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• Dance of the Brush - Asian Brushwork with Pat Marsello (Tuesday through Thursday)

  • Start
    07/21/2026
  •  
  • End
    07/23/2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    main studio
  • Spaces left
    0

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  Brushwork is an artform that is ancient in its tradition, beginning with the first use of brushes in China 4000 years ago. From the established artist to the first-time painter, control of the brush is essential, and that control is the focus of this 3-day workshop. After a review of the 5 main brushstrokes, we will learn modified versions of these strokes as well as introducing color and washes, always returning to a focus on the dance between brush, ink and paper. Digging deeply into the nuance of each stroke; noting the charge, the conditioning and the pressure on the brush; all of this combined will build an awareness of just how much one stroke can accomplish. We will paint a bird, a flower and a simple landscape and one of these subjects you will use to paint the scroll you take home. All painting levels are welcome, from complete beginners to experienced artists seeking to strengthen their brushwork and expand their artistic vocabulary.

  
  

  MATERIALS: You will need to bring watercolors; red, yellow and blue is fine, as well as a roll of paper towels, a container for water, an ink stone and ink stick, or a bottle of black Sumi-e ink. And a Happy Dot Brush which costs $15. I will also have other brushes available to try out and or purchase. All paper and scrolls will be provided for a $20 materials cost, to be paid to the instructor.
  

  
  

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• Black & White Compositions: Exploring Text in Abstract Art with Laura Balombini (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)

  • Start
    07/24/2026
  •  
  • End
    07/26/2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Main Studio

  Register

  

  What’s one of the most essential elements in creating a strong work of art? Composition. In this class, we’ll explore that idea through a bold black-and-white approach, using contrast, balance, and visual rhythm to guide our designs. Working on three 8" x 8" cradled wood panels, you’ll experiment with paper, paint, and text in a variety of forms. Text will become a key design element—applied through collage, block printing, stenciling, or direct writing—to help unify your work. By creating a small series, you’ll have the opportunity to test ideas, refine your approach, and develop a cohesive abstract vision across multiple surfaces.

  
  

  
  

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  * $20 materials fee (for wood panels) will be collected.  To be paid to instructor on first day of workshop.

  
  

  Laura Balombini is a storyteller who paints and creates what she can imagine.  A theme of contemporary folk art and narrative stories runs through all that she makes.  With BFA degrees in clay and fibers and 50 years of trial and error she has sorted through what works best!  She is the present owner of Red Paint Studio and a past owner of galleries in Maine, North Carolina, and New Mexico.  She has previously been a board member of Maine Crafts Association (statewide advocacy) and a past member of River Art District Association in Asheville, NC.  Laura has been a workshop instructor at Haystack School, Arrowmont, and private workshops in Italy, and was awarded a residency and solo show at Jen Tough Gallery in Santa Fe.  Her artwork is in collections throughout the United States including Northwest Airlines and the City of Albuquerque.  www.lbalombini.com
  

  
  

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• Mixed Media Magic with Alice Webb (Monday through Friday)

  • Start
    07/27/2026
  •  
  • End
    07/31/2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    5 sessions
  • Location
    Art League Studios

  Register

  

  In this immersive five-day workshop, we’ll dive into the vibrant intersection of the natural world and abstraction using a large variety of materials. Through energetic mark-making and bold gestures, you’ll learn to transform still lifes and landscapes into expressive, dynamic compositions. We’ll begin with sketching still lifes and move on to create several color studies, followed by four medium to large-scale paintings—tailored to your preferred size. We will explore a variety of ways to create shapes, lines and textures using acrylics, spray paint, stencils and metal leaf. Whether you lean toward stylized representation, pure abstraction, or a fusion of both, you’ll be encouraged to follow your creative instincts and push your work in new directions. Throughout the week, we’ll explore canvas orientation, foundational design principles, the seven key color schemes, collaging methods, and a variety of painting techniques. Classes will include lectures, slide presentations, live demos, and, most importantly, plenty of painting time. This workshop is ideal for artists looking to energize their work and embrace a more intuitive, exploratory process.
  

  
  

  Materials List *

  * There will be an additional $20 materials fee to be paid directly to instructor.
  

  
  

  Alice Webb  After a short stint at the University of Texas where I studied drawing and design, I moved to Taos. During the seventies I designed jewelry, studied tapestry weaving, created fiber sculptures, and continued to hone my drawing skills. By the late seventies I knew I had to return to painting. Although I now have a Bachelors of Fine Art and a Masters of Art Education from the University of New Mexico, it was by studying the Taos founders and painting in the very spots they frequented that I truly learned to paint. Over the past thirty-five years I have exhibited work nationally. My paintings and prints are included in numerous public and private collections.  www.alicewebbart.com.
  

