upcoming events
Pop-Up Open Studio: All Ages
Fee: $5
Join us on Saturdays from 12–2 PM for Open Studio in the Education Department! Drop in anytime between 12 and 2 PM and get creative with a variety of art materials. You can pay in advance (which helps us know you're coming) or pay when you arrive. We can't wait to see you there!
Oil Painting/Beginner: Adults
Thursdays: November 5th and 12th, and December 3rd and 10th (All four classes included).
$150; $125 Members
No experience necessary! In this interactive class students will learn the basics of oil painting. They will learn fundamentals of art, basic color theory, how to use the color wheel, and concepts such as composition, focal point, value, and more. They will explore how to use materials and mediums effectively. Learn brushstrokes and make their own oil masterpieces!
Main Goals:
Learn in a fun way using your creativity, learning the artistic processes, exploring oil medium, color theory, and more…
Most Materials provided!
****For the very first month of classes, you will be required to order an Oil Painting Kit from us. This kit will include your own 10 Palette Winsor and Newton Oil Paints, a set of paintbrushes, and palette knives. This will not be required to purchase each time you take this class, and these materials will be yours to keep so you can continue your practice at home! This starter pack is $70.00. You will be invoiced separately for this starter pack after you register for the class.
Photo Credit - Victoria Morales
Closed for Private Event
Please note: HMA will be closed to gallery visitors November 6–10 for a private event and our regularly scheduled closure. We look forward to welcoming you back on Wednesday, November 11!
Monthly Journaling Club
Join us on the Second Saturday of each month for an open-studio-style journaling experience where creativity has no limits!
Bring your journal and gather your friends for an afternoon of sketching, collage, painting, writing, and whatever else inspires you. All materials are provided, and creative prompts will be offered to help spark your imagination and get your creative process started.
Since launching more than a year ago, our Journaling Club has grown into a welcoming community of creatives who love experimenting, sharing ideas, and simply enjoying the process of making.
Second Saturday of each month from 10 AM -12 PM
Watercolor with Susan Grant: Intermediate Level (Session 1)
Tuesdays: January 5th, 12th, 19th
$100; $75 Members
We will build on the skills learned in watercolor basics by painting landscapes, buildings, and still life. We will be painting mostly from photos, but will also try some fun exercises by painting objects from life. In the final session, you will create a painting from your own photo.
The students are asked to provide their own watercolor paper (Arches 140lb cold press is recommended), paper towels, and a substrate to tape the watercolor paper onto. (The most common substrate Susan has used is foam core.) The brushes, paint, tape, and other odds and ends will be provided so you are not required to bring these.
Susan has been a watercolor artist for more than 30 years. She paints in the studio from photographs and also outdoors as a participant in plein air events in western North Carolina. Susan has also been fortunate to paint outdoors in Italy and Ireland.
Susan Grant Bio
Type of Art:
Watercolor and Gouache Painting
Artist Statement:
Even with my logical, mathematical nature that led to an engineering degree, I have loved art for as long as I can remember. I fell in love with watercolor painting over 30 years ago. My engineering background naturally leads into my realistic style of painting; I particularly enjoy painting animals, especially capturing the personality of a pet, a loved member of the family. When participating in plein-air events, I am drawn toward architectural subjects, again a nod to my engineering background. (Plein air is a French term that means to leave the studio and paint outdoors from life.) My medium of choice is transparent watercolor for the fresh, clean colors that result from building layers of “washes” onto the paper. However, I have also discovered that gouache (opaque watercolor) with its rich, saturated color, can also result in striking pieces.
Art Education:
2018 & 2019: Portrait painting classes with Kay Robb
2017 & 2018: 5-day plein-air workshop in Ireland
2013: “A Non-Traditional Approach to Watercolor”, 2-day workshop with Kate Worm
2006, 2007 & 2016: “Painting the Tuscan Landscape”, 7-day plein-air workshops with Jean Cauthen in Italy
2004: “Painting the Cityscape” plein-air workshop with Kate Worm
2002: 5-day workshop with nationally recognized watercolorist Marilyn Hughey Phillis
2001: “Find Your Direction,” 5-day workshop with nationally recognized watercolorist Skip Lawrence
2000: “Traditional Watercolor”, 3-day workshop with nationally recognized watercolorist Joe Miller
1989-present: Multiple instructors in western NC, mainly through Catawba Valley Community College
Affiliations:
Signature member of the Watercolor Society of North Carolina
Member/officer of Foothills Painter
Image provided by Susan Grant - Catawba River
Watercolor with Susan Grant: Intermediate Level (Session 2)
Tuesdays, October 20, 27, & November 3
$100; $75 Members
We will build on the skills learned in watercolor basics by painting landscapes, buildings, and still life. We will be painting mostly from photos, but will also try some fun exercises by painting objects from life. In the final session, you will create a painting from your own photo.
