Experience Essex

Arts & Theater

  1. Events
  2. Arts & Theater

Events Search and Views Navigation

Event Views Navigation

Today

Recurring

Yoga and Movement for Ages 7-11

Spectrum Art Gallery and Artisan Store 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

In this dynamic Movement and Meditation class, children aged 7-11 will embark on a journey of self-discovery, learning essential tools for their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Led by Jacqueline Kelsey, an experienced yoga instructor this class combines playful yoga poses, fun breathing techniques, and guided mindfulness exercises to help children build strength, flexibility, and focus while promoting a calm and centered mind. Through creative and age-appropriate activities, kids will develop body awareness, balance, and coordination, all while engaging in relaxation techniques.  These learning experiences can be applied to dance, sports and other movement oriented activities. This class is designed to nurture the whole child, fostering both their physical and emotional health. Movement and meditation are essential for children’s development, as they improve concentration, emotional regulation, and social skills, while also supporting better sleep and overall energy levels. By practicing mindfulness and movement from a young age, children gain tools that help them navigate challenges and develop a positive relationship with their bodies. This approach nurtures not only their growth but also instills a lifelong appreciation for self-care, making it a vital practice for every child’s well-being. With a lifelong passion for health, wellness, and community support, Jacqueline brings a unique […]

$110
Recurring

Introduction to Pastels

Spectrum Art Gallery and Artisan Store 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 one more complicated still life set up in an effort to create a completed piece of artwork. 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. […]

$160

Introduction to Zentangles

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

Zentangle turns drawings into artistic designs while reducing stress and improving focus.  Learn hand to eye coordination, manual dexterity, problem solving and turn mistakes into positives to enhance your creativity.  Cost is $40 + $10 Material Fee, Participants create 1, 2 or 3 Zentangle “Tiles”.  Tiles are 4X4 inch smooth white card-stock.  Learn to draw 12-15 basic and specific “tangles” or unique patterns on the tiles.  Copies of the book “Zentangle Basics” will be provided as well as pencils, card-stock, assorted permanent markers, mini canvases and miniature wooden easels. The final Zentangle piece will be drawn on a white or black 4X4 mini-canvas using a variety of colors, including metallic permanent markers.  You will also receive a wooden easel to display it on! 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 Far As […]

$50
Recurring

Creative Writing for Fabulous 50’s & Up – Stories of a Life Well-Lived

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

This creative writing class invites participants to explore their personal experiences, dreams, and reflections on life through short stories, poetry, and personal essays. Whether you want to write about past adventures, future aspirations, or cherished relationships, this class will guide you with fun exercises that make storytelling accessible and enjoyable. Techniques and exercises used in class will be memory mapping (turning life events into stories); sensory writing (using the five senses to bring stories to life) and character building (drawing inspiration from real-life people). Suggested material list available upon registration. Dates: Sunday, March 30; April 6, 13, 27 and May 4th

$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

Yoga and Movement for Ages 7-11

Spectrum Art Gallery and Artisan Store 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

In this dynamic Movement and Meditation class, children aged 7-11 will embark on a journey of self-discovery, learning essential tools for their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Led by Jacqueline Kelsey, an experienced yoga instructor this class combines playful yoga poses, fun breathing techniques, and guided mindfulness exercises to help children build strength, flexibility, and focus while promoting a calm and centered mind. Through creative and age-appropriate activities, kids will develop body awareness, balance, and coordination, all while engaging in relaxation techniques.  These learning experiences can be applied to dance, sports and other movement oriented activities. This class is designed to nurture the whole child, fostering both their physical and emotional health. Movement and meditation are essential for children’s development, as they improve concentration, emotional regulation, and social skills, while also supporting better sleep and overall energy levels. By practicing mindfulness and movement from a young age, children gain tools that help them navigate challenges and develop a positive relationship with their bodies. This approach nurtures not only their growth but also instills a lifelong appreciation for self-care, making it a vital practice for every child’s well-being. With a lifelong passion for health, wellness, and community support, Jacqueline brings a unique […]

