ADULT CLASSES
The Vita Arts Center offers studio classes in a wide range of visual arts. Whether you are a novice or professional the Vita Art Center has a class just right for you. Your space in a class cannot be confirmed until payment is received or payment arrangements are made with the office.
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July 12, 3-5pm
Teaching Artist: Mona Lewis
Adults
$65. (includes supplies)
Campus Location: Thinker Maker Lab, 38 West Main Street, enter through front door on Main Street
This class is an introduction to making and using earth pigments - colors gathered from our local landscape, and processed for watercolor painting! Earth pigments have been a part of human history since time immemorial. They are uniquely beautiful, safe for people and the environment and just really fun to make!
Artist and Waldorf Educator Mona Lewis, who paints and illustrates using exclusively earth pigments will teach you how to find soil and rocks for paint, how to collect them respectfully and how to turn these into pigment. Each student will make their own pigments from local rocks and earth, and then use these colors to paint a picture.
Earth Pigments
July 12, 3-5pm
Teaching Artist: Mona Lewis
Adults
$65. (includes supplies)
Campus Location: Thinker Maker Lab, 38 West Main Street, enter through front door on Main Street
• Saturday, July 11, 2-4pm
• All ages welcome
• $45. per person
• Pre-Registration Required
• Instructor: Laura Mullen
Explore the joyfully exciting act of marrying word and image: this Visual Poetry workshop will expose participants to some inspiring models and open space to playfully surprise yourself where meanings emerge unforced. Focused and fun experiments will include: collage, erasures, typographic experiments and concrete poetry. Feel free to conjure new language onsite or bring previous work which could use another approach—or both.
Materials: Bring an open mind as well as lots of paper (different sizes and textures), also: 1. A used book you’d feel comfortable tearing apart or writing into & 2. Collage materials that have some meaning to you (but aren’t too precious). VITA will have scissors and glue and markers, but if you have any art supplies you’ve been longing to try out this is a great opportunity.
Visual Poetry: word and image in collage and collaboration
• Saturday, July 11, 2-4pm
• All ages welcome
• $45. per person
• Pre-Registration Required
• Instructor: Laura Mullen
Thursdays, 6-8:00pm
7/16- Succulents
7/23- Cat Creations
7/30- Woodland Creatures
8/60- Abstract Compositions$25. per person
Ages 8 thru Adult
Youth ages 8 -14 must be accompanied with an adult
Instructor: Michelle Wilson
Join us Thursday evenings this Summer for Community Felting, a gathering designed for felting enthusiasts and beginners eager to learn. Each session will feature a specific project, and all necessary supplies and tools will be provided for use during the class. Even if you've never tried needle felting before, our supportive community will help you get started with a small and manageable project.
• Saturday, July 25, 2-4pm
• All ages welcome
• $45. per person
• Pre-Registration Required
• Instructor: Laura Mullen
Enter the wonderful world of “filmpoems” where we combine words and images into visual poetry that moves—and moves us. Working with writing of your own or a work you like (it doesn’t have to be poetry), this workshop will guide participants through the process of creating (or collecting) the necessary media for a simple performance or a more complicated project. Some examples of successful video poems will be provided for discussion, and the facilitator will offer guidance in the process of selecting images, storyboarding ideas, and getting into the editing process. No experience with poems or filming is necessary, but you will need a video camera—a smart phone is perfect for this.
Materials: Bring your smart phone, make sure you have video capability on it. Recommended but not necessary: a sound file app like Voice Record or Audio Share. Bring a piece of writing to work with: your own or something by someone else which you love (and they won’t mind you filming).
Making Video Poems
• Saturday, July 25, 2-4pm
• All ages welcome
• $45. per person
• Pre-Registration Required
• Instructor: Laura Mullen
Saturdays, June 6, 13, 20, 27
1-3pm
Drop ins available $20. per session
Teaching Artist: Alexis St. John
Adults
$80 for 4 sessions
Looking for a welcoming place to unwind and create? Open Studio Workspace is a drop-in studio session designed for anyone—beginner or seasoned artist—who wants time and space to make art in a supportive atmosphere. Bring your own project, work on an art class assignment, or collaborate with the instructor (an MFA-trained artist) to design exercises and projects that fit your interests and skill level.
