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artist at work painting on a canvas

Upcoming Art Courses

Art Workshops

Botanical Illustration: Wisconsin in Spring | $109
Celebrate the beauty of Wisconsin’s spring through botanical illustration. In this class, you’ll explore foundational plant patterns, drawing techniques, and basic value and color theory. Using watercolor and watercolor pencil, you’ll create a finished botanical illustration from live plant samples. Along the way, you’ll build your botanical vocabulary, learn about the ecology of your plant, and label your illustration using botanical terminology- deepening both your observation skills and your connection to the natural world. Supplies included.
#67623, Truax-Protective Services Building, 4/11-4/12, Saturday and Sunday, 9 AM-1 PM Instructor: Sonya Sankan
Linocut Printmaking Workshop | $79
Step into the bold world of linocut, a relief printmaking process where you carve a design into linoleum, which you can print again and again. Loved for its simplicity and striking results, linocut is one of the most accessible and rewarding printmaking techniques. In this one-day workshop, you’ll design and carve your own printing block, then ink it up and pull a small edition of prints. We’ll explore both press printing and hand-printing methods, giving you the skills to continue creating at home. No experience needed, and all materials are included.
#67431, Truax-Main Building, 4/18, Saturday, 9 AM-2 PM Instructor: Lydia Zoells
Zentangle®: Combining Ink, Pattern, Creativity AND Meditative Practice | $34
Certified Zentangle Teachers will lead you through the beautiful, gentle introduction to this contemplative, wildly creative drawing technique. No drawing experience is necessary. You simply have to be able to write your own name legibly. If Zentangle is new to you, check out zentangle.com for photos, history, and examples. Supplies included.
#67329, Commercial Avenue Campus, 5/16, Saturday, 1:30-3:30 PM Instructors: Ginny Stiles and Julie Swanson
Watercolor & Wine: Cup of Joe | $59
Sip, swirl, and paint! Join us for a relaxing and creative watercolor workshop at Lewis Station Winery in downtown Lake Mills. In this workshop you'll learn watercolor techniques to create a beautiful painting of a charming cup of coffee, perfect for beginners and seasoned artists alike. Enjoy step-by-step instruction and a glass of Lewis Station's award-winning wine. All supplies are provided; just bring your creativity and come ready to unwind!
Lewis Station Winery in Lake Mills, 5/24, Sunday, 11 AM-2 PM Instructor: Alfredo Rodriguez
Nature Journaling: Early Summer on the Marsh | $110
Slow down and see the natural world in a new way. In this outdoor class, you’ll learn simple techniques for observing and recording plants, landscapes, and seasonal changes in a personal nature journal. During this session we will focus on native Wisconsin marsh flora and fauna. Through quick sketching, light color (using materials such as colored pencil or watercolor), and guided notetaking, you’ll build confidence capturing what you see — no prior drawing experience required. Supplies included.
#12184, Dawley Conservancy in Fitchburg, 5/30-6/6, Saturday, 9 AM-1 PM Instructor: Sonya Sankaran
Loosen up your Acrylics | $165
Stop chasing tight details and start focusing on the big picture. This class is for those ready to take a step away from realism and discover their natural painting style. We will use bold application and intentional marks to keep your work energetic yet clear. You will learn to trust your instincts and make confident decisions on the canvas. Supplies included!
#12137, Truax-Protective Services, 6/13-6/14, Saturday and Sunday, 9 AM-3 PM Instructor: Lee Schauer
Beyond the Basics: Light & Depth in Watercolor | $165
Take your watercolor paintings beyond flat washes and learn how to create depth, dimension, and mood. In this focused workshop, you’ll explore layering, glazing, value, and color temperature to suggest light and atmosphere while preserving the luminosity watercolor is known for. Through guided practice and a finished painting, you’ll strengthen your ability to build convincing space and bring greater richness to your work. Recommended for students with basic watercolor experience.
#12138, Truax-Protective Services Building, 6/20-6/21, Saturday and Sunday, 9 AM-3 PM Instructor: Lee Schauer
Bold Color: Painting with Gouache | $167
Discover the bold, vibrant possibilities of gouache in this two-day workshop. Learn how to mix color, control opacity, and build paintings with layered, opaque applications. You’ll practice simplifying shapes, strengthening composition, and using color relationships to create expressive images. Explore paint handling and fast-drying techniques, and leave with the skills to confidently create colorful, graphic paintings. Supplies included!
#12166, Truax-Protective Services Building, 7/11-7/12, Saturday and Sunday, 9 AM-3 PM Instructor: GG

