Art Classes and Workshops
Get creative at the Torggler! We offer new classes and workshops for children, teens, 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.
Use the dropdown to filter by class type, age, or browse all available offerings!
Open Studio Wheel-Throwing | Saturdays
Intermediate and advanced artists who are comfortable on the wheel without supervision 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. Additional bags of clay may be purchased for $25.00 each.
Clay and necessary supplies will be provided. Please note that work will require additional time for proper drying and firing, up to a week after class ends. You will be notified when to collect your work.
* No class Saturday, May 16
Saturdays
April 18 — June 13
10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Age
21+
Cost
$120
Instructor
Open Studio Hand-Building | Saturdays
Intermediate and advanced artists who are comfortable working independently will enjoy this time to work on hand-built ceramic pieces. Participants will receive one bag of clay and have access to tools, glazes, and firing. Additional bags of clay may be purchased for $25.00 each.
Please note that work will require additional time for proper drying and firing, up to a week after class ends. You will be notified when to collect your work.
* No class Saturday, May 16
Saturdays
April 18 — June 13
10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Age
21+
Cost
$120
Instructor
Kayla Gaddy - Studio Tech
Introduction to Wheel-Thrown Pottery
Discover the joy of creating pottery on the wheel in this engaging eight-week class. Whether you are brand new to the pottery wheel or looking to strengthen your skills, this course offers step-by-step guidance from an experienced instructor.
Students will learn essential wheel-throwing techniques, including centering clay, raising walls, shaping forms, trimming, pulling handles, and glazing. Throughout the session, you will transform simple lumps of clay into finished ceramic pieces while building confidence and control at the wheel.
Clay and essential materials are provided.
Please note that work will require additional time for proper drying and firing, up to a week after class ends. You will be notified when to collect your work.
Monday
April13 — June 1
6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Age
15+
Cost
$160
Instructor
A Watercolor Journey
Step into the luminous world of watercolor and explore the magic of paint, water, and paper. In this eight‑week creative journey, students will experiment with essential techniques such as washes, glazing, wet‑on‑wet, and dry brush while learning to guide color and movement across the page. Along the way, you’ll discover the building blocks of strong paintings—line, edges, value, color harmony, texture, and composition. Both beginners and experienced artists will find inspiration as they build skills and confidence with this expressive medium. Whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time or continuing your artistic path, this class invites you to relax, experiment, and discover your unique watercolor voice.
A supply list will be provided before the start of class.
Tuesday
April 14 - June 2
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Age
18+
Cost
$160
Instructor
Encaustics Exploration
Take your encaustic practice further in this four-part workshop designed for artists with prior experience in wax painting or related media. Working with a blend of beeswax, damar resin, and richly pigmented color, participants will deepen their understanding of the luminous surfaces and dimensional textures that define encaustic art. Building on foundational skills, students will refine techniques such as layering, fusing, incising, and surface manipulation while expanding their control of molten wax. The workshop encourages exploration of more complex approaches, including combining texture, mark-making, and sculptural surface development. Participants will experiment, push their techniques further, and continue developing a distinctive personal style.
All materials are provided—simply arrive ready to explore, experiment, and create new, one-of-a-kind encaustic work.
Tuesday
May 19 — June 9
5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Age
16+
Cost
$80
Instructor
Independent Wheel-Throwing Studio | Wednesdays
Intermediate and advanced artists who are comfortable on the wheel without supervision 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. Additional bags of clay may be purchased for $25.00 each.
Please note that work will require additional time for proper drying and firing, up to a week after class ends. You will be notified when to collect your work.
Wednesdays
April 15 — June 3
6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Age
21+
Cost
$120
Instructor
Independent Studio
Independent Hand-Building Studio | Wednesdays
Intermediate and advanced artists who are comfortable working without an instructor will enjoy this time to work independently on hand-built ceramic pieces. Participants will receive one bag of clay and have access to tools, glazes, and firing. Additional bags of clay may be purchased for $25.00 each.
Please note that work will require additional time for proper drying and firing, up to a week after class ends. You will be notified when to collect your work.
Wednesdays
April 15 — June 3
6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Age
21+
Cost
$120
Instructor
Independent Studio
35mm Digital Photography: From Capture to Creation
Learn to see the world through the lens in this four-part, hands-on digital photography class. Designed for beginners and hobby photographers alike, this course explores the art and technique of creating powerful images from start to finish. Cameras are provided, or you may bring your own.
Day 1: Camera Basics & Composition
Get comfortable with your camera’s manual settings and core features. Learn how shutter speed, aperture, and ISO work together to shape your images. Explore basic compositional techniques and guidelines such as the rule of thirds, framing, perspective, and visual balance to create stronger, more intentional photographs.
Day 2: Storytelling, Lighting & Basic Editing
Discover how light affects the mood, clarity, and texture of photographs. Learn to work with natural light and simple artificial lighting, applying storytelling techniques to the fundamentals of portrait photography. The day concludes with an introduction to basic digital editing, including cropping, color correction, and exposure adjustments.
