Registration is now open! Check out brand new courses for 2024 like Lithography, Advanced Sculpture, Professional Practice, Knitting, Fashion Design, Architecture, Textiles, and Advanced Illustration!

Registration closes four business days before the start each course. Email extension@cca.edu with questions about late signups.

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Beginning Sculpture & 3D Foundations

Registration closed.

• $495 (noncredit) + $55 materials fee
• Instructor: Carolina Cuevas
• Tuesdays, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
• February 6 - April 9 (10 sessions)
• CCA Main Building, Studio N5, 1111 8th Street

This introductory 10-week studio course focuses on the fundamentals of sculpture and three-dimensional design while exploring a variety of media, techniques, and subject matter. Participants will experiment independently with the formal aspects of sculpture such as material, scale, surface, volume, structure, and space through assignments using materials such as wood, cardboard, plaster, and everyday objects. Each assignment is designed with a specific concept or material in mind, but each student will translate the prompt by how they individually embody and articulate the world around them. Students will gain basic woodshop skills while completing their projects in the sculpture studio bench room, during lab hours, and maintain a dedicated sketchbook to hold their drawings, ideas, and notes. Students will also hone the verbal and analytical skills necessary to examine their work critically by engaging in group critiques. Readings and screenings will be assigned throughout the course to give further context as they continue to work. This course is appropriate for beginners and those wishing to try new techniques, ideas, and materials.

Prerequisite: None. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Bring to First Class: Unlined 9” x 12” or 11” x 14” sketchbook and pencils. Required materials fee will cover the basics and an additional materials list will be discussed at the first class.

Pay required Materials Fee: $55

Intermediate/Advanced Sculpture

Class postponed.

• $495 (noncredit) + $55 materials fee
• Instructor: Bri Williams
• CCA Main Building, Studio N5, 1111 8th Street

This hands-on studio course focuses on exploring new ways of working with sculptural materials and defining one's conceptual practice. Students who have experience working with wood, clay, plaster, metal, wire, and other sculpture techniques are encouraged to push themselves creatively and engage peers through conversations, critiques, and shared making practices. Beginning with orientations in the metal shop, wood shop, and mold-making, students will experiment with a variety of materials and advanced techniques in order to build 3D representations of their creative ideas. 

Throughout the class you will be developing a driven concept inspired by a specific room. The word “room” also expands on many different view pathways, it can become a space, remnant, or an emanated atmosphere, amongst other things. Maybe it becomes about the space you keep for yourself in your mind or the memories and people that have been there. It could also be a bedroom, kitchen, or other living space you have spent a lot of time in, either from your past or present. Each project will be considered as a part of the whole, exploring a variety of ways to define how the word, “room,” is translated through creating your own visual language. The final project will be an installation or showing of all work collectively, as you see fit. 

Prerequisite: Students should have taken Beginning Sculpture or have other experience in sculpture. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Bring to First Class: Sketchbook and pencils. Required materials fee will cover the basics and an additional materials list will be discussed at the first class.

Pay Required Materials Fee: $55

Basics & Beyond: Textiles & Fiber Art Foundations

Registration closed.

• $495 (noncredit) + $45 materials fee
• Instructor: Carolina Cuevas
• Thursdays, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
• February 8 - April 11 (10 sessions)
• CCA Textiles Studio, 350 Kansas

This 10-week studio course introduces students to the diverse and creative potential of textiles. From woven forms to surface design to handwork, students explore a wide range of hands-on textile techniques in both two and three dimensions. Participants will experiment independently with the formal aspects of textiles such as material, scale, surface, structure, and space through assignments using processes such as dyeing, stitching, fabric printing, and weaving. Students are encouraged to work experimentally and to push the boundaries of the media, using both traditional and non-traditional materials. Students will also hone the verbal and analytical skills necessary to examine their work critically by engaging in group critiques. Readings and screenings will be assigned throughout the course to give further context to the history of textiles as a whole and in contemporary art. All are invited to discover the physical properties, conceptual principles, and diverse cultural histories of textiles and to incorporate these possibilities into their practices.

Prerequisite: None. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Bring to First Class: Sketchbook and pencils. Required materials fee will cover the basics and an additional materials list will be discussed at the first class.

Pay required Materials Fee: $45

Introduction to Jewelry Making

This class is now full. You can sign-up for the waitlist should a spot become available.

• $495 (noncredit) + $65 materials fee
• Instructor: Olivia Shih
• Sundays, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
• February 4 - April 21 (10 sessions, no sessions on 3/24 and 3/31)
• CCA Main Building, Jewelry Metal Arts Studio A2, 1111 8th Street

This course explores basic metalsmithing and jewelry making processes. Participants are introduced to various techniques for cutting metal, soldering, forming, fabrication, and various means of surface treatment. Students might work with copper, brass, or sterling silver as they create jewelry or other small forms. A materials list will be sent to registrants. More information provided upon registration.

