Program Description: 

In this course, participants will explore a variety of mixed-media approaches to art! Mixed media can unlock a variety of textures, styles, and imaginative avenues. We will discuss the combination of materials that complement one another and how to achieve successful compositions through a range of media. We will learn from artists who have mixed-media practices, as well as create compositions of our own. Students will have the opportunity to work from reference imagery as well more abstractly. Participants of all skill levels are invited to join this course.

Supplies are Limited. We encourage all Participants to purchase their own supplies.

Materials Needed:

• Variety of graphite artist pencils
• Erasers 
• Gouache paints 
• Variety of watercolor brushes 
• Paper towels or rags
• Cups for water
• Watercolor paper (9 x 12 or similar) 
• Drawing paper (9 x 12 or similar)
• Colored pencils
• Pencil sharpener 
• Pastels (oil or soft/chalk) 
• Glue sticks 
• Optional: Acrylic paints, acrylic brushes, bristol paper, watercolor paper, or canvas paper 
• Optional: Watercolor paints, watercolor brushes, watercolor paper
• Optional: Alternative glues, such as mod podge or liquid glue 
• Optional: Magazines 

• Students are welcome to bring in any supplies they would like to experiment with, aside from toxic or disruptive substances (such as oil paints, spray paints, etc.)

How to Participate:

To participate in this class, simply create an account on this website. Once your account is set up, you can attend the class by showing up and printing your first and last name on the sign-in sheet.

Bio:

Samantha Van Heest is an artist and art educator currently residing in the greater Washington DC area. She has exhibited her work across the United States and Europe. Her debut solo exhibition, DEEP/CLEAN, opened February 2023 at HOMME Gallery in Washington, DC. Samantha has been included in various group show at spaces such as UMBRELLA Art Fair (Washington DC); Hamiltonian Artists (Washington DC); Magma Maria (Offenbach am Main, Germany); McNeese State University (Lake Charles, LA); The University of Maryland (College Park, MD); among others. She was featured in New American Paintings South #148 and has worked for the contemporary painter Amy Sherald. She is a member of the 2024 Sparkplug Collective at DC Arts Center (Washington DC), and a Post-Graduate Resident at the Torpedo Factory (Alexandria, VA). She teaches art in the Greater Washington DC area with a focus in drawing, painting, and portfolio development.