$110

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

Yoga and Movement for Ages 7-11

Spectrum Art Gallery and Artisan Store 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

In this dynamic Movement and Meditation class, children aged 7-11 will embark on a journey of self-discovery, learning essential tools for their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Led by Jacqueline Kelsey, an experienced yoga instructor this class combines playful yoga poses, fun breathing techniques, and guided mindfulness exercises to help children build strength, flexibility, and focus while promoting a calm and centered mind. Through creative and age-appropriate activities, kids will develop body awareness, balance, and coordination, all while engaging in relaxation techniques.  These learning experiences can be applied to dance, sports and other movement oriented activities. This class is designed to nurture the whole child, fostering both their physical and emotional health. Movement and meditation are essential for children’s development, as they improve concentration, emotional regulation, and social skills, while also supporting better sleep and overall energy levels. By practicing mindfulness and movement from a young age, children gain tools that help them navigate challenges and develop a positive relationship with their bodies. This approach nurtures not only their growth but also instills a lifelong appreciation for self-care, making it a vital practice for every child’s well-being. With a lifelong passion for health, wellness, and community support, Jacqueline brings a unique […]

$110

Nature Up Close Opening Reception

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

Spectrum Art Gallery and Artisans Store of Centerbrook, Connecticut presents Nature Up Close. Discover new and original artwork that showcases the the joys of Summer and as a result look closely at our gardens, emerging insects, flowers and trees highlighting closeup images that engage us in these discoveries.  At Spectrum, we explore this by showcasing the work of established and emerging artists with original paintings, mixed media, and photography. The Open Reception for Nature Close Up is Friday, May 16 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Enjoy fine art, crafts, wine, and refreshments that evening and throughout the Open House Weekend, Saturday, May 17 from 1 to 6 pm and Sunday, May 18, from 1 to 5 pm. The exhibit runs through July 6. Also, Spectrum’s Artisans Store offers new pottery, glass, fiber, home décor, jewelry, clothing and accessories, children's books and toys. Spectrum Art Gallery, 61 Main St., Centerbrook, Connecticut. Gallery and Store hours are Wednesday through Saturday (12-6 pm) and Sunday (12-5 pm). For more information about gallery exhibits and classes for adults and children, and summer camps for preteens and teens call (860) 767-0742 or visit spectrumartgallery.org. Shop online at SpectrumAnytime.com with shipping available throughout the US. Follow Spectrum social media at facebook.com/spectrumartgallery, instagram.com/spectrumartgallery, x.com/spectrum_ct, […]

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

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

Yoga and Movement for Ages 7-11

Spectrum Art Gallery and Artisan Store 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT, United States

In this dynamic Movement and Meditation class, children aged 7-11 will embark on a journey of self-discovery, learning essential tools for their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Led by Jacqueline Kelsey, an experienced yoga instructor this class combines playful yoga poses, fun breathing techniques, and guided mindfulness exercises to help children build strength, flexibility, and focus while promoting a calm and centered mind. Through creative and age-appropriate activities, kids will develop body awareness, balance, and coordination, all while engaging in relaxation techniques.  These learning experiences can be applied to dance, sports and other movement oriented activities. This class is designed to nurture the whole child, fostering both their physical and emotional health. Movement and meditation are essential for children’s development, as they improve concentration, emotional regulation, and social skills, while also supporting better sleep and overall energy levels. By practicing mindfulness and movement from a young age, children gain tools that help them navigate challenges and develop a positive relationship with their bodies. This approach nurtures not only their growth but also instills a lifelong appreciation for self-care, making it a vital practice for every child’s well-being. With a lifelong passion for health, wellness, and community support, Jacqueline brings a unique […]

$110

EAA Spring Juried Show Opening Reception

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

Please join us for the EAA Spring Juried 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

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

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

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

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

EAA Summer Open Show Opening Reception

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

Please join us for the EAA Summer Open 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

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

Please join us for the EAA Summer Juried 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

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

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! 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

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