• Pastels Continue

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this class learn to create layers of soft pastels to build up a recognizable image or object.  Blocking in values from light to dark and understanding light to hard application on paper.  In the beginning of class, simple still life set ups will be used i.e. two pieces of fruit in a bowl, etc. The light source and an investigation of color ranges that can be applied to any given object will also be explored.  There will be demonstrations of techniques that will help all levels.  Pastels are a wonderful opportunity for those who want to continue to hone their drawing skills with the new dimension of color.  Finally, fixative spraying will be reviewed including how many layers are necessary.  The last two classes will focus on a more complicated still life set up in an effort to create a completed piece of artwork. Instructor will work individually with participants with more pastel experience.  Material list available upon registration. Chris Kunze graduated from Rhode Island School of Design with a BFA in Painting/Illustration. He has had a long & successful career in Advertising and Promotion. His illustrations and designs have been used in books, magazines, newspapers, product packaging and logo design. Chris’ fine art has always […]

    $160
  • Experiencing Watercolors Continues

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    This class provides step-by-step instruction for those seeking the fundamentals of watercolor painting. Class includes demos and structured exercises. Participants learn color mixing, dark and light and basic color theory principles. Different brush stroke techniques are addressed for specific effects i.e. wet on wet & dry stubble applications. Participants paint from still life setups and/or photo references from home. Everyone is encouraged to work on an ongoing painting at home to help solidify techniques learned in class. This piece may be brought into class on the last day for an open critique session. Instructor will work with you at your level even if you have taken watercolor in the past. Material list available upon registration. Chris Kunze graduated from Rhode Island School of Design with a BFA in Painting/Illustration. He has had a long & successful career in Advertising and Promotion. His illustrations and designs have been used in books, magazines, newspapers, product packaging and logo design. Chris’ fine art has always remained important throughout his career as a commercial artist. He has had many solo and group shows in New York City, Westchester County and lower Connecticut, showcasing his oil paintings, watercolors and illustrations. Chris was part of an […]

    $160
  • Recurring

    Essex Green Summer Arts Festival June 14 & 15

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    Enjoy a weekend of art, meeting artists and the outdoors at the Summer Arts Festival on the Essex Connecticut Town Green, Saturday, June 14 (10-5pm), and Sunday, June 15 (11-5pm). Presented by the Arts Center Killingworth and Spectrum Gallery in Centerbrook, the Festival is located at 12 Main Street, Essex. Find original artwork by painters working in oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel, photography, and mixed media and collage. Fine crafts can be found in pottery, ceramic, wood as well as unique jewelry creations. Enjoy the attractions Essex offers including fine restaurants, New England architecture, and beautiful vistas. Pleased to announce that the 2025 Essex Festival is partially sponsored by Renewal by Andersen. The Arts Center Killingworth, the non-profit Festival Sponsor, presents several annual festivals as well as offers workshops and classes for established and beginning artists of all ages. Spectrum Gallery and Store, an expansion of the Arts Center, is a close visit from the Festival and is currently exhibiting Nature Up Close (through July 6). Spectrum showcases emerging and established artists and includes a Store that offers fine crafts in mediums such as fabric, glass, ceramics, paper, pottery, jewelry, wood and more. Gallery hours are Wednesday-Saturday (12-6pm) and Sunday (12-5pm). Gallery is located at 61 Main […]

    Free
  • Pastels Continue

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this class learn to create layers of soft pastels to build up a recognizable image or object.  Blocking in values from light to dark and understanding light to hard application on paper.  In the beginning of class, simple still life set ups will be used i.e. two pieces of fruit in a bowl, etc. The light source and an investigation of color ranges that can be applied to any given object will also be explored.  There will be demonstrations of techniques that will help all levels.  Pastels are a wonderful opportunity for those who want to continue to hone their drawing skills with the new dimension of color.  Finally, fixative spraying will be reviewed including how many layers are necessary.  The last two classes will focus on a more complicated still life set up in an effort to create a completed piece of artwork. Instructor will work individually with participants with more pastel experience.  Material list available upon registration. Chris Kunze graduated from Rhode Island School of Design with a BFA in Painting/Illustration. He has had a long & successful career in Advertising and Promotion. His illustrations and designs have been used in books, magazines, newspapers, product packaging and logo design. Chris’ fine art has always […]

    $160
  • Recurring

    Essex Green Summer Arts Festival June 14 & 15

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    Enjoy a weekend of art, meeting artists and the outdoors at the Summer Arts Festival on the Essex Connecticut Town Green, Saturday, June 14 (10-5pm), and Sunday, June 15 (11-5pm). Presented by the Arts Center Killingworth and Spectrum Gallery in Centerbrook, the Festival is located at 12 Main Street, Essex. Find original artwork by painters working in oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel, photography, and mixed media and collage. Fine crafts can be found in pottery, ceramic, wood as well as unique jewelry creations. Enjoy the attractions Essex offers including fine restaurants, New England architecture, and beautiful vistas. Pleased to announce that the 2025 Essex Festival is partially sponsored by Renewal by Andersen. The Arts Center Killingworth, the non-profit Festival Sponsor, presents several annual festivals as well as offers workshops and classes for established and beginning artists of all ages. Spectrum Gallery and Store, an expansion of the Arts Center, is a close visit from the Festival and is currently exhibiting Nature Up Close (through July 6). Spectrum showcases emerging and established artists and includes a Store that offers fine crafts in mediums such as fabric, glass, ceramics, paper, pottery, jewelry, wood and more. Gallery hours are Wednesday-Saturday (12-6pm) and Sunday (12-5pm). Gallery is located at 61 Main […]

    Free
  • EAA Summer Open Show Opening Reception

    The Essex Art Association 10 N Main Street, Essex, CT, United States

    We would like to welcome you to our opening reception for EAA’s Summer Open Show this Friday at 6 pm. Come see almost 90 pieces that are showcased and available for purchase. Running concurrently in the Gantner Gallery will be a special solo exhibition honoring the late Ralph Levesque; an elected artist, former board member, and beloved member of the Essex Art Association. This tribute showcases a selection of Ralph’s work and reflects the lasting impact of his vision, artistry, and commitment to the local art community. Congratulations to the award winners! We hope you can join us. We are located at 10 North Main Street in Essex. Free admission, and light refreshments will be served. The awards will be presented at approximately 7 pm. The Essex Art Association, housed in a historic Essex building, has served the Shoreline area as a nonprofit seasonal art gallery since 1946. We were the first local art association to embrace all styles of art, from the traditional to the cutting edge. The excellence and variety of our shows have made the EAA an outstanding exhibition venue showcasing quality art.

