then fired for a beautiful finish. Class is limited to 10 so don’t delay, sign up now! Clay and necessary supplies will be provided. Please note that some creations may require additional time for proper drying and firing, up to a week after class ends. In such cases, you will be notified when to collect your work.
Details
- Age: 13+
- Dates: Saturdays
April 20 - April 21 - Time: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
- Cost: $50.00
Instructors
Rhiannen Sears is a graduate of the University of Texas at San Antonio, with a BFA, concentration in ceramics, and a minor in Art History and Criticism. She is currently working on her master's degree in Art Education (MAT) at Christopher Newport University. Rhiannen is a proficient and knowledgeable ceramicist. She has taught many workshops and currently is teaching ceramics at Lafayette High School in Williamsburg.
Teen Studio - Getting Started with Procreate
Description
Procreate is a fun, intuitive drawing, painting, and animation program for the iPad. In this two-part workshop, you will learn basic drawing techniques, canvas settings, brushes, and color palettes, as well as how to create an animated GIF--and more! Procreate makes the challenges of digital drawing fun and easy. You will learn step-by-step how to change settings from traditional drawing to animation in seconds. Export your work so you can email or airdrop it to share with others.
Students may bring their own iPad loaded with the Procreate app and their Apple Pencil if they have one. Otherwise, the Torggler has iPads preloaded with the Procreate app and digital pens (not Apple Pencils) that may be borrowed.
Details
- Age: 14-18
- Dates: Wednesdays
April 24 - May 1 - Time: 3:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
- Cost: $40.00
Instructors
Barbara Stephenson is the Education Manager for the Torggler Fine Art Center. With 28 years of experience in the classroom, she has taught as an adjunct professor at Christopher Newport University and high school art. Barbara specializes in drawing and mixed media.
Independent Hand-building
Description
Intermediate and advanced clay hand-building artists who are comfortable with no instruction will enjoy
this time to work independently on their craft. Participants will receive one bag of clay and have access
to tools, glazes, and firing. Space is limited.
Additional bags of clay may be purchased for $25.00 each.
Details
- Age: 21+
- Dates: Thursdays
April 25 - May 30 - Time: 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
- Cost: $100.00
Instructors
Rhiannen Sears is a graduate of the University of Texas at San Antonio, with a BFA, concentration in ceramics, and a minor in Art History and Criticism. She is currently working on her master's degree in Art Education (MAT) at Christopher Newport University. Rhiannen is a proficient and knowledgeable ceramicist. She has taught many workshops and currently is teaching ceramics at Lafayette High School in Williamsburg.
Intermediate Wheel Throwing
Description
This wheel-throwing ceramic class is perfect for potters who want to continue to build their ceramics skills. This eight-week class will allow students to improve their throwing techniques. Skill building will include improving centering, bringing up the walls, creating unique forms and lidded vessels, pulled handles, trimming, surface treatments and glazing. Tools and one bag of clay are provided. Additional bags may be purchased for $25.00 each.
Please note that some creations may require additional time for proper drying and firing, up to a week after class ends. In such cases, you will be notified when to collect your work.
Details
- Age: 16+
- Dates: Thursdays
April 25 - June 13 - Time: 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
- Cost: $170.00
Instructors
Rhiannen Sears is a graduate of the University of Texas at San Antonio, with a BFA, concentration in ceramics, and a minor in Art History and Criticism. She is currently working on her master's degree in Art Education (MAT) at Christopher Newport University. Rhiannen is a proficient and knowledgeable ceramicist. She has taught many workshops and currently is teaching ceramics at Lafayette High School in Williamsburg.
Artful Explorers Series - A Splash of Color - Watercolor Painting
Description
Join us for a delightful workshop where you'll create stunning watercolor paintings! Dive into the world of color mixing, tones, and shades as we focus on mastering the gradation of color technique. Each student will create a unique watercolor painting from start to finish.
Details
- Age: 7-12
- Dates: Saturdays
April 27 - May 4 - Time: 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
- Cost: $50.00
Instructors
Jill Candusso currently teaches ceramics at two York County schools. She has a passion for painting, and taught drawing, sculpture and painting for many years at the Peninsula Fine Arts Center.
Independent Wheel Throwing Tuesdays
Description
Intermediate and advanced clay hand-building artists who are comfortable with no instruction will enjoy this time to work independently on their craft. Participants will receive one bag of clay and have access to tools, glazes, and firing. Space is limited.
