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 Featured Artist: 

 Kenneth James Hall 

SHORT ON TIME?

Check out these one- or two-day workshops! It is always worth it to fit some time for creativity into your busy schedule. (Plus, it is a great way to try out a new medium.)

EXPERIENCE THE ARTS WITH US

If you need help after office hours registering for classes, please see these tips. Thank you!

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Workshops

    • March 29, 2025
    • 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM
    • North Hills Art Center
    • 0

    Registration deadline: March 26

    Ages 16+

    The morning will focus on the use of color, shape, value, and perspective. Basic drawing and demonstrations will be given along the way. The afternoon will focus on problem solving and project time. References of trees and water will be available, but feel free to bring your own. Students must have some knowledge of watercolor paints to attend. Students are responsible for their own supplies and encouraged to bring a lunch or snack. 

    Instructor: James Warmbrodt

    Date: Saturday 3/29

    1 session

    Time: 10:30 am - 3:00 pm

    Because this class is after office hours, please use the red side door to enter.


    Materials List: 

    - Paints and brushes: Bring what you have.

    - Paper: Please bring good quality.

    - Jar for water

    - Paper towels

    - Spray bottle

    - Pencil and eraser


    References will be available or you can bring your own for the project.


    Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.

    • March 29, 2025
    • 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM
    • North Hills Art Center
    • 5
    Registration is closed

    Registration deadline: March 22

    Ages 16+

    Embark on a creative journey that merges the ancient art of Gyotaku printing with the expressive medium of watercolor painting. In this class you'll learn the ancient art of Gyotaku (fish printing) then add vibrant color and depth with watercolors. You'll learn how to blend washes, create luminous highlights and enhance your print with brush strokes. All materials included. 

    Instructor: Sheila Hawthorne Klotz


    Date: Saturday 3/29

    1 session

    Time: 1:30 - 4:00 pm

    Because this class is after office hours, please use the red side door to enter.

    Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.

    • April 03, 2025
    • April 10, 2025
    • 2 sessions
    • North Hills Art Center
    • 12
    Registration is closed

    Registration deadline: March 27

    Ages 16+

    Master the fundamentals of Gelli printing. Under expert guidance, explore color, texture, and learn essential papermaking skills. Embrace experimentation and creative exploration to push boundaries and integrate Gelli printing into your practice. All materials included. 

    Instructor: Sheila Hawthorne Klotz




    Date: Thursdays 4/3 & 4/10
    2 sessions

    Time: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm 

    Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.


    • April 06, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
    • North Hills Art Center
    • 3
    Register

    Registration deadline: March 31

    Ages 16+

    Whether you are just starting out or looking to hone existing skills, this workshop offers tools to help you gain more control in your work.  We will learn basic watercolor physics, practice 3 foundational wash techniques and learn to avoid the watercolorist's most common pitfall.

    Instructor: Saige Runyan


    Date: Sunday 4/6

    1 session

    Time: 10:00 am - 12:30 pm

    Materials:

    The following materials are suggestions, and do not need to be followed to the letter. Bring what you have. You will get the best experience out of the workshop if your materials are fairly similar. This is also a decent starting kit for watercolor painting in general.

    I recommend shopping online at Blick Art Materials, Cheap Joe's Art Stuff, or Jerry's Artarama, as they will have the best prices. Alternatively, you should be able to find these supplies on Amazon or at any art supply store.

    Feel free to contact the art center if you have questions.

    • Large round watercolor brush (such as size 12).
    • 11"x14" sheet of 100% cotton cold or rough press watercolor paper. Although it can be pricey, quality watercolor paper will make wash control significantly easier. I usually use Arches cold press 140 lb paper. For the best value, purchase a full sheet (22"x30") and I can show you how to tear it down to the desired size.
    • Watercolor mixing palette.
    • Pencil and eraser.
    • 1" roll of masking or painter's tape.
    • Watercolor paint in the primary colors (red, blue, and yellow). Pans work just fine, but tubes provide more paint for the price, and may be squeezed into empty pans to dry. For example:
      • Indian Yellow (a warm yellow)
      • Pyrrol Scarlet (a warm red)
      • Cobalt Blue (a neutral blue)

    For examples of appropriate materials, click here.

    Because this class is after office hours, please use the red side door to enter.

    Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.



