Upcoming events.
Introduction to Figure Drawing *CLASS FULL!
Introduction to Figure Drawing
*CLASS FULL!
Saturday, May 4
1:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Join Benjamin Brown at Arts on Main for an introduction to figure-drawing class using graphite and charcoal on Saturday, May 4th from 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm!
This class is an introduction to drawing the human figure from a live model using the simplest materials, techniques, and artistic approaches. The purpose of this course is to help students obtain the basic skill of drawing the human form, observation of the human form and fundamental exercises in gesture, contour, outline, and tonal modeling.
AGES 16+
All supplies will be provided by the instructor.
CLASS FULL!
If you would like to be put on a waitlist, call Arts on Main at (804) 824 - 9464.
Please contact us 36 hours in advance if you wish to cancel.
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
A native Virginian, Ben was raised in a very small town with little to do between playing outside, drawing, and experiencing the outside world vicariously through the travel channel. Early on, he gravitated academically to pre-medical studies, while enjoying his artistic outlet in the visual and performing arts, and eventually graduated Hampden Sydney College with his B.S. in 2010 with dual majors in Biology & Fine Arts. Without realizing it at the time, this began his rather round-about journey into medical illustration. After becoming a Peace Corps volunteer he expediently made a profound connection between the cultural exchange of art and its usefulness in communicating in the context of language and literacy barriers about public health. Ben was realizing that his talent for understanding people and focusing his passions on improving their lives through a more thorough understanding of the medical world could be accomplished on a larger scale through art. As his talents have grown so has his worldview over the years; every experience learning about culture the world over contributing to his exposure and appreciation for what art says.
GLASSBLOWING 101 (5/5) *CLASS FULL!
Join David Stifel at York River Glassworks to learn the art of glassblowing! During this class, you will gain an understanding of how to transform molten glass into wonderful works of art. You will have the option to create a variety of different vessels- such as paperweights, ornaments, cups, vases, etc. David has LOTS of glasswork in the gallery, come stop by to see some examples and get inspired!
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Spring Paper Peony (5/11) *class full!
Spring Paper Peony (5/11)
*class full!
Saturday, May 11
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Join Ronda Bowden at Arts on Main for a paper-flower-making class on Saturday, May 11th from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm.
Paper flower artist Ronda Bowden will guide you step-by-step in crafting a realistic and botanically correct Peony. Sometimes called the King of Flowers, peonies have many showy petals and are the stars of Spring and early Summer bouquets. No previous crafting experience is needed. Just come prepared to cut, shape and glue many gorgeous crepe paper petals and take home a fabulous bloom!
*CLASS FULL!
If you would like to be put on a waitlist, call Arts on Main at (804) 824 - 9464.
Please contact us 36 hours in advance if you wish to cancel.
ABOUT THE INSTUCTOR
Ronda is a paper flower sculptor. She explores themes of dramatic whimsy, botanical realism, and decay. Natural flowers provide inspiration for her floral arrangements and teaching instruction.
Palette Pals Reception featuring Kindergarten and 1st Grade Palette Pals
Palette Pals Reception
featuring
Kindergarten and 1st Grade Palette Pals
ABOUT PALETTE PALS
Palette Pals is Arts on Main’s signature educational program and part of our Youth Art Enrichment Programs. Founded in 2011 in one elementary school as the After-School Enrichment Program, it is now in every elementary school in Gloucester County, with over 3000 children participating to date. Palette Pals is currently conducted as an extracurricular, before-school program for students in grades K-5, led by the school’s art teacher. The program’s focus is on teaching STEM-based art lessons that focus on current SOL objectives in math and science. Our goals are to provide hands-on experiential learning through art making and to increase student understanding of concepts related to math and science content. This program is provided at no charge to the children or the schools and relies solely on grants and donations.
Visit this link to donate to Arts on Main’s Palette Pals program: https://www.gloucesterartsonmain.org/checkout/donate?donatePageId=64da6b4182ad8176375bbda9
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
RiverJam 2024
This annual music festival features local artists, musicians, and food and drink for an afternoon of fun with a view of the water. Save the date for next year’s RiverJam: May 18, 2024!
GLASSBLOWING 101 (5/19) *CLASS FULL!
Join David Stifel at York River Glassworks to learn the art of glassblowing! During this class, you will gain an understanding of how to transform molten glass into wonderful works of art. You will have the option to create a variety of different vessels- such as paperweights, ornaments, cups, vases, etc. David has LOTS of glasswork in the gallery, come stop by to see some examples and get inspired!
Gelli Plate Monotype Printmaking *CLASS FULL!
Gelli Plate Monotype Printmaking
*CLASS FULL!
Monday, May 20 - Wednesday, May 22
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Join Rose Nygaard for a Monotype Printmaking Workshop using gelli plates at Arts on Main on Monday, May 20th - Wednesday, May 22nd from 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM.