Additional bags of clay may be purchased for $25.00 each.
Details
- Age: 21+
- Dates: Tuesdays
April 30 - June 4 - Time: 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
- Cost: $100.00
Instructors
TBA
Procreate for Beginners and Intermediate
Description
In this two-part workshop Procreate makes the challenges of drawing fun and easy! The first session will cover the basic canvas settings, brushes, and color palettes of Procreate. A final image will be created drawing upon the skills learned in this session. In part two, we’ll continue exploring Procreate settings, more advanced layering, working from a reference, and utilizing brushes to create an original design. Instruction on how to make a short animated clip or GIF will complete the session! Students may bring their own iPad loaded with the Procreate app if they wish to. Otherwise, the Torggler has iPads preloaded with the Procreate app and digital pens (not Apple Pencils) that may be borrowed.
Details
- Age: 16+
- Dates: Tuesdays
April 30 - May 7 - Time: 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.
- Cost: $60.00
Instructors
Barbara Stephenson is the Education Manager for the Torggler Fine Art Center. With 28 years of experience in the classroom, she has taught as an adjunct professor at Christopher Newport University and high school art. Barbara specializes in drawing and mixed media.
Sculpting the Legacy of Anna Hyatt Huntington
Description
In this exciting clay sculpture class, suitable for both beginners and more experienced students, we’ll explore the works of Anna Hyatt Huntington on display at the Torggler. Participants will delve into the techniques and styles employed by this renowned sculptor, gaining insight into her creative process and artistic vision. Through hands-on instruction, students will explore various ceramic sculpting methods, drawing inspiration from Huntington's masterpieces. By studying her work, participants will deepen their understanding of sculpture aesthetics while developing their artistic expression. Join us to celebrate the legacy of Anna Hyatt Huntington while gaining inspiration for your own artwork.
All materials provided. Please note that some creations may require additional time for proper drying and firing, up to a week after class ends. In such cases, you will be notified when to collect your work.
Details
- Age: 16+
- Dates: Tuesdays
April 30 - June 18 - Time: 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Rhiannen Sears is a graduate of the University of Texas at San Antonio, with a BFA, concentration in ceramics, and a minor in Art History and Criticism. She is currently working on her master's degree in Art Education (MAT) at Christopher Newport University. Rhiannen is a proficient and knowledgeable ceramicist. She has taught many workshops and currently is teaching ceramics at Lafayette High School in Williamsburg.
Teen Studio - Sculpting Animals in Clay
Description
In this exciting two-part clay sculpture class, students will explore the works of Anna Hyatt Huntington on display at the Torggler while learning about various ceramic sculpting methods. By studying Hyatt Huntington’s work, students will deepen their understanding of sculpture aesthetics while creating a small sculpture of their own. Join us to celebrate the legacy of Anna Hyatt Huntington while gaining inspiration for your own artwork.
Materials provided. Please note that some creations may require additional time for proper drying and firing, up to a week after class ends. In such cases, you will be notified when to collect your work.
Details
- Age: 14-18
- Dates: Wednesdays
May 8 - May 15 - Time: 3:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
- Cost: $40.00
Instructors
Barbara Stephenson is the Education Manager for the Torggler Fine Art Center. With 28 years of experience in the classroom, she has taught as an adjunct professor at Christopher Newport University and high school art. Barbara specializes in drawing and mixed media.
Artful Explorers - Animal Adventures Sculpting with Clay
Description
In this exciting clay sculpture class, students will explore the works of Anna Hyatt Huntington on display at the Torggler as inspiration for an amazing animal sculpture.Details
- Age: 7-12
- Dates: Saturdays
May 18 - May 25 - Time: 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
- Cost: $50.00
Instructors
Jill Candusso currently teaches ceramics at two York County schools. She has a passion for painting, and taught drawing, sculpture and painting for many years at the Peninsula Fine Arts Center.
Teen Studio - Drawing on Inspiration
Description
Focusing on drawing, this workshop will lead participants through a series of exercises featuring a combination of observational drawing in the gallery and drawing from photographs. Through teacher-led demonstration and individual instruction, a variety of techniques and mediums will be introduced.Details
- Age: 14-18
- Dates: Wednesdays
May 22 - May 29 - Time: 3:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
- Cost: $40.00
Instructors
Barbara Stephenson is the Education Manager for the Torggler Fine Art Center. With 28 years of experience in the classroom, she has taught as an adjunct professor at Christopher Newport University and high school art. Barbara specializes in drawing and mixed media.
