2026 Workshops
hosted by The Center for Contemporary Art
En plein air is a French expression meaning “in the open air” and refers to the act of painting outdoors with the artist's subject in full view. This class will meet at different locations each week.
When: Tuesdays, September 17 - October 22, 10:30 am - 1:00 pm
Tuition: $225
Member Tuition: $200
Painting as Inquiry (Hybrid)
hosted by The Center for Contemporary Art
LThis open-studio workshop welcomes painters of all skill levels and media, including oil, acrylic, watercolor, gouache, and mixed media. It is a friendly space for experimenting, learning, and exploring why painting matters, whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist. Through demonstrations, hands-on guidance, and group discussions, we will explore topics such as starting a painting, using color effectively, and developing personal expression. The focus is on growth, clarity, and discovering your unique style, with an emphasis on the creative process rather than judgment. You will engage with techniques and ideas connected to perception, memory, and human experience.
Whether you are new to painting or looking to deepen your practice, this workshop invites you to slow down, observe closely, and reconnect with your art. Come ready to create, take risks, and enjoy thoughtful conversations about the role art plays in our lives.
Will you be joining us virtually? Please check your receipt for the Zoom link.
The class will meet for 10 sessions
When: Sep 16 - Nov 18th, 2026
Wednesday for 10 weeks from 1:30 - 4:00 pm
Tuition: $356
Member Tuition: $331
Painting with Wes (Hybrid)
hosted by The Center for Contemporary Arts
This unique painting class explores the ideas of metamodernism, a contemporary approach that embraces both sincerity and self awareness. Together we will examine how to care deeply about painting while remaining conscious of the rich history, traditions, and artifice that shape the medium. Through guided exercises and open studio time, students will strengthen their skills in drawing, surface, color, and composition while engaging with the emotional depth of their work. We will explore the creative “oscillations” that define metamodern painting, moving between hope and doubt, beauty and critique, skill and deconstruction. Discussions of art history and contemporary theory will support your studio practice, and thoughtful critique will focus on both technical development and conceptual clarity.
This class is ideal for artists who want to advance their craft while situating their work within today’s artistic landscape. Participants should have some prior painting experience.
Come ready to think deeply, work seriously, and create paintings that are both technically strong and meaningfully engaged with the present moment.
The class meets for 10 sessions
Sep 22 - Nov 24th, 2026
Tuesday from 6:00 - 8:30 pm
Supply List Meta Modern Workshop Supply List
Non member price $356
Member price: $331
Will you be joining us virtually? Please check your receipt for the zoom link.
Payment plan available: $100 deposit plus 2 payments of $85.33, paid weekly. Final payment of $85.34.
Meta Modern Painting Workshop (Hybrid)
hosted by The Center for Contemporary Art
Students will work from a mix of sources, including photos, still-life setups, plein-air sketches, and live subjects, while exploring a range of oil painting methods and techniques. Artist and instructor Wes Sherman will guide you through approaches that strengthen your understanding of composition, color, and form while also supporting your personal creative direction.
This class welcomes all experience levels. You are encouraged to bring and use the oil or acrylic painting supplies you already have. A suggested materials list is included below for anyone who would like added guidance.
Class Level: Adults and Teens 16+, all levels welcome.
Will you be joining us virtually? Please check your receipt for the zoom link.
Sep 16 - Nov 18th, 2026
Wednesday for 10 weeks from 6:00 - 8:30 pm
Class Supply List: Painting with Wes Supply List
Non-Member Price: $356
Member Price: $331
Payment plan available: $100 deposit plus 2 payments of $128.00, paid weekly.
Immerse Yourself in Art & Nature this Fall
Join us at East Valley Ranch for a creative retreat led by acclaimed artist Wes Sherman, a professional with over 30 years of experience and 50 solo exhibitions.
Designed for artists of all levels, the weekend focuses on the practice of en plein air painting (in the open air), inviting you to capture the stunning Catskill landscapes directly from the rolling fields and mountain vistas.
In this relaxed and supportive environment, participants will receive expert guidance while connecting with fellow creators and the peace of the outdoors. You’ll leave with new technical insights, a completed supply list upon enrollment, and a unique piece of art inspired by the beauty of the ranch.
✨ Receive Expert Guidance
✨ Create Your Own Masterpiece
✨ Connect with Fellow Creators
✨ Unwind in Nature
Start: October 2 @ 4:00 pm
End: October 4 @ 12:00 pm
All-Inclusive Package Rates:
$500/pp single occupancy
$425/pp double occupancy