This is your chance to enjoy a stress-free, judgment-free environment where creativity can flourish. Come once, come often—the door is open, and the atmosphere is calm, friendly, and inspiring.
Open Studios Workspace
Saturdays, June 6, 13, 20, 27
1-3pm
$80 for 4 sessions
Drop ins available $20. per session
Teaching Artist: Alexis St. John
Adults
Wednesdays, June 24-July 29
Time: 6-8:30, 6 sessions
Teaching Artist: Horacio Martinez
Adults
$250. (includes most supplies) for 6 Classes
Canvases not included, Students will need (2x) 9x12 Canvas Board
Classes are held in Vita Art Studios, studio #15 (50 West Main Street)
Before the first class you will receive an entry code to the front door.
Discover the timeless art of oil painting in our upcoming class at Vita Art Center. This course is dedicated to teaching the fundamentals of oil painting through a traditional approach, ideal for beginners and those looking to refine their skills. You will explore classic techniques, from mastering brushwork and color mixing to understanding composition and light. Through guided instruction, demonstrations, and hands-on practice, you’ll gain a solid foundation in oil painting that will serve as a stepping stone for your artistic journey. Join us and unlock the beauty of this enduring medium.
Fundamentals in Oil, Summer26
Wednesdays, June 24-July 29
Time: 6-8:30, 6 sessions
Teaching Artist: Horacio Martinez
Adults
$250. (includes most supplies) for 6 Classes
Canvases not included, Students will need (2x) 9x12 Canvas Board
Classes are held in Vita Art Studios, studio #15 (50 West Main Street)
Before the first class you will receive an entry code to the front door.
Monday thru Friday July 6 - July 10
Time: 1-3pm
1 week
Supplies not included
Intermediate students welcome
Teaching Artist: Andres Salazar
Adults
Fees: $180.
Discover the beauty and spontaneity of watercolor in this engaging class designed for beginners, as well as students who are ready to expand their skills. Students will learn essential techniques—including washes, layering, color mixing, and brush control—while exploring a variety of subjects such as florals, landscapes, and still life. Intermediate students are welcome and will be offered special projects that allow them to build on their existing skills, develop their personal style, and explore more advanced approaches to watercolor.
Supplies:
Watercolor paper - cold press , 11x14 or 9x12 , Optional Brands: Strathmore, Canson, Arches
Brushes - watercolor specific ones, Optional brands: W&N Cotman, DaVinci. Must have some wide flat brushes
Paint - tubes or higher-quality pans. Any set will do.
Optional: Sponges, towels, spray bottles.
Beginning Watercolors 1 week
Monday thru Friday July 6 - July 10
Time: 1-3pm
1 week
Supplies not included
Intermediate students welcome
Teaching Artist: Andres Salazar
Adults
Fees: $180.
Saturdays, July 11 - August 15
Teaching Artist: Michelle Wilson
Time: 10am-12:30pm
$315 for 6 classes
Limited to 8 students
Adults
Held outdoors in the Vita Courtyard at Vita Art Center, 28 W Main St.
Explore the fundamentals of metalsmithing through jewelry making. We will learn the basics of sawing, filing, and soldering nonferrous metals. We’ll experiment with stamping, hammering, and finishing techniques. Students will leave with finished pieces, and a foundation in jewelry and metalsmithing.
Summer, Metalsmithing, Form and Fabrication
Saturdays, July 11 - August 15
Teaching Artist: Michelle Wilson
Time: 10am-12:30pm
$315 for 6 classes
Limited to 8 students
Adults
Held outdoors in the Vita Courtyard at Vita Art Center, 28 W Main St.