Prerequisite: None. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Bring to first class: Safety glasses (a must!), sketch book (can be just a notebook or papers in a folder), pen and/or pencil, ultra fine point black Sharpie or permanent marker, 1 inch painter’s tape, 0.5 to 0.75 inch double sided tape, 2 sheets each of wet/dry sandpaper in 220, 320, 400, 600 grits, four paint stir sticks (hardware stores or Home Depot), N95 dust mask, cotton rag or dish towel (to be used instead of paper towels), apron for metal dust/stains, closed toe shoes, clothes with close fitting sleeves (loose fitting clothing is dangerous when working with machines and torches). There is a required materials fee for metal and all tools are provided.

Recommended Jewelry Supply Vendors: Rio Grande and Otto Frei

Pay Required Materials Fee: $65

Professional Practice for Artists

Register now!

• $250 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Don Porcella
• Thursdays, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
• March 7 - April 4 (5 sessions)
• CCA Main Building, room 102B, 1111 8th Street

This studio class explores a range of strategies, exercises, and principles for a successful career in the arts for both emerging and established artists. Students will focus on building a community around their practice in a supportive and collaborative environment. This course covers best practices for artists to have a fulfilling career in the fine arts and/or utilizing art to enhance their life and career. We will work on the nuts and bolts of your creative practice and discuss the contemporary methods being used by artists today. We will help you craft your biography, artist statement and CV which are important aspects of communicating your art to the world. We will discuss the strategies employed by other artists within and outside the current paradigm. This class will focus on the bay area art scene and will also discuss other markets that can help contribute to a sustainable career for you.

Prerequisite: Interested in a career of making art. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Bring to first class: Please bring your phone/laptop/tablet and your art to the first class.

2D Animation: Character Design

Class postponed.

• $395 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Wallace Keller
• CCA Main Building, Room 120, 1111 8th Street

This course will introduce students to the basic forms and terminology of animation, and provide training in fluid representations of motion and expression. Instruction will emphasize traditional character animation techniques such as character development, exaggeration, timing, acting and weight. Examples of great animation will be shown frequently, and students will be asked to analyze great sequences. Students will gain understanding of physics and gravity. The goal is to give students a proper foundation (timing, posing) and a workflow they can use when they move onto more advanced character-driven animation classes.

Prerequisite: None. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Bring to first class: Nothing is required for the first session. Students will have access to lab computers.

Illustration Techniques

Registration closed.

• $495 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Alex Combs
• Tuesdays, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
• February 6 - April 9 (10 sessions)
• CCA Main Building, Studio N19, 1111 8th Street

Each week students will experiment with a variety of illustration techniques and materials. Techniques covered in class may include but are not limited to life drawing, simplifying/cartooning, hand lettering/script, incorporating abstract art, and collage. As a group we will discuss our artistic goals and students will receive one-on-one guidance tailored to their own unique artistic style, vision, and goals.

Prerequisite: None. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Bring to first class: Pencil, eraser, sketchbook, and any other favorite drawing materials.

Extended suggested materials (Everything on this list is not required, but intended for students to pick and choose what looks interesting to them. All of these things or something similar will also be available at Arch Art Supplies right next to the CCA campus.)

Intermediate/Advanced Illustration: Nurturing the Creative Flow

Registration closed.

• $395 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Yina Kim
• Saturdays, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• February 10 - March 30 (8 sessions)
• CCA Main Building, Studio N19, 1111 8th Street

Set aside your daily responsibilities and indulge in a moment for yourself! This course is designed for students to explore the art of maintaining a sketchbook practice and to create prompts that offer a welcomed pause in their busy lives. The course includes a field trip to a museum, offering an opportunity to hone life drawing skills. Additionally, the instructor will share valuable insights on various methods to turn artistic creations into micro-business ventures.

Throughout the course, students will be involved in diverse projects, learning how to gather inspiration, trust the creative process, and bring their visions to life. Group critiques will be integral to the learning experience, offering constructive feedback from peers to refine and elevate individual work. This collaborative approach is aimed at fostering a sense of confidence in sharing one's creations with the public, with the ultimate goal of establishing a supportive creative community that promotes accountability.

Prerequisite: Students will need to have already taken an introductory illustration course or have experience with illustration or drawing. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Bring to first class: A 5x8 sketchbook (no spiral binding) and any art materials with which you feel comfortable.

Introduction to Storytelling & Visual Development

Registration closed.

• $395 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Wallace Keller
• Saturdays, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
• February 10 - March 30 (8 sessions)
• CCA Main Building, Room 120, 1111 8th Street

This course is a fun and creative exploration of the methods and tools of visual storytelling. Students will learn how to create clear storytelling images from written ideas, and to develop these images into emotionally engaging storyboards that can be used as a foundation for animation, illustration, graphic novel, comics or children's book projects. Students will create characters and environments that explore and support story structure, with emphasis on design, composition, staging, perspective, value and color.

Prerequisite: None. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Bring to first class: This class will use iPads with Procreate or Photoshop. If you have an iPad with Procreate or Photoshop, please bring it with you. We will also have iPads for students to use during class.

Journaling & Memoir Techniques for Comics

Registration closed.

