Studio Art Class Descriptions

Our classes are designed for beginners unless stated in the title or the description. These descriptions are to provide basic information, instructors will provide a course outline for the 10 weeks on the first night of class. If a course is not listed on our current schedule, we are not offering it this semester.

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JEWELRY

Jewelry 1 - Cold Connections

This journey into jewelry making includes an introduction to tools and materials with an emphasis on a variety of cold joining techniques. In this hands-on class, students work with sheet metal, wire and beads as well as with found objects. Techniques include sawing, piercing, texturing, metal forming, cold-connection fabrication and photo resist acid etching. A lab fee of $30 covers basic supplies; experienced students that work with silver will be able to make their own purchases through Sarratt Art Studios.
Class size limited to 10 students

Jewelry 2 - Wire Works

Create amazing jewelry as you explore how to bend, twist and attach wire parts together to make bangles, bracelets, necklaces and more. Explore the qualities of different metals and learn basic forged jewelry techniques. As you build a vocabulary of shapes you'll be creating your own original designs. Class size limited to 10 students

Jewelry 3 - Basic Torch Techniques

A new jewelry class open to students of all levels. This course will start with some of the basics in cutting and shaping metal and then move to the use of torches to explore soldering, annealing, bezel setting, chains and more. Students explore the techniques with copper, brass, and nickel. Each week will allow students the opportunity to learn "hot" techniques as well as design their own jewelry. A $30.00 lab fee will cover the costs of basic metals, tools and use of the torches. Silver is available at an extra charge. Class size limited to 10 students.

Jewelry 4 - Intermediate Torch Techniques (Pre-requisite: Jewelry 1 and 3 or permission from the instructor)

Coming in Fall of 2012 this course will expand your jewelry and metal skills with the torch and introduce you to enameling, box forms, basic hinges, and small vessels. Class size limited to 10 students

Special Projects in Jewelry (Pre-requisite: For Spring 2012 students must know how to bezel set)

This course is being offered to experienced metal artists that would like to explore their own ideas in jewelry or sculpture. Group demos, individual attention, sharing ideas, incorporating "found objects", and exploring new approaches are among the many things that can lead you to creating your own unique art work. Class size limited to 10 students

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PHOTOGRAPHY

Beginning Digital Photography

Learn to create more thoughtful digital photographs. Students will be given exercises to improve knowledge about photography in general with weekly critiques. A digital SLR camera and a laptop computer will be required for this course. In addition, students will need either Photoshop or Photoshop Elements programs. If the student does not have either of these programs, information will be given on how to get them. A Lab Fee of $30.00 covers paper, ink, class photo book and use of the digital printer. Please bring laptop, camera, and camera manual to each class.

Class size limited to 12 students.

Creative Photoshop 1

Basic 35mm Camera

This is an introductory course designed to teach students about the camera and the art of black and white film photography. You will learn to operate your manual or automatic camera, process black and white film, and print our own photographs. A 35mm SLR camera is required to take this course. A $30 lab fee covers unlimited use of the darkroom, chemicals, and one roll of b/w film and a pack of photo paper. Photo paper, film and protective sheets are available for purchase in our studio. Class size limited to 10 students

Holga Cameras and Alternative Photo Techniques

Holga cameras are often nicknamed "toy cameras" as they are not as light tight, have a plastic lens and each camera provides the artist with its own unique special effects. Holga cameras also use a different size film from regular cameras. Alternative photo techniques, like cyanotype, are non-camera techniques that you can expose images on to hand made paper, fabric, or anything that will hold the emulsion. Once you've created a "negative" you expose it to light to print your image. A $30.00 lab fee covers the cost of the Holga camera and chemistry for alternative processes as well as unlimited use of the darkroom during our session. Film, photo paper and negative sleeve protectors will be available for purchase in the studio. Class size is limited to 10 students.

