Children aren’t the only ones who get to enjoy art classes at the Magic City Art Connection! Collectors Classroom is back, giving you the perfect opportunity for some me time and a chance to explore your inner artist.
Scheduled for Saturday, April 26, and Sunday, April 27, as part of the Magic City Art Connection, these workshops invite adults to dive into painting, printmaking, metal casting, woodworking, and more—all led by Birmingham’s esteemed artists. Class fees range from $60 to $85, with all supplies included and a three-day festival pass included with registration. Whether you’re a seasoned creator or a total beginner, you’ll find a welcoming space to learn, create, and connect. Plus, with Sloss Furnaces as the backdrop, you’ll be surrounded by history while bringing something new to life. Treat yourself to a weekend of creativity—you deserve it!
Workshop Details at a Glance:
- Duration: 2 hours (with a special 4-hour workshop available)
- Dates: Saturday, April 26, 2025, and Sunday, April 27, 2025
- Times:
- Session One: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
- Session Two: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
- Location: Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark, 20 32nd Street North, Birmingham, AL 35222
- Cost:
- 2-hour workshop: $60
- 4-hour workshop: $85 (applies to the two-part Pendant Casting workshop)
- Inclusions:
- All necessary workshop supplies
- A 3-day festival pass to MCAC
Workshop Offerings:
- Pendant Casting with Julie Carpenter (Two-Part Workshop): Join metal artist Julie Carpenter to craft your own pewter pendant. This comprehensive workshop covers pattern designing, mold making, casting, drilling, polishing, patina application, and jewelry assembly. By the end, you’ll have a unique piece of pewter art crafted by you.
- Papermaking with Tara Lee: Experience the art of papermaking using various fibers like abaca, denim, and okra. Learn techniques for forming and enhancing sheets, and experiment with inclusions, textures, and colors to create a personalized collection of handmade papers.
- Bronze Cuttlebone Casting with Joe McCreary: Discover the art of cuttlebone casting to create unique bronze sculptures or pendants. This hands-on workshop guides you through mold creation, metal melting, and pouring techniques.
- Hand Tool Basics Featuring Wooden Wind Chimes with Tori Crutchfield: Learn woodworking fundamentals using hand tools to craft your own set of wind chimes. Discussions will cover design, tool selection, wood properties, and finishing techniques, making it ideal for beginners.
- Pochoir (Stenciling) Printmaking with Beth Sheehan: Delve into the pochoir technique, a fun method of printing without equipment that can be applied to various surfaces. Create your own images by cutting new stencils, adapting everyday objects into stencils, and experimenting with inking techniques. The workshop also explores color theory and mixing techniques, encouraging playful experimentation.
- Plein Air Painting with Amy Peterson: Engage in plein air painting, capturing the landscape directly from nature. Under expert guidance, learn to observe and translate the environment, focusing on light, color, and composition. The workshop covers essential techniques like working quickly to capture natural light, using a limited palette, and creating dynamic compositions.
Registration Information:
Seats for these workshops are limited, so early registration is encouraged. To secure your spot and for more details, visit the official Collectors Classroom page.
Participating in the Collectors Classroom not only enriches your creative skills but also supports MCAC’s mission to provide a diverse, comprehensive, and educational arts experience. Don’t miss this chance to connect with fellow art enthusiasts and learn from some of Birmingham’s finest artists in a setting that marries history and creativity.
Note: Workshop details and schedules are subject to change. Please refer to the official website for the most current information.