    Free
  • Fashion One Camp for Ages 10-12

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    This Summer Illustrate, Design, Sew and Model Mornings are spent working with a professional illustrator learning to draw the fashion silhouette as live models pose for your sketches. End the week of illustration with a portfolio ready piece. Afternoons are spent with professional seamstresses learning to read, pin and cut a pattern of your choice. Construct and finish your garment by sewing and adding accessories. Professional hair and makeup stylists help you prepare for the end of the week photo shoot and fashion show. Model your creations for friends and family! Times: July 14 - July 18, 9: 00 AM – 5:30 PM Cost $425 (Deposit $200 secures your spot) No previous sewing or illustration experience necessary for either Fashion Week. Material lists available for drawing & sewing upon registration Pre-Camp Workshops: Make Friends with Your Sewing Machine You need to supply your own sewing machine Friday, July 11 (3-5pm) $40 OR Saturday, July 12 (10-12pm) $40 Learn to use and troubleshoot your sewing machine before Fashion Weeks begin! limited to no more than 10-12 participants so register early for this popular and comprehensive program. For more information contact: barbara@spectrumartgallery.org or call (860)767-0742

    $425
  • EAA Summer Juried Show Opening Reception

    The Essex Art Association 10 N Main Street, Essex, CT, United States

    You’re invited! Please join us this Friday at 6 PM for the Opening Reception of the EAA Summer Juried Show! Running concurrently in the Gantner Gallery will be a special solo exhibition by artist Alexa MacCrady. Congratulations to the award winners! For the first time ever at EAA, we’re excited to present a unique fusion of visual art and poetry: Ekphrastic poetry readings by EAA artists — debuting at the opening reception! These original poems, inspired by artwork in the show, offer a powerful literary reflection on the visual experience. Ekphrastic poetry is an ancient tradition — poetry written in response to visual art — and we’re thrilled to bring it to life in our gallery! The poems were created in a special workshop led by the insightful and multitalented Edward Lent, who is the President of the Ekphrastic Poetry Trust, Poet Laureate of Madison and EAA member. His thoughtful guidance sparked meaningful connections between image and word by EAA artists. Poetry readings begin at 7 PM, followed by the award presentation. Free admission, light refreshments, and a night of multi-sensory creativity await at 10 North Main Street, Essex. We hope to see you there! www.essexartassociation.com www.alexamaccrady.com www.ealentartistpoet.com

    Free
  • Fashion Two Camp for Ages 13-15

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    This Summer Illustrate, Design, Sew and Model Mornings are spent working with a professional illustrator learning to draw the fashion silhouette as live models pose for your sketches. End the week of illustration with a portfolio ready piece. Afternoons are spent with professional seamstresses learning to read, pin and cut a pattern of your choice. Construct and finish your garment by sewing and adding accessories. Professional hair and makeup stylists help you prepare for the end of the week photo shoot and fashion show. Model your creations for friends and family! Times: July 21 - 25, 9: 00 AM – 5:30 PM Cost $425 (Deposit $200 secures your spot) No previous sewing or illustration experience necessary for either Fashion Week. Material lists available for drawing & sewing upon registration Pre-Camp Workshops: Make Friends with Your Sewing Machine You need to supply your own sewing machine Friday, July 11 (3-5pm) $40 OR Saturday, July 12 (10-12pm) $40 Learn to use and troubleshoot your sewing machine before Fashion Weeks begin! limited to no more than 10-12 participants so register early for this popular and comprehensive program. For more information contact: barbara@spectrumartgallery.org or call (860)767-0742

    $425
  • Wings & Things Art Reception

    CT River Artisans 55 Main Street, Essex, CT, United States

    Reception featuring the beautiful works of two artisans, Margaret Paulsen in oil painting and Lisa Long in jewelry. Their works will be on sale. Enjoy refreshments while you meet & view the work of all of our artisans!

    Free
  • EAA Elected Artists Show Opening Reception

    The Essex Art Association 10 N Main Street, Essex, CT, United States

    Please join us for the EAA Elected Artists Show Opening Reception on  Friday, August 15th at 6 pm, with a new special feature: “When Art Blossoms”: floral arrangements inspired by artwork in the show! The show dates are August 8th thru the 31st. Gallery hours are 1 to 5 pm, Wednesdays thru Sundays at 10 North Main Street in Essex, CT. Congratulations to the award winners! Best of Show: Charles Lagana Best Mixed Media: Anne Coffey Best Painting: OA Rolston Best Photo: Leonard Hellerman Best Watercolor: William McDonald Solo Gantner Award: J.R. Dill Juror: Moya Aiken Solo Gantner Show: Francine Curto We’re thrilled to announce that Jonathan Steele’s stunning photo, "Rounding the Bend" capturing the Essex Steam Train, is the winner of the Essex Board of Trade Photo Contest, and will be displayed at the gallery for the month of August. The Essex Art Association, housed in a historic Essex building, has served the Shoreline area as a nonprofit seasonal art gallery since 1946. We were the first local art association to embrace all styles of art, from the traditional to the cutting edge. The excellence and variety of our shows have made the EAA an outstanding exhibition venue showcasing […]

    Free
  • EBOT Business After Hours at Ivoryton Playhouse

    Ivoryton Playhouse 103 Main Street, Ivoryton, CT, United States

    Join the Essex Board of Trade for our next Business After Hours — a relaxed time with light refreshments, great conversation, and the chance to explore one of our local member businesses. Date: August 19Time: 5:30 to 7 pmPlace: Ivoryton Playhouse This event is a special perk for EBOT members — but if you're curious about joining, this is the perfect time to learn more! Membership connects you with our vibrant local business community, gives you a voice in town events, and offers valuable networking opportunities.Learn how to become a member: https:// essexct.com/membership-2/

  • Wandering Pumpkins Needle Felting Workshop

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    Celebrate the coming of Autumn by learning to needle-felt these adventurous wool pumpkins as they tumble across soft Autumn fields and the old red barn. Easy & fun for all levels of experience even if you have never needle felted before! All materials and use of tools along with step-by-step instructions provided to make this approx. 12×9 wool painting. Frame your way or purchase custom frames made locally by Ford Frames.  These will be available for purchase at the workshop to make your painting ready to give as a gift or save as a keepsake for years to come! $70 + $16 Materials Fee Lori Neumann is a local artist working in oils, acrylics & pastel.  Lori studied Fine Arts at the Lyme Academy of Fine Arts and has exhibited at galleries and art shows throughout New England & Kentucky. Lori especially enjoys working with a palette knife in plein air while hiking at dawn and dusk. Lori is a member of the CT Academy of Fine Arts, the CT Pastel Society, the Madison Art Society, the American Impressionist Society and the Lyme Art Association.  Lori especially enjoys painting rural New England landscapes & farm animals. She shares & teaches the love of art and believes that […]

    $86
  • Great Glass

    CT River Artisans 55 Main Street, Essex, CT, United States

    Join us for refreshments while viewing the glass works by Barb Richard - fused glass & glass beaded jewelry & Peter Simoncini - stained glass creations. Their work will be offered for sale at 15% off. You will have a chance to meet some of our other artisans as well!

