New Mexico Art League
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Adult Classes

Upcoming events

  • Introduction to Drawing and Painting - Finding Your Own Path with Maria Cole (Wednesdays)

    • 09/06/2023
    • 10/25/2023
    • 8 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    • 2
    Register

    The objective of this class is to acquaint students with traditional and con-temporary techniques in drawing and painting that will give them the solid background needed to develop their own individual style. Class will progress to the introduction of traditional drawing and painting techniques and fundamental principles of design including composition, perspective and color. Classes will begin with a short lecture and demonstration, after which students will explore these techniques working from still life arrangements or their own photographic material.

    Please sign up early; class size is limited to 12 students. 


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  • Painting the Landscape in Oils with Waid Griffin (Wednesdays)

    • 09/06/2023
    • 10/25/2023
    • 8 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    Students will learn how to paint in oils using the time tested methods of the masters. Color theory and its app-lication to landscape painting will be a central focus as Waid helps each student develop greater skills of observation. Meeting each artist at their individual level of skill, Waid encourages self-expression and individual interpretation of the subject while incorporating the fundamentals of composition, depth of field and balance in landscape painting.


    Class size is limited to 12 students; please sign up early.


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  • Drawing the Portrait from Life with Cody Kamrowski (Wednedays)

    • 09/06/2023
    • 10/25/2023
    • 8 sessions
    • In the Art League Studios
    Register

    Throughout this eight-week course, students will work from live models, sketch from sculptures, and draw/copy conceptual and anatomical diagrams. Our drawings will start out small and simply as we explore various tried-and-true methods of visual problem solving derived from illustration and academic realism. We will cover thumb-nailing as it relates to composition, planes of the head, the skull, and gesture drawing. There will be a few optional homework assignments throughout the course for students who wish to solidify ideas that we cover in class. During the last two weeks, the model will take on a relatively complex pose, and we will spend both sessions on a single portrait drawing. Students will leave withsuccessful and fundamental tools and techniques for composing and executing portrait drawings from observation.


     Please sign up early, as class size is limited to 10 students.


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  • Expressive Painting with Acrylics and Mixed Media with Maria Cole (Thursdays)

    • 09/07/2023
    • 10/26/2023
    • 8 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    The class will focus on enabling students to develop their ideas into paintings by first reinforcing basic drawing and painting techniques which make it easier, to create attractive works by exploring all the possibilities of combining multiple mediums.There will be short lectures on painting procedures to facilitate and speed up the painting process from beginning to end.Emphasis  will be placed on creating works representative of the individual student preferences with new approaches to basic painting and drawing techniques in order  to revitalize works and bring them closer to the envisioned idea.Students will be able to work from their own photographs, sketches or imagination.Class is suitable for all levels, instructor will work with artists individually to help them develop their own style and works that depict the images the artist visualized.

    Please sign up early; class size is limited to 12 students.


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  • Abstract Drawing with Michael Ottersen (Fridays)

    • 09/08/2023
    • 10/27/2023
    • 8 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    This class will examine the bones of what constitutes a work on paper. If you are interested in abstract painting, the relative quickness and immediacy of drawing could be a great foundation to explore the potential of line, form, color/value and surface. Drawings can be fast and gestural or slower and complicated. The materials can be pencil and paper or mixed media including collage. We will utilize the idea of abstraction of line, form, value, color and surface of non-figurative drawing practices. Sitting equally between vision and process, the class will explore the boundaries of volume, the illusion of 3-dimensions on a flat surface, the object quality of material and let determination and chance have their say. Each week we will begin with a different simple process that is directional, serving as a catalyst to get the work going. We will work with both traditional wet and dry drawing media and mixed media as well to allow for experimentation. This class will be challenging but really fun!


    Please sign up early; space is limited.