• $395 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Nina Kester
• Mondays, 7:00 PM-8:30 PM PST and Wednesday work sessions 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM PST
• February 19 - April 8
• Online

This 8 week online course includes an Intro/Review of Comics Foundations, Observational Techniques, Journaling Habits, an Exploration of Creators with Differing Approaches to Journaling, Journalism and Memoir with Comics and Strategies for Organizing Non-fiction Comics as both Short Zines and Graphic Novel projects.

True beginners and intermediate level artists/writers will be able to incorporate the course content and assignments to their skill levels. This course is an exploration of executing the genre of personal non-fiction comics. This course is not focused on teaching a specific tool to make comics. Any tools you are already comfortable with will work for this course, from standard paper and pencil to fine art supplies and digital programs. Repeat students will also gain valuable insight and feedback on new or pre-existing projects.

This class meets twice weekly: Mondays 7-8:30pm PST will be dedicated to lectures, discussions and in-class creative exercises. Wednesdays 7-8:30pm PST will be a collaborative “studio” work session when students have 10-15 minute individual meetings with the instructor as they work on that week’s class comic project.  Wednesdays are optional for the students and attendance is not required to take the course. Capacity is 12 students.

Technology Required:  laptop or desktop computer (Mac or PC), high-speed internet connection, Zoom application installed before the first class meeting. Students will share work through MIRO, a free virtual "presentation wall" website.

Bring to the first class: Your preferred method for note-taking.

Introduction to Graphic Design

Registration closed.

• $395 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Juan Pablo Rahal Soto
• Wednesdays, 6:30 PM- 9:30 PM
• February 28 - April 17 (8 sessions)
• CCA Main Building, Studio N19 & Computer Lab C, 1111 8th Street

This course offers a broad introduction to the field and practice of graphic design. Through weekly studio assignments and two core projects, supplemented by critical readings, lectures, and individual and group critiques, students cultivate the ability to combine core design elements to convey meaning. Topics include a brief history of art and design movements, composition theory, typography, color, grid systems, corporate identity, hierarchical information design, and print and digital design. Presentations accompany many of the lectures. Computer skills and software programs will not be covered but are essential to the implementation of assignments and projects. Computer labs will have access to Adobe Creative Cloud.

Bring to first class: Bring a sketchbook and your favorite sketching/note taking materials. A more in-depth materials list will be discussed during the first session.

Prerequisite: None. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Building a Brand: Foundations in Design Studio

Now a 5-week course!

Registration closed.

• $250 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Darian Newman
• Tuesdays, 6:30 PM- 9:30 PM
• March 12 - April 9 (5 sessions)
• CCA Main Building, Room E4 & Computer Lab C, 1111 8th Street

This studio explores a range of techniques, exercises, and core principles for developing a brand identity. Students go hands-on with typography, color and image making studies, including composition, and image as text. The course covers best practices for brand design in the context of the history of design and branding, and focuses on how branding functions with contemporary creative fields. Students complete the course with a distinct brand identity for a product or event that is suitable for both digital and print application. Students will also gain knowledge of popular and emerging trends in design and the studios and designers who are currently leading the industry.

Prerequisite: Comfortability and intermediate knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite is required. Must be 18+ years or older.

Bring to first class: Please come prepared with sketching materials, a laptop with Adobe Creative Suite and an example of a brand you admire.

Typography Fundamentals

Registration closed.

• $250 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Michael Thompson
• Sundays, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• March 10 - April 14 (5 sessions, no session March 31)
• CCA Main Building, Studio N19, 1111 8th Street

This class is for those people who are interested in typography and want to use type more effectively in their personal or professional lives. It offers an introduction to typography and its powerful role in conveying meaningful information and emotion. Over five sessions of informal critiques, presentations, and exercises, students will develop the ability to recognize typographical details, preparing them to make effective typographical choices in their own work. We’ll cover such topics as informative and emotive intent, typographical designers and their work, typefaces, and information hierarchy—while allowing for some flexibility to cover other subjects that interest the class. Students can complete activities of their own choosing and will be challenged to explain how their typographical choices align with their intent. 

This class will not focus on the mechanics of using software tools. Optional, outside-of-class design work can be done using any tool and in any medium the student chooses. The class will have access to a lab in which students can use Adobe InDesign should they choose. 

Prerequisite: Students don’t need to have any prior knowledge of design, designers, fonts, or design tools. Students must be 18+ years or older.

Bring to first class: Nothing is required for the first session, except curiosity about type.

Form & Space: Architectural Design

Registration closed.

• $495 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Ki Schmidt
• Thursdays, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
• February 8 - April 11 (10 sessions)
• CCA Main Building, Room E1, 1111 8th Street

Through hands-on making, lectures and workshops, Form & Space: Intro to Architectural Design will introduce basic principles of architectural thought, history and practice. In this course, students will develop an understanding of how considerations of form and space interact with materiality, scale and site to affect spatial and perceptual experience. Over the 10 week course students can expect to take an individual project from ideation to presentation, starting with precedent study, and building skills, hand sketching, and model-making; while also learning to articulate their work in both group and individual discussions. Participants will be introduced to concepts of digital fabrication while visiting the CCA Rapid Prototyping Studio (RPS), as well as learn basic tool safety and practice in the model shop on campus.