Sunday, July 19th
Time: 10am-2:30pm
Teaching Artist: Laura Evans-Mills
One day class
Adults
$165.
All tools and supplies provided to make a stained-glass nightlight or sun-catcher.
5 students per class
This class is taught in the copper foil method made popular by Louis Comfort Tiffany. This class will give students a good feel for what the art of stained-glass entails. Students will learn how to cut, shape and foil glass, as well as how to solder and finish the metal. Students should leave the class with a stained glass nightlight or sun-catcher they made themselves. A variety of patterns will be available to choose from.
After the introductory class (or equivalent) students can enroll in upcoming Stained Glass Sessions and make a project of their own choice in copper foil or lead came.
What to Wear
Please wear closed-toed-shoes and comfortable clothes you won't mind getting dirty, a big old t-shirt works well or an apron.
Lead and Glass Safety
Handling lead poses a risk of lead poisoning if certain precautions are not followed. Lead cannot be absorbed through the skin, only through ingestion or an open cut. Follow these basic safety guidelines; always wash hands well with an abrasive soap after working with lead. Never eat, drink, or smoke while working. Always bandage any open cuts on hands or fingers. Wear a mask and solder in a well-ventilated area with a fan, smoke absorber, or fume trap. Keep children away from work area. It takes long term exposure to elevate lead levels in your body. Young children are more susceptible.
When handling glass wear safety glasses and be aware of sharp edges or corners on the glass. Don't try to catch a piece of glass if dropped.
Introductory Stained Glass
Sunday, July 19thOR Sunday, August 16Time: 10am-2:30pmTeaching Artist: Laura Evans-MillsOne day classAdults$165.All tools and supplies provided to make a stained-glass nightlight or sun-catcher.5 students per class
Wednesdays,
May 13
May 20
May 27
June 3
Time: 1:00- 3:30pm
4 weeks
Teaching Artist: Andres Salazar
Adults
Fees: $40.
If you aren’t available for all 4 classes, you can sign up for the day(s) you are.
Explore Ventura through sketching and watercolor. Each week, students will visit a different local site and learn simple techniques for drawing from observation, adding watercolor, and capturing the character of a place. This class is a wonderful way to slow down, see Ventura with fresh eyes, and build skills that can be used while traveling, exploring new cities, or documenting everyday life. Students will learn how to sketch architecture, landscapes, street scenes, and small details in a personal sketchbook. As the saying goes, when you draw a place, you truly begin to see it. • The first class will meet at Vita Art Center.
SUPPLIES
Watercolor travel sketchbook - There are many types and brands are not important. You can use as big as you want as well. Here is one example: https://a.co/d/0069iYrp
Watercolor brushes - travel size is optional.
Brush pen (optional) https://a.co/d/03IJAlJO
Pencil
Pen, ballpoint or waterproof technical pens (Micron brand or something similar)
paper towel or rag
Small bottle for water.
DROP-INS Travel Journals, Sketching & Watercolors
Wednesdays,
May 13
May 20
May 27
June 3
Time: 1:00- 3:30pm
4 weeks
Teaching Artist: Andres Salazar
Adults
Fees: $40. per class
Saturday, May 9th OR June 20
Time: 10am-2pm
Teaching Artist: Laura Evans-Mills
One day class
Adults
$165.
All tools and supplies provided to make a stained-glass nightlight.
5 students per class
This class is taught in the copper foil method made popular by Louis Comfort Tiffany. This class will give students a good feel for what the art of stained-glass entails. Students will learn how to cut, shape and foil glass, as well as how to solder and finish the metal. Students should leave the class with a stained glass nightlight they made themselves. A variety of patterns will be available to choose from.
After the introductory class (or equivalent) students can enroll in upcoming Stained Glass Sessions and make a project of their own choice in copper foil or lead came.
What to Wear
Please wear closed-toed-shoes and comfortable clothes you won't mind getting dirty, a big old t-shirt works well or an apron.
