Creative Arts

Abstract paintings can speak to us in so many ways and express many ideas but knowing where to start to make an abstract work of your own can be difficult. This course will introduce additional methods not covered in “Abstract Painting I.” Using acrylic paint, students will learn multiple abstract techniques including impasto palette knife painting, dot work, geometric abstraction, and layering washes to create multiple small works. The basics of creating an abstract painting will be reviewed so all levels of experience are welcome! Instructor: Kara LaRose. (S)

Select patterns you have made before to manipulate and personalize. Bring your own fabric. Discussion options for adjusting fit, shape and materials. Cut out your garment(s). Sew them at home. Wear for a photoshoot. Digital badge eligible (DB). No class Apr 4.

Measure your own body shape in the key areas for garment making and make your chart . Make your own basic sleeveless tunic pattern including darts at the bust. Using your own fabric, cut your tunic and sew it at home. All pattern making materials provided. Digital badge eligible (DB).

Students will learn about modern quilt tools, how to safely use a rotary cutter, how to choose fabrics, how to make a 9-patch block and basic machine applique, constructing the quilt top, sandwiching the quilt, basic machine quilting, and binding. No prior knowledge of quilting needed. Students will need their own sewing machine. Instructor: June Piper-Brandon. (S)

Come join us as we create a riot of color and design. We will begin by building a base of random patchwork and continue with embellishments. We will use embroidery stitches, beads, sequins, even found objects. We will slow down for a few hours each week and savor hand stitching. Beginning stitchers are welcome and will find the work very accessible, and experienced stitchers will find challenges they may never have thought about. Instructor: Cynthia Gossage. (S)

Use folk-art decorative stitches, yarns and metallic threads, appliques, laces and beads on your own jeans or jean jacket to create a legacy artwork. Supply fee includes fabric markers, needles, appliques, yarns, laces, threads and beads plus the use of the photo transfer printer, heat press and toaster oven microwave. Digital badge eligible (DB).

This course introduces adult learners to the fundamentals of drawing through observation-based exercises designed to build confidence and technical skill. Students will explore line, shape, value, proportion, and composition while working with graphite, charcoal, and other dry media. Instruction includes demonstrations, guided practice, and individual feedback. No prior experience is necessary, just a willingness to experiment and enjoy the process of learning to see and draw with greater accuracy. Instructor: Damon Hurbon. (S)

Enjoy drawing with the brilliant color and control of hard pastels. (These are not oil pastels.) Observe simple shapes and render the sphere, cylinder, and cube while searching for the shadows that they cast. Practice shading and blending to create a variety of drawings. All levels of experience welcome. Instructor: Pat Flaherty. (S). No class Apr 1.

Imagine turning everyday discarded items into something creative and beautiful! Students will explore materials typically recycled, donated or thrown away and discuss how we perceive and value them. Study the philosphies and works of artists who purposefully reuse these items. In the final class, each student will make a weaving to frame or hang. Small frame looms, needles and other materials will be provided. Students will bring assigned items from home. (S) Instructor: Beverly Polk.

Learn to draw in fashion proportions. Create your own croque to design on. Develop your brand identity, label and signature. Design garments using three different media. All materials provided. Digital badge eligible (DB).

An intensive study of realistic watercolor focuses on the entire painting process. Learn how to render a detailed line drawing, transfer it to watercolor paper, and practice flat washes with round and flat brushes to create a monochromatic painting. Work on numerous color exercises to learn color theory and begin a colored painting. First class (via Zoom) devoted to detailed lecture, with examples of the entire painting process from development to review. Instructor: Jennifer Littleton. (S)

Optimize the use of your smart phone camera. Move beyond a quick snapshot to create memorable images as you learn various aspects of digital photography: exposure, focus, panorama, and high dynamic range. Experiment with composition and editing to enhance images. Bring a smart phone (Apple or Android). Instructor: Walter Calahan.

Learn the basics, how to use a sewing machine, measure your body, choose a pattern and fabric, and make a basic skirt or shorts with an elastic waist. Class suitable for beginners. Students need to bring their own sewing machine. Instructor: June Piper-Brandon. (S)

Kawandi quilting is a beautiful example of using materials on hand to produce joyous improvisational home furnishings. Traditional kawandi quilting is a fusion of West African esthetics and Indian textiles. In this class, we will explore the basic technique and learn how to adapt it to create small works that enhance our own living spaces. Instructor: Cynthia Gossage. (S)

Picasso and Braque revolutionized the art world with “papier collé” or “glued paper” works in the early 20th century. Since then, collage has exploded into thousands of uses, from crafts to fine art. Collage is one of the most versatile art mediums anyone can learn! Learn to apply fine art principles to combine your own photos, papers, and even small three-dimensional items to create unique works of art. Estimated materials cost $35. Instructor: Kara LaRose. (S). No class Apr 2 & 23.

