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Art Classes

One of the things that I feel like I'm missing in my life is making art. I feel like I'm creative and thoughtful about my life, but that's not being translated into artistic work. I think there's something very important about working with my hands and for me, making art is a great way to do that. In order to motivate myself to actually make things, I've signed up for a couple art classes at ASU's Herberger Institute Community School for Design and the Arts. (I believe it's the continuing education program.)

Drawing Basics

Aspiring artists learn to draw from observation through the study of a variety of natural objects and still-life arrangements using black-and-white media. Development of visual problem-solving skills is emphasized through exercises in perspective, tonal value, composition and spatial arrangement. This class is for beginning and intermediate students. Materials not included. Group size: 5–10. 6 weeks | $150
Mondays Sep 14-Oct 19
6:00 PM-8:00 PM

Digital Book Design

Become your own publisher by learning design strategies for page layout and design while gaining experience with Adobe Illustrator® and InDesign® in this new 6-week book design course. In addition to page design, students will broaden their knowledge of contemporary book design, and learn several simple binding structures that can be completed in the comfort of home. No experience necessary. Printing costs not included. All work with Adobe® software will be done in class. Group size: 5–15. 6 weeks. (No class Nov 11th, Veterans Day.) | $150
Wednesdays Oct 14-Nov 25
7:00 PM-9:00 PM

These classes are really, really affordable at $150 for 6 weeks ($25 a week)! I'm looking forward to having time devoted each week to spend making something artistic. The drawing class will be a good jump start to getting back into art. While I taught drawing classes 9 years ago, I can definitely use some practice and look forward to the structure a class will bring. The book design class is very exciting since I love books as an artistic medium. In college, I had the opportunity to make books by hand and really, really loved it. This class will allow me to mix my love of computers and my love of books. I'm REALLY looking forward to it.

While I'm excited about these courses, I also have some concerns. My first concern is that the classes won't be held because there aren't enough people signed up. (This happens all too often with community classes like these.) My second concern is that the classes are for ages 15 and up and they'll get filled up with high schoolers. Both of these concerns would go away if some of my friends (YOU) would sign up for these classes with me!

Reasons to do art classes with Erica:
• Learn something new or just practice to get better
• No pressure environment - a great way to relax after work
• You'll stretch your creative muscles
• It's better than sitting in front of the TV or computer after work
• It will give you a reason to leave work at a reasonable hour
• Bonus! You get to hang out with Erica one night a week

Clearly, you're convinced, right?! So go sign up!

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