Adult art classes currently enrolling for:
We are starting the Winter Session early this year. Session dates are January 6- March 21.
We especially welcome new students as well as returning students to join us this winter to learn together.
We offer five levels of study suited to everyone from absolute beginners to those developing their own body of artwork. Students may remain in any level for as long as they would like; instructors will adjust lessons to accommodate new and returning students. Our diverse faculty pool allows students to study painting, drawing and other media with instructors from many backgrounds and perspectives.
All artwork on these pages was created by our students or faculty.
Beginning classes- are for people who may have never taken an art class before. The instructor will explain suggested materials on the first day of class and provide instruction in technique and concepts. Students may remain in the beginning level for several sessions of classes.
Foundations classes- are for those who have taken one or more beginning level classes; instructors offer lessons which build off beginning level concepts. Students may remain in either level for several sessions.
Intermediate classes- are for those who have taken some classes and would like more focused and complex study. Instructors continue to set lessons, as well as allowing students to pursue individual goals. Many students remain in intermediate level for a year or more.
Independent classes – are for those who have a body of work and would like individualized critique on works in progress to help develop specific personal artistic goals.
Professional Development- are classes and workshops designed for working artists and teachers.
No class on 2/17.
This class is designed for the student who seeks to develop their painting practice while receiving individual critical feedback from the instructor. Work alongside peers to further develop your personal approach. Bring a sample of your work (in oil or acrylic) to the first class. Bring any supplies and materials that you prefer to work with.
No class 2/17
Register For Classes
No class on 2/17.
We will be learning experimental watercolor techniques using alternative tools including: plastic wrap, sponges, toothbrushes, wax crayons, and masking fluid. Chanel your inner child, loosen up, and have fun while playing with this amazingly fluid medium. Those who would like to pursue independent explorations and/or personal projects are welcome as well. Experimental Watercolor with AA – Supply List
No class 2/17
Register For ClassesNo class on 2/17.
Students in this drawing class will explore a broad range of drawing ideas, focusing on line, value, texture, proportion, composition and expression. This class is suitable for anyone who has taken at least one drawing class and wants to continue to develop foundational skill with this practice. Foundations of Drawing Supply List
No class 2/17
Register For ClassesJoin artist Lee Ball for this exciting four-week class focused on embellishing 2-D work with embroidery, found object costume jewelry pieces, and emulsion lift using the Polaroid Lab. Each session will focus on a different stage of mixing the media. Class one will revolve around embroidery techniques and simple beadwork. Classes two and three will concentrate on emulsion lifts using smartphone images photographed with a Polaroid Lab camera, and basic jewelry techniques used to assemble and disassemble costume jewelry. In class four, students will put it all together. Instructor will provide seed beads, Polaroid lab, Watercolor paper, bead needles, bits of fabric, watercolor, and acrylic pens. Students provide images, costume jewelry, completed work they would like to embellish, and any other bits that make sense for their work. Exploring Mixed Media with LB – Supply List
Register For Classes
No class on 2/17.
Treat yourself this winter to drawing classes that take place entirely in the Danforth Art Museum! Students will take inspiration from a variety of incredible art in the museum galleries, developing skills in observation along with techniques for creating dimensionality, accurate proportions, and variety with drawing tools. Each meeting will include discussion and critique. Suitable for anyone who has had at least one previous drawing class. Please meet on the second floor in the museum lobby. Drawing at the Museum Supply List
No class 2/17
Register For Classes
No class on 2/18.
Continue your watercolor and drawing studies and work with artist-instructor, Angela Ackerman, to learn how to create an accurate and simple line drawing to form the basis of your watercolor composition. Using transfer techniques as well as simple observational drawing, students will develop confidence with realistic as well as experimental and abstract subject matter. The instructor will review several techniques with watercolors, using brushes, sponges and other tools to build up the watercolor image. Foundations of Drawing & Watercolor with AA – Supply List
No class on 2/18
Register For ClassesNo class on 2/18.
Create unique and experimental prints and collages using the Printmaking Press (etching press). Work in nontoxic water based media on plexi-glass. Students will learn how to use the press and develop skills to create one of a kind prints to be combined with collage where integration and adhering with gel medium will be discussed and demonstrated. No previous printmaking experience necessary. All supplies provided for the first class at which time the instructor will review supplies to be purchased.
No class on 2/18.
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Register For ClassesNo class on 2/18.
Working with portrait artist Farzaneh Safarani, students will explore the anatomy of the head, discovering how to reveal accurate proportion, structure, and likeness through demonstration and detailed instruction. Added focus will be on using light and color to articulate forms. Palette knife and brush techniques will be included. In this class we will work from a live model in addition to printed material. Class cost includes model fee.
Portrait Painting – Supply List
No class on 2/18.
Register For ClassesNo class on 2/18.
Have you ever traveled somewhere that was so beautiful and wish you knew how to put that vista on paper or canvas? You can learn the elements of creating an effective landscape through a variety of exercises using your favorite drawing or painting materials. Students will learn how to design a strong composition, how to simplify forms and to accomplish a sense of perspective in a picture plane. This class is great for the beginner or more advanced students. Introduction to Landscapes with FS – Wed – Supply List
No class on 2/18.
Register For ClassesNo class on 2/18.
This class is designed for the student who seeks to develop their palette knife painting practice while receiving individual critical feedback from the instructor. Work alongside peers to further develop your personal approach. Have a sample of your work (in oil or acrylic) available for the first class. Please use any supplies and materials you prefer to work with. Class starts January 14.
No class on 2/18.
Register For ClassesNo class on 2/18.
This class is designed for the student who seeks to develop their painting practice while receiving individual critical feedback from the instructor. Work alongside peers to further develop your personal approach. Bring a sample of your work (in oil or acrylics) to first class. Bring any supplies and materials you prefer to work with.