Rose Nygaard will be introducing monotype printmaking during this 3-Day Workshop. Monotype is one-of-a-kind print that has been made by an image that has been painted on a metal, plastic or another flat, smooth surface. Transferring is made either by hand rubbing or a press. Some of the earliest were made around 1640. Rembrandt, Degas and Matisse all did monotypes. Join Rose to learn about the process and explore different materials to create one-of-a-kind monotypes of your own.
Supply list will be given upon registration.
Cost for the 3-day workshop is $150 per student.
CLASS FULL!
If you would like to be put on a waitlist, call Arts on Main at (804) 824 - 9464.
Please contact us 36 hours in advance if you wish to cancel.
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Rose has a Master’s Degree in Fine Arts from American University In Washington, DC. She has been working in Abstract Art for the last thirty years.
Rose enjoys figurative, still life, and abstract painting and printing. She also experiments with collage as another way of expressing ideas and emotions. She works in different mediums; working boldly with color and shape. The design of the work relies on the color, shape, and weight of pigment and how it affects the visual and visceral reaction of the artist. An Award-winning acrylic painter, Rose teaches an ongoing series of acrylic classes.
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Roses with Ronda (5/24)
Roses with Ronda (5/24)
Friday, May 24
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Join Ronda Bowden at Arts on Main for a paper-flower-making class on Friday, May 24th from 6-8pm.
Ronda will guide students in the step-by-step process of cutting and shaping petals to create a realistic rose. All supplies are provided and no previous experience is required.
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Ronda is a paper flower sculptor. She explores themes of dramatic whimsy, botanical realism, and decay. Natural flowers provide inspiration for her floral arrangements and teaching instruction.
Children's Neon Paint Party
Children's Neon Paint Party
Saturday, May 25
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Join Jennifer McClain on Saturday, May 25th from 3:00pm - 5:00pm at Arts on Main for a Children’s paint night!
Can painting get any more cool? With black lights it can! Join us for an exciting "glow" party and paint a colorful neon jellyfish!
(Wearing neon colors is optional. Bring a friend!)
For children ages 9+
All supplies will be provided by the instructor.
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Jennifer McClain, originally from Queens, NY, is an artist, author, and instructor who has been creating art since early childhood. She uses her gifting in hopes to provide a creative outlet for individuals who are seeking enjoyment, peace, and even healing through an artistic standpoint. Jennifer’s work has been juried and displayed at galleries located in Dallas, TX, Virginia Beach, VA, and Gloucester, VA. When she’s not painting, she enjoys cooking homemade meals for her family, traveling to new destinations, and roller skating through nature.
GLASSBLOWING 101 (5/26) *CLASS FULL!
Join David Stifel at York River Glassworks to learn the art of glassblowing! During this class, you will gain an understanding of how to transform molten glass into wonderful works of art. You will have the option to create a variety of different vessels- such as paperweights, ornaments, cups, vases, etc. David has LOTS of glasswork in the gallery, come stop by to see some examples and get inspired!
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Artist Talk with Bruce Fransen
Artist Talk with Bruce Fransen
Saturday, June 1
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Join Exhibiting Artist, Bruce Fransen, for an Artist Talk at Arts on Main on Saturday, June 1st from 2-3pm. Learn about Bruce and his artistic process, ask questions, and maybe leave with a piece of your own! This will be the last day Bruce’s art will be on display at Arts on Main.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Bruce Fransen of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia - award-winning sculptor, musician, and arborist. Growing up on Long Island, NY, near the seashore – he has gleaned an abundance of creative images and inspiration.
Bruce has worked with wood since the early ‘70’s as an arborist and as an artist. Over the last 20 years, creating his stunning wood sculptures has become an all-consuming passion.
His art is informed by his love of the waterways of his youth, his extensive knowledge and experience in preserving trees over a 40+ year career, and his fine arts education at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Bruce is also a professional woodwind musician, whose improvisational approach to music carries over to his unique sculpture.
Bruce loves the innate beauty, versatility, and potential for great surprises inherent when working with wood.
“I feel a profound relationship between my music, my sculpture, the sea, and trees!”
The process: Bruce’s creations are carved – a rigorous and time-consuming process. They all start with a log and a chain saw. After roughing out with chain saws the creations are refined with grinders, sanders, and fine tool hand work. Most pieces are brought to a high polish to enhance the grain. Texture and color are sometimes added as new elements for dramatic visual and tactile experiences.
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Mobile Making
Mobile Making WORKSHOP
with paper flowers
Saturday, June 8
12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Join Ronda Bowden on Saturday, June 8th from 12:00pm - 5:00pm for a beginner’s mobile-making workshop.
In this workshop, students will thread natural straw, paper, and felt balls onto cotton thread to create a mobile that will spin in the air currents. Many design options and color combinations are possible. Simple paper flowers will be taught for the finishing touches.
Threading needles and tying knots are the only skills required!
Bring a friend and come have a fun day of creating at Arts on Main! All supplies will be provided by the instructor.
*REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS ON JUNE 7TH @ NOON
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Ronda is a paper flower sculptor. She explores themes of dramatic whimsy, botanical realism, and decay. Natural flowers provide inspiration for her floral arrangements and teaching instruction.
pre-k Summer Art Program #1 (Ages 3-5) *CLASS FULL!
Pre-k Summer Art Program #1
(Ages 3-5) *CLASS FULL!
Monday, June 10 - Friday, June 14
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Join Arts on Main’s Summer Art Program with Anne Atkinson Monday, June 10 - Friday, June 14 from 9am - 12pm.
This program is free and open to children ages 3-5.
During this fun class students will be experimenting with different mediums and getting very messy! We will explore art through the ages and incorporate play with art.
THIS PROGRAM IS FULL. CONTACT ARTS ON MAIN AT (804) 824-9464 TO BE PUT ON A WAITLIST.
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Anne holds a degree in Fine Arts from Virginia Commonwealth University. She has worked as a Scenic Artist for theatre for many years. Anne has taught art to people of all ages- from toddlers to seniors. She was raised in a family that embraced education and the arts…music and painting. Singing and dancing were always part of her life.
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Sunset Paradise Paint Night
Sunset Paradise Paint Night
Saturday, June 15
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Join Jennifer McClain at Arts on Main on Saturday, June 15th from 5:00pm - 7:00pm for an adult paint night!
Relax and unwind with local artist, Jennifer McClain, as she takes you step-by-step in painting a serene, tropical sunset. Listen to soothing music and enjoy "a night at the beach" through your canvas.
Feel relaxed while exploring your creativity and enjoying the company of other artists!
All supplies will be provided by the instructor. This class is open to all skill levels!
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Jennifer McClain, originally from Queens, NY, is an artist, author, and instructor who has been creating art since early childhood. She uses her gifting in hopes to provide a creative outlet for individuals who are seeking enjoyment, peace, and even healing through an artistic standpoint. Jennifer’s work has been juried and displayed at galleries located in Dallas, TX, Virginia Beach, VA, and Gloucester, VA. When she’s not painting, she enjoys cooking homemade meals for her family, traveling to new destinations, and roller skating through nature.
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Color Theory for Acrylic Painters
Students will learn color theory by creating acrylic on canvas paintings. They will learn how to mix colors and apply color schemes for both visual appeal and meaning. They will first apply basic mixing skills to paint a color wheel painting. Then, they will create a monochromatic painting, an analogous landscape, and a Pop Art painting with a complementary color scheme.
Fast and Fun Flowers (6/26)
Fast and Fun Flowers (6/26)
Wednesday, June 26
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Join Ronda Bowden on Wednesday, June 26th from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Arts on Main for a paper-flower-making class!
Paper flowers are fun! Make your own flowers and follow your intuition as you create! Learn to make whimsical flowers using a variety of techniques. Instead of trying to copy nature, use your imagination to create fun and colorful blossoms. Use your handmade flowers to top off wrapped gifts, frosted cakes, or make a fun and funky bouquet or garland. Bring a friend and come have fun, all supplies are provided by the instructor!
FOR AGES 13+
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Ronda is a paper flower sculptor who draws inspiration from nature and the work of artists who have been inspired by flowers throughout history. Themes she explores are botanical realism and dramatic whimsy.
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Fast and Fun Flowers (7/13)
Fast and Fun Flowers (7/13)
Saturday, July 13
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Join Ronda Bowden on Saturday, July 13 from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm at Arts on Main for a paper-flower-making class!
Paper flowers are fun! Make your own flowers and follow your intuition as you create! Learn to make whimsical flowers using a variety of techniques. Instead of trying to copy nature, use your imagination to create fun and colorful blossoms. Use your handmade flowers to top off wrapped gifts, frosted cakes, or make a fun and funky bouquet or garland. Bring a friend and come have fun, all supplies are provided by the instructor!
FOR AGES 13+
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Ronda is a paper flower sculptor who draws inspiration from nature and the work of artists who have been inspired by flowers throughout history. Themes she explores are botanical realism and dramatic whimsy.
ELEMENTARY Summer Art Program #1 (Ages 6-11) *CLASS FULL!
ELEMENTARY Summer Art Program #1
(Ages 6-11) *CLASS FULL
Monday, July 15 - Friday, July 19
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Join Arts on Main’s Summer Art Program #1 with Anne Atkinson Monday, July 15 - Friday, July 19 from 9am - 12pm.
This program is free and open to children ages 6-11.
In this class, students will experiment with various art materials while studying master artists.
THIS PROGRAM IS FULL. Contact Arts on Main at (804) 824-9464 to be put on a waitlist.
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Anne holds a degree in Fine Arts from Virginia Commonwealth University. She has worked as a Scenic Artist for theatre for many years. Anne has taught art to people of all ages- from toddlers to seniors. She was raised in a family that embraced education and the arts…music and painting. Singing and dancing were always part of her life.
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Summer Art Workshops (Ages 11 - 13) *CLASS FULL!