Pottery courses are offered at two levels. Monday class is for beginners. Discover new techniques to shape beautiful creations. Learn about glazing, hand building and advanced decorating methods. This is not a wheel class. Materials fee covers clay, paints, tools, and glazes. Students are responsible for purchasing additional materials, if desired. Class is nine weeks. Enrollment limited, please register early. (S). No class Feb 16, Mar 30, Apr 1, and Apr 6.

Turn beloved, worn-out T-shirts into a cozy, meaningful quilt! In this hands-on course, you’ll learn how to transform concert tees, sports jerseys, school shirts, or any sentimental garments-into a beautiful keepsake quilt. Designed for beginner to intermediate quilters, gain practical skills in quilt design, fabric stabilization, sewing techniques, and finishing touches. Whether you’re preserving memories for yourself or creating a one-of-a-kind gift, this course will guide you through each step with clear instruction and creative inspiration. Students will need their own sewing machine. Instructor: June Piper-Brandon. (S)

Learn how to identify and use 50 different types of fabrics and fibers. Create a reference book with swatches. Supply fee includes swatches, three-ring binder, materials to decorate it, and a lighter to burn the fabrics. Digital badge eligible (DB). No class Apr 4.

Enjoy making music with others? This course is all about playing (or singing!) in small groups, with guidance from an HCC Music Faculty coach. You’ll work on listening, blend- ing, and communicating as an ensemble while exploring great music – classical and beyond. Whether you’re part of a group already or looking to be placed in one, you’ll get six weekly coachings plus a chance to perform at the end of the semester on one of the Music Institute recitals in May. Open to musicians of all ages who can play at an intermediate level or above. Audition or instructor approval may be required for placement. No class Apr 1.

What’s that terrifying sound? In the movies of the 1950s, it was the blood-curdling shriek of the Theremin—the only musical instrument you never touch. Later, Keith Emerson of Emerson, Lake, and Palmer blew minds with a crazy Minimoog solo in Lucky Man. Since World War II, electronic instruments have turned songs into messages from dreams — or the subconscious. We’ll look at the amazing story of synthesizers, the dreaded Mellotron, and – yes- the Theremin. Students will play them, too, using computer simulations and even a real Theremin (or two). Come and be your own keyboard wizard as you learn how your heroes did it.

Bring your guitar to this group class, open to students of all ability levels, and build a fundamental understanding of the basics of music reading and guitar playing. The main focus is the discipline of classical guitar technique and style with emphasis on note reading and individual development. Some instruction will be offered in other styles of guitar music as well. Instructor: Bruce Casteel.

Do you dream of writing your own songs, or sitting down at the piano and simply improvising without written music? With only a basic knowledge of music, you can learn chords, how to read a chord chart, and improvise within a chord chart. Local musician and song writer Paul Buker will walk you through the creative process and empower you to expand your musical experience within a small group setting.

Join us as we pull back the curtain on a Sunday concert with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and Stravinsky's iconic The Rite of Spring, Boulanger's Of a Spring Morning, and Tan Dun's The Tears of Nature, a percussion concerto performed by BSO Principal Percussionist Edouard Beyens and conducted by Jonathon Heyward. Attend a pre-concert talk and discussion with an HCC Music Faculty member and learn about the orchestra, composers, music, insider stories, and even the acoustics of the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. The following weekend head over to the Hall and meet your class for a fabulous afternoon of EARTH | Songs, plus an exclusive backstage tour. *Concert ticket (@$45) must be purchased separately. Additional information will be sent upon registration. To ensure concert seating with the class, please register early. Transportation not included.

Led by Gemini Piano Trio pianist Dr. Hsiu-Hui Wang, this seminar will be held in an informal masterclass setting and cover all aspects of musical knowledge, wisdom, wellness, and piano performance preparation and planning strategies. This seminar aims to provide a fun and supportive atmosphere to help students build confidence, offers performing experiences, and nurtures their appreciation for music. Students will have the opportunity to participate in discussions and give constructive feedback to their peers, as well as the opportunity to perform in the post-seminar recital with instructor approval. Students interested in registering for this seminar may contact Dr. Wang at HWang@HowardCC.edu. (No Class Mar 27 and Apr 3)