No class on 2/18.
Register For ClassesCreate a series from a still life featuring lovely kitchen vessels, over four weeks, using a different media each week. This practice allows students to interpret the objects over time in a variety of methods, providing multiple opportunities to capture proportion, light, form and mood. 4 Weeks 4 Mediums with Lee Ball – Supply List
Register For Classes
No sessions on 2/18.
Come to the Danforth for a leisurely life model class, where you can work at your own pace and practice your life drawing skills. This open session meets weekly for three hours with a rotation of models. There is no instruction and you must bring your own supplies. Easels, painting tables, drawing boards, stools and chairs are in the studio for your use. We must receive at least 4 registrations in order to run this open session.
No sessions on 2/18.
Register For Classes
No class on 2/19
Are you over 50 and would like to spend some time learning about art and creativity? Join us in this new class to explore ideas, meet new friends and have fun experimenting with art materials in a relaxing, no-pressure environment. The class will start in the museum as we view selected works, discussing ideas related to the process artists use and the subjects they focus on in various paintings, drawings, photos, sculptures and more. We will then gather in an art school studio to practice creativity together with a little guidance from an instructor. No class 2/19.
Thanks to a generous gift from a donor, we have created this program to welcome older adults in our community to enjoy the Danforth at no charge. Donations to a scholarship fund are welcome. You may donate here.
NOTE: Please register for the wait list and we will contact you if we are able to create another section of this class.
Register For ClassesNo class on 2/19.
This is a new class designed for those who would like to learn more about the artwork in the museum and take inspiration in creating simple art project in response. After spending time in the museum discussing various pieces, the instructor will help guide participants through an artistic response using a variety of media like colored pencils, pastels, watercolor paint, collage and more. This short 4 week class is perfect for those who would like to get to know the Danforth and learn a bit about art. No experience required, all supplies provided.
No class on 2/19.
Register For ClassesNo class on 2/19.
Although drawing portraits and the figure can be complex, in this class students will practice methods and techniques in manageable lessons. Portrait studies will include the skull, planes in the face and facial features. Figure studies will include using schematics and simple shapes to create the complex form of the figure. In this intermediate level class we will work from a live model and printed material. Class cost includes model fee.
Intermediate Drawing: Portrait & Figure Studies Supply List
No class on 2/19.
Register For ClassesNo class on 2/20.
A weekly three-hour studio period for those who enjoy painting independently within a welcoming community. This class includes critique and guidance from artist-instructor, Susan Bauer. Bring any current work and all supplies and enjoy a relaxed time at the art school with other artists. Students are welcome and encouraged to visit the museum to help support learning.
No class on 2/20.
Register For ClassesNo class on 2/20.
Create complex, colorful prints and collages. Students in this intermediate class will continue to work with the etching press and expand upon their existing printmaking skills and techniques. Color overlays and multiple plate processes will be explored while advancing composition and conceptual building. Integration techniques for collage will be covered through instructor demos. This course is ideal for students who have printmaking experience using the etching press and wish to advance their techniques.
Intermediate Monotype with Collage Supply List
No class on 2/20.
Register For ClassesNo class on 2/20.
Learn to paint! This is an introduction to the materials and techniques of painting in acrylic for beginning students. Working from direct observation and a variety of subject matter, this class will focus on color and basic concepts of form, light, and composition. No previous experience required. All supplies provided for the first class, at which time the instructor will provide a modest supply list.
No class on 2/20.
In this mini-class, you will spend four quiet evenings amidst the artwork in the Danforth Museum galleries as you enjoy a series of breathing exercises to promote relaxation and mindfulness. Continue in the meditative experience by creating contemplative mark making using pen and pencil, letting go of expectations and allowing for the inner quiet and creativity to emerge on the paper. Limited to 12 participants. No experience required. Please bring a yoga mat and dress for comfort. Stools will also be available.
Register For ClassesA three hour studio session for those who enjoy drawing and painting in community. This session will not have an instructor, artists are invited and encouraged to support each other during the 3 week period. Bring any current work and all supplies and enjoy a relaxed time at the art school with other artists. Participants receive free admission to the museum on the days they attend.
Register For ClassesThis session is only for those students who are currently enrolled in the 2025 Fall session of Foundations of Painting with Lee Ball.
Learn to paint! This is an introduction to the materials and techniques of painting in acrylic for beginning students. Working from direct observation and a variety of subject matter, this class will focus on color and basic concepts of form, light, and composition. No previous experience required. All supplies provided for the first class, at which time the instructor will provide a modest supply list.
This class will meet two times, November 14 and November 21.
Register For ClassesKnow someone who loves art? Consider the gift of an art class! Gift Certificates for art classes may be purchased here
Important Information
Please see all policies here.
The Danforth Art School is accessible by elevator which is located in the lobby of the building directly connecting the parking lot. Our parking lot has several designated accessible spots adjacent to the building. If you need additional accommodations, please do not hesitate to reach out to school staff: danforthartschool@framingham.edu.
We have created a series of experience levels to help, but we understand that these levels may not capture the full picture of individual experience. School staff are always happy to speak with you to help place you with an instructor and class that will meet your goals. Reach us by phone 508-215-5116 or danforthartschool@framingham.edu
We are unable to prorate the class cost due to student absences with the exception of health emergencies. Please call us if you have further questions.
We order online from blick , many of our teachers use jerrysartarama, and Michael’s or Post Road Art Center in Marlborough usually has most of what you will need.
At this time, we have decided to offer classes in our studios and not online in order to provide the most effective learning environment.
Ruth sees the essence of what is being painted and guides me to feel accomplished as an artist ” Beth B.-student in Ruth Scotch's Independent Palette Knife Painting class—read more about Ruth here
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