Day 3: Storytelling Through Food Photography
Apply composition and lighting techniques to food photography. Focus on creating visually appealing images while learning how to tell a story through styling, perspective, and the thoughtful use of light.
Day 4: Advanced Editing Techniques
Take your images further with advanced editing techniques. Learn how to refine color, exposure, and detail while maintaining image quality for printing and final presentation.
By the end of the course, you will understand your camera, use light intentionally, compose stronger images, and confidently edit your photos while developing your own creative style.
Thursdays
May 28 — June 18
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Age
16+
Cost
$80
Instructor
Jenn Clemons
Hand-building Ceramics: Clay Without the Wheel
Slow down, get your hands in the clay, and discover the creativity of hand-built ceramics. In this eight-week class, students will explore the process of transforming raw clay into beautiful handmade pieces using traditional hand-building techniques. You will learn how to shape, join, and refine clay through coiling, pinch forms, and slab construction while developing your own creative style.
Beginners will build a strong foundation in essential techniques and create functional pieces such as mugs, bowls, and small sculptures while gaining confidence working with clay.
Intermediate and advanced students will enjoy a relaxed studio environment to expand their skills. Use this time to experiment with more complex forms, try new surface treatments, and receive personalized guidance to elevate your work.
Whether you are just beginning or continuing your clay journey, this class offers a supportive space to create, explore, and bring your ideas to life. Tools and one bag of clay are provided. Additional bags may be purchased for $25.00 each.
Please note that work will require additional time for proper drying and firing, up to a week after class ends. You will be notified when to collect your work.
Thursdays
April 16 — June 4
6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Age
18+
Cost
$160
Instructor
Introduction to Encaustic Painting
Discover the captivating art of painting with molten wax in this four‑part introductory encaustic workshop. Using a blend of beeswax, damar resin, and vibrant pigments, participants will explore the luminous layers and rich textures that make encaustic painting so unique. Through demonstrations and guided practice, students will learn essential techniques such as layering, fusing with heat, incising, and creating surface texture while gaining confidence working with wax and heat. Each session builds on the previous one, offering time to experiment with mark‑making, color, and composition while creating several small works. By the end of the course, participants will have a strong foundation in encaustic painting and a collection of their own one‑of‑a‑kind pieces. All materials are provided—simply arrive ready to explore, experiment, and create.
Fridays
May 22 — June 12
10:00 a.m - 1:00 p.m.
Age
15+
Cost
$80
Instructor
Workshop | Gelli Plate Play
Back by popular demand. Dive into the colorful world of gel plate printing in this lively two-day workshop designed for beginners and curious creatives alike.
Day One is all about experimentation and discovery. You will learn the basics of pulling individually crafted prints while exploring simple color theory, layering techniques, and playful pattern making. By the end of the day, you will have a growing stack of vibrant printed papers ready to use as creative building blocks.
Day Two is where the magic happens. Using your collection of prints, you will learn how to combine, cut, and arrange your papers to create a rich and visually striking finished artwork.
Relaxed, playful, and full of creative surprises, this workshop encourages exploration while guiding you toward a beautiful finished piece. All materials are included.
Saturday and Sunday
May 2 | May 3
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Age
15+
Cost
$35
Instructor
Workshop | Gallery Glass Workshop: Instant Stained Glass
Discover the beautiful art of faux stained glass in this single, exciting session! In this beginner-friendly workshop, you'll learn how to transform clear acrylic into a luminous work of art using Gallery Glass, a special product that creates the rich, vibrant look of traditional leaded glass. We will cover the essentials, including leading, filling, and blending. By the end of the day, you will take home a finished piece, such as a beautiful sun catcher or a small decorative window panel, ready to brighten your space. No artistic or glass experience is necessary—just come ready to play with light and color! All materials are included.
Sunday
May 24, 2026
1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Age
15+
Cost
$35
Instructor
Workshop | Letter for Mom: Ceramic Envelope Workshop
Celebrate Mom with a gift made from the heart and your own two hands. In this special Mother’s Day workshop, participants will create a charming ceramic envelope designed to hang on the wall and hold heartfelt notes, small cards, or meaningful keepsakes.
Working with clay slabs, you will shape and decorate your own envelope, adding personal touches such as textures, patterns, and small sculpted details. Whether you make it for Mom or alongside Mom, this workshop is a creative way to spend time together while crafting something truly meaningful.
Perfect for families, friends, or individuals who want to create a thoughtful, handmade gift filled with love.
Fired work will be ready for pickup by Saturday, May 10, in time for Mother's Day.
Sunday
May 3, 2026
1:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Age
Family groups of all ages. Children under age 10 must be accompanied by an adult.
