Enriching Lives Through Art: Adult/Teen Classes

We are offering art classes for all age groups at the arts center, which are made possible through “Enriching Lives through Art,” a grant generously funded by the John Ben Snow Foundation. Our Thursday night free drawing class is offered online. All classes are listed below.

You can also check out our month-by-month calendar to help you plan your Fine Arts Center activities.

Classes

a photo of the cover of the book Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain
  • Drawing on the Right Side of Your Brain
  • Instructor: Katrina Morse
  • Date: Sunday, October 26
  • Time: 10:00 am – Noon
  • Ages: Adults (16 and older)
  • Maximum enrollment: 8
  • Fee: $40 (25% off for members $30)*

Learn to See Like an Artist: Drawing with Confidence. Unlock the power of observation and transform the way you draw. In this hands-on class, inspired by Betty Edwards’ groundbreaking book Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain, you'll explore techniques that help retrain your brain to truly see—not just what you think is there, but what’s actually in front of you. Through a series of guided exercises, you’ll develop your ability to perceive shape, proportion, space, and light, building a strong foundation for realistic drawing. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this class will help you gain confidence and accuracy in your artwork by learning to look with an artist's eye. Beginner to intermediate skill level.

Some materials will be supplied: #2 pencil, eraser, and a shading stick. Please bring a 9"x12" sketch pad. This is an in-person class and masks are optional. Register in person or online at Salmon River Fine Arts Center Square Site.

*Financial assistance is available for those who would like to attend and are unable to pay the full fee. Please email the art center with your request. This discounted class is made possible through “Enriching Lives through Art,” a grant generously funded by the John Ben Snow Foundation.


photo of Marybeth Sorendo at the potters wheel
  • 4-Week Adult Pottery Workshop
  • Instructor: Marybeth Sorendo
  • Dates: Saturdays, November 1, 8, 15, & 22
  • Time: 10 AM – 12 PM
  • Ages: Adult (14+)
  • Fee: $93.75 per class members/ $125 non members
  • Class Size limit: 5

SORRY! CLASS IS SOLD OUT. Discover the art of clay in this hands-on, 4-week pottery workshop designed for adults of all skill levels. Guided by local ceramic artist Marybeth Sorendo, you'll explore both wheel throwing and handbuilding techniques in a relaxed and encouraging environment. Over the course of four consecutive Saturday mornings, you'll learn the foundational skills of working with clay: shaping, trimming, decorating, and glazing to create your own functional and sculptural pieces.

Whether you're a total beginner or looking to refresh your skills, this workshop offers the perfect opportunity to unwind, get creative, and walk away with beautiful handmade ceramics. Space is limited and fills quickly. All materials and firing included—just bring your curiosity and creativity!

This is an in-person class and masks are optional. Register in person or online at Salmon River Fine Arts Center Square Site. * Financial assistance is available for those who would like to attend and are unable to pay the full fee. Please email the art center with your request. This discounted class is made possible through “Enriching Lives through Art,” a grant generously funded by the John Ben Snow Foundation.

Marybeth Sorendo received a BFA in Ceramics (Kent State University) and a MA in studio art (New York University). She has taught pottery at several community art centers, including SRFAC, the Art Association of Oswego, and recently at SUNY Oswego as an adjunct professor. She enjoys producing functional pottery for the home and garden.


an xample of a stained glass mosaic an xample of a stained glass mosaic
  • 3-Day Workshop: Abstract Glass Mosaic Frames
  • Instructor: Dyan Melnik
  • Dates and Times:
  • Sunday, November 2, Noon-3 pm
  • Sunday, November 9, Noon-3 pm
  • Sunday, November 16, Noon-1:30 pm
  • Ages: Adults (16 and older)
  • Maximum enrollment: 8
  • Fee: $38 (25% off for members $28.50)*

SORRY! CLASS IS SOLD OUT. Join accomplished glass mosaic artist Dyan Melnik for a vibrant 3-day workshop where you’ll explore the colorful world of stained glass mosaics! Over the course of three hands-on sessions, participants will learn how to design, cut, arrange, and grout glass into dazzling mosaic compositions that play with light, color, and texture.

You’ll start by experimenting with geometric layouts and abstract patterns, then move into creating more complex and layered designs. Dyan will guide you through the process, sharing expert tips on safely working with stained glass, choosing color palettes, and creating striking visual balance.

In this workshop, you will:

  • ● Explore stained glass color theory and layout design
  • ● Learn proper glass-cutting and techniques
  • ● Create your own framed mosaic artwork to take home
  • ● Gain inspiration from Dyan’s signature style and examples
  • ● Work in a supportive, creative environment alongside fellow artists

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist looking to explore glasswork, this class offers an inspiring and accessible entry point into mosaic art. All materials will be supplied.

