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Classes & Workshops 

View classes by media below the calendar. Section headers with blue underline are links to more classes in that media group.

Upcoming Classes

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Kids' Classes

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Upcoming events

  • Cello Lessons

    • January 15, 2026
    • December 17, 2026
    • 48 sessions
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 99
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor Nina Buzby BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

    15 yrs & up

    Musician Nina Buzby will hold classes for all ages and skill levels.  Classes are for individuals.  She began playing cello in the Richmond Public Schools when she was ten, and studied privately with Paul Cartwright and Gesila Depcat of the Richmond Symphony.  Nina was a member of the Richmond Symphony for five years and currently performs widely in the tri-county area as part of the Strings and Things network of local musicians.  She also performs with the Tri Con Brio in the Richmond area, and The Festival Musicians and Rappahannock Chamber Soloists in the Kilmarnock area.  Nina is a founding member of The Tuneful Teachers and greatly enjoys arranging instrumental music and composing vocal music.  Class will be either 30 or 60 minutes in length and  will be scheduled at registration.   Instruments are not provided and are the responsibility of the student.

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  • Reigniting Your Creative Spark

    • January 27, 2026
    • December 22, 2026
    • 12 sessions
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 10
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Gabrielle Patrice

    18 yrs & up 

    Do you recall being creative as a child? You would create as the moment spoke to you, coloring outside the black and white lines, letting your imagination be your guide. At some time, someone or even something may have happened or was said to instill a feeling of insecurity and limit this natural creative flow.

    Do you find yourself saying, “I’m not creative,” or “I’m not a good artist?”

    In this class we will work through existing blocks using various materials, mediums, and ideas, exploring paints, pastels, ink, color theory, and collage with a focus on building confidence in your creative expression.
    This is an excellent opportunity to find what you love working with as a creative tool. There will be visual and writing prompts to help you let go of any limitations that restrict your creativity.

    This is an ongoing class with new prompts for each class. No experience is required, only your willingness to reignite your existing inner creative spark  during a journey of self-exploration in a safe environment to reclaim your unique and talented self!

    Advance registration is required. Each class session needs a minimum of two students, so bring a friend!

    Class is held the 4th Tuesday of each mont.

    2/10

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  • The Creative Circle

    • February 10, 2026
    • December 08, 2026
    • 11 sessions
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • Be the first
    Register


    Instructor Gabrielle Patrice

    18 yrs & up

    Do you have a creative project you are working on? Or an unfinished one that you'd like to revisit? Do you want to start a new project and don't know where to start? Please join The Creative Circle for an open studio led by artist Gabrielle Patrice on the second Tuesday of the month.


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  • Bead Soup Wire Crochet Necklace

    • April 18, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 8
    • Be the first
    Register


    Instructor, Pat Whitlow

    18&up

    Wire crochet looks complicated but is really quite easy. Students will use the instructors "bead soup" to make  this attractive necklace. 

    Students must know how to crochet a chain stitch before coming to class.


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  • Frida, Pastels & Portraits

    • April 19, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 14
    • Be the first
    Register

    VMFA Instructor, Dawn Flores

    18 yr & up

    Study the art of portraiture through the work and photographs of Frida Kahlo.  Students will work in pastels as they hone their understanding of drawing portraits by working from photographs of the Mexican artist and/or her work.  A slide presentation on the VMFA’s exhibition Frida: Beyond the Myth will be presented as part of the workshop. All materials are provided and class is open to all skill levels. This program has been organized by the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and is supported, in part, by the Paul Mellon Endowment and the Jean Stafford Camp Memorial Fund.


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  • Green Man Wall Hanging

    • April 28, 2026
    • May 26, 2026
    • 3 sessions
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 8
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Wendy Marshall

    18 yrs & up

    The Green Man symbolizes nature, life in the forest, and plant life.  In this class you will be instructed in modelling a face to incorporate into a wall hanging in the fashion of the Green Man.  Come prepared on the second day with leaves gathered the day of class from trees and shrubs to make impressions in clay to decorate your unique wall hanging. 


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  • Papier Mache Teacup

    • April 30, 2026
    • 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 10
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Jennifer Schroeder

    18 yrs & up

    We will craft heavy watercolor paper into delicate teacups and saucers. The creations will then be coated in a thin glue mixture and decorated. Decorating will consist of painting designs and/or decoupage. The handmade tea setting will be for decorative use only. The teacher will present some ideas for display.