    • April 06, 2025
    • 12:00 PM - 3:30 PM
    • North Hills Art Center
    • 2

    Registration deadline: March 30

    Ages 14+

    Grisaille, developed during the Renaissance, is a process by which the toning of a drawing is completed prior to adding the color. The use of this technique allows the artist to refine the form prior to dealing with the application of piment, which ultimately improves the finished product and reduces time for completion.  Materials list below.


    Instructor: Jeanne Perrier 

    Date: Sunday 4/6

    (1 session)

    Time: 12:00 pm - 3:30 pm

    Because this class is after office hours, please use the red side door to enter.


    Click here for materials list.

    Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.

    • April 12, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • North Hills Art Center
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Registration deadline April 5

    Ages 18+

    In this workshop, we will be using the fused glass to create a sculptural form. We will place and layer a variety of glass on the kiln shelf to create a wave, the wind, a flame or another sculptural shape. The glass will be tack fused to retain the three-dimensional aspect of

    the glass. A small stand will be provided for display.  All materials included


    Instructor: Diane Pontoriero

    Date: Saturday 4/12

    1 session

    Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

    Because this class is after office hours, please use the red side door to enter.

    Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.


    • April 12, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • North Hills Art Center
    • 5
    Register

    Registration deadline: April 5

    Ages 12+


    Also consider the second session!

    This workshop starts with a brainstorming session to spark our imaginations and gather ideas about our imaginary worlds. Then we will practice basic map drawing techniques before using ink and watercolors to put it all together. With your map, you could plan a tabletop campaign, flesh out a story setting, or simply explore your own creativity. Watercolors, brushes and artboards will be supplied. Please bring pencils, waterproof pens and erasures. 


    Instructor: Amanda Zimmerman


    Dates: Saturday 4/12

    session

    Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

    Because this class is after office hours, please use the red side door to enter.

    Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.



    • April 13, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
    • North Hills Art Center
    • 3
    Register

    Registration deadline: April 6

    Ages 16+

    In this focused workshop, we will explore color mixing and color theory so that you can feel confident in creating harmonious and intentional color palettes in your work.  See the color wheel in a whole new way and discover the full spectrum of hues you can create using only three pigments. 

    Instructor: Saige Runyan

    Date: Sunday, 4/13

    1 session

    Time: 10:00 am - 12:30 pm

    Materials:

    The following materials are suggestions, and do not need to be followed to the letter. Bring what you have.

    I recommend shopping online at Blick Art Materials, Cheap Joe's Art Stuff, or Jerry's Artarama, as they will have the best prices. Alternatively, you should be able to find these supplies on Amazon or at any art supply store.

    Feel free to contact the art center if you have questions.

    • Watercolor brush. A 1/2" flat brush works well, or around a size 10 round.
    • 11"x14" sheet watercolor paper.
    • Watercolor mixing palette.
    • Pencil and eraser.
    • Watercolor paint in the primary colors (red, blue, and yellow). Pans work just fine, but tubes provide more paint for the price, and may be squeezed into empty pans to dry. For example:
      • Indian Yellow (a warm yellow)
      • Pyrrol Scarlet (a warm red)
      • Cobalt Blue (a neutral blue)

    For examples of appropriate materials, click here.

    Because this class is after office hours, please use the red side door to enter.

    Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.

    • April 13, 2025
    • 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM
    • North Hills Art Center
    • 3
    Register

    Registration deadline: April 6

    Ages 10+


    Weave Your Own Tartan Plaid Square! Join us for a fun and creative class where you'll learn the steps to weave a beautiful tartan plaid square! Using a simple square frame, a large eye needle and 3 colors of yarn, you'll discover the techniques to create classic plaid patterns.  Perfect for adding a person touch to your projects or gifts.  All materials included.


    Instructor: Deb Tobin


    Date: Sunday 4/13

    Time: 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm

    Because this class is after office hours, please use the red side door to enter.


    • April 17, 2025
    • April 24, 2025
    • 2 sessions
    • North Hills Art Center
    • 9
    Register

    Registration deadline: April 10

    Ages 16+

    Discover the freedom of abstract expressionism in acrylic painting.  Explore the boundless possibilities of form, color and texture as you create dynamic compositions that engage the imagination.  Through guided exercises and experimentation, learn to harness the spontaneity of the acrylic medium to convey emotions and ideas. Both beginners and experienced painters will find a supportive environment for exploration and growth. All materials included. 