Summer Art Workshops
(Ages 11 - 13) *CLASS FULL
Monday, July 22 - Friday, July 26
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Join Anne Atkinson’s Summer Art Workshops Monday, July 22 through Friday, July 26 from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm at Arts on Main.
During these workshops, students will explore modern art from the 20th century.
THIS PROGRAM IS FULL. CALL ARTS ON MAIN AT (804) 824-9464 TO BE PUT ON A WAITLIST.
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Anne holds a degree in Fine Arts from Virginia Commonwealth University. She has worked as a Scenic Artist for theatre for many years. Anne has taught art to people of all ages- from toddlers to seniors. She was raised in a family that embraced education and the arts…music and painting. Singing and dancing were always part of her life.
Summer Art Workshops (Ages 14 - 18) *ONLY 2 SPOTS LEFT!
Summer Art Workshops
(Ages 14 - 18) *ONLY 2 SPOTS LEFT!
Monday, July 22 - Friday, July 26
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Join Anne Atkinson’s Summer Art Workshops Monday, July 22 through Friday, July 26 from 1-4pm at Arts on Main.
During these workshops, students will concentrate on drawing, learning from Michelangelo, Albrecht Dürer, Eugène Delacroix, Pablo Picassso, and Leonardo da Vinci.
This workshop is FREE!
Sign up ASAP, this workshop is limited to only 10 students.
*ONLY 2 SPOTS LEFT!
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Anne holds a degree in Fine Arts from Virginia Commonwealth University. She has worked as a Scenic Artist for theatre for many years. Anne has taught art to people of all ages- from toddlers to seniors. She was raised in a family that embraced education and the arts…music and painting. Singing and dancing were always part of her life.
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Oil & Cold Wax Workshop
Travelin' with Monet
Oil & Cold Wax Workshop
Friday, August 9
10:00 AM - 4:00PM
Join Mary-Montague Sikes on Friday, August 9th from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM at Arts on Main for an Oil & Cold Wax Workshop!
Are you interested in encaustic painting, but worried about toxic fumes and heat guns? If so, cold wax oil painting might be for you! Cold wax is an amazing way to develop texture and form in your art. Learn the basics of cold wax painting and experiment with this method while developing your design skills for new projects. During this workshop, there will be demonstrations to teach basic work on cradled-board with the oil and cold wax process. We will learn about mark-making and painting with oil and cold wax on Arches oil paper.
Bring a readiness to learn new techniques - you will never think of art and painting in the same way once you experience the joy of experimenting with oil and cold wax!
*STUDENT ARE REQUIRED TO BRING THEIR OWN SUPPLIES.
Required Supply List:
1 16 oz. can Gamblin cold wax
Gamsol and sprayer bottle for it
Oil paint colors that you like
12 x 12 inch or larger artist canvas panels (not stretched canvas) or cradled boards (Ampersand gesso board is good)
Painting knife
Two-inch blue painters tape (If working on cradled board)
Freezer paper (for palette)
Optional:
Old credit cards to use as painting brushes
Paint brushes (old ones- not your best)
Bowl scraper (available in kitchen supplies) - Nice to have, not essential
Stencils, stamps, grids and other texture-making materials that you have
(If you have pottery tools, you might want to bring them)
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
“From the moment I found art as a young child growing up in Fredericksburg, Virginia, I’ve loved color. I first used vibrant acrylics while studying at the College of William & Mary and soon after earned an MFA in painting at Virginia Commonwealth University. In addition to acrylics, oils, pastels, and watercolors have been part of my artist materials forever. The discovery of oil and cold wax, studying with Lisa Boardwine, brought new excitement to my art. The process of building history and experimenting with it amazed me.Over the years, I’ve studied with artists all over the United States, including Peter Saul, Jan Sitts, Mary Ann Beckwith, Bob Burridge, Mary Alice Braukmann, Jim LaFrance, Kathleen Conover, Carole Barnes, Carrie Brown, Elaine Harvey, and many more. My award-winning paintings are in numerous private and public collections throughout the United States, the Caribbean, and Canada.”
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Fast and Fun Flowers (8/10)
Fast and Fun Flowers (8/10)
Saturday, August 10
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Join Ronda Bowden on Saturday, August 10 from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm at Arts on Main for a paper-flower-making class!
Paper flowers are fun! Make your own flowers and follow your intuition as you create! Learn to make whimsical flowers using a variety of techniques. Instead of trying to copy nature, use your imagination to create fun and colorful blossoms. Use your handmade flowers to top off wrapped gifts, frosted cakes, or make a fun and funky bouquet or garland. Bring a friend and come have fun, all supplies are provided by the instructor!
FOR AGES 13+
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Ronda is a paper flower sculptor who draws inspiration from nature and the work of artists who have been inspired by flowers throughout history. Themes she explores are botanical realism and dramatic whimsy.
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Paint Your Pet
Paint Your Pet
Saturday, August 17
6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Join artist/instructor Doug Mock at Arts on Main on Saturday, August 17th from 6:00pm - 8:00pm for a Pet Portrait class!