Prerequisite: None. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Bring to first class: Architect's scale, X-acto knife with box of No. 11 blades, 18" cork-bottomed metal ruler, Elmers glue, pencil.

Introduction to Interior Design

Registration closed.

• $395 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Jade Muir
• Thursdays, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
• February 15 - April 4 (8 sessions)
• CCA Main Building, Room 102A, 1111 8th Street

Interior environments provide the physical framework for daily life, community, and activity. The design of space is a careful balancing act that satisfies established metrics while uncovering new potentials through iterative study and imagination. This course provides an introduction to interior design practice with a human-centered design approach, steering students toward the thoughtful making of space and objects. Students will design a concept for an interior space and set a framework for an extended design study. Ideas will be tested and evaluated through sequential exercises, transitioning from intuitive form-making to detailed refinement. Both physical and digital visual representation will be a core component of the curriculum, allowing participants to become familiar with drawing techniques in the context of a narrative. Topics will include geometry, programming, sequence, materiality, lighting, and identity.

Prerequisite: None. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Bring to first class: Please come prepared with sketching materials and a laptop. Please find three brands you find compelling and examples of the spaces that accompany them. Students will share work through MIRO, a free virtual "presentation wall" website.

Introduction to Fashion Design

Registration closed.

• $495 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Ben Ellis
• Mondays, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
• February 5 - April 8 (10 sessions)
• CCA Fashion Studios, Room 120, 80 Carolina Street

Students are introduced to the world of the working fashion designer; they are asked to create fashion ideas guided by a series of design prompts and briefs that mimic product development.  The class connects initial ideas, process, research and development to come away with ideas grounded in apparel materiality and an ability to share your ideas professionally.  There will be multiple projects during the program that provide instruction in creating a fashion sketchbook, dynamic research, illustration, draping, and supportive discussion.

Prerequisite: None. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Bring to first class: A sketchbook, pencil, pens, markers, muslin, tagboard, paper scissors, tape, glue stick.

Basics & Beyond: Fashion Construction

This class is now full. You can sign-up for the waitlist should a spot become available.

• $395 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Ben Ellis
• Wednesdays, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
• February 14 - April 3 (8 sessions)
• CCA Fashion Studios, Room 120, 80 Carolina Street

This studio course introduces students to basic sewing techniques, the sewing machine, garment construction and clothing design solutions.  Students will become familiar with the studio, industrial machines and pattern making tools.  The course includes instructor demonstrations and studio time for student practice.  With hands-on experience, students complete two projects: a garment constructor from two (or three!) old favorite garments/handbags, and a collared shirt.  This course is open to all students interested in garment construction, learning how to sew or brush up on their skillset.

Prerequisite: Prior experience in making a garment from a pattern. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Bring to first class: A sketchbook, pencil, pens, markers, muslin, tagboard, paper scissors, tape, glue stick, 2-2.5 yards of fashion fabric, scotch tape, pins, thread (if you want something besides black/white). Additional materials will be discussed in class.

Fashion Workshop: Introduction to Knitwear

This class is now full. You can sign-up for the waitlist should a spot become available.

• $250 (noncredit) + $35 materials fee
• Instructor: Jeanette Au
• Tuesdays, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
• DATES HAVE CHANGED - Enrolled students, please check your email.
• CCA Fashion Studio 140, 80 Carolina

This is an exploratory introduction to fashion knitting where both the textile and garment is designed simultaneously. Learn to use the domestic single bed knitting machine to construct custom made fabric while understanding how to employ the different fiber content, colors and properties of various industry yarns to create harmonious textures and colorways. Fully fashioning will be covered to shape fabric without the industry excess waste of cut and sewn fabrication and hand manipulated stitches unique to machine knitting will be used to create 3D textures. Using all these skills, pattern calculation and finishing techniques we will design an accessory.

Prerequisite: None. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Bring to first class: Bring images of inspiring knitwear and your favorite designs. Bring a notebook and pencil to take notes and sketch. The materials fee will cover yarn and all other necessary knitting materials.

Pay Required Materials Fee: $35

Adobe InDesign Fundamentals

Registration closed.

• $250 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Alex Combs
• Saturdays, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• March 30 - April 27 (5 sessions)
• CCA Main Building, Computer Lab C, 1111 8th Street

Adobe InDesign breaks down the barriers between online and offline publishing, allowing the user to create compelling print layouts, interactive ebooks, and PDF presentations. InDesign is the standard for publishing and page layout because of its short learning curve and seamless integration with other Adobe programs. This short course covers the following basic features: tools, creating a multi-page document, handling type and text flow, paragraph formatting, handling pictures, navigating within InDesign, working with layers, adding graphics, working with color, working with master pages, formatting with styles, creating and formatting tables, time-saving tips and workarounds for publication workflows, preflighting and packaging, and exporting for a variety of formats. Following a discussion of the program and overview of the basic elements, students explore the tools of this software through hands-on exercises designed for beginners with optional intermediate and advanced take-home work if desired. The class sessions are split between InDesign lessons and working with students on their projects (such as a zine, chapbook, calendar, novel/prose, art book, comic, brochure, newsletter, poster, interactive presentation or invitation) with individualized assistance from the instructor. Course topics may change to best suit the individual needs of the class. 