Intermediate Digital Photography

Coming in Fall 2012

Special Projects in Photography

Coming in Spring 2013

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CLAY

Beginning Wheel Throwing

The class you have always wanted to take is one of our most popular that we offer here at Sarratt Art Studios. This beginning level class teaches the basics of wheel throwing, trimming, and glazing functional pottery. Instructors will provide you with step-by-step instructions and demonstrations to help you create delightful clay objects from the wheel. This popular class will fill quickly, so we recommend that you register as soon as possible.. A $30 lab fee covers the cost of a 25 pound bag of clay, tools, and glazes. Additional clay may be purchased through Sarratt Art Studios.
Class size limited to 12 students

Intermediate Wheel Throwing

A great class for those who have had at least one beginning level wheel throwing or hand building course. Students will expand their skills for throwing on the wheel, trimming, and glazing. Learn to develop your own throwing styles, explore the construction of traditional forms, and learn more glazing and surface design strategies. Lots of new tricks and techniques as well as individual attention to help you explore your passion for clay. A $30 lab fee covers the cost of one 25 pound bag of clay, tools, and glazes. Additional clay may be purchased through Sarratt Art Studios. Class size limited to 12 students.

Clay: Focus on Tea Sets

We think the name says it all. Through various hand building techniques, you'll create functional, decorative and/or sculptural tea sets (your choice). By exploring the history of tea sets and the contemporary "spin" on teapots you'll learn more than just the average brew. Though this is not a wheel throwing class, students with experience may use the wheels outside of class time to explore tea set creations. Class size limited to 10 students

Glazing for the Clay Artist

Coming in Fall 2012

Advanced Wheel Throwing

Coming in Fall 2012

The Figure in Clay

Coming in Spring 2013

Special Projects in Clay

Coming in Spring 2013

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DRAWING, PAINTING, PRINTMAKING

Beginning Watercolor

Step by step instructions give you the skills to create beautiful works of art in watercolor. This medium can be very tricky, so we start with the basics of the color wheel, explore blending and shadowing, and painting three dimensionally. As you work through the class compositions, you will explore your own use of color and this beautiful medium. The $30.00 lab fee covers the cost of paper, brushes, water colors, and basic supplies. Class size limited to 10.

Intermediate Watercolor

Gain new skills while you are building on the basics of watercolor techniques. Students will work on a more complicated composition selected by the instructor and may also explore new ways to create beautiful paintings. Students in this class continue to explore and learn to "control" this very tricky and beautiful medium. A lab fee of $30 covers paper, paints, brushes and other supplies used in the class. Class size limited to 10.

Drawing Fundamentals

This is drawing basics for beginners and for those that feel they need a "refresher" course. Each week students will explore different drawing materials(Dry and wet), learn the vocabulary of drawing and have time to practice new drawing skills. From still life to drawing portraits, you're sure to unleash the inner artist.  Paper and drawing supplies are provided for the course. A lab fee of $30.00 covers the cost of all drawing supplies and paper.

Class size limited to 12.

Figure Drawing

Artists have been drawing, painting and sculpting the human figure for centuries. Now, it's your turn to explore drawing with a live model as your muse. From quick gesture drawings to more "studied" poses, students will explore expression and physicality of the human form on paper. Our model will wear a swim suit or dance leotard, costume, or drapes for poses. Please note that this is not an anatomy drawing class. This class is open to intermediate or advanced level drawing students. A $30.00 lab fee covers the cost of the model as well as drawing supplies for the class.

Class size limited to 10.

Print Making (Intaglio, Photo Silk Screen, Relief)

There are a variety of techniques when it comes to print making. Some techniques require a press, others require some special chemicals, and some can be done with things that are laying around the house. From the basic mono print to the wood carved block to the more "modern" approach of photo silk screen we try to offer different classes in this amazing medium. So check our schedule for what is being offered this semester. No experience is required, but this is a medium that is often used by artists that enjoy drawing/painting/ bookmaking, or photography. Class size limited to 8 - 10.

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GLASS, GRAPHIC DESIGN, BOOK ARTS, YOGA AND MORE....

Fused Glass

Fused glass is a term used to describe glass that has been fired (heat-processed) in a kiln at a range of high temperatures from 593 °C (1,099 °F) to 816 °C (1,501 °F); thank you Wikipedia! There are 3 main distinctions for temperature application and the resulting effect on the glass. Students will explore the basics of cutting, designing, fusing and slumping glass in kilns. Fused glass can be used to make jewelry, decorative tiles and functional or sculptural objects (bowls, plates, etc). Class size limited to 10 students.