    Free
  • EAA Volunteer Show Opening Reception

    The Essex Art Association 10 N Main Street, Essex, CT, United States

    Please join us for the EAA Volunteer Show Opening Reception! The Essex Art Association, housed in a historic Essex building, has served the Shoreline area as a nonprofit seasonal art gallery since 1946. We were the first local art association to embrace all styles of art, from the traditional to the cutting edge. The excellence and variety of our shows have made the EAA an outstanding exhibition venue showcasing quality art.

    Free
  • Recurring

    On Zoom: The Art of the Still Life

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-week class start by examining the still life’s of Monet, Van Gogh, Matisse and Moroni through visuals and discussion. Then studying visuals of contemporary approaches to the Still Life. Learn how to make gel prints with acrylic paint on paper for your backgrounds including cutting and tearing of designed papers for your still life. Focus on how to approach vessels in the still life collage through sketching, tracing and cutting out patterns.  Finally, learn how to overlay the still life components over your finished background including placement and composition and the application of paint, highlighted areas and shading.  Complete the still life discussing with the class your process, composition and materials used. Material list available upon registration. Regina Thomas’ collage and mixed media art is a mélange of visual stimuli, colors, and shapes involving different genres from the representational to the abstract.  These multi-layered works portray her view of the world, never realistic, injecting her own narratives, metaphors, and icons.  Regina works instinctually, and her desire is to stimulate and intrigue the viewer, make a connection, bringing their own experiences to the work. Regina has lived and traveled throughout Asia and Europe.  While in London, she attended Richmond University concentrating on the Art […]

    $140
  • Recurring

    At Spectrum: The Art of the Still Life

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-week class start by examining the still life’s of Monet, Van Gogh, Matisse and Moroni through visuals and discussion. Then studying visuals of contemporary approaches to the Still Life. Learn how to make gel prints with acrylic paint on paper for your backgrounds including cutting and tearing of designed papers for your still life. Focus on how to approach vessels in the still life collage through sketching, tracing and cutting out patterns.  Finally, learn how to overlay the still life components over your finished background including placement and composition and the application of paint, highlighted areas and shading.  Complete the still life discussing with the class your process, composition and materials used. Material list available upon registration. Regina Thomas’ collage and mixed media art is a mélange of visual stimuli, colors, and shapes involving different genres from the representational to the abstract.  These multi-layered works portray her view of the world, never realistic, injecting her own narratives, metaphors, and icons.  Regina works instinctually, and her desire is to stimulate and intrigue the viewer, make a connection, bringing their own experiences to the work. Regina has lived and traveled throughout Asia and Europe.  While in London, she attended Richmond University concentrating on the Art […]

    $160
  • Drawing 101 and Beyond

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    This class is designed for all levels including those who want to improve their drawing skills to those who want to continue at their own level and work on specific skills.  We will work with charcoal, pencil and ink as the major drawing tools.  For those who want to add color to their drawings, pastels can also be incorporated. If you want to know more about basic drawing skills like perspective, tonal drawing, creating structure, etc. this is the class for you.  We will also investigate “the figure” studying the Masters’ figure drawings from references in books and the Internet; Rubens, Del Sarto, Michelangelo, etc. Material list available upon registration. Chris Kunze graduated from Rhode Island School of Design with a BFA in Painting/Illustration. He has had a long & successful career in Advertising and Promotion. His illustrations and designs have been used in books, magazines, newspapers, product packaging and logo design. Chris’ fine art has always remained important throughout his career as a commercial artist. He has had many solo and group shows in New York City, Westchester County and lower Connecticut, showcasing his oil paintings, watercolors and illustrations. Chris was part of an ongoing show at the Arthur Kalaher Fine Art […]

    $160
  • Recurring

    On Zoom: The Art of the Still Life

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-week class start by examining the still life’s of Monet, Van Gogh, Matisse and Moroni through visuals and discussion. Then studying visuals of contemporary approaches to the Still Life. Learn how to make gel prints with acrylic paint on paper for your backgrounds including cutting and tearing of designed papers for your still life. Focus on how to approach vessels in the still life collage through sketching, tracing and cutting out patterns.  Finally, learn how to overlay the still life components over your finished background including placement and composition and the application of paint, highlighted areas and shading.  Complete the still life discussing with the class your process, composition and materials used. Material list available upon registration. Regina Thomas’ collage and mixed media art is a mélange of visual stimuli, colors, and shapes involving different genres from the representational to the abstract.  These multi-layered works portray her view of the world, never realistic, injecting her own narratives, metaphors, and icons.  Regina works instinctually, and her desire is to stimulate and intrigue the viewer, make a connection, bringing their own experiences to the work. Regina has lived and traveled throughout Asia and Europe.  While in London, she attended Richmond University concentrating on the Art […]

    $140
  • Recurring

    At Spectrum: The Art of the Still Life

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-week class start by examining the still life’s of Monet, Van Gogh, Matisse and Moroni through visuals and discussion. Then studying visuals of contemporary approaches to the Still Life. Learn how to make gel prints with acrylic paint on paper for your backgrounds including cutting and tearing of designed papers for your still life. Focus on how to approach vessels in the still life collage through sketching, tracing and cutting out patterns.  Finally, learn how to overlay the still life components over your finished background including placement and composition and the application of paint, highlighted areas and shading.  Complete the still life discussing with the class your process, composition and materials used. Material list available upon registration. Regina Thomas’ collage and mixed media art is a mélange of visual stimuli, colors, and shapes involving different genres from the representational to the abstract.  These multi-layered works portray her view of the world, never realistic, injecting her own narratives, metaphors, and icons.  Regina works instinctually, and her desire is to stimulate and intrigue the viewer, make a connection, bringing their own experiences to the work. Regina has lived and traveled throughout Asia and Europe.  While in London, she attended Richmond University concentrating on the Art […]