Prerequisite: Basic Mac or PC computer skills. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Bring to first class: Your preferred method for note-taking. Students will work in a lab with Adobe provided.

Photography Workshop: Digital Tools

Registration postponed.

• $250 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Max Gavrich
• CCA Rayko Building, Computer Lab, 428 3rd Street

Adobe describes their Photoshop software program as the ultimate tool for bringing out the best in your digital images, transforming them into anything you can imagine, and showcasing them in extraordinary ways. It has become the standard for image creation and manipulation in many professions including: photography, design, art, and marketing. This course provides an overview of Photoshop, Bridge, and Camera Raw through which participants will learn to navigate the workspace using different toolsets, palettes and windows such as Layers, Masks, Text, Gradients, Adjustment Layers, Color Space, Resolution, dust removal and blemish correction, the use of filters for creative effects, as well as best practices for organizing adjustments and selections into layers for more control and nondestructive editing. Upon leaving this class, students should be able to create Photoshop images from scratch and properly manipulate, color correct, or touch up existing images, as well as export for print or the web.

Prerequisite: Basic Mac or PC computer skills. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Bring to first class: Your preferred method for note-taking. Students will work in a lab with Adobe provided.

Basics & Beyond: Drawing

Registration closed.

• $495 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Evri Kwong
• Sundays, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
• February 4 - April 14 (10 sessions, no sessions on 3/31)
• CCA Main Building, Studio N10/12, 1111 8th Street

This introductory studio course focuses on the fundamentals of drawing while exploring a variety of media, techniques, and subject matter from still life and landscape to portraiture. Using traditional and experimental approaches to drawing, students develop an understanding of proportion, form, line, gesture, and tone. Through demonstrations, practice, and class discussion, participants also hone the verbal and analytical skills necessary to examine their work critically. This course is appropriate for beginners and those wishing to further develop their drawing skills.

Prerequisite: None. Students must be 18+ years or older at the start of the class.

Bring to first class: 20” x 26” drawing board with clips, 18" x 24" Strathmore drawing pad (other brands are fine, but paper must be drawing quality), a variety of drawing pencils (4H, 2H, HB, B, 2B, 4B, 6B, 8B), soft vine charcoal, compressed charcoal (Char-kole brand), white plastic eraser, kneaded eraser, sketchbook (any unlined notebook), pen/pencil, Conté à Paris Crayons (set of 4), white chalk, and a portfolio for transporting drawings.

Introduction to Painting

Registration closed.

• $395 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Hifumi Ogawa
• Sundays, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
• February 4 - March 24 (8 sessions)
• CCA Main Building, Studios N14/16, 1111 8th Street

This course is designed for beginners and students with minimal experience. The class focuses on the fundamentals of painting, covering basic techniques and skills, using a variety of materials and approaches. Students will learn how to handle paint, mix colors, and develop composition and texture while exploring a wide range of subject matter, including still life, portraiture, and abstraction. Experiments and personal projects are encouraged. Group discussions and slide presentations are interspersed throughout the course, as well as time for instructor one-on-one progress review.

Prerequisite: Open to all levels. Experience with drawing is helpful, but not required. Students must be 18+ years or older.

Bring to first class: A sketch book (9” x 12” or larger), #2 pencils, a ruler, two pre-primed canvas boards 16" x 20", acrylic paint: titanium white, cadmium yellow light, ultramarine blue (or Cyan), alizarin crimson, (or any yellow, red, and blue if you already have them) burnt umber, burnt sienna, and yellow ochre. A jar of acrylic gel medium (matt, regular). Palette knife (large rounded spatula and/or medium trowel), painting shirt, palette or paper plates, 4-6 brushes (example: size 2 and 10 rounds, size 6 filbert, size 6 and ½” flats or Blick Essentials Craft Value Brush Set), a few jars, rags or paper towels.*

*We use only acrylic paints in the class in order to keep numerous demonstrations done in the class simple and focused. 

*If you prefer, you can get a student grade starter paint set instead of individual paints above. Some preferred paint brands include Golden, Winsor & Newton, Liquitex, and Utrecht.

Life Drawing: Portraiture

Registration closed.

• $425 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Alicia Escott
• Mondays, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
• February 12 - April 1 (8 sessions)
• CCA Main Building, Studios N10/12, 1111 8th Street

This intensive drawing course is designed to increase your figure drawing and portraiture skills. This course moves students beyond life drawing exercises to more meaningful figure drawings that make a statement: capturing a psychological frame of mind or an emotionally charged atmosphere, implying a narrative, and so on. Participants work on improving techniques that help them convey their intent and explore how the rendering of accessories, such as fabric or the model's environment, can support their ideas. Observational drawing with clothed and nude models, both short and long poses, and a variety of materials are explored. Be brave - this should be fun!

Prerequisite: Students at all levels are welcome in this class. Students must be 18+ years or older.