Have a great evening painting your pet! You will use acrylic paint for this exciting class and will learn more about applying paint, creating texture and mixing colors that will help you bring your favorite family member to life. Invite your friends, family, and neighbors to paint their pets too, the evening is guaranteed to be a blast!
In this class, students will:
1. Become more comfortable with acrylic paints.
2. Learn to "fix" perceived mistakes with this medium.
3. Be able to paint a variety of textures. ex: fur, feathers, scales, etc.
Once you have signed up for the class, email communications@gloucesterarts.org a photo of the pet you would like to paint. Doug will sketch out your pet onto a canvas, all you have to do is paint it!
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Doug Mock is an award-winning watercolor artist and teacher living in White Stone, Virginia. Born in 1966 in Central Pennsylvania he was raised in a small dairy farming community where strong work ethic, love of family and appreciation of nature were of major importance. Doug is mostly self-taught, with significant influence by figurative watercolorist Mary Whyte. Mock creates art inspired by people and nature. His work is characterized by unique design, bold color and creative subject matter. Capturing life’s simple moments, Doug’s art connects with collectors on an emotional level. Doug has been juried into and regularly appears in shows and exhibitions throughout the United States. His work is appreciated and can be found in private collections throughout the country. He is a member of prominent watercolor organizations and is a signature member of the Virginia Watercolor Society and the Southern Watercolor Society.
Pre-K Summer Art Program #2 (Ages 3-5) *CLASS FULL!
Pre-K Summer Art Program #2
(Ages 3-5) *CLASS FULL!
Monday, August 19 - Friday, August 23
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Join Arts on Main’s Summer Art Program #2 with Anne Atkinson Monday, August 19 - Friday, August 23 from 9am - 12pm.
This program is free and open to children ages 3-5.
During this fun class, students will be experimenting with different mediums and getting very messy! We will explore art through the ages and incorporate play with art.
THIS PROGRAM IS FULL. CONTACT ARTS ON MAIN AT (804) 824-9464 TO BE PUT ON A WAITLIST.
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Anne holds a degree in Fine Arts from Virginia Commonwealth University. She has worked as a Scenic Artist for theatre for many years. Anne has taught art to people of all ages- from toddlers to seniors. She was raised in a family that embraced education and the arts…music and painting. Singing and dancing were always part of her life.
Elementary Summer Art Program #2 (Ages 6-11) *CLASS FULL!
Elementary Summer Art Program #2
(Ages 6-11) *CLASS FULL
Monday, August 19 - Friday, August 23
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Join Arts on Main’s Summer Art Program #2 with Anne Atkinson Monday, August 19 - Friday, August 23 from 1-4pm.
This program is free and open to children ages 6-11.
In this class, students will experiment with various art materials while studying master artists.
THIS PROGRAM IS FULL. Call Arts on Main at (804) 824-9464 to be put on a waitlist.
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Anne holds a degree in Fine Arts from Virginia Commonwealth University. She has worked as a Scenic Artist for theatre for many years. Anne has taught art to people of all ages- from toddlers to seniors. She was raised in a family that embraced education and the arts…music and painting. Singing and dancing were always part of her life.
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Fast and Fun Flowers (8/28)
Fast and Fun Flowers (8/28)
Wednesday, August 28
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Join Ronda Bowden on Wednesday, August 28 from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Arts on Main for a paper-flower-making class!
Paper flowers are fun! Make your own flowers and follow your intuition as you create! Learn to make whimsical flowers using a variety of techniques. Instead of trying to copy nature, use your imagination to create fun and colorful blossoms. Use your handmade flowers to top off wrapped gifts, frosted cakes, or make a fun and funky bouquet or garland. Bring a friend and come have fun, all supplies are provided by the instructor!
FOR AGES 13+
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Ronda is a paper flower sculptor who draws inspiration from nature and the work of artists who have been inspired by flowers throughout history. Themes she explores are botanical realism and dramatic whimsy.
May 2024 First Friday: "The impossible just takes a little longer." featuring Bruce Fransen and Ed Gorham
May 2024 First Friday:
"The impossible just takes a little longer" featuring Bruce Fransen and Ed Gorham
Opening Reception:
Friday, May 3
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
During the month of May, Arts on Main will be exhibiting works by Bruce Fransen and Ed Gorham, artists and friends with complementary styles. In this show, they strive for the impossible by weaving their work into worlds of aquatic fantasy. Come enjoy Ed’s vibrant and fanciful paintings, and marvel at Bruce’s intricate and stunning wood sculptures.
The opening of the show will take place at Arts on Main on Friday, May 3, from 6-8pm. This event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served, and beer + wine will be available for purchase. Live music will be provided by Rob Oliver. The show will be on display at Arts on Main until Saturday, June 1st.
Thank you to our Monthly Exhibit Sponsor, Catamount Tactical!
ABOUT THE ARTISTS
BRUCE FRANSEN
Bruce Fransen of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia - award-winning sculptor, musician, and arborist. Growing up on Long Island, NY, near the seashore – he has gleaned an abundance of creative images and inspiration.