    $160
  • Autumn Cardmaking & Paper Techniques

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this workshop, celebrate fall and harvest time by learning to craft four Autumn cards for friends and family.  Learn to use water coloring and explore card layout and composition.  Take home a detailed instruction workshop sheet, list of supplies, information about the techniques and photos of the card/s. To make more cards at home, you will receive a kit which will include white cardstock, die cut pieces, coordinating colored cardstock and any other supplies needed to make cards on your own.  All cards made in the workshop include envelopes. Introducing Nancy Souza, a teacher, mixed media artist and crafter. Creating unique cards and paper projects using a variety of techniques, colorful cardstock and card layouts including inks, stencils, collage, upcycled vintage items, and more. Souza is a certified teacher, teaching at the elementary & high school levels and graduate level courses at Sacred Heart University Griswold High School campus, including her 6th Year post graduate level. Twenty-six years ago, a teaching colleague suggested Nancy sign up for a local card making class and the rest is history.  It’s been an interesting and rewarding crafting journey both taking classes, sharing with crafting friends and teaching fellow crafters. Souza is a proud Certified Educator, completing 85 […]

    $30
  • Recurring

    On Zoom: The Art of the Still Life

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-week class start by examining the still life’s of Monet, Van Gogh, Matisse and Moroni through visuals and discussion. Then studying visuals of contemporary approaches to the Still Life. Learn how to make gel prints with acrylic paint on paper for your backgrounds including cutting and tearing of designed papers for your still life. Focus on how to approach vessels in the still life collage through sketching, tracing and cutting out patterns.  Finally, learn how to overlay the still life components over your finished background including placement and composition and the application of paint, highlighted areas and shading.  Complete the still life discussing with the class your process, composition and materials used. Material list available upon registration. Regina Thomas’ collage and mixed media art is a mélange of visual stimuli, colors, and shapes involving different genres from the representational to the abstract.  These multi-layered works portray her view of the world, never realistic, injecting her own narratives, metaphors, and icons.  Regina works instinctually, and her desire is to stimulate and intrigue the viewer, make a connection, bringing their own experiences to the work. Regina has lived and traveled throughout Asia and Europe.  While in London, she attended Richmond University concentrating on the Art […]

    $140
  • Recurring

    At Spectrum: The Art of the Still Life

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-week class start by examining the still life’s of Monet, Van Gogh, Matisse and Moroni through visuals and discussion. Then studying visuals of contemporary approaches to the Still Life. Learn how to make gel prints with acrylic paint on paper for your backgrounds including cutting and tearing of designed papers for your still life. Focus on how to approach vessels in the still life collage through sketching, tracing and cutting out patterns.  Finally, learn how to overlay the still life components over your finished background including placement and composition and the application of paint, highlighted areas and shading.  Complete the still life discussing with the class your process, composition and materials used. Material list available upon registration. Regina Thomas’ collage and mixed media art is a mélange of visual stimuli, colors, and shapes involving different genres from the representational to the abstract.  These multi-layered works portray her view of the world, never realistic, injecting her own narratives, metaphors, and icons.  Regina works instinctually, and her desire is to stimulate and intrigue the viewer, make a connection, bringing their own experiences to the work. Regina has lived and traveled throughout Asia and Europe.  While in London, she attended Richmond University concentrating on the Art […]

    $160
  • Recurring

    Seasonal Painting for Children Ages 7-11

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-week painting class, children ages 7-11 years old paint a landscape inspired by Shel Silverstein’s book, The Giving Tree, create an African collage and alphabet art as they learn to use watercolor, tempura and acrylic paint.  They become familiar with the work of artists Stuart Davis and Yayoi Kusama. As they study African patterns from Ghana, they learn the types of collage used in these art forms. Other fun 3-D projects are designing Kindness Rocks each with a positive saying or wish and the seasonal pumpkin with a variety of polka dot patterns in the style of Kusama.  This is a fun, seasonal painting class where children learn a variety of art techniques and become comfortable with several fine art mediums.  No experience necessary.  All materials included.. Happy Fall! Sharon Lee Mullen-Reynolds knew in High School that she was to be an Art teacher.  That is exactly what she did; for 36 years she taught Visual Art in the city of New Haven.  Her career hi-light was teaching 22 years at the Betsy Ross Arts Magnet Middle School.  During her tenure there she was a published Fellow at Yale N.H.Teachers Institute for 2 years, the  Department Chairperson for 8 years and creator of As […]

    $125
  • Recurring

    The Timeless Craft of Felting for Children

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-sessoin class, children ages 7-11 years old create felted jewelry, animals, flowers and hair clips using wet and needle felting techniques.  All materials included. No experience is necessary. Cathy Lovell’s lifelong interest in the creative arts continues to guide her through a gratifying career as both art educator and studio artist. A graduate of the University of New Hampshire and Wesleyan University, Cathy has taught in the Newton, MA, Greenwich, CT and East Lyme, CT public school systems. She has also taught private classes in various fields including stained glass, jewelry making and silver work, enameling, ceramics, glass bead making, and quilting. In the interest of furthering her own education, Cathy received a scholarship to attend the Pilchuck Glass School where she worked with Dale Chihuly and Patrick Reyntiens. Her interest in felting began with a workshop led by Lynne Ocone at the Guilford Art Center. Cathy is a member of the Northeast Felt makers Guild where she has had the privilege of participating in classes given by world renowned felt makers. Cathy credits her friend and fellow felt maker Catherine Stebinger with sharing ongoing creative energy, inspiration, and encouragement. Her work is currently exhibited at Spectrum Gallery in […]

    $125
  • Pots from my Paws

    CT River Artisans 55 Main Street, Essex, CT, United States

    Come & meet our artisans.  Cindy Tischer of Mabel's Mugs Pottery will be featured & her creations will be on sale. Enjoy refreshments on our patio!