Bring to First Class: Biggie Sketch or Canson Sketch pad (50 lb 18"x24"), Newsprint pad (18"x24"), soft willow charcoal - thin, compressed charcoal (brand: char-kole), 1 kneaded (or other) eraser, 1 chamois, artist tape 1/4" or 1/2", drawing board, pencils (soft or 2B and 4B or 6B).

Basics & Beyond: Oil Painting

Registration closed.

• $495 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Evri Kwong
• Tuesdays, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
• February 6 - April 9 (10 sessions)
• CCA Main Building, Studios N 14/16, 1111 8th Street

This oil painting class is meant to inspire your inner artist to take a deeper dive into finding imagery that has meaning to you. Through a freeform exploration in oil painting and an ongoing studio practice, students will learn basic techniques and build upon skills already learned in previous classes. Risk taking is encouraged. Projects are meant to inspire students to move beyond learning techniques to a deeper experiential understanding of how to develop your artistic voice through the medium of painting. At the beginning of class there will be demonstrations and lectures on various oil painting techniques and compositions. Students will be exposed to classical master painters as well as contemporary artists. A daily sketchbook will be a part of this class as a tool for generating new ideas for paintings or problem solving compositions. The instructor will provide 1:1 hands-on guidance for the projects and facilitate in-progress critiques to help us articulate the concepts and motivations behind the paintings we make. All points of view are welcome. The critique is meant to be a safe place for dialogue.

Prerequisite: All levels of painting experience are welcomed. Experience drawing is helpful, but not required. Students must be 18+ years or older.

Bring to first class: One Sketchbook, 2 B graphite pencils, 6 B graphite pencils, One old T-Shirt, One disposable palette, One palette Knife, Gamsol (odorless mineral spirits), Two Jars with lids (one small, one large), One smock or apron, Vinyl gloves, Gesso, (at least one quart), Assortment of inexpensive bristle brushes ( ½”, 1”, 2”,) for oils, round tip and flat tip, One house painting brush, One bottle of Damar Varnish, 2oz., One bottle refined linseed oil 2oz., One empty coffee can to hold brushes, One sheet of sand paper, 6 primed canvases or masonite boards. Oil colors: Alizarin Crimson, Cadmium red medium, Cadmium yellow medium, Viridian Green, Ultramarine blue, Cerulean Blue, Cobalt violet, Burnt sienna, Burnt Umber, Prussian Blue, Titanium white, Ivory, Black

Recommended Textbook: The Painter’s Handbook by Mark Gottsegen and The Artist’s Handbook by Ralph Mayer

Painting: Abstraction

Registration closed.

• $495 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Patrick Dintino
• Tuesdays, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
• February 6 - April 9 (10 sessions)
• CCA Main Building, Studios N 10/12, 1111 8th Street

Abstract painting has been with us for over a century. Where do we go from here? In this course, you will explore the challenge of creating truly original abstract work as it relates to current times. The development of a unique approach is emphasized while the creation of a consistent process for experimentation is intensified. Both source material and internal inspirations are used. Practical information for presentation is provided as well as strategies about how to navigate the art world. There will be field trips to museums and gallery openings. We learn that confidence building and critical analysis are a crucial part of discovering your voice. There will be a special focus on color theory and application when executing original works. We will learn how to base our color decisions on color schemes and complexities. Art historical discussions and references included.

Prerequisite: This class is open to all skill levels. Experience drawing and painting is helpful, but not required. Students must be 18+ years or older.

Bring to first class: Two pre-primed canvas boards 18" x 24", acrylic or oil paints (black, white, yellow, ultramarine blue, phthalo blue, alizarin crimson and cadmium red), palette knife, palette paper, several brush sizes, a few jars, rags; if working in oils, bring linseed oil and odorless mineral spirits, Gamsol preferred. No Turpenoid (or Turpenoid "natural") due to toxicity.

Painting: Your Body of Work

Registration closed.

• $495 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Patrick Dintino
• Wednesdays, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
• February 7 - April 10 (10 sessions)
• CCA Main Building, Studio N 10/12, 1111 8th Street

This course is designed to help painters develop their voice through a body of work, focusing on expanding their unique process, while discussing the implications of creating significant artwork in contemporary society. The class emphasizes the use of practical tools for establishing your aesthetic and demystifies the intricacies of operating in the art world. The course includes exercises for continuing a committed painting practice, as well as enhancing your ability to speak eloquently about your art. No prerequisite necessary except a desire to create a body of work.

Prerequisite: Experience with drawing and painting preferred. Students must be 18+ years or older.

Bring to first class: two pre-primed canvas boards 18" x 24", acrylic or oil paints (black, white, yellow, ultramarine blue, phthalo blue, alizarin crimson and cadmium red), palette knife, palette paper, several brush sizes, a few jars, rags; if working in oils, bring odorless mineral spirits and linseed oil.

Intermediate/Advanced Painting

Registration closed.

• $495 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Merl Ross
• Saturdays, 9:30 AM -12:30 PM
• February 3 - April 13 (10 sessions, no session on March 30)
• CCA Main Building, Studio N14/16, 1111 8th Street

A variety of themes are explored, including the model, landscape painting and other projects drawing upon the imagination. Emphasis is given to developing a personal vision. Individual feedback and group critiques assist students to examine the properties of color and its application, along with other compositional and technical concerns. Intended for those students who have completed an introduction to painting course and wish to further develop their body of work.