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  • Dynamic Landscapes in Pastel - Large and Small with Susan Roden (Fridays)

    • 09/08/2023
    • 10/27/2023
    • 8 sessions
    • Art League Studios


      Join artist, Susan Roden,  to learn the dynamics of powerful mark-making in varied  sizes, from small to large. Explore how-to create motion, which is formed within a large format by bold, expressive strokes, while precise, assorted lines define imagery in small substrates.  Emphasis will be placed on technique, handling pastels and impact of color. The basics of this dry, vibrant medium will be discussed in-depth through individual instruction and demonstrations, during six in-studio and two in-field days, as weather permits. This workshop is designed for artists at all levels.




    Please sign up early; class size is limited to 12 students.


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  • Portfolio Building for Teens with Susan Roden (Saturdays)

    • 09/09/2023
    • 10/28/2023
    • 8 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    Do you love to paint and draw? Are you interested in studying art in college or becoming a professional artist one day? Join artist and teacher, Susan Roden, for a comprehensive, skill building course covering many areas of study in two and three dimensional art. Students will have fun exploring multiple painting, drawing and design projects, and finish with artwork that could be included in a portfolio for admission to a university art program. As well as making your own work, you will look at and learn from artists of the past and present to fuel your own unique art. Come ready to ask questions, share ideas and create. This is a no-pressure environment where all levels are welcome. Individual guidance and constructive feedback will be given. 


    Please sign up early, space is limited to 12 students.


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  • Relief Printmaking: Drypoint Etching with Maria Lilly (Mondays)

    • 09/11/2023
    • 10/30/2023
    • 8 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    Join artist/printmaker extraordinaire, Maria Lilly, for this fun adventure into the world of printmaking! Drypoint etching is a printmaking technique that is closer to drawing as opposed to carving with woodcuts and linocuts. Rembrandt, Picasso, Goya and Mary Cassatt were just a few artists that enjoyed this method. A scribe is used to draw the image onto the plate. Ink is then applied with a spatula or knife. Next, we take tarlatan or cheesecloth to wipe the ink down into the drawing. The print is then made with slightly damp paper and put through the press. Variations can be made on this process using different tools and inks. Prints can be water colored when dry. You will be hooked once you see your first print come off the press! Artists at all levels are welcome!


    Please sign up early; class size is limited to 12 students.


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  • Painting Animals in Watercolor with Ruth Andrews-Vreeland (Tuesdays)

    • 09/12/2023
    • 10/31/2023
    • 8 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    In this class, we will be learning (or developing) techniques using “layered watercolor,” to produce three realistic animal portraits.  The course will cover various textures such as:  fur, mammal/reptilian “skin,” and feathers! We will also be “focusing on focal points,” emphasizing the areas of the painting we want our viewers to linger over, so we will spend some quality time developing realistic eyes, noses, etc.  The course will also cover creating believable “bokeh” backgrounds, appropriate animal-portrait compositions, and interesting color palettes with perfect neutrals for contrast.  As in my other classes, we will also talk about how to select the best photo reference for a stunning painting, aiming for as much “chiaroscuro” as possible.  Be prepared to paint your favorite pet, an exotic zoo animal, or that coyote you saw running past your tent while camping!  It’s sure to be a fun, exciting class as we dive into the world of animals, to express them in realistic watercolor. (Since we share this earth with close to nine-million animal species … there are endless possibilities!) 

    Please sign up earl; class size is limited to 12 students.


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  • Painting the Clouds and Sky in the Landscape with Jeff Otis (Tuesdays)

    • 09/12/2023
    • 10/31/2023
    • 8 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    This studio class will focus predominantly on clouds and skies in the landscape. The principles of composition, color temperature, shadows, brush strokes, thickness of paint, edges, philosophies of painting and centers of interest will be incorporated. You will learn why the sky is blue, why sunsets orange and yellow, how shadows take on certain hues, how to capture atmospheric perspective, and how to paint different types of clouds with an understanding of how they form. Interspersed will be lessons on how to avoid muddy colors, how to maximize the impact of the colors you use and which combinations of color please the eye. We will also explore the techniques of alla prima, multi-step painting, realism and impressionism. This course will be flexible and tailored to the students needs giving ample time to work on paintings in class. Jeff will demonstrate techniques on a regular basis and whenever requested. Instruction will be constructive and positive at the level you are comfortable with. The goal is for every student to deepen his or her knowledge about painting while enjoying the learning process. Expect to have fun. Plan on producing works you will be proud of. Painting experience is recommended. 