    Free
  • Recurring

    On Zoom: The Art of the Still Life

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-week class start by examining the still life’s of Monet, Van Gogh, Matisse and Moroni through visuals and discussion. Then studying visuals of contemporary approaches to the Still Life. Learn how to make gel prints with acrylic paint on paper for your backgrounds including cutting and tearing of designed papers for your still life. Focus on how to approach vessels in the still life collage through sketching, tracing and cutting out patterns.  Finally, learn how to overlay the still life components over your finished background including placement and composition and the application of paint, highlighted areas and shading.  Complete the still life discussing with the class your process, composition and materials used. Material list available upon registration. Regina Thomas’ collage and mixed media art is a mélange of visual stimuli, colors, and shapes involving different genres from the representational to the abstract.  These multi-layered works portray her view of the world, never realistic, injecting her own narratives, metaphors, and icons.  Regina works instinctually, and her desire is to stimulate and intrigue the viewer, make a connection, bringing their own experiences to the work. Regina has lived and traveled throughout Asia and Europe.  While in London, she attended Richmond University concentrating on the Art […]

    $140
  • Recurring

    At Spectrum: The Art of the Still Life

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-week class start by examining the still life’s of Monet, Van Gogh, Matisse and Moroni through visuals and discussion. Then studying visuals of contemporary approaches to the Still Life. Learn how to make gel prints with acrylic paint on paper for your backgrounds including cutting and tearing of designed papers for your still life. Focus on how to approach vessels in the still life collage through sketching, tracing and cutting out patterns.  Finally, learn how to overlay the still life components over your finished background including placement and composition and the application of paint, highlighted areas and shading.  Complete the still life discussing with the class your process, composition and materials used. Material list available upon registration. Regina Thomas’ collage and mixed media art is a mélange of visual stimuli, colors, and shapes involving different genres from the representational to the abstract.  These multi-layered works portray her view of the world, never realistic, injecting her own narratives, metaphors, and icons.  Regina works instinctually, and her desire is to stimulate and intrigue the viewer, make a connection, bringing their own experiences to the work. Regina has lived and traveled throughout Asia and Europe.  While in London, she attended Richmond University concentrating on the Art […]

    $160
  • Recurring

    Seasonal Painting for Children Ages 7-11

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-week painting class, children ages 7-11 years old paint a landscape inspired by Shel Silverstein’s book, The Giving Tree, create an African collage and alphabet art as they learn to use watercolor, tempura and acrylic paint.  They become familiar with the work of artists Stuart Davis and Yayoi Kusama. As they study African patterns from Ghana, they learn the types of collage used in these art forms. Other fun 3-D projects are designing Kindness Rocks each with a positive saying or wish and the seasonal pumpkin with a variety of polka dot patterns in the style of Kusama.  This is a fun, seasonal painting class where children learn a variety of art techniques and become comfortable with several fine art mediums.  No experience necessary.  All materials included.. Happy Fall! Sharon Lee Mullen-Reynolds knew in High School that she was to be an Art teacher.  That is exactly what she did; for 36 years she taught Visual Art in the city of New Haven.  Her career hi-light was teaching 22 years at the Betsy Ross Arts Magnet Middle School.  During her tenure there she was a published Fellow at Yale N.H.Teachers Institute for 2 years, the  Department Chairperson for 8 years and creator of As […]

    $125
  • Fall Botanicals in Colored Pencils

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    This class focuses on learning to draw detailed fall botanicals using colored pencil. Each week focuses on a different topic supplied by the instructor. Participants will learn about form, light and shading. There is a $10 materials fee due to the instructor at the start of session one. Nancy Bentivegna is a botanical artist who received her training at the New York Botanical Gardens through the Botanical Art and Illustration Program. After completing the program in 2010, she relocated to Boston. For the past eleven years she has been teaching a variety of botanical art classes in Boston and the greater Boston area. These courses are based on the instruction she received at the NYBG and include colored pencil, graphite, pen and ink and watercolor pencil. Nancy prefers to work in watercolor pencil combined with colored pencil for depth and detail. She does custom pieces for clients both in the Boston area and New York. She recently relocated to Essex and will be offering classes at the Spectrum Gallery in Centerbrook. Dates: Thursdays, October 9; 16; 23; 30 Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Cost: $130 plus $10 material fee paid to the instructor

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    The Timeless Craft of Felting for Children

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-sessoin class, children ages 7-11 years old create felted jewelry, animals, flowers and hair clips using wet and needle felting techniques.  All materials included. No experience is necessary. Cathy Lovell’s lifelong interest in the creative arts continues to guide her through a gratifying career as both art educator and studio artist. A graduate of the University of New Hampshire and Wesleyan University, Cathy has taught in the Newton, MA, Greenwich, CT and East Lyme, CT public school systems. She has also taught private classes in various fields including stained glass, jewelry making and silver work, enameling, ceramics, glass bead making, and quilting. In the interest of furthering her own education, Cathy received a scholarship to attend the Pilchuck Glass School where she worked with Dale Chihuly and Patrick Reyntiens. Her interest in felting began with a workshop led by Lynne Ocone at the Guilford Art Center. Cathy is a member of the Northeast Felt makers Guild where she has had the privilege of participating in classes given by world renowned felt makers. Cathy credits her friend and fellow felt maker Catherine Stebinger with sharing ongoing creative energy, inspiration, and encouragement. Her work is currently exhibited at Spectrum Gallery in […]

    $125
  • Autumn Arts Popup

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    This fall, Spectrum Art Gallery celebrates the coming of Fall with a special Autumn Arts Popup on Saturday, October 11 (10–5pm) and Sunday, October 12 (12–5pm). Visitors can stroll among tents filled with artwork and fine crafts in front of the Gallery (61 Main Street, Centerbrook) and within its newly expanded adjacent arts space. Minutes from downtown Essex, Centerbrook also offers multiple local dining options just steps away. The Popup coincides with Spectrum’s current exhibition, Emerging Autumn (through November 8), so visitors can also explore the Gallery’s vibrant show of paintings, mixed media, photography, and sculpture. The Artisans Store also features a wide variety of original crafts in wood, glass, ceramics, fabric, jewelry, and more — perfect for adding to one’s own collection or for early holiday shopping. Also pleased to announce the 2025 Autumn Arts Popup is partially sponsored by Renewal by Andersen, offering a range of quality windows and doors.  

  • Autumn Arts Popup

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    This fall, Spectrum Art Gallery celebrates the coming of Fall with a special Autumn Arts Popup on Saturday, October 11 (10–5pm) and Sunday, October 12 (12–5pm). Visitors can stroll among tents filled with artwork and fine crafts in front of the Gallery (61 Main Street, Centerbrook) and within its newly expanded adjacent arts space. Minutes from downtown Essex, Centerbrook also offers multiple local dining options just steps away. The Popup coincides with Spectrum’s current exhibition, Emerging Autumn (through November 8), so visitors can also explore the Gallery’s vibrant show of paintings, mixed media, photography, and sculpture. The Artisans Store also features a wide variety of original crafts in wood, glass, ceramics, fabric, jewelry, and more — perfect for adding to one’s own collection or for early holiday shopping. Also pleased to announce the 2025 Autumn Arts Popup is partially sponsored by Renewal by Andersen, offering a range of quality windows and doors.