Bruce has worked with wood since the early ‘70’s as an arborist and as an artist. Over the last 20 years, creating his stunning wood sculptures has become an all-consuming passion.
His art is informed by his love of the waterways of his youth, his extensive knowledge and experience in preserving trees over a 40+ year career, and his fine arts education at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Bruce is also a professional woodwind musician, whose improvisational approach to music carries over to his unique sculpture.
Bruce loves the innate beauty, versatility, and potential for great surprises inherent when working with wood.
“I feel a profound relationship between my music, my sculpture, the sea, and trees!”
The process: Bruce’s creations are carved – a rigorous and time-consuming process. They all start with a log and a chain saw. After roughing out with chain saws the creations are refined with grinders, sanders, and fine tool hand work. Most pieces are brought to a high polish to enhance the grain. Texture and color are sometimes added as new elements for dramatic visual and tactile experiences.
ED GORHAM
I have always been fascinated with water and creatures that live under it.
In my work the process of putting paint on the canvas
mirrors the movement of the water my creatures are going to inhabit. I usually start by covering the canvas with a dark color. Then I apply several colors, each thinned to a different viscosity encouraging the colors to meet and mix in a kind of controlled chaos to creating their own lines and designs. The painted surface looks like the paint is still flowing. Next I coax the creatures out of this background with brushes and pallet knives. The multiple layers allow some of the creatures to remain more a part of the background -- dim, amorphous, illusionary, while others become clearer, and intricately detailed, realistic or fantastic. Using this style I can hide the main focal point of the painting in plain sight. The viewer can involve himself in an exploration of the work to any degree, at any distance, at any angle.
Live music will be provided by Rob Oliver.
Thank you to our Monthly Music Sponsor, Yolanda’s!
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Watercolor for the TRUE Beginner
Do you have the desire to paint in watercolor but don’t know where to start? Are you scared and intimidated? If so then fear no more…this is your class where you will start from the very beginning as if you were 5 years old! Artists will learn about supplies, beginning techniques, choosing subject matter and achieving results that are sure to please. Open your mind, prepare to learn, have some fun, and enjoy the beauty of all that watercolor has to offer. This course is for the TRUE beginner. Double the fun and invite a friend; this will be a great learning opportunity. A key to success with watercolor is having the best supplies an artist can afford. If you have watercolor supplies (especially professional paper and paints) that might work please feel free to bring them to the first class. If you need supplies then Doug will have a good beginner set (paints, brushes, palette and paper) available for $125 (please make check payable to Doug Mock for supplies or pay by cash). Please contact Doug to request your beginner kit no later than April 7th.
Spring Paper Peony (4/24) *CLASS FULL!
Spring Paper Peony (4/24)
*CLASS FULL!
Wednesday, April 24
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Join Ronda Bowden on Wednesday, April 24th from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm for a paper-flower-making class at Arts on Main!
Paper flower artist Ronda Bowden will guide you step-by-step in crafting a realistic and botanically correct Peony. Sometimes called the King of Flowers, peonies have many showy petals and are the stars of Spring and early Summer bouquets. No previous crafting experience is needed. Just come prepared to cut, shape and glue many gorgeous crepe paper petals and take home a fabulous bloom!
CLASS FULL!
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Ronda is a paper flower sculptor. She explores themes of dramatic whimsy, botanical realism, and decay. Natural flowers provide inspiration for her floral arrangements and teaching instruction.
Palette Knife Painting
In this class we will use brushes and pallet knives to create a textured painting of a baby blue heron standing in the water.
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Heavens on Earth: The Architecture of Domes
Heavens on Earth: The Architecture of Domes
an artist talk sponsored by the Middle Peninsula Fine Arts Association
Thursday, April 18
7:15 PM - 8:00 PM
Join Mary Prevo and the Middle Peninsula Fine Arts Association at Arts on Main on Thursday, April 18th at 7:15 PM for an artist talk organized by the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
Mary Prevo, Senior Lecturer of Art History Emerita, Hampden-Sydney College
Mary Prevo earned her BA in art history from the State University of New York at New Paltz and her MA from Columbia University. Before moving to Virginia, she worked at The Cloisters Museum, the Metropolitan Museum, the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs, and the Getty Trust. She retired as emerita from Hampden-Sydney College after teaching for over twenty years and is now an independent scholar with interests in architecture, the Middle Ages, and contemporary art.
This program has been organized by the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and is funded, in part, by the Paul Mellon Endowment and the Jean Stafford Camp Memorial Fund.
ROSES WITH RONDA (4/13) *1 spot left!
ROSES WITH RONDA (4/13) *1 spot left!
Saturday, April 13
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Join Ronda Bowden on Saturday, April 13th from 2:00pm - 4:00pm at Arts on Main for a paper-flower-making class!
Ronda will guide students in the step-by-step process of cutting and shaping petals to create a realistic rose.