The students are asked to provide their own watercolor paper (Arches 140lb cold press is recommended), paper towels, and a substrate to tape the watercolor paper onto. (The most common substrate Susan has used is foam core.) The brushes, paint, tape, and other odds and ends will be provided so you are not required to bring these.
Susan has been a watercolor artist for more than 30 years. She paints in the studio from photographs and also outdoors as a participant in plein air events in western North Carolina. Susan has also been fortunate to paint outdoors in Italy and Ireland.
Susan Grant Bio
Type of Art:
Watercolor and Gouache Painting
Artist Statement:
Even with my logical, mathematical nature that led to an engineering degree, I have loved art for as long as I can remember. I fell in love with watercolor painting over 30 years ago. My engineering background naturally leads into my realistic style of painting; I particularly enjoy painting animals, especially capturing the personality of a pet, a loved member of the family. When participating in plein-air events, I am drawn toward architectural subjects, again a nod to my engineering background. (Plein air is a French term that means to leave the studio and paint outdoors from life.) My medium of choice is transparent watercolor for the fresh, clean colors that result from building layers of “washes” onto the paper. However, I have also discovered that gouache (opaque watercolor) with its rich, saturated color, can also result in striking pieces.
Art Education:
2018 & 2019: Portrait painting classes with Kay Robb
2017 & 2018: 5-day plein-air workshop in Ireland
2013: “A Non-Traditional Approach to Watercolor”, 2-day workshop with Kate Worm
2006, 2007 & 2016: “Painting the Tuscan Landscape”, 7-day plein-air workshops with Jean Cauthen in Italy
2004: “Painting the Cityscape” plein-air workshop with Kate Worm
2002: 5-day workshop with nationally recognized watercolorist Marilyn Hughey Phillis
2001: “Find Your Direction,” 5-day workshop with nationally recognized watercolorist Skip Lawrence
2000: “Traditional Watercolor”, 3-day workshop with nationally recognized watercolorist Joe Miller
1989-present: Multiple instructors in western NC, mainly through Catawba Valley Community College
Affiliations:
Signature member of the Watercolor Society of North Carolina
Member/officer of Foothills Painter
Image provided by Susan Grant - Catawba River
Watercolor with Susan Grant: Intermediate Level (Session 3)
Tuesdays: January 5th, 12th, & 19th
$100; $75 Members
We will build on the skills learned in watercolor basics by painting landscapes, buildings, and still life. We will be painting mostly from photos, but will also try some fun exercises by painting objects from life. In the final session, you will create a painting from your own photo.
The students are asked to provide their own watercolor paper (Arches 140lb cold press is recommended), paper towels, and a substrate to tape the watercolor paper onto. (The most common substrate Susan has used is foam core.) The brushes, paint, tape, and other odds and ends will be provided so you are not required to bring these.
Susan has been a watercolor artist for more than 30 years. She paints in the studio from photographs and also outdoors as a participant in plein air events in western North Carolina. Susan has also been fortunate to paint outdoors in Italy and Ireland.
Susan Grant Bio
Type of Art:
Watercolor and Gouache Painting
Artist Statement:
Even with my logical, mathematical nature that led to an engineering degree, I have loved art for as long as I can remember. I fell in love with watercolor painting over 30 years ago. My engineering background naturally leads into my realistic style of painting; I particularly enjoy painting animals, especially capturing the personality of a pet, a loved member of the family. When participating in plein-air events, I am drawn toward architectural subjects, again a nod to my engineering background. (Plein air is a French term that means to leave the studio and paint outdoors from life.) My medium of choice is transparent watercolor for the fresh, clean colors that result from building layers of “washes” onto the paper. However, I have also discovered that gouache (opaque watercolor) with its rich, saturated color, can also result in striking pieces.