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    On Zoom: The Art of the Still Life

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-week class start by examining the still life’s of Monet, Van Gogh, Matisse and Moroni through visuals and discussion. Then studying visuals of contemporary approaches to the Still Life. Learn how to make gel prints with acrylic paint on paper for your backgrounds including cutting and tearing of designed papers for your still life. Focus on how to approach vessels in the still life collage through sketching, tracing and cutting out patterns.  Finally, learn how to overlay the still life components over your finished background including placement and composition and the application of paint, highlighted areas and shading.  Complete the still life discussing with the class your process, composition and materials used. Material list available upon registration. Regina Thomas’ collage and mixed media art is a mélange of visual stimuli, colors, and shapes involving different genres from the representational to the abstract.  These multi-layered works portray her view of the world, never realistic, injecting her own narratives, metaphors, and icons.  Regina works instinctually, and her desire is to stimulate and intrigue the viewer, make a connection, bringing their own experiences to the work. Regina has lived and traveled throughout Asia and Europe.  While in London, she attended Richmond University concentrating on the Art […]

    $140
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    At Spectrum: The Art of the Still Life

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-week class start by examining the still life’s of Monet, Van Gogh, Matisse and Moroni through visuals and discussion. Then studying visuals of contemporary approaches to the Still Life. Learn how to make gel prints with acrylic paint on paper for your backgrounds including cutting and tearing of designed papers for your still life. Focus on how to approach vessels in the still life collage through sketching, tracing and cutting out patterns.  Finally, learn how to overlay the still life components over your finished background including placement and composition and the application of paint, highlighted areas and shading.  Complete the still life discussing with the class your process, composition and materials used. Material list available upon registration. Regina Thomas’ collage and mixed media art is a mélange of visual stimuli, colors, and shapes involving different genres from the representational to the abstract.  These multi-layered works portray her view of the world, never realistic, injecting her own narratives, metaphors, and icons.  Regina works instinctually, and her desire is to stimulate and intrigue the viewer, make a connection, bringing their own experiences to the work. Regina has lived and traveled throughout Asia and Europe.  While in London, she attended Richmond University concentrating on the Art […]

    $160
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    Seasonal Painting for Children Ages 7-11

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-week painting class, children ages 7-11 years old paint a landscape inspired by Shel Silverstein’s book, The Giving Tree, create an African collage and alphabet art as they learn to use watercolor, tempura and acrylic paint.  They become familiar with the work of artists Stuart Davis and Yayoi Kusama. As they study African patterns from Ghana, they learn the types of collage used in these art forms. Other fun 3-D projects are designing Kindness Rocks each with a positive saying or wish and the seasonal pumpkin with a variety of polka dot patterns in the style of Kusama.  This is a fun, seasonal painting class where children learn a variety of art techniques and become comfortable with several fine art mediums.  No experience necessary.  All materials included.. Happy Fall! Sharon Lee Mullen-Reynolds knew in High School that she was to be an Art teacher.  That is exactly what she did; for 36 years she taught Visual Art in the city of New Haven.  Her career hi-light was teaching 22 years at the Betsy Ross Arts Magnet Middle School.  During her tenure there she was a published Fellow at Yale N.H.Teachers Institute for 2 years, the  Department Chairperson for 8 years and creator of As […]

    $125
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    The Timeless Craft of Felting for Children

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-sessoin class, children ages 7-11 years old create felted jewelry, animals, flowers and hair clips using wet and needle felting techniques.  All materials included. No experience is necessary. Cathy Lovell’s lifelong interest in the creative arts continues to guide her through a gratifying career as both art educator and studio artist. A graduate of the University of New Hampshire and Wesleyan University, Cathy has taught in the Newton, MA, Greenwich, CT and East Lyme, CT public school systems. She has also taught private classes in various fields including stained glass, jewelry making and silver work, enameling, ceramics, glass bead making, and quilting. In the interest of furthering her own education, Cathy received a scholarship to attend the Pilchuck Glass School where she worked with Dale Chihuly and Patrick Reyntiens. Her interest in felting began with a workshop led by Lynne Ocone at the Guilford Art Center. Cathy is a member of the Northeast Felt makers Guild where she has had the privilege of participating in classes given by world renowned felt makers. Cathy credits her friend and fellow felt maker Catherine Stebinger with sharing ongoing creative energy, inspiration, and encouragement. Her work is currently exhibited at Spectrum Gallery in […]

    $125
  • Paint a Misty Mountain Workshop in Watercolor

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    Learn the steps to paint beautiful mountains receding into the distance in watercolor. No drawing experience is necessary, but you will need to make a simple, light sketch onto proper watercolor paper before painting. Instructor will explain and demonstrate each stage to help you complete this painting. Just a few colors and a few brushes, particularly large flat ones (plus other basic watercolor supplies) are needed to paint this motif, but if you don’t have large brushes, we can share. Material list available upon registration. Bivenne Harvey Staiger is known for her colorful, dramatic watercolors of natural motifs she loves, like birds, other animals and flowers, and is the recipient of many prestigious awards.  Among the most recent is the Silver Medal from the American Watercolor Society’s 152nd International Exhibition (2019).  She is professionally affiliated with many art groups, including but not limited to the Salmagundi Club, American Artists’ Professional League, Academic Artists Association, Connecticut Academy of Fine Artists, Connecticut Watercolor Society, and many others.  Bivenne regularly gives instruction, demonstrations and workshops in watercolor, and in fact has an upcoming weekend workshop, focusing on painting flowers in watercolor, at Yale Peabody Museum in August.  At least two major solo exhibitions […]

    $100
  • Halloween Cardmaking & Paper Techniques Workshop

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this workshop celebrate with friends and family the mysterious but highly creative Halloween holiday by learning to craft four Halloween cards.  Learn to use paper strips, ink, die cuts and explore card layout and composition.  Take home a detailed instruction workshop sheet, list of supplies, information about the techniques and photos of the card/s. To make more cards at home, you will receive a kit which will include white cardstock, die cut pieces, coordinating colored cardstock and any other supplies needed to make more cards on your own.  All cards made in the workshop include envelopes. Introducing Nancy Souza, a teacher, mixed media artist and crafter. Creating unique cards and paper projects using a variety of techniques, colorful cardstock and card layouts including inks, stencils, collage, upcycled vintage items, and more. Souza is a certified teacher, teaching at the elementary & high school levels and graduate level courses at Sacred Heart University Griswold High School campus, including her 6th Year post graduate level. Twenty-six years ago, a teaching colleague suggested Nancy sign up for a local card making class and the rest is history.  It’s been an interesting and rewarding crafting journey both taking classes, sharing with crafting friends and teaching fellow crafters. Souza […]