All supplies are provided and no previous experience is required.
*1 spot left!
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Ronda is a paper flower sculptor. She explores themes of dramatic whimsy, botanical realism, and decay. Natural flowers provide inspiration for her floral arrangements and teaching instruction.
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Meet the Instructor: Doug Mock
Join Doug Mock at Arts on Main on Thursday, April 11 from 6-7pm for “Meet the Instructor”. This is a great opportunity to get to know your instructor before signing up for their class. At Arts on Main, Doug is currently offering a Beginner’s Watercolor Series as well as a Composition & Design Workshop. Come get to know Doug!
OPEN FOR DAFFODIL FESTIVAL
WE ARE OPEN!
Sunday, April 7
12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Arts on Main will be open for the Daffodil Festival on Sunday, April 7 from 12-5pm.
Visit this link for information on the Daffodil Festival: https://www.daffodilfestivalva.org/
FLOWER DESIGN WORKSHOP *CLASS FULL!
KIDS FLOWER DESIGN WORKSHOP (AGES 6-13)
Saturday, April 6
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
FREE
Join The Garden Club of Gloucester Mathews at Arts on Main on Daffodil Festival Saturday for a kids Flower Design Workshop! Reserve your time-slot anytime between 11:30 - 1:00 with Beth Tripp before March 25th!
Each time-slot is limited to 20 students. Reserve your spot ASAP before they fill up!
CLASS FULL!
APRIL FIRST FRIDAY: "Water" featuring Carolyn Thompson Dudley
APRIL FIRST FRIDAY:
"Water" featuring Carolyn Thompson Dudley
Opening Reception:
Friday, April 5
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
During April 2024, Arts on Main will be exhibiting works by award-winning Gloucester artist, Carolyn Thompson Dudley. This show highlights her impressionistic oil paintings featuring water. In these paintings, Dudley combines vibrant colors, fluid movement, and nature-inspired themes to create beautiful and striking works. Come see why her paintings have inspired and delighted viewers worldwide!
The opening of the show will take place at Arts on Main on Friday, April 5th from 6-8pm. This event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served, and beer + wine will be available for purchase.
Thank you to our Monthly Exhibit Sponsors, Vera and Chris Green!
ABOUT THE ARTIST
CAROLYN THOMPSON DUDLEY:
“Water is essential, reflective, dynamic, cooperative, demanding……I am reflecting on these qualities of water in my recent paintings of scenes where water plays a leading role.”
For more information on Carolyn, visit her website; cthompsondudley.com
Live music will be provided by the Tidewinders.
Thank you to our Monthly Music Sponsors, Mike Ivey and Walt Evaniak!
Art & Flowers
Open to everyone who wants to interpret art through flowers! Choose a piece of art to interpret from Arts on Main and create a flower arrangement to be displayed through the Daffodil festival on April 6 & 7. Completed arrangments may be dropped off at Arts on Main on Friday, April 5th.
Can be individual, pair, or group
Stop by Arts on Main to fill out your entry form and choose your piece to be interpreted.
FREE
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Daffodils Galore (3/30) *SOLD OUT!
Join paper flower artist Ronda Bowden to create very realistic and botanically correct daffodils. No previous experience needed. Ronda provides all the supplies and step-by-step instruction, just in time for the daffodil season!
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Mixed Media Sculpture
Participants in this workshop are asked to bring 10 objects that can fit into a backpack. Using those objects plus a variety of provided “treasures,” students will enjoy a day of creating sculpture! Concepts such as connections, texture, focal points, stability, longevity, and other elements involved in developing mixed media sculpture will be explored. Students will walk away with new brainstorming techniques as well as the information and skills needed to create sculpture using a variety of materials.
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
GLASSBLOWING 101 (3/17) *SOLD OUT!
Join David Stifel at York River Glassworks to learn the art of glassblowing! During this class, you will gain an understanding of how to transform molten glass into wonderful works of art. You will have the option to create a variety of different vessels- such as paperweights, ornaments, cups, vases, etc. David has LOTS of glasswork in the gallery, come stop by to see some examples and get inspired!
ARTIST TALK WITH Caroline Garrett Hardy
artist talk with Caroline Garrett Hardy
Saturday, March 16
4:15 PM - 5:15 PM
Join Caroline Garrett Hardy, one of Arts on Main’s March 2024 Exhibiting Artists, for an Artist Talk at Arts on Main on Saturday, March 16th from 4:15 pm - 5:15 pm!
Caroline Garrett Hardy is a full-time artist in Williamsburg, Virginia, where she lives with her photographer husband. Her first artistic breakthrough came at the age of four, when she drew a fox wearing a vest and a feathered cap, holding a basket of eggs—which she swore to her mother was precisely the way the fox looked when it ran across the front lawn. From that point on, art was her passion.
She has a BFA in painting and printmaking from Virginia Commonwealth University, an MFA in printmaking from the Cranbrook Academy of Art, and a second MFA in book arts from Ohio State University.