    Instructor: Sheila Hawthorne Klotz


    Date: Thursdays 4/17 & 4/24

    2 sessions

    Time: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm 

    Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.



    • April 26, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • North Hills Art Center
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Registration deadline:  April 19

    Ages  16+

    Use the beautiful colors of fused glass to create a unique sun catcher for your window. You will learn how to cut and arrange the glass to make a design.  The suncatcher will be tack fused with a hanger and ready to display.  All materials included. 

    Instructor: Diane Pontoriero





    Date: Saturday 4/26

    1 session

    Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

    Because this class is after office hours, please use the red side door to enter.

    Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.




    • April 26, 2025
    • May 10, 2025
    • 2 sessions
    • North Hills Art Center
    • 6
    Register

    Registration deadline: April 19

    Ages 18+

    Join us for a 2 session workshop where we create planters with attached drain plates for our green-leafed friends. Learn how to throw various sizes and then glaze them to make them uniquely yours.  Students MUST have wheel throwing experience and MUST have completed a 6 week pottery class at NHAC to register. All materials included.

    Instructor: Beth Baskinger


    Dates: Saturdays 4/26 & 5/10

    (no class 5/3)

    2 sessions

    Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

    Because this class is after office hours, please use the red side door to enter.

    Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.




      • May 01, 2025
      • May 08, 2025
      • 2 sessions
      • North Hills Art Center
      • 8
      Register

      Registration deadline: Jan 30

      Ages 16+

      In this class, you'll explore techniques that emphasize capturing the essence of your subject matter rather than precise details. Through guided instruction and hands-on practice, you'll learn to create vibrant and atmospheric paintings that evoke mood and emotion. All materials included. 

      Instructor: Sheila Hawthorne Klotz


      Date: Thursdays 5/1 & 5/8

      2 sessions

      Time: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm


      Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.


      • May 03, 2025
      • May 10, 2025
      • 2 sessions
      • North Hills Art Center
      • 12
      Register

      Registration deadline: April 26

      Ages 16+

      Embark on a creative journey that merges the ancient art of Gyotaku printing with the expressive medium of watercolor painting. In this class you'll learn the ancient art of Gyotaku (fish printing) then add vibrant color and depth with watercolors. You'll learn how to blend washes, create luminous highlights and enhance your print with brush strokes. All materials included. 

      Instructor: Sheila Hawthorne Klotz


      Date: Saturday 5/3 & 5/10

      2 sessions

      Time: 1:30 - 3:30 pm

      Because this class is after office hours, please use the red side door to enter.

      Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.

      • May 06, 2025
      • June 03, 2025
      • 5 sessions
      • North Hills Art Center
      • 8
      Register

      Registration deadline: April 29

      Ages 18+


      The art of storyboarding! Come learn the basics of storyboards by planning a scene and translating it to paper. Storyboarding helps to tell a story, develop characters or even use in computer animation. Bring 8 1/2 x 11 sketchbook (or larger) pencils, drawing materials and a ruler. 


      Instructor: Elyse Dover


      Dates: Tuesdays 5/6 - 6/3

      sessions

      Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

      Because this class is after office hours, please use the red side door to enter.

      Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.



      • May 15, 2025
      • May 22, 2025
      • 2 sessions
      • North Hills Art Center
      • 12
      Register

      Registration deadline: May 8

      Ages 16+

      Come learn about traditional techniques of Chinese brush painting. You will learn about Chinese ink, rice paper, color, texture, composition and the aesthetic principles of Chinese brush painting. Through hands-on practice, you will develop technical skills such as loading the brush with ink and water and dry and wet brush stroke control. All materials included. 

      Instructor: Sheila Hawthorne Klotz


      Date: 5/15 & 5/22

      2 sessions

      Time: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm 

      Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.


      • May 17, 2025
      • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
      • North Hills Art Center
      • 10
      Register

      Registration deadline: May 10

      Ages 12+


      This workshop starts with a brainstorming session to spark our imaginations and gather ideas about our imaginary worlds. Then we will practice basic map drawing techniques before using ink and watercolors to put it all together. With your map, you could plan a tabletop campaign, flesh out a story setting, or simply explore your own creativity. Watercolors, brushes and artboards will be supplied. Please bring pencils, waterproof pens and erasures. 