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• Discover Origami with Laura Metzler (Saturday)

  • When
    08/01/2026
  •  
    2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    Main Studio
  • Spaces left
    12

  Register

  

  Practice the art of observation, precision, and design. Origami isn’t just paper folding… it’s an experience in spatial thinking, pattern, and craftsmanship. Learn traditional techniques while creating two beautiful projects in this beginner-friendly workshop.

  Explore the Japanese art of paper folding with Laura Metzler. Learn basic Origami terminology, then practice some folds by creating a beautiful double lotus and an intricate pinwheel cube. Beginners welcome!

  All materials provided.

  
  

  Laura Metzler’sinterest in Origami began when she was 8 years old and received several Origami books from her aunt who had lived in Japan as a child. Laura recently retired after 24 years with the Albuquerque/Bernalillo County Public Library. She taught Origami classes throughout her library career and she continues to teach Origami at the Public Library. Laura also teaches Origami at Manzano Mesa Multigenerational Center and La Vida Llena Retirement Community.
  

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• Sunday Afternoon Life Drawing - No Instruction

  • When
    08/02/2026
  •  
    1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    Art League Studios
  • Spaces left
    8

  Register

   The New Mexico Art League holds Sunday Life Drawing Sessions each week with either a clothed or nude model.

  We will begin with quick warm-up poses so artists can capture the figure in motion and move to extended poses during the 3 hour session. These drawing sessions are open to artists of all levels. Artists should bring their own materials and drawing surface. Easels and drawing benches are provided for your use. 

  
  

  
  

  These sessions do require advance registration.  

  
  

  Please check your calendar! Payment is not transferable or refundable.

  Please sign up early; each group is limited to 12 artists.

  Payment must be made at the time of registration in order to hold your place.

  Without payment your place will be cancelled.

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• Introduction to Figure Drawing in Graphite and White Chalk Pencils on Toned Paper with Tony Ryder (Monday through Friday)

  • Start
    08/03/2026
  •  
  • End
    08/07/2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    5 sessions
  • Location
    Art League Studios
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  

  Days begin with a two-hour demonstration, during which Tony talks about what and how he’s drawing and how he’s thinking while he draws. Students draw from the model for the remainder of the day while Tony works with each in turn, offering individualized advice. Participants learn a refined, articulate, "long pose" drawing style, working on a single drawing for the week, and focusing on patience, craft and observation. 

  
  

  The traditional art of figure drawing, from the Renaissance until the present day, incorporates two major areas of study, one outward, visible and practical, having to do with how to draw, and the other inward and theoretical, having to do with what we draw: our awareness of visual experience. The quality and grace of a draftsman’s work are based on these two factors. 

  MATERIALS LIST

  STUDIO ETIQUETTE

  COURSE OUTLINE & DAILY SCHEDULE

  
  

  Anthony Ryder is an able and energetic instructor with forty years of experience as a teacher of drawing and oil painting from life. His unique instructional style combines careful personal attention to each student with in-depth class demonstrations. He studied for six years in New York and France with the renowned oil painter Ted Seth Jacobs. He has taught at the Art Students League of New York, New York Academy of Art, Ecole Albert Defois, Studio Escalier, Gage Academy, BACAA, and numerous other schools. He is the owner and principal instructor of The Ryder Studio school (theryderstudio.com) in Santa Fe, NM, and the author of The Artist's Complete Guide to Figure Drawing, published by Watson-Guptill in 2000.  
  

  
  

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• Sunday Afternoon Life Drawing - No Instruction

  • When
    08/09/2026
  •  
    1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    Art League Studios
  • Spaces left
    10

  Register

   The New Mexico Art League holds Sunday Life Drawing Sessions each week with either a clothed or nude model.

  We will begin with quick warm-up poses so artists can capture the figure in motion and move to extended poses during the 3 hour session. These drawing sessions are open to artists of all levels. Artists should bring their own materials and drawing surface. Easels and drawing benches are provided for your use. 

  
  

  
  

  These sessions do require advance registration.  

  
  

  Please check your calendar! Payment is not transferable or refundable.

  Please sign up early; each group is limited to 12 artists.

  Payment must be made at the time of registration in order to hold your place.

  Without payment your place will be cancelled.