Lead and Glass Safety
Handling lead poses a risk of lead poisoning if certain precautions are not followed. Lead cannot be absorbed through the skin, only through ingestion or an open cut. Follow these basic safety guidelines; always wash hands well with an abrasive soap after working with lead. Never eat, drink, or smoke while working. Always bandage any open cuts on hands or fingers. Wear a mask and solder in a well-ventilated area with a fan, smoke absorber, or fume trap. Keep children away from work area. It takes long term exposure to elevate lead levels in your body. Young children are more susceptible.
When handling glass wear safety glasses and be aware of sharp edges or corners on the glass. Don't try to catch a piece of glass if dropped.
Introductory Stained Glass
Saturday, May 9th OR June 20
Time: 10am-2pm
Teaching Artist: Laura Evans-Mills
One day class
Adults
$165.
All tools and supplies provided
5 students per class
Wednesdays, May 13 - June 3
Time: 1:00- 3:30pm
4 weeks
Teaching Artist: Andres Salazar
Adults
Fees: $145.
Explore Ventura through sketching and watercolor. Each week, students will visit a different local site and learn simple techniques for drawing from observation, adding watercolor, and capturing the character of a place. This class is a wonderful way to slow down, see Ventura with fresh eyes, and build skills that can be used while traveling, exploring new cities, or documenting everyday life. Students will learn how to sketch architecture, landscapes, street scenes, and small details in a personal sketchbook. As the saying goes, when you draw a place, you truly begin to see it. • The first class will meet at Vita Art Center.
SUPPLIES
Watercolor travel sketchbook - There are many types and brands are not important. You can use as big as you want as well. Here is one example: https://a.co/d/0069iYrp
Watercolor brushes - travel size is optional.
Brush pen (optional) https://a.co/d/03IJAlJO
Pencil
Pen, ballpoint or waterproof technical pens (Micron brand or something similar)
paper towel or rag
Small bottle for water.
Travel Journals, Sketching & Watercolors
Wednesdays, May 13 - June 3
Time: 1:00- 3:30pm
4 weeks
Teaching Artist: Andres Salazar
Adults
Fees: $145.
Fridays, April 3 - May 8, 2026
6 sessions
Teaching Artist: Claudia Pardo
Time: 11am-1:30pm
Adults
$200.
This introductory class focuses on basic drawing techniques, learning how to observe objects from real life, and exploring a variety of drawing media. Through guided exercises, brief lectures, demonstrations, and fun hands-on experiences, students will build foundational skills in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Designed for beginners or anyone wanting to refresh their skills, this course prepares students for our next-level drawing class. Students will learn the essentials of drawing, including line work, shape construction, and an understanding of light and shadow. Through simple projects and observational practice, participants will gain confidence with materials while developing stronger drawing and seeing skills.
Instructor Bio
Claudia studied Art and Art History at California State University, Northridge, where she earned both her BA and MA. She has taught at Oxnard College, CSU Channel Islands, and now Ventura College, where she teaches Drawing & Composition and Color & Design. Teaching has always come naturally to Claudia; she enjoys helping students slow down, observe details, and find joy in the creative process.
Supplies
Supplies are available online from Michaels.com and Blick.com.
Supply List
Strathmore 400 Series drawing paper, 11" x 14"
2B pencil
Kneaded eraser
Blending stump
14" x 18" drawing board
Spring, Intro to Drawing
Fridays, April 3 - May 8, 2026
6 sessions
Teaching Artist: Claudia Pardo
Time: 11am-1:30pm
Adults
$200.
Saturdays, May 2, 9, 16, 23
4 weeks
Time: 10am-12pm
Teaching Artist: Andres Salazar
Adults
Fees: $145.
____________________________Saturdays, May 2, 9, 16, 23
4 weeks
Time: 10am-12pm
Teaching Artist: Andres Salazar
Adults
Fees: $145.
____________________________