Introduction to Glass Blowing

This is an afternoon workshop that Sarratt Art Studios is pleased to host with Franklin Glass Blowing Studios. We'll provide transportation and refreshments so you can participate in a 4 hour paper weight making workshop with Jose Santisteban (a Vanderbilt alum and artist). So sign up with a friend or make new friends during this HOT class.

Graphic Design Studio

Learn how to present information effectively through the use of visuals and typography. Together we will explore the principles of design, basic color theory, and beginning typography. This is a great class for those who want to learn how to communicate better via posters, advertising, and publications. Students in this class will need a laptop. If you have InDesign, Quark, or Illustrator, you are all set. If not we will help with a demo version. Sorry, but we cannot teach this course with "Microsoft Publisher". Class size limited to 12.

Introduction to Book Arts

You might never have thought it, but yes making a book is an art form. And in this course you learn a new technique of making a book just about every week. Handmade books can be used in a variety of ways and/or can just be enjoyed as a wonderful object. Some books can even be sculptural. A great class for anyone wanting to learn something out of the ordinary and a perfect format for drawings, prints or your own writing. A $30.00 lab fee covers the use of paper, tools and basic supplies needed for the course. Class size limited to 10 students.

Bead-ology

The methodical, almost scientific (or is it mathematical?) study of various off loom bead weaving structures. Beadologists and students will explore gourd stitch, brick stitch, right angle weave, and herringbone basics. Studies can be explored in black and white or any color combination imaginable. Once these basic structures are "mastered", further explorations include variations, creating small vessels, and designing ornamental objects. Don't forget to ask about the Bead Laboratory Experience. {*Warning: The study of Bead-ology may lead to a relaxed, meditative state that can be induced from overexposure to beads.} Class size is limited to 1o.

Introduction to Studio Art

Have you often wanted to take an art class, but the choices are overwhelming? Would this be the first time your considering an art class? Then this course may just be the one for you! Over the course of the 10 weeks, you will have a chance to discover some of our favorite studio mediums. It's instructor's choice to introduce you to: clay, photography, jewelry, fused glass, drawing or any other art medium. Get a "taste" of each and then decide just where your artistic passions really are for future courses. Class size limited to 10 students.

Introduction to Paper Making
If you are interested in learning and exploring new ideas with a traditional media, then this is the class for you! Students will spend the 10 weeks learning about hand made paper and then how to incorporate the paper in to books, mixed media projects and sculpture. Think what your original drawings, prints or other techniques may become with your own hand made paper. Definitely this course is a great opportunity to be expressive and make one of a kind creations. Class size limited to 10 students.

Art and Tranquility Zone

Are you looking for a chance to escape the hectic pace in your life? Do you crave the opportunity to reflect, recharge and be creative at the same time?
The Art and Tranquility Zone is an oasis of calm and well-being for the body, mind and soul. This is an opportunity to share words, thoughts and inspirations, and to indulge in creating inspiring artwork through a variety of tools and media.
The aim is to bring spiritual refreshment and to foster inspiration and creativity. This class is suitable for active artists and those of no artistic experience. It’s open to people of all faiths and none. The course draws on a variety of wisdoms from the world around us. Give yourself the opportunity to learn, to relax, and to work through your art work while your imagination is guided by the assistance of music and words that have universal appeal. Class size limited to 10 students.

Yin Yoga and Meditation

Many styles of yoga classes (Power Yoga, Ashtanga, Vinyasa Flow are examples) are high energy, very aerobic and work and stretch the muscles in the body. These styles have a "yang" energy to them that provide numerous benefits.

Yin yoga classes focus on stretching the connective tissues and ligaments by allowing more time to "sit" in each pose and allowing these areas a chance to relax and stretch while you focus on your breath. Yin yoga classes are more relaxing and restorative and many of the poses are seated or reclining. Yin yoga is also helpful in preparing the body to sit quietly for meditation. Class size limited to 12students.