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  • Beginner Wheel Throwing with Brenda Mahoney

    • May 01, 2026
    • June 05, 2026
    • 6 sessions
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 7
    • Be the first
    Register


    Instructor, Brenda Mahoney

    18&up

    This class is for those who want to learn the basics of wheel throwing. Beginning students will learn to mold a ball of clay and shape it into various objects: bowls, mugs, cylinders, etc. Students with previous experience will learn techniques to make more complicated forms and improve their skills. This class is an excellent opportunity for students to explore clay on the wheel in a fun and creative atmosphere.

    Students should bring their own tools, buckets, aprons, and towels. There also will be tools available to use, if needed.  While enrolled in this class, you may use the facilities during open studio time to practice what you have learned. 

    This class includes one 25-pound bag of clay.  You can purchase more clay, if needed.


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  • Hand-Building Basics

    • May 05, 2026
    • May 26, 2026
    • 4 sessions
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 6
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Linda Brent

    18 yrs & up

    Learn the basic skills needed to turn a ball of clay into useful and artistic items.  Your pinch pots will become small bowls, tea cups, covered containers, and maybe even a votive candle holder.  We also will  roll slabs for push plates, slumping, and construction of various pieces.  Fun learning is the name of the game!  Hand building can be messy, so wear appropriate clothing or bring an apron.  Open to all skill levels.


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  • Intermediate Wheel Throwing

    • May 06, 2026
    • June 11, 2026
    • 6 sessions
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 7
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Brenda Mahoney

    18 yrs & up

    This class is for students who want to improve their throwing skills by making larger bowls, plates, lids, teapots, etc. We will focus on whatever the students would like to learn, so come to class with ideas, and we will bring them to life.

    Students should bring their own tools, buckets, aprons, and towels. Tools are available for use, if needed.  While enrolled in this class, you may use the facilities during open studio time to practice what you have learned. 



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  • Intermediate Slab Building

    • May 07, 2026
    • June 04, 2026
    • 4 sessions
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 6
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Peggy Shifflett

    18 yrs & up

    Join us for an exciting journey into the world of slab building. In this class you will learn how to create larger pieces using templates or your own patterns for adding a personal touch to your indoor or outdoor spaces. This class is designed to enhance your techniques and encourage creativity as you work on your projects. Whether you are looking to create stunning pottery for your home, gifts or friends the skills you develop will open up a world of possibilities. Do not miss out on this change to grow in your pottery journey.


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  • Smart Phone Photography

    • May 09, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 6
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Paul Zuhoski

    18 yrs & up

    This class is designed to demonstrate the true potential of modern smart phone cameras and their ability to generate images which are on par with pricey digital SLR (Single Lens Reflex) platforms such as Nikon, Canon, etc. 

    This class is ideal for anyone who wants to learn the nuances involved in taking photographs, specifically using their smart phones.  Students will learn the basics of photographic composition and be given an opportunity to leverage their smart phone cameras in ways they might not have considered. They also will be given advice on how to turn their digital images into tangible works of art. 

    Please bring your smart phones to class, preferably iPhones or newer Samsung models.


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  • Stained Glass Sun Catcher

    • May 09, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 6
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Lynn Abrams

    18 yrs & up

    Learn the basics of stained glass - cutting, foiling, and soldering - while making a tear shaped sun catcher. Please bring a bag lunch and eye protection.





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  • Needle-Felted Jellyfish

    • May 12, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 10
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Jennifer Schroeder

    18 yrs & up

    You will learn felting techniques to sculpt a colorful 3D jellyfish using a felting needle and wool. Ribbon, mohair, and wool will be used to make beautiful flowing tentacles. The finished jellyfish will use fishing line to hang and display it. The needle-felted jellyfish is very easy and is a great introduction to needle felting.


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  • Everyday Acrylics

    • May 13, 2026
    • May 15, 2026
    • 3 sessions
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 8
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Gary Edmondson 

    18 yrs & up

    All students are welcome to explore different techniques in the use of paint on canvas, canvas board, and watercolor board. Gary will help students view the different colors in the make-up of the atmosphere, water, and the object in still life paintings. Please bring your own photos for reference to help define who you are as a painter. Gary will give individual help and guidance and critique all work. Please come prepared to use different tools to help you achieve your own style and have a lot of fun. A materials list will be provided. Beginners are welcome.