    Please sign up early; class size is limited to 12 students. 


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  • Contemporary Figure Painting in Oils with Michelle Chrisman (Tuesdays)

    • 09/12/2023
    • 10/31/2023
    • 8 sessions
    • Art League Studios

    Join artist, Michelle Chrisman, to learn methods and techniques of how to design quick, bold paintings, capturing the simplified pattern of light and shadow of the clothed figure with background shapes. Each session will start with small paintings before we move to longer poses and larger canvases.  Concepts of color and value will be explored through bold shapes and thick strokes of paint. Students will learn to pre-mix correct color values in order to make decisive, intentional brush strokes. As the class progresses, we will develop and maintain a contemporary approach to the figure.  Painters at all skill levels are welcome. Those working in acrylics are welcome but Michelle will be demonstrating in oils.



    Please sign up early; class size is limited to 10 students.

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  • Independent Study - All Media with Alice Webb (Saturdays)

    • 09/16/2023
    • 11/04/2023
    • 8 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    • 0
    Join waitlist


    This class is for intermediate artists who want to go to the next level. If you are asking yourself “Where do I go from here?”, this class will give you the direction you are seeking. Alice will be working with each student individually to determine how to build on your strengths and how to turn weaknesses into assets. Together you will clarify your visual voice and understand how your personal creative vocabulary is already apparent in your work. Alice will encourage an investigation of the imagery, color choices and composition you are presently using and guide you to a strong individual path in your painting.  Please bring your preferred materials. All media, charcoal and pencil, pastels, oils, acrylics and watercolors, are welcome. Check out Alice’s recent work at alicewebbart.com.


    Please sign up early; class size is limited to 12 students.


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  • Painting Landscapes in Watercolor with Dave Cook (Mondays)

    • 09/18/2023
    • 10/30/2023
    • 6 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    • 2
    Register

    Join watercolor painter, Dave Cook, in this 6-week class exploring several different approaches to producing beautiful and compelling landscapes. We will compare realism, abstraction, and expressive experimentation to discover the unique versatility and beauty of transparent watercolors. You will also find how to use elements of good design that are critical to successful work, and be introduced to simple and helpful drawing and painting techniques that will increase self-confidence and produce immediate results. You will learn how to use sketchbooks with valuestudies and color sketches to help create successful paintings. We will study the effects of composition, light, atmosphere, color temperature and contrast on the mood we want to create, and the story we want to tell. We will enjoy learning and exploring together to discover the creativity within and ways to express it. Instruction will be individual and through demonstrations.This course will be useful to artists at any level, and there will be time for individual painting and positive critique.

    Please sign up early; class size is limited to 12 students.


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    NO CLASS OCTOBER 16

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  • Not Just Sunday Painters - Plein Aire Landscape in All Media with Alice Webb (Sundays)

    • 10/01/2023
    • 10/29/2023
    • 5 sessions
    • On Location
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Let’s paint outside on Sundays! This 5-week class we will bring landscape painters together in new locations in the area during New Mexico’s springtime weather. We will spend four days at different spots painting in nature.  The fifth day is reserved for any finishing touches and a group critique and will meet at the Art League studio. Days  on location will start with a demo and a short talk by Alice Webb focussing on information on how to create a dynamic composition, accounting for value, how color theory applies to the landscape and atmospheric perspective. Students will have the rest of the time to paint as Alice checks in with each student to work with them individually. All mediums are welcome: oils, acrylics, pastels and pan or tube watercolors. Since we will be outside for several hours please be sure to use sunscreen and wear a hat. If you have a painting umbrella, that’s great. Also bring water, a snack and a folding chair if you want to sit during demos and breaks. Restrooms may not be available but trees and bushes will be ☺.