Give it a Spin May
Description
Two-day Wheel-Throwing Workshop
Have you always wanted to try making pottery on the wheel? Tackling a new hobby can be intimidating. If you're not sure whether you want to commit to the craft, here is your chance to give it a try. In this three-hour workshop, participants will grasp the fundamentals of handling clay, setting up the wheel, and executing the steps to throw a form. On the second day, students will learn how to trim their pieces and add handles or embellishments if desired. All works will be glazed and then fired for a beautiful finish. Class is limited to 10 so don’t delay, sign up now! Clay and necessary supplies will be provided. Please note that some creations may require additional time for proper drying and firing, up to a week after class ends. In such cases, you will be notified when to collect your work.
Details
- Age: 13+
- Dates: Saturdays
May 25 - May 26 - Time: 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
- Cost: $50.00
Instructors
Rhiannen Sears is a graduate of the University of Texas at San Antonio, with a BFA, concentration in ceramics, and a minor in Art History and Criticism. She is currently working on her master's degree in Art Education (MAT) at Christopher Newport University. Rhiannen is a proficient and knowledgeable ceramicist. She has taught many workshops and currently is teaching ceramics at Lafayette High School in Williamsburg.
Workshop - Cuddly Companions - A Big Plushie Making Workshop
Description
In this whimsical family-friendly workshop, participants will be provided with a partially sewn 10” pattern, ready for designing your very own stuffed plushies! The versatile pattern caters to a myriad of creative plushie possibilities, including cats, frogs, fish, spaceships, Baby Yodas, and an array of other creative options. Access to idea boards, demonstrations, and personalized instructions, coupled with a selection of materials, will be at your disposal. Each plushie adventure culminates in the stuffing and stitching of your creation, bringing these perfect plushies to life! Only those who are making a plushie need to register.
Participants under 5 years must be accompanied by an adult.
Details
- Age: 5+
- Dates: Saturday, May 25
- Time: 1:00 p.m. - 3 p.m.
- Cost: $30.00
Instructors
TBA
Workshop - Torggler Tots
Description
It’s never too early to introduce your child to art. This gallery program engages both child and caregiver through movement activities, explorations of the exhibition, introduction to gallery manners, and a simple art project. Stimulate budding curiosity through engaging stories, exploratory art experiences, and gallery walks.
Participants must be accompanied by an adult during this workshop.
Details
- Age: 2-5
- Dates: Friday, May 31
- Time: 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
- Cost: $20.00
Instructors
Barbara Stephenson is the Education Manager for the Torggler Fine Art Center. With 28 years of experience in the classroom, she has taught as an adjunct professor at Christopher Newport University and high school art. Barbara specializes in drawing and mixed media.
Hooked on Crochet
Description
Have you always wanted to learn crochet? Join us in unraveling the mysteries of this craft andlearn something old! Whether you're a complete novice or looking to brush up on your skills,
this workshop is designed for you. In this two-part workshop, you'll learn the basics of crochet
stitches, techniques, and tips to create a simple cowl adorned with decorative buttons. All
materials provided.
Details
- Age: 16+
- Dates: Thursdays
June 6 - June 13 - Time: 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.
- Cost: $50.00
Instructors
Barbara Stephenson is the Education Manager for the Torggler Fine Art Center. With 28 years of experience in the classroom, she has taught as an adjunct professor at Christopher Newport University and high school art. Barbara specializes in drawing and mixed media.
If you have any questions about classes and workshops, please contact Joan Dobson at (757) 594-0800.
All registered participants will receive more information and instructions by email prior to the start of class. We look forward to seeing you at the Torggler very soon!
Important Policies
Wait List
Classes that are full will have a waiting list. You can sign up for the waiting list for a specific class by calling (757) 594-0800.
Cancellation Policy
Unless otherwise stated during the registration process, you must cancel your class reservation at least 14 days in advance to receive a full refund minus a $25 administrative fee. Cancellations received at least seven days before the start of class will receive a 50% refund minus a $25 administrative fee. Cancellations received less than seven days before the start of class are not eligible for a refund. To request a refund, please call the Torggler at (757) 594-0800.
Please note that the cancellation policy may vary for certain workshops. In this case, the cancellation policy will be provided during the registration process.