General Art

Woodturning 1 | $299
Embark on a creative journey in woodturning! Woodturning involves shaping wood on a lathe to create items such as bowls, vases, and pens. In this course you and your classmates will rotate between woodturning and tool sharpening, engaging in hands-on learning experiences. You will learn essential techniques, culminating in three unique projects. Whether a complete novice or having some experience, this course offers the foundational skills and confidence to pursue woodturning as a rewarding hobby in a safe and supportive environment. Students who have already taken Woodturning 1 are welcomed to sign up again and proceed to more advanced projects.
#11205, The Bodgery (near Comm. Ave), 6/3-7/29, Wednesday, 6:30-9:30 PM Instructor: Ris Fleming
#12130, The Bodgery (near Comm. Ave), 6/4-7/30, Thursday, 6:30-9:30 PM Instructor: Ris Fleming
Woodturning 2 | $299
Take your woodturning skills to the next level in this course designed for those who have completed Woodturning 1 or have prior experience. Get ready to refine your techniques while exploring more intricate and challenging projects.
#12133, The Bodgery (near Comm. Ave), 6/3-7/29, Wednesday, 6:30-9:30 PM Instructor: Ris Fleming
#12134,The Bodgery (near Comm. Ave), 6/4-7/30, Thursday, 6:30-9:30 PM Instructor: Ris Fleming

Art Metals

Art Welding for Beginners | $266
This introductory class is open to all levels and will cover the fundamentals of welding and plasma cutting as you make a pre-determined garden sculpture or seasonal décor.
#11141, Truax-Main Building, 5/27-7/1, Wednesday, 6-9 PM Instructor: Amanda Neumaier
Art Welding | $339
Create your own metal sculpture using a combination of fabrication and welding techniques. This class will expand your knowledge of welding and sculpture design as you make your own personalized art. Students must have taken "Art Welding for Beginners" or have prior welding experience.
#11139, Truax-Main Building, 7/7-8/25, Tuesday, 6-9 PM Instructor: Amanda Neumaier
Jewelry Open Studio | $158
Jewelry Studio Lab is designed for intermediate-advanced students who want to work independently on their own designs and projects in a shared studio setting. You’ll have access to the space and tools while developing your work at your own pace, with an instructor available to offer guidance and support as needed.
#11179, Commercial Avenue, 6/23-7/14, Tuesday, 9 AM-12 PM Instructor: Erin Bowe
#12179, Commercial Avenue, 7/21-8/11, Tuesday, 9 AM-12 PM Instructor: Erin Bowe
Jewelry Fundamentals: Rings & Folded Forms | $258
Curious about jewelry making? Get a hands-on introduction to metalsmithing in a focused, approachable format. Build foundational skills in sawing, fabrication, forming, and soldering while gaining confidence working with tools and materials. Create simple silver rings and learn the basics of copper fold forming, a sculptural technique that transforms flat metal into dynamic shapes. A great starting point for beginners! Supplies included!
#12171, Commercial Avenue, 7/8-8/12, Wednesday, 5:30-8:30 PM Instructor: Erin Bowe

Ceramics and Sculpture

Intro to Glaze Materials and Formulation | $123
Curious about what actually goes into a glaze and how small changes can make a big difference? This two-day, hands-on workshop offers an accessible, low-pressure introduction to glaze materials and formulation, designed for ceramic artists who want to learn more without getting lost in heavy chemistry.

This workshop is informative but not overly academic, welcoming curiosity, experimentation, and conversation. Expect a relaxed, fun atmosphere with plenty of time for questions, discussion, and hands-on learning. No prior glaze-chemistry experience required.

#12139, Commercial Avenue, 6/2-6/4, Tuesday and Thursday, 9 AM-1 PM Instructor: Scott Draves
Pottery Wheel for True Beginners | $299
New to the pottery wheel? This class is designed specifically for students with little to no wheel experience. We’ll move step-by-step through the fundamentals; centering, pulling walls, shaping simple forms, and basic glazing in a supportive, instructional environment.

This is a true beginner course focused on building foundational skills. Class time is structured and instructor-led, with demonstrations, guided practice, and feedback throughout. Students who are already comfortable throwing independently should enroll in an all-levels class.
#12140, Commercial Avenue, 6/9-7/28, Tuesday, 6-9 PM Instructor: Cynthia Hoffman
Summer Ceramics: Wheel, all levels | $299
This course is suitable for all levels; from those who are just beginning to those who want to continue their practice (though true beginners might want to check out our class specifically for them!). This class will cover the basics of wheel throwing, surface design techniques and glazing. 25 lbs of clay, glazes and firing included.
#11115, Commercial Avenue, 6/8-7/27, Monday, 6-9 PM Instructor: Gloria Van Dixhorn
#11171, Commercial Avenue, 6/9-7/28, Tuesday, 9 AM-12 PM Instructor: Scott Draves
#11163, Commercial Avenue, 6/10-7/29, Wednesday, 6-9 PM Instructor: Gloria Van Dixhorn
#11135, Commercial Avenue, 6/11-7/30, Thursday, 9 AM-12 PM Instructor: Scott Draves