Prerequisite: Students must be 18+ years or older and have experience painting in oils or acrylics. Intended for those students who have completed an introduction to painting course and wish to further develop their visual explorations using acrylic or oil paint.

Bring to first class: Several brushes (small, medium, and large), a few jars with lids, rags or paper towels, a pre-primed canvas (at least 16" x 20"), palette paper, palette knife, acrylic or oil paints (titanium white, mars black, lemon yellow or cadmium yellow light hue, hansa yellow medium, cadmium naphthol red or cadmium red light hue, quinacridone violet, ultramarine blue, phthalo blue). Please no pure cadmium colors only cadmium HUES. If working in acrylic paint please bring Golden Acrylic Glazing Medium in matte, satin or gloss finish. If working in oils, bring odorless mineral spirits, Gamblin Gamsol (solvent) and Gamblin Linseed Oil, or Walnut Oil (any brand). Gamblin is an art supply brand that focuses on safety. Students must use Gamblin gamsol and linseed oil, no exceptions. NO Turpentine or Turpenoid, which is quite toxic, as is Turpenoid "natural". Please also bring a still life item to the first meeting.

Exploring Watercolor

Registration closed.

• $495 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Yael Levy
• Thursdays, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
• February 1 - April 4 (10 sessions)
• CCA Main Building, Studio N 10/12, 1111 8th Street

This course introduces the medium of watercolor painting, while providing an environment where students can experiment with a variety of techniques and practice controlling this notoriously unpredictable medium. We will cover various techniques and tricks and learn about color, layering, blending, hard and soft edges as well as wet in wet, frisket and some mixed media explorations. We will draw and paint from both observation and our imaginations; using photo reference and natural objects. We also look at the work of past and contemporary watercolorists for inspiration.

Prerequisites: None. Students at all levels are welcome in this class, and must be 18+ years or older.

Bring to first class: paper and pens/pencils. If you already have watercolor supplies, feel free to bring them along. We will go over options for paint, brushes, paper, and supplementary materials on the first day.

Painting: Explorations of Color

Class postponed to Summer 2024

• $395 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Hifumi Ogawa

In this course, students apply mixing colors to various painting subjects using the fundamental ideas of color theory. Emphasis is given to developing a personal vision, through explorations of still life, portrait, landscape, and abstraction. Students will explore the temperature, relativity of color, and tonal palette as well as the psychology of color. Individual feedback and group critiques will be an integral part of this course.

Prerequisite: Open to all levels. Experience with painting is helpful, but not required. Students must be 18+ years or older.

Bring to first class: A sketch book (9” x 12” or larger), #2 pencils, a ruler, two pre-primed canvas boards 16" x 20", *acrylic paint: titanium white, mars black, cadmium yellow light (or lemon yellow), Hansa yellow, ultramarine blue, cerulean blue (or Cyan) cadmium red medium, magenta, burnt umber, burnt sienna, and yellow ochre. A jar of acrylic medium (matt, regular). Palette knife (large rounded spatula and/or medium trowel), painting shirt, palette or paper plates, 4-6 brushes (example: size 2 and 10 rounds, size 6 filbert, size 6 and ½” flats or Blick Essentials Craft Value Brush Set), a few jars, rags or paper towels.

*All of the in class demonstrations are done in acrylic. If you wish to work in oils, bring odorless mineral spirits: Gamsol (no Turpenoid, which is quite toxic) and linseed oil. You will need a jar of Gamblin Galkyd Medium or Winsor & Newton Liquin - Original instead of acrylic gel medium.

*If you prefer, you can get a student grade starter paint set instead of individual paints above. Some preferred paint brands include Golden, Winsor & Newton, Liquitex, and Utrecht

Natural Art Materials: Making Pastels, Inks, and Printmaking with Plant-based Color

Special weekend workshop!

• $295 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Elissa Callen
• Saturday + Sunday, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• March 16 - March 17 (2 sessions)
• CCA Hubbell Street Studio, 111 Hubbell Street

What if instead of using store bought inks, paints, and pastels you made them yourself–out of plants? Art materials made from plants, minerals, and even insects are the original sources of color in art and full of robust color possibilities. Learn about revered natural dye colorants, as well as what plant-based colors can be found and gathered right here in the Bay Area, and how to process them into handmade inks and pastels for painting, printmaking, and drawing with. This course will go over a brief introduction to native and invasive plant species, ethical gathering, and the in depth process of turning these plant materials into an array of color for art making. Students will leave with a revived sense of ecological creative potential and their own sampling set of botanical pastels and inks made together in class. Students will also take away their own botanically printed and painted experimentations on paper.

Prerequisite: None. Students at all levels are welcome in this class, and must be 18+ years or older.

Bring to workshop: Notebook and pen/sketchbook, sunhat/sunscreen, clothing you are comfortable with getting dirty or stained, comfortable closed-toe shoes, watercolor paper (optional), favorite brushes (optional), miscellaneous plants and objects to borrow impressions of and make ink prints with (optional), an article or photo of something you are working on to share with the group (optional). All other materials provided.