      Instructor: Amanda Zimmerman


      Dates: Saturday 5/17

      session

      Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

      Because this class is after office hours, please use the red side door to enter.

      Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.



      • May 18, 2025
      • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
      • North Hills Art Center
      • 8
      Register

      Registration deadline: May 11

      Ages 10+


      Legends say that shadow puppetry originated over two thousand years algo in China during the Han Dynasty. Shadow puppet shows were used in family and community celebrations such as weddings and funerals.  Many of the provinces of China each had their unique way creating the shadow puppets. Come join us and learn this ancient Chinese art form. All materials included.


      Instructor: Elise Neill


      Date: Sunday 5/18

      Time: 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

      Because this class is after office hours, please use the red side door to enter.


      • May 21, 2025
      • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
      • North Hills Art Center
      • 12
      Register

      Registration deadline: May 14

      Ages 16+


      Love reading and decorating? We will be using the decoupage technique (decorating objects by gluing paper) using book pages to craft beautiful projects! One canvas and many books will be provided. You are welcome to bring any other bases or books to decorate. See the materials list below for optional add-ons.


      Instructor: Skylar Rodgers


      Dates: Wednesday 5/21

      session

      Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm


      Optional Materials List:

      Your own bookHave a book that is special to you and you don’t mind ripping pages? Bring it in for your project! Random books will be provided.

      - Your own base. One canvas will be provided for class, however, this is your chance to get creative! Some examples of bases include laptop cases, phone cases, vases, jars, flower pots, frames, and/or anything flat and sturdy enough to adhere paper to. The possibilities are endless! This is recommended.


      Because this class is after office hours, please use the red side door to enter.

      Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.



      • May 29, 2025
      • June 05, 2025
      • 2 sessions
      • North Hills Art Center
      • 11
      Register

      Registration deadline: May 22

      Ages 16+

      Explore acrylic painting with the pallet knife technique. Learn to wield the knife confidently, creating bold textures and vibrant colors. Dive into color theory and composition principles to convey your artistic vision effectively. All materials included. 


      Instructor: Sheila Hawthorne Klotz


      Date: Thursdays 5/29 & 6/5

      2 sessions

      Time: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

      Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.

      • June 04, 2025
      • June 18, 2025
      • 2 sessions
      • North Hills Art Center
      • 4
      Register

      Registration deadline: May 28

      Ages 16+

      Where will the garden elves and fairies live? In your hand built enchanted garden, of course! In this 2 week class, you will make a fairy house and all the accessories out of clay.   Pieces will be glazed at the second class. All materials included.

      Instructor: Diane Pontoriero


      Dates: Wednesdays, 6/4 & 6/18

      (no class 6/11)

      2 sessions

      Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

      • June 05, 2025
      • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
      • North Hills Art Center
      • 5
      Register


      Registration deadline: May 29

      Ages 16+


      Add a personal touch to your painting adventure with a handbuilt ceramic palette and a water cup with a brush holder.  No experience needed as we will use clay slabs to make the items in this 2 hour workshop. The pieces will be finished with a clear glaze by NHAC staff. Bring your 2 favorite brushes to the workshops. All materials included. 

      Instructor: Diane Pontoriero


      Dates: Thursday 6/5


      1 session

      Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

      Because this class is after office hours, please use the red side door to enter.

      Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.




      • June 12, 2025
      • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
      • North Hills Art Center
      • 10
      Register

      Registration deadline: June 5

      Ages 16+

      Let's make some wearable art! We will be painting with watercolors to make these fun and one-of-a-kind original pendants to wear and share. They make lovely handmade gifts that your friends and family will love. All materials included. 

      Instructor: Sheila Hawthorne Klotz



      Date: Thursday 6/12

      1 session

      Time: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

      Cancellation Policy: Registrations may be cancelled up to seven days before the start of class by contacting the office. Cancellation of this class will result in a $25 cancellation fee, to be deducted from the refund amount.

    North Hills Art Center

    3432 Babcock Blvd | Pittsburgh, PA 15237

    (412) 364-3622 

    info@northhillsartcenter.org


    © 2023 North Hills Art Center

    The NHAC is a 501(c)3 Non-Profit Organization

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