Painting and Drawing

Watercolor Painting-All Levels | $208
For beginners or continuing students refining their watercolor skills, this class will be filled with technical information, demonstrations, individual instruction, and lots of time to paint. Learn brush handling, color theory and watercolor techniques such as washes, glazes, and textural effects. Choose subject matter from photos, book references or still-lifes as the class explores painting styles from realism to abstract.
#11087, Truax-Protective Services Building, 5/19-6/23,Tuesday, 1:30-4:30 PM Instructor: Alfredo Rodriguez
#11089, Truax-Protective Services Building, 5/19-6/23,Tuesday, 5:30-8:30 PM Instructor: Alfredo Rodriguez
#11209, Truax-Protective Services Building, 6/30-8/11,Tuesday, 1:30-4:30 PM Instructor: Alfredo Rodriguez
#11211, Truax-Protective Services Building, 6/30-8/11,Tuesday, 5:30-8:30 PM Instructor: Alfredo Rodriguez
Dive into Watercolor | $165
Embark on your artistic journey with our beginner-friendly 4-week class! Explore the enchanting world of watercolors with step-by-step guidance from our expert instructor. Learn the basics of color mixing, brush techniques, and create your own beautiful watercolor artworks. Whether you've never picked up a brush or are looking to build a solid foundation, this class is perfect for beginners to immerse themselves in the art of watercolor. Supplies included!
#12136, Truax-Protective Services Building, 6/1-6/22, Monday, 9 AM-12 PM Instructor: Lee Schauer
Painting and Drawing Studio | $165
Enjoy the freedom to work in the studio while still receiving personalized guidance to explore new techniques and develop your unique style. Perfect for beginners and seasoned artists alike, this is an opportunity to dive into painting or drawing media with the support of an instructor to inspire your creativity and growth.
#11191, Truax-Protective Services Building, 6/1-6/22, Monday, 1:30-4:30 PM Instructor: Lee Schauer
Paint the Season: Summer Landscapes in Watercolor | $165
Capture the vibrant beauty of summer in this watercolor workshop! Learn to paint sunlit landscapes, blooming flowers, and serene beach scenes while mastering techniques like washes, layering, and blending. Perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike, this hands-on class will help you create stunning seasonal works of art. Supplies included!
#11195, Truax-Protective Services Building, 6/1-6/22, Monday, 5:30-8:30 PM Instructor: Lee Schauer
Acrylic Painting-Intermediate | $262
Unlock the full potential of acrylics in this next level painting class! Delve into intricate layering, texture creation, and advanced color mixing techniques to bring your visions to life with depth and vibrancy. Refine your skills in composition and visual storytelling while exploring diverse styles and subjects. Students should have taken Beginning Acrylic or have equivalent experience.
#12141, Truax-Protective Services Building, 6/10-7/29, Wednesdays, 5:30-8:30 PM Instructor: GG
Intro to Oil Painting | $269
Discover the fundamentals of oil painting in a supportive, beginner-friendly setting. You’ll explore materials, color mixing, brush techniques, and composition while creating your own expressive paintings step by step. No prior experience required—just bring your curiosity and creativity!
#12119, Truax-Main Building, 6/9-7/28, Tuesday, 6-9 PM Instructor: Katie Hogan
Crash Course in Drawing | $137
Do you want to become a better artist this summer? This workshop is ideal for those who want to recharge their artistic spirit and confidence in drawing. Through a convenient and condensed series of classes you will gain an understanding of the essential principles of drawing. Ideal for beginners as well as those with experience.
#11161, Truax-Main Building, 7/20-8/10, Monday, 2-5 PM Instructor: Thanasi Papapostolou
#11267, Truax-Main Building, 7/20-8/10, Monday, 6-9 PM Instructor: Thanasi Papapostolou
Intro to Portrait Drawing | $167
Drawing the human portrait has long been a challenging art form and one that requires a sequential approach. The purpose of this class is to provide such sequential approaches as well as the principles of drawing a portrait from a live model, such as establishing the scale, pose, and proportions. If you have ever struggled with drawing the features of the face, this workshop is for you. Suitable for complete beginners as well as experienced artists.
#11131, Truax-Main Building, 7/22-8/12, Wednesday, 6-9 PM Instructor: Thanasi Papapostolou
Step into Plein Air Painting (Acrylic or Oil) | $115
Paint outdoors and learn the fundamentals of plein air painting! You’ll explore how to capture light, atmosphere, and the character of a landscape while working on location. Practice simplifying scenes, building strong compositions, and quickly blocking in shapes and values. Gain confidence with a portable setup and leave with practical strategies to continue painting outdoors on your own. Designed for painters working in acrylic or oil with some prior painting experience.
#12167, OUT, 7/13-8/10, Monday, 9-11 AM Instructor: GG
Classes will meet at various pre-determined areas in the Madison area.

Video and Photography

iPhone Photography: From Basics to Pro-Level Shots| $67
Whether you’re a business owner, marketer, content creator, or simply want to maximize your iPhone's potential for professional, high-quality images and videos, this class is for you! Discover underutilized settings and advanced file types that elevate your photos for any use. We’ll cover photography fundamentals, shooting techniques, accessories, apps, and in-phone editing. Plus, you'll engage in exercises to practice portraits, product shots, lighting, and more!
Future offerings posted here

Fiber Arts

Check out sewing, needlework, and upholstery classes.

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Gallery at Truax art exhibition

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The Gallery at Truax provides diverse experiences by exhibiting creativity, innovation, and collaboration for Madison College and its community. View the exhibition schedule, hours and location.