Who says finger painting is only for kids? While you won’t find such elementary techniques at these classes, you will find fun and inspiration dating all the way back to grammar school. Whether you're just beginning to unlock your creative skills or you're already an advanced artist, these classes have you covered.
Beginner
For those we have always dreamed of being a fashion designer, or for the ones that just want to know how to sew on a button—this beginner class at Root Division is for you. In Sewing 101, you’ll cover all the basic techniques to get you geared up to construct one-of-a kind custom creations. $125 per session, plus materials.
Not your average hobby, The Crucible in Oakland (known for one-of-a-kind industrial arts programs) is the best bet for an introductory course to get you acquainted with forging and bending hot steel. Dabble with several small projects, such as spoons, knives, and hooks in just five weeks. $375 per session.
If you’re totally new to the art world, this workshop is the perfect way to wean your way in. Painter and illustrator Chris Babcock provides step-by-step demos and her patented grid system to help you recreate contemporary masterpieces like “Cupcakes” by Wayne Thiebaud. Wine served throughout the evening nourishes the creative spirit. $69, includes all supplies.
If you have a t-shirt design you’ve been jonesing to create or want to channel Andy Warhol, check out an introductory course at The Mission Cultural Center that covers both paper and textile printing. For an added bonus, sign up with world-renowned artist Calixto Robles to get some expert advice on your monotype techniques. The classes run $15 per session, but supplies are not included.
Intermediate
Expand your creative skills and knowledge of art history with this course at The San Francisco Art Institute. The course covers the history of Western portraiture through the techniques of Old World Masters. Expect a few heavy reading assignments, but a fun and positive atmosphere. $480 for a 12-class course, materials not included.
Large Format Photography, Level 1
Broaden your repertoire of classic photography with a class at RayKo Photo Center and get on par with Ansel Adams in no time. Over the course of this five-session class, the workings of the view camera will be demystified; some darkroom experience is required. $175, and a 4x5 camera can be rented for $100 for the duration of the class.
Digital Animation: Modeling & Rigging II
If you’ve ever thought about bringing your artwork to life or producing your own cartoon series, be sure to sign up for this course at the College of Extended Learning at SF State. Some prerequisites are required, as is a solid understanding of computer-generated production. $640 for a 10-class course.
Advanced
Novice jewelry designers looking to expand their skill set should consider an advanced class at Sharon Art Studio, SF’s largest public community art center specializing in ceramics, glass and jewelry making. In advanced casting, explore wax-working techniques. You’ll be able to complete two custom-designed castings by the end of the course. $125 for a six-week course.
Figure Drawing with Instruction
Practice makes perfect—and this adage holds true with figure drawing, though it can be tough to find friends who will hold the same pose for four hours. In comes 23rd Street Studio, offering a wide variety of figure drawing classes, with or without instruction. The advanced course meets once a week (only open for those who’ve completed the beginner class) for 22 weeks and runs $485. But you can drop into a class (space permitting) for $23 per class.