    $30
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    Seasonal Painting for Children Ages 7-11

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-week painting class, children ages 7-11 years old paint a landscape inspired by Shel Silverstein’s book, The Giving Tree, create an African collage and alphabet art as they learn to use watercolor, tempura and acrylic paint.  They become familiar with the work of artists Stuart Davis and Yayoi Kusama. As they study African patterns from Ghana, they learn the types of collage used in these art forms. Other fun 3-D projects are designing Kindness Rocks each with a positive saying or wish and the seasonal pumpkin with a variety of polka dot patterns in the style of Kusama.  This is a fun, seasonal painting class where children learn a variety of art techniques and become comfortable with several fine art mediums.  No experience necessary.  All materials included.. Happy Fall! Sharon Lee Mullen-Reynolds knew in High School that she was to be an Art teacher.  That is exactly what she did; for 36 years she taught Visual Art in the city of New Haven.  Her career hi-light was teaching 22 years at the Betsy Ross Arts Magnet Middle School.  During her tenure there she was a published Fellow at Yale N.H.Teachers Institute for 2 years, the  Department Chairperson for 8 years and creator of As […]

    $125
  • Recurring

    The Timeless Craft of Felting for Children

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-sessoin class, children ages 7-11 years old create felted jewelry, animals, flowers and hair clips using wet and needle felting techniques.  All materials included. No experience is necessary. Cathy Lovell’s lifelong interest in the creative arts continues to guide her through a gratifying career as both art educator and studio artist. A graduate of the University of New Hampshire and Wesleyan University, Cathy has taught in the Newton, MA, Greenwich, CT and East Lyme, CT public school systems. She has also taught private classes in various fields including stained glass, jewelry making and silver work, enameling, ceramics, glass bead making, and quilting. In the interest of furthering her own education, Cathy received a scholarship to attend the Pilchuck Glass School where she worked with Dale Chihuly and Patrick Reyntiens. Her interest in felting began with a workshop led by Lynne Ocone at the Guilford Art Center. Cathy is a member of the Northeast Felt makers Guild where she has had the privilege of participating in classes given by world renowned felt makers. Cathy credits her friend and fellow felt maker Catherine Stebinger with sharing ongoing creative energy, inspiration, and encouragement. Her work is currently exhibited at Spectrum Gallery in […]

    $125
  • Recurring

    Seasonal Painting for Children Ages 7-11

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-week painting class, children ages 7-11 years old paint a landscape inspired by Shel Silverstein’s book, The Giving Tree, create an African collage and alphabet art as they learn to use watercolor, tempura and acrylic paint.  They become familiar with the work of artists Stuart Davis and Yayoi Kusama. As they study African patterns from Ghana, they learn the types of collage used in these art forms. Other fun 3-D projects are designing Kindness Rocks each with a positive saying or wish and the seasonal pumpkin with a variety of polka dot patterns in the style of Kusama.  This is a fun, seasonal painting class where children learn a variety of art techniques and become comfortable with several fine art mediums.  No experience necessary.  All materials included.. Happy Fall! Sharon Lee Mullen-Reynolds knew in High School that she was to be an Art teacher.  That is exactly what she did; for 36 years she taught Visual Art in the city of New Haven.  Her career hi-light was teaching 22 years at the Betsy Ross Arts Magnet Middle School.  During her tenure there she was a published Fellow at Yale N.H.Teachers Institute for 2 years, the  Department Chairperson for 8 years and creator of As […]

    $125
  • Recurring

    The Timeless Craft of Felting for Children

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 5-sessoin class, children ages 7-11 years old create felted jewelry, animals, flowers and hair clips using wet and needle felting techniques.  All materials included. No experience is necessary. Cathy Lovell’s lifelong interest in the creative arts continues to guide her through a gratifying career as both art educator and studio artist. A graduate of the University of New Hampshire and Wesleyan University, Cathy has taught in the Newton, MA, Greenwich, CT and East Lyme, CT public school systems. She has also taught private classes in various fields including stained glass, jewelry making and silver work, enameling, ceramics, glass bead making, and quilting. In the interest of furthering her own education, Cathy received a scholarship to attend the Pilchuck Glass School where she worked with Dale Chihuly and Patrick Reyntiens. Her interest in felting began with a workshop led by Lynne Ocone at the Guilford Art Center. Cathy is a member of the Northeast Felt makers Guild where she has had the privilege of participating in classes given by world renowned felt makers. Cathy credits her friend and fellow felt maker Catherine Stebinger with sharing ongoing creative energy, inspiration, and encouragement. Her work is currently exhibited at Spectrum Gallery in […]

    $125
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    Go Wild with Paper Mache for Children

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 3-session class, children ages 7–11 years old let their imaginations soar using papier-mâché techniques to make jewelry and small animal sculptures. All materials included. No experience is necessary. Cathy Lovell’s lifelong interest in the creative arts continues to guide her through a gratifying career as both art educator and studio artist. A graduate of the University of New Hampshire and Wesleyan University, Cathy has taught in the Newton, MA, Greenwich, CT and East Lyme, CT public school systems. She has also taught private classes in various fields including stained glass, jewelry making and silver work, enameling, ceramics, glass bead making, and quilting. In the interest of furthering her own education, Cathy received a scholarship to attend the Pilchuck Glass School where she worked with Dale Chihuly and Patrick Reyntiens. Her interest in felting began with a workshop led by Lynne Ocone at the Guilford Art Center. Cathy is a member of the Northeast Felt makers Guild where she has had the privilege of participating in classes given by world renowned felt makers. Cathy credits her friend and fellow felt maker Catherine Stebinger with sharing ongoing creative energy, inspiration, and encouragement. Her work is currently exhibited at Spectrum Gallery […]