This is an in-person class and masks are optional. Register in person or online at Salmon River Fine Arts Center Square Site. * Financial assistance is available for those who would like to attend and are unable to pay the full fee. This discounted class is made possible through the “Enriching Lives through Art,” a grant generously funded by the John Ben Snow Foundation.


example of the painting students will do, featuring a purple cat in a dark forest
  • “MoonKitten in the Forest”
  • Cranky Cat Paint & Sip
  • Instructor: Cindy Schmidt
  • Date: Friday, November 14
  • Time: 5:00- 7:00 pm
  • Ages: Adults and Children (12+)
  • Maximum enrollment: 12
  • Fee: $25.00 (25% off for members $18.75)

Join local favorite Cindy Schmidt for a whimsical evening of acrylic painting, laughter, and creativity as you bring “MoonKitten in the Forest” to life! You’ll create a glowing night scene featuring a moonlit kitten nestled in a magical forest—complete with expressive eyes, fuzzy fur, and that classic “cranky cat” attitude. Cindy will guide you step-by-step through sketching, color blocking, layering light, and adding those final luminous details that make your acrylic painting shine. This workshop is designed for young adults of all skill levels—no prior experience needed. All materials are supplied.

It’s an evening filled with fun, canvas, paints, and drinks! Non-alcoholic beverages will be available, and you’re welcome to bring your own favorite drink as well. Space is limited, so be sure to register early to reserve your seat.

This is an in-person class and masks are optional. Register in person or online at Salmon River Fine Arts Center Square Site. This discounted class is made possible through “Enriching Lives through Art,” a grant generously funded by the John Ben Snow Foundation.


  • Painting Realistic Landscapes
  • Instructor: Christine Fischer
  • Date: Wednesday, November 19
  • Time: 4:30-7:00 pm
  • Ages: Adults (14+)
  • Maximum enrollment: 8
  • Fee: $35 (25% off for members — $26.25)

In this workshop, participants will explore the beauty and versatility of painting with only four colors. By working with a limited palette, you’ll learn essential color mixing techniques that create natural, harmonious tones. The class will cover atmospheric perspective to add depth, as well as simplification principles to make your compositions clear and impactful. Starting with basic shapes and saving the details for last, you’ll discover how this step-by-step approach makes the process approachable and rewarding for artists of all levels. All materials will be supplied.

This is an in-person class and masks are optional. Register in person or online at Salmon River Fine Arts Center Square Site. * Financial assistance is available for those who would like to attend and are unable to pay the full fee. Please email the art center with your request. This discounted class is made possible through “Enriching Lives through Art,” a grant generously funded by the John Ben Snow Foundation.


a photo of a ceramic light switch beautifully colored by alcohol ink
  • Alcohol Inks on Ceramic Light Switch Tiles
  • Instructor: Robin Eaton-Novak
  • Date: Saturday, January 10
  • Time: 9:30 am – 12 pm
  • Ages: Adults (16 and older)
  • Maximum enrollment: 10
  • Fee: $35 (25% off for members — $26.25)*

Add a splash of color and creativity to your home with this exciting Alcohol Inks on Ceramics workshop led by local artist Robin Eaton-Novak! In this class, you'll transform an ordinary ceramic light switch cover into a functional piece of art using vibrant alcohol inks.

Explore the fluid beauty of alcohol inks as you learn techniques for creating abstract patterns and stunning landscape-inspired designs. Robin will guide you through the process of applying inks to ceramic surfaces and sealing your artwork so it’s both durable and decorative. Attendees will be making 2 light switch covers each. This is a fun and relaxing class for all skill levels—no prior experience necessary. Perfect for adding a personal touch to your space or gifting something handmade and beautiful. All materials will be supplied.

This is an in-person class and masks are optional. Register in person or online at Salmon River Fine Arts Center Square Site. * Financial assistance is available for those who would like to attend and are unable to pay the full fee. Please email the art center with your request. This discounted class is made possible through “Enriching Lives through Art,” a grant generously funded by the John Ben Snow Foundation.


Free Weekly Drawing Class

drawing of a hand holding the earth
  • FREE Weekly Drawing Class
  • Thursday 6 - 8 pm
  • Instructor: Ann Buchau
  • All ages welcome

Enjoy this online step-by-step drawing class in the comfort and safety of your own home via Zoom. Each week your instructor will focus on a different topic, technique or subject with the ultimate goal of improving and developing your own unique style. This class is open to anyone in our local community with a desire to draw — any age, any level. To attend, simply email us at sr.fine.arts.ctr@gmail.com to get your name on the list. After you register for this free class you will be emailed a link with instructions.

This class is made possible by generous donations from Drs. Patricia and Jay Chapman as well as many of our members and participants.