     

    Please keep in mind before you purchase materials that the class may not yet be confirmed.

    https://bayschoolarts.asapconnected.com/files/read?file=media%2Fsupply%20list.pdf


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  • Stained Glass Floral Mosaic

    • May 16, 2026
    • May 17, 2026
    • 2 sessions
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 6
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Lynn Abrams

    18 yrs & up

    Come learn the basics of stained glass mosaics. This beautiful floral mosaic will be a nice addition to any home. Please bring eye protection and a bag lunch.







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  • Hand Dyed Shibori Silk Scarves

    • May 16, 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 12
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Priscilla Stultz

    18 yrs & up

    This class uses an instant set dye called Colorhue. Extra dye turns to water once the scarf has absorbed as much dye as possible. During this class, you will make three silk scarves using colors of your choice and learn a few simple techniques to create beautiful accessories or gifts. Please wear old clothes in case the dye spills. Everything needed to create the scarves is included in the class. There will be extra silk scarves available for $5/each if you wish to create more than three.


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  • Fairy House

    • May 20, 2026
    • May 27, 2026
    • 2 sessions
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 6
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Virginia Coyle

    18 yrs & up

    In this two-day class, we will use air dry clay, bottles and jars to design your own tiny fairy home. The first day will be spent using air dry clay to shape your house and the second day will be spent painting your house.


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  • Great Blue Heron Canvas

    • May 21, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 10
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Jennifer Schroeder

    18 yrs & up

    Paint a majestic great blue heron on a rectangular canvas using acrylic paints. The unique shape of the rectangular canvas really suits the heron’s tall features.


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  • Easy Peasy Bracelet & Earrings

    • May 30, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 6
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Pat Whitlow

    18 yrs & up

    This bracelet and earrings set is super easy to make and, best of all, requires no tools!  This class is fun for new or more experienced jewelry makers.  All materials will be furnished.


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  • Not Your Mama's Potholders

    • May 30, 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 5
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Linda Brent

    12 yrs & up

    Learn or refresh your knowledge for weaving potholders. We will be using cotton loops. The colors are gorgeous—not like mama's. The results are awesome—kind of like mama's. We will make a very traditional one and a more modern one, seeing how color combinations work. We will use all cotton loops that will not melt.

    You will take home a loom and some extra loops.


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  • Sparkle Bangle

    • May 30, 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 8
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Denise Bush

    18 yrs & up

    Wire wrap a sparkly cuff using a selection of bangle bracelets, crystal chain, and charms.  Please bring a bead mat and beading tools if you have them. The instructor will have some available for use. Bring reading glasses and task lighting if this is helpful for you.  Open to all skill levels.


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  • Gourd-eous Paisley Chicken

    • June 03, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 8
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Virginia Coyle

    18 yrs & up

    Transform an ordinary gourd into a whimsical, one-of-a-kind folk art chicken. Using the gourd's natural shape as the foundation, you will learn to paint a paisley pattern on your chicken.

     


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  • Vintage Plate with Painted Fox

    • June 04, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 10
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Jennifer Schroeder

    18 yrs & up

    Paint a resting fox curled up on a vintage plate. The pattern on the plate adds to the charm of the painting. Plates will be provided or bring a favorite plate or family heirloom. Hangers will be provided so your finished work can be hung on the wall. Some painting experience would be helpful but not necessary.


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  • Oyster Watercolor

    • June 10, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 10
    Register

    Instructor, Jennifer Schroeder

    18 yrs & up

    Paint an 8x10-inch oyster using watercolor paints. We will begin the class learning some basic watercolor techniques and color mixing to be used for the painting.


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  • Pottery Dragon Eye

    • June 12, 2026
    • June 29, 2026
    • 2 sessions
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 8
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Jennifer Schroeder

    10 yrs - 17 yrs

    Let your imagination soar when you create magical dragon eyes. This is a two-day class. On Day One, students will use clay to make scale patterns to give each dragon a unique look. After your dragons are fired, you will return to paint a magical eye that will be added to your pottery piece. Using acrylic paint, you then will paint your dragon. Finished work can be hung on the wall for display.

    Please note that the dates have changed from what are in the printed catalog.


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  • Dolphin Watercolor and Custom Frame

    • June 12, 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 10
    • Be the first
    Register


    Instructor, Jennifer Schroeder

    Ages: 10 - 17 yrs

    Learn to paint a playful dolphin using watercolor paints. You will learn watercolor-painting techniques and color mixing to create your dolphin painting. Paintings will be 8x10 inches, and you will design a very special frame to showcase your artwork as part of this class.