Art Education:
2018 & 2019: Portrait painting classes with Kay Robb
2017 & 2018: 5-day plein-air workshop in Ireland
2013: “A Non-Traditional Approach to Watercolor”, 2-day workshop with Kate Worm
2006, 2007 & 2016: “Painting the Tuscan Landscape”, 7-day plein-air workshops with Jean Cauthen in Italy
2004: “Painting the Cityscape” plein-air workshop with Kate Worm
2002: 5-day workshop with nationally recognized watercolorist Marilyn Hughey Phillis
2001: “Find Your Direction,” 5-day workshop with nationally recognized watercolorist Skip Lawrence
2000: “Traditional Watercolor”, 3-day workshop with nationally recognized watercolorist Joe Miller
1989-present: Multiple instructors in western NC, mainly through Catawba Valley Community College
Affiliations:
Signature member of the Watercolor Society of North Carolina
Member/officer of Foothills Painter
Image provided by Susan Grant - Catawba River
Pop-Up Open Studio: All Ages
Fee: $5
Join us on Saturdays from 12–2 PM for Open Studio in the Education Department! Drop in anytime between 12 and 2 PM and get creative with a variety of art materials. You can pay in advance (which helps us know you're coming) or pay when you arrive. We can't wait to see you there!
Monthly Journaling Club
Join us on the Second Saturday of each month for an open-studio-style journaling experience where creativity has no limits!
Bring your journal and gather your friends for an afternoon of sketching, collage, painting, writing, and whatever else inspires you. All materials are provided, and creative prompts will be offered to help spark your imagination and get your creative process started.
Since launching more than a year ago, our Journaling Club has grown into a welcoming community of creatives who love experimenting, sharing ideas, and simply enjoying the process of making.
Second Saturday of each month from 10 AM -12 PM
Figure Painting Studio (Session 3)
Dates: September 9, 16, 23
$65 | $50 Members (3 classes included)
Figure drawing/painting is an opportunity for artists to work with a live model. This is a recurring class offered in 3 week blocks. Participants bring their choice of materials to work with. The model holds the same position for 3 hours with several breaks. All ability levels are welcome. We are unable to pro-rate our Figure Painting Studio.
Figure Painting Studio (Session 2)
Dates: September 9, 16, 23
$65 | $50 Members (3 classes included)
Figure drawing/painting is an opportunity for artists to work with a live model. This is a recurring class offered in 3 week blocks. Participants bring their choice of materials to work with. The model holds the same position for 3 hours with several breaks. All ability levels are welcome. We are unable to pro-rate our Figure Painting Studio.
Second Saturday with Sangria: Paint & Sip
Come enjoy an evening of creativity, conversation, and fun in our new and improved Education Department! Join us for Sangria Saturday: Paint & Sip, a relaxed art-making experience designed just for adults.
No painting experience is necessary! Our instructor will guide you step-by-step as you create your own work of art in a welcoming and social atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out with friends, a creative date night, or simply a chance to unwind and try something new, this class is the perfect way to spend your Saturday at the museum.
We’ll have sangria available for you to enjoy as you paint, or you’re welcome to BYOB your favorite beverage. Gather your friends, grab a drink, and let your creativity flow!
Monthly Journaling Club
Join us on the Second Saturday of each month for an open-studio-style journaling experience where creativity has no limits!
Bring your journal and gather your friends for an afternoon of sketching, collage, painting, writing, and whatever else inspires you. All materials are provided, and creative prompts will be offered to help spark your imagination and get your creative process started.
Since launching more than a year ago, our Journaling Club has grown into a welcoming community of creatives who love experimenting, sharing ideas, and simply enjoying the process of making.
Second Saturday of each month from 10 AM -12 PM
Figure Painting Studio (Session 1)
Dates: September 9, 16, 23
$65 | $50 Members (3 classes included)
Figure drawing/painting is an opportunity for artists to work with a live model. This is a recurring class offered in 3 week blocks. Participants bring their choice of materials to work with. The model holds the same position for 3 hours with several breaks. All ability levels are welcome. We are unable to pro-rate our Figure Painting Studio.
Plein Air Workshop with Manny Maldonado
HMA presents a painting "plein-air" series in conjunction with artist Manny Maldonado and Catawba County Parks and Recreation!
