workshops & classes
A variety of workshops and classes for all ages are offered at the Pence Gallery throughout the year, including adult workshops, programs for children and teens, and family programs.
Healing Arts Program
This program offers a six-week workshop that uses art as a healing language for those experiencing grief from the loss of a loved one, as well as one-time workshops that focus more broadly on themes related to depression, anxiety, or major life changes. Through the process of art making, participants have opportunities for discussion, education, and connecting with peers in a safe and supportive space.
This program is generously sponsored by Bob & Joanne Andresen. Participants must be 18 or older, and no art experience is necessary. Limited to the first 8 participants who register. Registration online is required.
6-Session Workshop:
Guided by facilitators Amy Vidra & Lyndsey Rocca
Fridays, 10 AM – 11:45 AM
Sept. 19 & 26, Oct. 3, 10, 17 & 24
$25 Members | $35 Non-Members
One-Time Workshops:
Guided by facilitator Amy Vidra
Friday, 10 AM – 11:30 AM
November 14, December 12
$5 Members | $10 Non-Members


Art in Action: Family Art Workshops
Sunday, September 21, 1-3 PM
$5 Members, $10 Non-Members (per person, per session, all materials included)
Art in Action engages kids 5-12 in art projects that are fun, creative, and collaborative with their family members. Projects are designed to introduce kids to making their own artwork, by experimenting with creative ideas and materials. Our resident art teacher will introduce you to the wealth of possibilities in our upstairs classroom. This is a drop-in program, with no registration required. Class size is limited to 25 people on a first come first served basis.
Click the button below to learn more about how it works.
Clay Handcraft Workshop with Sue Xu
Saturday, October 11, 1-3 PM
$60 Members | $70 Non-Members (All materials included)
In this hands-on workshop, participants will discover the creative and meditative process of working with air-dry clay to shape colorful, one-of-a-kind sculptures. Students will learn simple techniques for building and detailing small nature-inspired figures and flowers. This workshop is open to all ages (adults and kids ages 5 & up are welcome), and no prior experience is needed—step-by-step instruction makes this a fun and welcoming experience for beginners and seasoned crafters alike. By the end of the session, everyone will have a finished piece to take home.


Watercolor Painting with Misuk Goltz
Tuesdays, 10 AM-12 PM | October 21 & 28, November 4
$98 Members | $108 Non-Members (Materials not included)
In this 3-week workshop, artist Misuk Goltz will focus on the importance of value studies. Through value studies, students will learn how to simplify complex subjects, organize a composition, establish strong lighting, and create a solid foundation for a full-color painting. Participants will paint a new subject each week, along with a corresponding value study. For this workshop, participants should be familiar with the basics of drawing and watercolor painting.
Abstract Mixed Media & Drawing Workshop with Sara Post
Saturday & Sunday, November 8 & 9, 10 AM – 4 PM
$360 Members | $380 Non-Members (Materials not included)
Under the guidance of artist Sara Post, students will work with base layers, drawings, gel prints and other paper sources—either as themselves or as part of a collage. While building layers, participants will add other media including paint, crayons, colored pencil and/or Art Graf. To promote experimentation, students may work with a variety of materials – oil paint mixed with cold wax medium or with acrylic paints. During the workshop, emphasis will be placed on intuitive processes and techniques that can yield surprising and exciting results. This workshop is open to artists of all levels who want to create abstract paintings using a mixed media approach.
Materials list coming soon!


Craft a Compelling Artist Statement
Mondays, Oct. 27 & Nov. 10, 6-7:30 PM
via Zoom (free)
Ready to articulate your artistic vision and advance your career? We are partnering with Art Tonic to present this two-session virtual workshop, which is part of the California Artist Empowerment Network, a new initiative from Art Tonic designed to help California artists navigate their careers. A compelling artist statement is often the first thing people read about your artwork. It’s your chance to connect with your audience and make a lasting impression. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to: clearly communicate your core artistic themes and ideas; describe your creative process and unique approach; and write a versatile document for grant applications, exhibition proposals, and engaging with collectors. This isn’t just a writing workshop; it’s an opportunity to build your professional network. You’ll connect with fellow artists and learn about valuable resources and opportunities.
Watercolor Classes with Joanne Andresen
These classes are full and are not currently open for enrollment. Please check back on our website for any openings. If you are registered for Joanne’s class, please email Joanne directly at [email protected] to receive a supply list or for any questions.
Beginning Watercolor with Joanne Andresen
Thursdays, 12:30-2:30 PM | Sept. 18 & 25, Oct 16 & 23, Nov. 6 (5 classes)
$165 Members, $175 Non-Members (Materials not included)
This class is intended for students who have never taken a watercolor class or who would like to become reacquainted with watercolor painting. Students will be using a limited palette while practicing techniques of painting on dry and wet paper, building exciting colors through glazing, exploring light and dark progression of values, while applying paint with a light touch.
Intermediate Watercolor with Joanne Andresen
Wednesdays, 9-11 AM | Sept. 17 & 24, Oct. 1, 15, & 22 (5 classes)
$165 Members, $175 Non-Members (Materials not included)
This class is for continuing watercolor students. Students should be familiar with watercolor materials and basic techniques. Color mixing, value transitions, composition and brushwork will be emphasized. Painting outside of class will be encouraged and critiques of work will be part of the class structure. Students will supply their own materials.