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  • Throwing for Lamps and Lighting

    • June 13, 2026
    • June 14, 2026
    • 2 sessions
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 7
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Noah Hughey-Commers

    18 yrs & up

    Students will learn about and work on making lamp bases of different shapes, shades for pendant lights and altered shadow lamps. We will talk about how the aesthetics of form work with light and how to install hardware to complete our pieces. Students should be able to comfortably throw and shape a three-pound vase.  Bring your pottery tools to class.


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  • Wire Birds Nest Pendant

    • June 13, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 6
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Pat Whitlow

    18 yrs & up

    This cute pendant is easy to make and requires no experience. Students will also learn  to construct the cord.


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  • Mini Floral Mosaic Workshop

    • June 13, 2026
    • June 14, 2026
    • 2 sessions
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 6
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Virginia Coyle

    18 yrs & up

    Get ready for a crafty workout! We're talkin' framed mini mosaic floral designs. Size and design are all up to you! We will be working with a variety of tiles, glass, and vintage items. Just remember, safety first, and bring a pair of safety glasses. Hand strength and dexterity are needed to use wheeled cutters, glass cutters, and grinders. Quick workers may  make more than one piece. Open to all skill levels.


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  • Framed Lentil with Stone Setting

    • June 20, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 8
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Cynthia Quesenberry

    14 yrs & up

    This class is an adventure in working with precious metal clay to learn beginner/intermediate techniques to create jewelry designs in Art Clay Silver.  Art Clay Silver is a product especially formulated for objects that can be created and fired in the same day with outstanding results.  Art Clay Silver once fired is .999 pure fine silver and is available in several formulations, such as syringes, paste, silver-coated paper, and overlay paste. Art Clay Silver projects can be combined with ceramics, glass fusions, kiln- fired, enameled, and torch-enameled. 

    Topics covered in this class will include manipulating the clay and expanding on skills and experience previously acquired. New techniques covered in this class include how to create a pendant using silver metal clay, creating textural elements using a variety of tools and silver materials, and setting a colorful cubic zirconia stone.  We will use a variety of tools and techniques to support the design, such as finishing, sanding, and how to make simple repairs.  Open to all skill levels.



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  • Painting Reflections in Watercolors

    • June 27, 2026
    • June 28, 2026
    • 2 sessions
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 12
    • Be the first
    Register

    Instructor, Catherine Hillis

    16 yrs & up

    Enjoy two days of painting reflections in watercolors! Bring your photos of shiny objects and let's paint  arrangements of jars and vases, clear glass objects, windows, rain puddles, and water.

    Your instructor will begin with a review of the basic skills that every painter should know and move on to composing the scene. Then learn how to build up glazes to convey reflective surfaces. Expect multiple demonstrations and lots of individual coaching.  This class is for both the experienced beginner and more advanced students.

    Please keep in mind before you purchase materials that the class may not yet be confirmed.



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  • Capturing Light and Atmosphere En Plein Air

    • October 08, 2026
    • October 10, 2026
    • 3 sessions
    • Bay School Community Arts Center
    • 15
    • Be the first
    Register


    Instructor, Joe Gyurcsak

    18 yr & up

    This workshop’s main objective is to teach artists how to see and paint with more confidence and learn how to create wonderfully energized plein air paintings, which capture the unique light and atmosphere the artist envisioned from the moment of his or her inspiration.

    Each day will include a demo, short lecture, AM painting scene, PM painting scene, solid individual guidance, and valuable critiques with group critique optional.   Drawing, composition, value, color, edges, and paint and surface manipulation will be covered.  A materials list will be provided.

    Beginner to advanced students are welcome, and students may work in oils, acrylics, and/or watercolor. No refunds after September 1, 2026.

     Please keep in mind before you purchase materials that the class may not yet be confirmed. Download the supply list here.

    minimum 10/ maximum 15 students



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Past events

April 12, 2026 Earring Designs with Stone Setting
April 11, 2026 Native Gourds!
April 09, 2026 Adult Spring Cupcakes Workshop
April 07, 2026 Sit & Spin

Basketry

  • No upcoming events

Ceramics

Fiber Arts 

Glass

Jewelry

Mixed Media

Mosaic

Paper

  • No upcoming events
Adult Classes - other or all media

Culinary Arts

  • No upcoming events

Music

All Media

Garden Art

  • No upcoming events

Holiday-Themed Classes

  • No upcoming events

The Bay School | 279 Main Street | PO Box 1524 | Mathews, VA  23109

804-725-1278 | makeart@bayschoolarts.org

The Bay School is supported, in part, by Mathews County, the Virginia Commission for the Arts, which receives support from the Virginia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.

                    

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