Cost
$35
Instructor
Workshop | Nature in Monochrome: Graphite and Walnut Oil Workshop
Discover a unique approach to drawing in this beginner-friendly workshop led by professional artist and teacher Jenn Clemons. Designed for both teens and adults, this class invites you to explore the fascinating combination of graphite and walnut oil on wood, a technique that creates the rich, soft textures and deep shadows often hard to achieve with pencils alone. You will learn how to translate the beauty of trees and organic forms into your own artwork using Jenn's personal examples as a guide. Throughout the session, you will improve your blending and shading skills as you create a finished piece that bridges the gap between drawing and painting. Whether you are picking up a pencil for the first time or looking to try something new, this workshop provides a welcoming environment to grow your creative talents.
All materials are included. The instructor will email students in advance to help them prepare an image to work from.
Sundays
May 24 | May 31
1:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Age
15+
Cost
$50
Instructor
Jenn Clemons
Workshop | Give It A Spin Two-Day Workshop
Curious about throwing pottery on the wheel? This two-part weekend workshop is the perfect opportunity to give it a spin. Designed for beginners, this hands-on experience introduces the basics of working with clay on the pottery wheel in a fun and supportive environment. During the first session, participants will learn how to prepare clay, center it on the wheel, and shape it into simple forms. In the second session, you will refine your creations by trimming, and you may choose to add handles or decorative details. Your finished pieces will be glazed and kiln-fired for a smooth, durable finish.
Space is limited to 11 participants, so be sure to reserve your spot early. Clay and all necessary supplies are included.
Please note that ceramic pieces require time to dry and be fired in the kiln. Finished work may take up to two weeks after the final session to be ready for pickup. Participants will be notified when their pieces are available.
Saturday and Sunday
April 25 | April 26
2:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Age
16+
Cost
$50
Instructor
Workshop | One-Day Introduction to Encaustics
Discover the luminous world of encaustic painting in this one-day workshop. Using a blend of beeswax, damar resin, and vibrant pigments, students will learn how to layer, fuse, and texture molten wax to create rich, dimensional artwork.
Perfect for beginners and curious artists alike, this class introduces the essential tools and techniques of encaustic painting while encouraging experimentation and creative exploration. By the end of the day, you will leave with your own unique wax painting and the confidence to continue exploring this captivating medium.
Tuesday
May 5, 2026
5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Age
15+
Cost
$30
Instructor
Workshop | Pocket Zines: Small Pages, Big Ideas
What’s a zine? It’s a tiny, handmade magazine that’s all your own! In this fun one-day workshop, you’ll turn a single sheet of paper into your very own mini publication filled with creativity and personality. Use collage, drawing, painting, and imagination to design pages full of your stories, patterns, poems, comics, or messages. Learn the simple folding technique that transforms one piece of paper into a small booklet, then watch your creation come to life as it’s reproduced into multiple copies to share with family and friends.
Perfect for ages 10 through adult; families welcome! This workshop is all about creativity, play, and the joy of making something completely your own.
Saturday
May 9, 2026
10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Age
10+
Cost
$30
Instructor
Workshop | Sewing for the Beginner
No machine? No problem! This small-group two-part workshop provides everything you need to learn the basics of machine sewing, except a yard of your favorite fabric. Participants will create a functional, personalized tote bag from start to finish. We will walk you through all the necessary technical skills, taking you from knowing nothing about a sewing machine to confidently operating it. Sign up now, space is limited!
Bring one yard of your favorite printed fabric. All other supplies are provided.
Sunday
April 12 | April 19
1:00 - 4:30 p.m.
Age
16+
Cost
$60
Instructor
Workshop | Quick Quilting Basics: Quilt-As-You-Go Table Runner
Learn the fun, efficient Quilt-As-You-Go method while creating a beautiful table runner. In this beginner- and intermediate-friendly class, students will piece and quilt sections as they sew, making the process faster and easier than traditional quilting. By the end of the workshop, you will have completed, or nearly completed, a table runner and gained the skills to use this technique in future projects. Great for confident beginners and experienced sewists who want to try a new method.
Sewing machines provided. A supply list will be sent after registration
Sunday
June 7
1:00 - 4:30 p.m.
Age
16+
Cost
$35
Instructor
Workshop | Liquid to Light: Resin Art and Alchemy
This fun and exciting hands-on workshop begins with an inspiring visit to the Torggler’s main gallery to view the Future Fossils exhibition. Participants will observe how artists utilize resin and other materials to create complex artworks. Next, we'll discuss the science and "alchemy" behind resin—understanding how two liquids transform into a solid, clear, and durable material.
Then comes the fun part–creating your own luminous art! You will learn the correct techniques for mixing, tinting, and pouring to make beautiful, functional pieces, such as sparkling sun catchers or custom coasters. You'll leave with the confidence to continue working with resin at home.
Finished work will be dry and ready for pickup the next day. No experience required! All materials are included.
Saturday
May 9
1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Age
18+
Cost
$35
Instructor
Important Policies
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.
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.