  Show details
• Design Your Own Mandala with Pamela Barcita (Tuesday - Thursday)

  • Start
    08/11/2026
  •  
  • End
    08/13/2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Art League Studios
  • Spaces left
    10

  Register

           

  Discover the art of designing your own original mandala in this engaging three-day workshop. Learn how artists use symmetry, pattern, color, and composition to create balanced and expressive circular designs inspired by traditions from around the world. Pamela will introduce the history and symbolism of mandalas before guiding you through brainstorming, sketching, planning your composition, and developing your design. You’ll receive individual instruction as you transform your ideas into finished artwork in the drawing or painting medium of your choice. Throughout the workshop you’ll explore design principles, experiment with pattern and color, receive personalized feedback, and participate in a supportive group critique. You’ll leave with your own original mandala, new artistic skills, and the confidence to continue creating on your own. All experience levels are welcome

  
  

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• Painting with Crayons with Mikaela Guggino (Saturday)

  • When
    08/15/2026
  •  
    1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    Art League Studios
  • Spaces left
    1

  Register

  

  Create a nature-inspired painting using crayons in a whole new way! In this hands-on workshop, you'll use a specialized heated tool, the Encaustic Stylus Pro, to transform ordinary crayons into a vibrant painting medium and create a miniature work of art on a 4" x 4" panel. The workshop begins with a brief introduction to the history of wax painting, followed by guided practice with essential techniques, color blending, layering, and composition. Using provided images of flowers and leaves, or your own favorite nature photograph, you’ll learn how to translate an image into a finished painting rich with color and texture. Designed for beginners and experienced artists alike, this class offers a fun and approachable introduction to an unexpected medium while building skills that can be applied to future creative projects.

  All materials are provided by the instructor for a $10 materials fee, to be paid directly to instructor at the workshop.

  Please note, hot wax can aggravate those with sensitive lungs. A fan will be going in the background to promote ventilation, and masks will be offered to attendees.

  Please wear close-toed shoes.

  
  

  Artist Bio:

  Mikaela Guggino is a local, emerging artist who specializes in encaustic and manuscript painting. She received her BA in Studio Art and MA in Art History from the University of Denver (DU), where she studied encaustic art with Deborah Howard. Mikaela has had the opportunity to TA an encaustic course at DU and teach encaustic workshops around New Mexico. Mikaela’s art explores themes of art history and compassion, seeking to understand current events and to empower through artmaking. To learn more, follow her on social media, @mgartbee.

  
  

  
  

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• Sunday Afternoon Life Drawing - No Instruction

  • When
    08/16/2026
  •  
    1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    Art League Studios
  • Spaces left
    10

  Register

   The New Mexico Art League holds Sunday Life Drawing Sessions each week with either a clothed or nude model.

  We will begin with quick warm-up poses so artists can capture the figure in motion and move to extended poses during the 3 hour session. These drawing sessions are open to artists of all levels. Artists should bring their own materials and drawing surface. Easels and drawing benches are provided for your use. 

  
  

  
  

  These sessions do require advance registration.  

  
  

  Please check your calendar! Payment is not transferable or refundable.

  Please sign up early; each group is limited to 12 artists.

  Payment must be made at the time of registration in order to hold your place.

  Without payment your place will be cancelled.

  Show details
• Gel Plate Printing: From Prints to Mixed Media with Lauren Deyo (Thursday, Friday, Saturday)

  • Start
    08/20/2026
  •  
  • End
    08/22/2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Art League Studios
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  

  Discover the creative possibilities of gel plate printing in this hands-on workshop designed for beginners and experienced artists alike. Using acrylic paints, you’ll learn how to create vibrant, one-of-a-kind prints while experimenting with texture, layering, mark-making, and a variety of papers. As you build your collection of unique prints, you’ll explore ways to transform them into a finished mixed media artwork. This playful and inspiring workshop is perfect for anyone interested in printmaking, collage, and creative experimentation.
  

  
  

  
  

  MATERIALS LIST

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• NMAL Plein Air Day at the Albuquerque Garden Center (Sunday)

  • When
    08/30/2026
  •  
    11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
  • Location
    ABQ Garden Center - 10120 Lomas Blvd NE
  • Spaces left
    11

  Register

  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  The Garden Center's beautiful demonstration gardens offer a wealth of artistic inspiration, including roses, native plants, cactus gardens, colorful perennials, winding pathways, and peaceful garden settings. Plenty of shaded locations are available throughout the grounds.

  Artists working in all media are welcome. Bring your own painting, drawing, or sketching materials and enjoy a relaxed afternoon creating alongside fellow artists.

  Whether you are an experienced outdoor painter or simply curious about sketching in the garden, we'd love to have you join us.

  As you paint, sketch, or draw, you'll also have an opportunity to learn about the Albuquerque Garden Center's demonstration gardens and the important role they play in horticultural education and community engagement throughout Albuquerque.

  Volunteers from both the Albuquerque Garden Center and NMAL will be available to welcome participants, answer questions, and help artists get oriented to the grounds.

  Bring your own supplies, water, hat, sunscreen, and a portable chair if desired.

  LOCATION: 
Albuquerque Garden Center 10120 Lomas Blvd. NE Albuquerque, NM

  Optional group photo at 1:45 p.m.

  We look forward to spending a creative afternoon in the gardens with you.

  
  

  "When Heaven Falls to Earth it Becomes a Garden"

  https://www.albuquerquegardencenter.org/
  

  
  

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