Black & White Photography

Registration closed.

• $495 (noncredit) + $45 materials fee
• Instructor: Charles Lee
• Tuesdays, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM with optional lab hours: Sundays, 12:00 PM -3:00 PM
• February 13 - April 9 (8 sessions, no class on February 27)
• CCA Rayko Building, Darkroom + Lighting Studios, 428 3rd Street

In an age of digital photography with instant images and limitless shooting capabilities, traditional darkroom and film photography provides a hands-on slower approach to image making. This 8-week class introduces students to the basic principles and procedures of B&W darkroom photography. Class will begin with an overview of photo history, film cameras, camera operations, metering for proper exposure, and other critical components of darkroom photography. In the following weeks, students will then head into the darkroom to learn film processing, printing and darkroom techniques to produce unique silver gelatin based prints. Weekly shooting assignments and critique will help students gain the skills in learning this unique process.

Prerequisite: Students must be 18+ years or older and comfortable working with darkroom chemistry.

Bring to first class: Working film camera, extra batteries, camera instruction manuals, and any other camera accessories. An additional materials fee for film and paper is required.

Pay Required Materials Fee: $45

Intermediate/Advanced Photography

Class postponed

• $495 (noncredit) + $45 materials fee
• Instructor: Bec Imrich
• CCA Rayko Building, Darkroom + Lighting Studios, 428 3rd Street

Students in this course will explore how to further their technical skills in black white photography; choose how to apply digital or experimental techniques to their creative practice; and develop creative projects in a variety of genres while engaging various discourses on contemporary photographic practices.

Among the goals of this class will be to better understand the language of photography in its various cultural forms and to investigate how different presentational strategies influence photographic meaning. The key question will be: how can a better understanding of photographic methods and materials help one use photography as a persuasive visual language and as an effective mode of personal creative expression. 

Prerequisite: Students will need to have already taken B&W Photography or have experience in analog photography and working in a darkroom studio. Students must be 18+ years or older.

Bring to first class: Working film camera, extra batteries, camera instruction manuals, and any other camera accessories. An additional materials fee for film and paper is required.

Pay Rquired Materials Fee: $45

Photography Weekend Workshop: SOMA Then and Now

Registration closed

• $200 (noncredit)
• Instructor: Max Gavrich
• CCA Rayko Building, 428 3rd Street

In this workshop, you will learn to use photographs from the past and present to navigate, explore, and chart the rapidly-changing urban landscape, specifically the South of Market neighborhood. Beginning with historical photographs from the late 19th and early 20th century, we will collectively revisit sites that appear in these pictures and make our own updated versions, working like visual detectives. The class will provide an overview of digital camera techniques and basic editing in Adobe Camera RAW. The course may include a field trip to a historical archive. Resources include the San Francisco Public Library Archives, the Western Neighborhoods Project, Open SF History, and Janet Delaney’s South of Market project.

Prerequisites: None. Students at all levels are welcome in this class, and must be 18+ years or older.

Bring to first class: Working digital camera, extra batteries, camera instruction manuals, and any other camera accessories.

Introduction to Screenprinting

Class postponed.

• $395 (noncredit) + $35 materials fee
• Instructor: Yael Levy
• CCA Rayko Building, 428 3rd St, San Francisco

Screenprinting is the most versatile of all the print media, with the ability to print on many different surfaces, while creating multiple prints from a single screen. Following an overview of basic principles and mechanics, students create hand-drawn or cut-film positives used to expose a stencil onto a photopolymer emulsion-coated screen. Screen preparation, ink mixing, and multiple-color registration are covered.

Prerequisites: None. Students at all levels are welcome in this class, and must be 18+ years or older.

What to bring: Materials fee will cover all basic screenprinting materials. A list of additional materials will be discussed in the first class. Students are encouraged to bring: Sketchbook and favorite sketching materials, newsprint pad, specialty ink colors (metallic, neon, etc), other papers of choice (different colors), T-shits, totes, or textiles to print on.

Pay required materials fee: $35

Lithography: Alchemy on the Stone

Class postponed.

• $395 (noncredit) + $35 materials fee
• Instructor: Rudolph Taylor
• CCA Rayko Building, 428 3rd St, San Francisco

Lithography is the wonderful printmaking technique where artists can draw or paint directly onto the surface of a special stone and then chemically etch and fix it onto the matrix to create prints with a wide range of drawn/painted marks. We describe it as a kind of alchemical magic that captures incredible detail, tone and colour in Printmedia. This course covers demonstrations and hands-on work in the both physical and digital techniques of lithographic printing on stone and photo-plate. Many drawing/painting techniques and materials will be explored and careful attention will be given to the process of etching and printing editions. Students are encouraged to explore creative methods that meet individual aesthetic and conceptual needs.

Prerequisites: None. Students must be 18+ years or older. Open to beginning and advanced students.

What to bring: Materials fee will cover all basic litho materials. A list of additional materials will be discussed in the first class.

Required materials fee: $35