All of these workshops are beginner friendly (first-time friendly) and include all of the supplies! The ticket includes the setup, paints, canvas, and instruction. There are 6 spots available for each workshop. Plein air, (French for "open air") is the act of painting landscapes or subjects outdoors to capture the immediate fleeting effects of light and atmosphere. We are offering four of these workshops in total, with two of them in collaboration with Catawba County Parks and Recreation, where attendees will have the opportunity to paint in the beautiful Riverbend Park. Shuttle service is available to and from painting locations within Riverbend park.
Please pay attention to the location and date and time for which class you are signing up for as they are in different locations! You are welcome to attend the classes separately or attend all four workshops for a discounted "Kate Worm Plein Air Society" rate.
More info about Manny Maldonado: https://mannyamaldonado.com/
$95; Members: $75
Kate Worm Plein Air Society (All 4 Workshops): $260 to buy the 4-class package, please email kgarvey@hickoryart.org!
Plein Air Workshop with Manny Maldonado & Catawba County Parks & Recreation
HMA presents a painting "plein-air" series in conjunction with artist Manny Maldonado and Catawba County Parks and Recreation!
All of these workshops are beginner friendly (first-time friendly) and include all of the supplies! The ticket includes the setup, paints, canvas, and instruction. There are 6 spots available for each workshop. Plein air, (French for "open air") is the act of painting landscapes or subjects outdoors to capture the immediate fleeting effects of light and atmosphere. We are offering four of these workshops in total, with two of them in collaboration with Catawba County Parks and Recreation, where attendees will have the opportunity to paint in the beautiful Riverbend Park. Shuttle service is available to and from painting locations within Riverbend park.
Please pay attention to the location and date and time for which class you are signing up for as they are in different locations! You are welcome to attend the classes separately or attend all four workshops for a discounted "Kate Worm Plein Air Society" rate.
More info about Manny Maldonado: https://mannyamaldonado.com/
$95; Members: $75
Kate Worm Plein Air Society (All 4 Workshops): $260 to buy the 4-class package, please email kgarvey@hickoryart.org!
Gather and Weave
$30; $20 Members
In this hands-on project, you’ll create a custom loom using everyday items, then bring it to life with colorful yarn and fabric strips. Once your loom is set up, you’ll learn basic weaving techniques to design unique patterns and textures. No experience needed!
This project is perfect for sparking creativity and relaxing your mind as you watch your design grow row by row. Whether you make a bright wall hanging, or a tiny tapestry, every piece will be completely one-of-a-kind. Along the way, you’ll explore how over-under weaving works, experiment with color combinations, and develop fine motor skills.
Fun, creative, and a little bit magical—this DIY loom project transforms simple threads into something beautiful you can keep or share!
DASH Home and Kitchen will have wine for purchase!
Deadline for registration is Monday, May 18th at 8pm.
Any questions, contact Karla Starnes at kstarnes@hickoryart.org.
Teen Drawing Workshop (Ages 10 & Up)
$15; $10 Members
Is your pre-teen or teen curious about drawing? On the last Monday of each month, ages 10 and up have the opportunity to learn and practice simple drawing techniques. Our Drawing Workshop offers a friendly, casual environment to inspire creativity while improving illustration skills. Bring a sketchbook and each month we will focus on a different drawing technique, subject, or theme. Sign up for one or all! Classes run from September to May.
To register, contact Karla Starnes at kstarnes@hickoryart.org.
Monthly Journaling Club
$14; $8 Members
NEW LOCATION!
Join us at The Shuford House & Gardens for our monthly Journaling Club, now held the first Thursday of every month during L.A.T.E. Night Thursdays.
Our open-studio style session is perfect for journaling, collage, and creative exploration—all materials provided. Bring your favorite journal (or start a new one!) and fill it with sketches, collages, paintings, inspiration, and more.
Over the past 1.5 years, our group has grown into a warm and welcoming community, enjoying the freedom to create with just about any material you can imagine. We’ll also provide prompts to spark your own creative process.
Come solo or bring friends—either way, you’ll leave with new ideas, new pages, and maybe even new friends.
To register, contact Karla Starnes at 828-327-8576, ext 207, or kstarnes@hickoryart.org
Teen Drawing Workshop (Ages 10 & Up)
$15; $10 Members
Is your pre-teen or teen curious about drawing? On the last Monday of each month, ages 10 and up have the opportunity to learn and practice simple drawing techniques. Our Drawing Workshop offers a friendly, casual environment to inspire creativity while improving illustration skills. Bring a sketchbook and each month we will focus on a different drawing technique, subject, or theme. Sign up for one or all! Classes run from September to May.