    $75
  • Paint a Piping Plover Workshop in Watercolor

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    Piping plovers are very tiny birds the size of sparrows, and they are protected on our Connecticut sandy beaches. This workshop will show you how to create a beautiful, eye-catching portrait of this sweet little bird, as we will paint it much larger than life-size. You will need to make a pencil contour (outline) drawing of the bird onto proper watercolor paper from a reference provided by the instructor, but otherwise, no other major background details need to be drawn. We will use just a few colors, plus other basic watercolor supplies. Instructor will guide you through each painting stage to complete this portrait. Material list available upon registration. Bivenne Harvey Staiger is known for her colorful, dramatic watercolors of natural motifs she loves, like birds, other animals and flowers, and is the recipient of many prestigious awards.  Among the most recent is the Silver Medal from the American Watercolor Society’s 152nd International Exhibition (2019).  She is professionally affiliated with many art groups, including but not limited to the Salmagundi Club, American Artists’ Professional League, Academic Artists Association, Connecticut Academy of Fine Artists, Connecticut Watercolor Society, and many others.  Bivenne regularly gives instruction, demonstrations and workshops in watercolor, and in […]

    $100
  • Recurring

    Go Wild with Paper Mache for Children

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 3-session class, children ages 7–11 years old let their imaginations soar using papier-mâché techniques to make jewelry and small animal sculptures. All materials included. No experience is necessary. Cathy Lovell’s lifelong interest in the creative arts continues to guide her through a gratifying career as both art educator and studio artist. A graduate of the University of New Hampshire and Wesleyan University, Cathy has taught in the Newton, MA, Greenwich, CT and East Lyme, CT public school systems. She has also taught private classes in various fields including stained glass, jewelry making and silver work, enameling, ceramics, glass bead making, and quilting. In the interest of furthering her own education, Cathy received a scholarship to attend the Pilchuck Glass School where she worked with Dale Chihuly and Patrick Reyntiens. Her interest in felting began with a workshop led by Lynne Ocone at the Guilford Art Center. Cathy is a member of the Northeast Felt makers Guild where she has had the privilege of participating in classes given by world renowned felt makers. Cathy credits her friend and fellow felt maker Catherine Stebinger with sharing ongoing creative energy, inspiration, and encouragement. Her work is currently exhibited at Spectrum Gallery […]

    $75
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    Essex Film Fest

    Centerbrook Architects 67 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    Welcome to the 2025 Essex Film Fest! Essex Film Fest is a fiscally sponsored program of the Essex Library Association, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Tickets are offered free of charge with a suggested donation that directly supports the Essex Library and the festival. Featured Guest Filmmaker Mike S. Ryan is a prolific indie film producer, known for bold, visionary low-budget cinema. A key player in the American independent film boom, Ryan has collaborated with auteurs like Kelly Reichardt, Todd Solondz, Hal Hartley, and Béla Tarr. His breakout film Junebug earned an Oscar nomination and proved low-budget films can make a global impact. A Cannes alum, Venice winner, and Whitney Biennial selectee, Ryan continues to shape the future of independent film—both as a producer and as a professor at Emerson College. His latest, The Ballad of Suzanne Césaire, directed by Madeleine Hunt-Ehrlich, has screened at major festivals including TIFF and NYFF and is currently touring cinemas across the U.S. Film Lineup THE ARTIST’S WIFE Claire, the wife of a celebrated artist who set aside her own creative ambitions for his, grapples with that choice—and with how to steward his legacy—after he’s diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. A graceful meditation on love, art, and identity, exploring the […]

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    Essex Film Fest

    Centerbrook Architects 67 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    Welcome to the 2025 Essex Film Fest! Essex Film Fest is a fiscally sponsored program of the Essex Library Association, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Tickets are offered free of charge with a suggested donation that directly supports the Essex Library and the festival. Featured Guest Filmmaker Mike S. Ryan is a prolific indie film producer, known for bold, visionary low-budget cinema. A key player in the American independent film boom, Ryan has collaborated with auteurs like Kelly Reichardt, Todd Solondz, Hal Hartley, and Béla Tarr. His breakout film Junebug earned an Oscar nomination and proved low-budget films can make a global impact. A Cannes alum, Venice winner, and Whitney Biennial selectee, Ryan continues to shape the future of independent film—both as a producer and as a professor at Emerson College. His latest, The Ballad of Suzanne Césaire, directed by Madeleine Hunt-Ehrlich, has screened at major festivals including TIFF and NYFF and is currently touring cinemas across the U.S. Film Lineup THE ARTIST’S WIFE Claire, the wife of a celebrated artist who set aside her own creative ambitions for his, grapples with that choice—and with how to steward his legacy—after he’s diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. A graceful meditation on love, art, and identity, exploring the […]

  • Recurring

    Go Wild with Paper Mache for Children

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 3-session class, children ages 7–11 years old let their imaginations soar using papier-mâché techniques to make jewelry and small animal sculptures. All materials included. No experience is necessary. Cathy Lovell’s lifelong interest in the creative arts continues to guide her through a gratifying career as both art educator and studio artist. A graduate of the University of New Hampshire and Wesleyan University, Cathy has taught in the Newton, MA, Greenwich, CT and East Lyme, CT public school systems. She has also taught private classes in various fields including stained glass, jewelry making and silver work, enameling, ceramics, glass bead making, and quilting. In the interest of furthering her own education, Cathy received a scholarship to attend the Pilchuck Glass School where she worked with Dale Chihuly and Patrick Reyntiens. Her interest in felting began with a workshop led by Lynne Ocone at the Guilford Art Center. Cathy is a member of the Northeast Felt makers Guild where she has had the privilege of participating in classes given by world renowned felt makers. Cathy credits her friend and fellow felt maker Catherine Stebinger with sharing ongoing creative energy, inspiration, and encouragement. Her work is currently exhibited at Spectrum Gallery […]

    $75
  • Get Into the Holiday Spirit for Children

    Spectrum Art Gallery 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

    In this 3-session class, children ages 7-11 learn to fold, construct and paint 3-dimensional stars for the holidays.  Stars can be used as window decorations or as ornaments.  Perfect gifts for the season.  All materials included.  No experience necessary. Cathy Lovell’s lifelong interest in the creative arts continues to guide her through a gratifying career as both art educator and studio artist. A graduate of the University of New Hampshire and Wesleyan University, Cathy has taught in the Newton, MA, Greenwich, CT and East Lyme, CT public school systems. She has also taught private classes in various fields including stained glass, jewelry making and silver work, enameling, ceramics, glass bead making, and quilting. In the interest of furthering her own education, Cathy received a scholarship to attend the Pilchuck Glass School where she worked with Dale Chihuly and Patrick Reyntiens. Her interest in felting began with a workshop led by Lynne Ocone at the Guilford Art Center. Cathy is a member of the Northeast Felt makers Guild where she has had the privilege of participating in classes given by world renowned felt makers. Cathy credits her friend and fellow felt maker Catherine Stebinger with sharing ongoing creative energy, inspiration, and encouragement. Her work is […]

    $75