    Our destinations:

    • Elena Gallegos (restrooms available)
    • Placitas (no restrooms) We will meet at the Merc in Placitias
    • San Yisidro (no restrooms) - We will meet at the Home Depot in Rio Rancho (on 550) 
    • San Diego Canyon north of Jemez Pueblo - no restrooms  - Plenty of bushes everywhere We will meet at the Home Depot in Rio Rancho (on 550) 
    • New Mexico Art League 

    Please sign up early; class size is limited to 10 students.

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  • Sunday Afternoon Life Drawing - No Instruction

    • 10/01/2023
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Art League Studios
    • 2
    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. Sorry, no drop-ins. 


    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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  • Sunday Afternoon Life Drawing - No Instruction

    • 10/08/2023
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Art League Studios
    • 6
    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. Sorry, no drop-ins. 


    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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  • Classical Drawing - Hands and Feet with John Reger (Monday through Wednesday)

    • 11/06/2023
    • 10:00 AM
    • 11/08/2023
    • 3:00 PM
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    This three-day workshop will address the common fear of drawing hands and feet. The gesture of the entire figure can begin and end with the hands and feet. We will address how to methodically build-up foundational shapes, and address the complex, abstract shape of the subject, then tonally describe the forms within the confines of the contour. The focus is on patience, craft, observation, and understanding of drawing principles. Students at all levels are welcome.


    Please sign up early;class size is limited to 12 students.


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  • Encaustic Collage and Mixed Media with Carolyn Berry (Friday, Saturday and Sunday)

    • 11/10/2023
    • 11/12/2023
    • 3 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Join encaustic artist, Carolyn Berry, in this fun and experimental workshop where the sky is the limit! Encaustic wax is a versatile medium made from beeswax, damar resin and powdered pigments that can be used for traditional painting techniques as well as a way to add texture, layer and join mixed media materials together.  We will explore experimental techniques of painting, drawing, collage, stenciling, photo transfer, wax fusing and surface manipulation. Be inspired to create artwork with a unique surface using melted wax and pigments. Using magazine images, photo images and found collage materials students will achieve successful and personal imagery in this creative medium. No previous art experience is necessary only an adventurous spirit.


    Please sign up early; class size is limited.


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  • Flora and Fauna in Watercolor with Pamela Barcita (Wednesday through Saturday)

    • 11/15/2023
    • 11/18/2023
    • 4 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    Join artist and illustrator, Pam Barcita as she guides students through the process of creating a spectacular piece in the format of a single page triptych. The workshop will include several techniques to create an underwater scene with waterlilies and swimming koi fish. More advanced students are welcome to select their own subject matter. Pam will demonstrate the application of of each technique as she works toward the completion of the faux triptych created on a single sheet of watercolor paper. Beginning with sketching the image with pencil and applying the masking fluid that acts as a resist, Pam will move on to the stage of wetting the paper and pouring, blowing and manipulating the wet paint. Students will also be introduced to the use of salt, sanding watercolor pencils and negative painting. The finishing stages will include unmaking and working with whites and edges. The results are sure to be beautiful and students will leave with a wealth of new knowledge of how to use different techniques successfully. 


    Please sign up early; class size is limited to 12 students.


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  • Fresh Alla Prima Florals in the Still Life with Cynthia Inson (Wednesday through Saturday)

    • 12/06/2023
    • 12/09/2023
    • 4 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register


    This workshop is designed to move artists forward in their painting journey. Students will be encouraged to stretch and express themselves in a new way, completing one fresh, all prima painting in each of the four days. We will be working from still life set ups of luscious, exotic florals, encouraging spontaneity that is energizing and fun! Bold, direct painting, emphasizing form and value shifts and directional light will be the focus. Cynthia will start each day with a demonstration focusing on a different topic or technique (light, composition, brushwork). The rest of the instruction will be individual throughout each day. A positive group review of students’ work will wind up the workshop with a wonderful display of progress made by everyone. Some painting experience is helpful.


    Please sign up early; class size is limited to 12 students.


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Gallery Hours: 10 am to 4 pm Tuesday - Saturday  505-293-5034

3409 Juan Tabo Boulevard NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87111     Map It  

Mailing address: P.O. Box 16554, Albuquerque, NM 87191                              

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