To register, contact Karla Starnes at kstarnes@hickoryart.org.
Plein Air Workshop with Manny Maldonado
HMA presents a painting "plein-air" series in conjunction with artist Manny Maldonado and Catawba County Parks and Recreation!
All of these workshops are beginner friendly (first-time friendly) and include all of the supplies! The ticket includes the setup, paints, canvas, and instruction. There are 6 spots available for each workshop. Plein air, (French for "open air") is the act of painting landscapes or subjects outdoors to capture the immediate fleeting effects of light and atmosphere. We are offering four of these workshops in total, with two of them in collaboration with Catawba County Parks and Recreation, where attendees will have the opportunity to paint in the beautiful Riverbend Park. Shuttle service is available to and from painting locations within Riverbend park.
Please pay attention to the location and date and time for which class you are signing up for as they are in different locations! You are welcome to attend the classes separately or attend all four workshops for a discounted "Kate Worm Plein Air Society" rate.
More info about Manny Maldonado: https://mannyamaldonado.com/
$95; Members: $75
Kate Worm Plein Air Society (All 4 Workshops): $260 to buy the 4-class package, please email kgarvey@hickoryart.org!
Plein Air Workshop with Manny Maldonado & Catawba County Parks & Recreation
HMA presents a painting "plein-air" series in conjunction with artist Manny Maldonado and Catawba County Parks and Recreation!
All of these workshops are beginner friendly (first-time friendly) and include all of the supplies! The ticket includes the setup, paints, canvas, and instruction. There are 6 spots available for each workshop. Plein air, (French for "open air") is the act of painting landscapes or subjects outdoors to capture the immediate fleeting effects of light and atmosphere. We are offering four of these workshops in total, with two of them in collaboration with Catawba County Parks and Recreation, where attendees will have the opportunity to paint in the beautiful Riverbend Park. Shuttle service is available to and from painting locations within Riverbend park.
Please pay attention to the location and date and time for which class you are signing up for as they are in different locations! You are welcome to attend the classes separately or attend all four workshops for a discounted "Kate Worm Plein Air Society" rate.
More info about Manny Maldonado: https://mannyamaldonado.com/
$95; Members: $75
Kate Worm Plein Air Society (All 4 Workshops): $260 to buy the 4-class package, please email kgarvey@hickoryart.org!
Bloom in Paper: A Collage Flowers Workshop at DASH
$16; $12 Members
Unleash your creativity and bring paper to life in this hands-on collage workshop inspired by the beauty of flowers. Using layered textures, colors, and mixed materials, you’ll design your own unique floral composition. No experience needed.
This relaxed and welcoming session is perfect for beginners and seasoned creatives alike. All materials are provided, just bring your imagination and enjoy a mindful, art-filled experience.
Contact Karla Starnes at kstarnes@hickoryart.org to register.
Monthly Journaling Club
$14; $8 Members
NEW LOCATION!
Join us at The Shuford House & Gardens for our monthly Journaling Club, now held the first Thursday of every month during L.A.T.E. Night Thursdays.
Our open-studio style session is perfect for journaling, collage, and creative exploration—all materials provided. Bring your favorite journal (or start a new one!) and fill it with sketches, collages, paintings, inspiration, and more.
Over the past 1.5 years, our group has grown into a warm and welcoming community, enjoying the freedom to create with just about any material you can imagine. We’ll also provide prompts to spark your own creative process.
Come solo or bring friends—either way, you’ll leave with new ideas, new pages, and maybe even new friends.
To register, contact Karla Starnes at 828-327-8576, ext 207, or kstarnes@hickoryart.org
Teen Drawing Workshop (Ages 10 & Up)
$15; $10 Members
Is your pre-teen or teen curious about drawing? On the last Monday of each month, ages 10 and up have the opportunity to learn and practice simple drawing techniques. Our Drawing Workshop offers a friendly, casual environment to inspire creativity while improving illustration skills. Bring a sketchbook and each month we will focus on a different drawing technique, subject, or theme. Sign up for one or all! Classes run from September to May.
To register, contact Karla Starnes at kstarnes@hickoryart.org.