Making books and book illustration have been long-time areas of interest. She taught illustration, the history of illustration, 2-D design, drawing, and many other subjects in art at many universities and art schools, including the Savannah College of Art and Design; the Academy of Art University in San Francisco; Camberwell College of Art and Craft in London; Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk, North Carolina; and Christopher Newport University in Newport News, Virginia.
Find her work at https://carolineghardy.com/
Winter is for the Birds!
Winter is for the Birds!
Saturday, March 16
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Join Jan Finn-Duffy on Saturday, March 16th from 10:00AM - 3:00PM for a beginners/intermediate watercolor workshop at Arts on Main!
We will paint a variety of birds during a five-hour block of time on a wintry Saturday (minus a lunch break). Together we will learn watercolor techniques by painting the first bird as a group, then I will set you loose to paint the other bird projects I provide (including reference paintings, line drawings and written project guidance). In this way, each student can move along at his/her own comfortable pace. I will demonstrate techniques and be there to answer any questions. All watercolor materials are provided.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS MARCH 15 @ NOON
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Jan Finn-Duffy is a self-taught watercolorist with a passion for painting and sharing watercolor skills with aspiring artists. She has a working studio at 40 Church Street in Mathews, VA, where her art is displayed and lessons are taught. Her art has been published in multiple international publications. Please visit her website www.JanFinnDuffy.com for more information.
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
WEAVE A SHOULDER SHAWL! *1 SPOT LEFT!
WEAVE A SHOULDER SHAWL!
Friday, March 15
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Join Janet Griffin on Friday, March 15th from 10:00am - 4:00pm for a beginners/intermediate weaving class!
Come design your own fabric! Learn to weave on a 36" triangle loom. Color, texture and pattern work together in this class! Students will weave a beautiful shoulder shawl. When finished, your work will be wearable for years to come! All materials will be provided by the instructor. You may request the colors of your wool or cotton yarn ahead of class.
CLASS FULL
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Hi I’m Janet Griffin, retired elementary art teacher. Yes, I had a great time doing that for 40 years. So now I get to teach adults, and I must say it has been fabulous. So my work is based on our natural world, I find texture in colors to be so alluring. Both weaving and felting we will explore.
2nd & 3rd Grade Palette Pals Reception
ABOUT PALETTE PALS
Palette Pals is Arts on Main’s signature educational program and part of our Youth Art Enrichment Programs. Founded in 2011 in one elementary school as the After-School Enrichment Program, it is now in every elementary school in Gloucester County, with over 3000 children participating to date. Palette Pals is currently conducted as an extracurricular, before-school program for students in grades K-5, led by the school’s art teacher. The program’s focus is on teaching STEM-based art lessons that focus on current SOL objectives in math and science. Our goals are to provide hands-on experiential learning through art making and to increase student understanding of concepts related to math and science content. This program is provided at no charge to the children or the schools and relies solely on grants and donations.
Visit this link to donate to Arts on Main’s Palette Pals program: https://www.gloucesterartsonmain.org/checkout/donate?donatePageId=64da6b4182ad8176375bbda9
Open Studio
Bring your art & supplies and paint from 12:00pm-2:00pm. You’ll work alongside other artists in the community, create new friendships, and get great advice on your next masterpiece. There is no cost to attend and no need to make reservations.
Pop Art, Blurring Boundaries
The Middle Peninsula Fine Arts Association of Gloucester presents
Pop Art, Blurring Boundaries
Speaker: Trent Nicholas from the VMFA
Thursday, March 7
7:15 pm - 8:15 pm
The Middle Peninsula Fine Arts Association of Gloucester, a Virginia Museum of Fine Arts community partner, announces its program for Thursday, March 7, 2024: Pop Art, Blurring Boundaries. The speaker is Trent Nicholas from VMFA.
The program will be at Arts on Main, 6580 Main Street. The free to the public presentation starts at 7:15 PM.
Pop Art brought mass consumerist culture into museums and galleries in the early 1960s radically changing the course of art by eliminating the boundary between “high” culture and everyday life. Part of what paved the way was that it was the first major art movement with a sense of humor. This talk, using images of painting and film, surveys the American Pop Art scene and its leading figure Andy Warhol who invented his own Hollywood-style empire including “superstars” and his own celebrity status.
This program has been organized by the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and is funded, in part, by the Paul Mellon Endowment and the Jean Stafford Camp Memorial Fund.
Daffodils Galore (3/6) *SOLD OUT!
Join paper flower artist Ronda Bowden to create very realistic and botanically correct daffodils. No previous experience needed. Ronda provides all the supplies and step-by-step instruction, just in time for the daffodil season!
GLASSBLOWING 101 (3/3) *SOLD OUT!
Join David Stifel at York River Glassworks to learn the art of glassblowing! During this class, you will gain an understanding of how to transform molten glass into wonderful works of art. You will have the option to create a variety of different vessels- such as paperweights, ornaments, cups, vases, etc. David has LOTS of glasswork in the gallery, come stop by to see some examples and get inspired!