Getting Started At Kate's Art School
Posted by Kate Manville-Schwartz on Sep 8th 2022
So you want to take a class! Excellent! Now, where do you begin?
Every week, we have a live show on Instagram (@katesartschool,) Wednesdays 11:30am-12:30pm EST. During our Live sessions, we give free education, but in the episode below we're veering from our art demos to do a special episode that covers what’s new this school year at Kate's and how to set yourself up for success.
Or, if you don't have time to watch the video, in a nutshell, here are the talking points:
What to consider when picking a class?
For youth and teens, you sign up for the whole school year. We accept late enrollment, but we prefer you start at the very beginning in September and go through May. If more adult students lived here year-round, we'd have adults students do this too. But they don't, so we can't. Instead, we ask that adults consider schedule, budget and interest. That's it. Don't overthink it! All the classes help each other, so just get in here. Watch the video above to learn how student Michelle, takes advantage of this thinking.
Follow these links to learn more about
What if I want more time to work on my project?
'Open Studio' time is available for you! I can present the lessons, but mastery of skills takes practice. The more work you do on your own, the better off you're going to be. Homework is never required, but always encouraged. Until this year, we've only ever allowed 16 years and older come into 'Open Studio,' by appointment, but now that I've been in business for four full years, the majority of our students return and know the rules of the school, so as of this year, we are offering 'Open Studio' time for current students, 9 years old and older, to drop-in Fridays 3-5pm, and Saturdays 11-1pm. It's $10 per hour, and no prior registration necessary.
What do I bring to class?
All ages are required to bring an apron. You can bring one from home, or purchase one from Kate's Art School. Nine to 18 year olds are required to bring a sketchbook, any size or brand. It is highly recommended that all ages own a sketchbook, even if they are not required to bring one to class. Sketchbooks are used for taking notes, working out design problems, and daily drawing exercises.
Follow these link to purchase accessories
Small Youth Apron (fits 6-8 year olds)
Large Youth Apron (fits 9-12 year olds)
What if I need more then what the class is offering?
A relationship with your teacher is really important! If I feel you need more, I promise that I will suggest an extension for the lesson, another class, a special tool, joining us for 'Open Studio' time, an online art challenge, or a special exhibition.
What classes are coming up?
If you have a youth or teen in your life that is ready, you're in luck because we're currently enrolling! Adults, click to learn more about these two different class options starting in the next couple of weeks:
- Understanding Color (starts 9/20), and
- Functional Ceramics (starts 9/21).
These two classes are foundational in the 2-D and 3-D arts and are available to any and all skill levels. All of our classes are designed with beginners in mind, but offer extensions for intermediate and advanced. Watch the video above to learn how student Dana has used the Understanding Color Class in her flower farm and even written it off as a business expense.
Do I need to practice at home?
At Kate's Art School, we don't require homework, however you will make larger strides if you do practice in your own time. I also never want Kate's Art School to be associated with stress and deadlines. I lean on you to determine what's right for you. I promise that I will provide the environment, tools and lesson, it's up to you to determine how much more advancement than that, you want. This year, we're offering online art challenges that are free to engage in and an exhibition. We certainly hope that you'll consider joining us for those extra growth opportunities.