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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Tuesdays, Sep. 15 - Oct. 6
Time: 10am-12:30pm
4 weeks
Supplies not included
Beginning & Intermediate
Teaching Artist: Andres Salazar
Adults
Fees: $145.
Location: Outdoor Courtyard Classroom
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.
This class is located in our shaded outdoor classroom, enter from the parking lot at the rear of building 28.
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.
Watercolors, Fall 2026
Tuesdays, Sep. 15 - Oct. 6
Time: 10am-12:30pm
4 weeks
Supplies not included
Beginning & Intermediate
Teaching Artist: Andres Salazar
Adults
Fees: $145.
Location: Outdoor Courtyard Classroom
Sept.12 -Oct. 17
Saturdays, 6 weeks
Time: 10am-11am
Adults & children ages 7&up
Fees: $100.
Teaching Artist: Mona Lewis
Materials provided
Community Knitting Circle is a warm and welcoming introduction to the art of knitting for beginners ages 7 and up. Parents are encouraged to learn alongside their child as you discover the timeless joy of creating with your hands. Inspired by lessons taught in Waldorf schools for many years, the class begins by making your own smooth wooden knitting needles and learning finger crochet to build coordination, confidence, and an understanding of yarn tension. From there, you'll learn the foundational knit stitch and have time between classes to practice at home as your project takes shape. Working with beautiful natural wool yarn and handcrafted tools, each participant will create a project suited to their skill level while building the lifelong skills and confidence to explore endless knitting possibilities.
Community Knitting Circle
Sept.12 -Oct. 17
Saturdays, 6 weeks
Time: 10am-11am
Adults & children ages 7&up
Fees: $100.
Teaching Artist: Mona Lewis
Materials provided
Saturday, Sept.5
Time: 2-4:30pm
Adults
Fees: $40.
Teaching Artist: Alexis St. John
Materials provided
All supplies provided
Learn to transform your inner voice into a visually striking, completely private writing system. This fast-paced, hands-on workshop merges basic cryptographic concepts with personal artistic expression. Students will leave with a completed custom cipher key and a beautifully rendered secret journal entry.
The Art of Secret Writing
Saturday, Sept.5
Time: 2-4:30pm
Adults
Fees: $40.
Teaching Artist: Alexis St. John
Materials provided
All supplies provided
Saturdays, Sep 5 - Oct. 17, No Class 9/26
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.
Metalsmithing, Form and Fabrication, Fall
Saturdays, Sep 5 - Oct. 17, No Class 9/26
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.
Tuesdays, Sep. 15 - Oct. 20, 6 weeks
Time: 6:00-8:30pm
Adults
Fees: $250.
Teaching Artist: Rosel Weedn
Beginners & Intermediate
Materials provided
Classes are held in Thinker Maker Space
Student will learn machine sewing through guided projects. The class will explore different fabrics, textures, and embellishments while developing essential sewing skills.
The Thinker Maker Space is located in building 38. Park at the back of the building and enter through the front on Main Street.
Sewing, Tuesdays, pm
Tuesdays, Sep. 15 - Oct. 20, 6 weeks
Time: 6:00-8:30pm
Adults
Fees: $250.
Teaching Artist: Rosel Weedn
Beginners & Intermediate
Materials provided
Classes are held in Thinker Maker Space
Sunday, Sept 13
One Day Workshop
Time: 10am-2:30pm
Teaching Artist: Laura Evans-Mills
Adults
$175.
5 students per class
All tools and supplies provided to make a stained-glass nightlight, mirror, or sun catcher. Many patterns to choose from.
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 will leave the class with a stained-glass piece they made!
*Introductory class pre-requisite to Stained Glass Workshop Sessions, coming beginning of 2027. Four days per session to make a project of your choice.
What to Wear
Closed-toed-shoes suggested, 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.
Introductory Stained Glass
Sunday, Sept 13 OR Oct. 18
One Day Workshop
Time: 10am-2:30pm
Teaching Artist: Laura Evans-Mills
Adults
$175.
5 students per class
All tools and supplies provided to make a stained-glass nightlight, mirror, or sun catcher. Many patterns to choose from.
Wednesdays, Sep. 16 - Oct. 7, 4 weeks
Time: 6-8:30pm
Supplies not included
Beginning & Intermediate
Teaching Artist: Andres Salazar
Adults
Fees: $145.
Location: The Drawing Room, building 50
Explore the exciting world of abstract art while discovering the many ways artists move beyond realism to express ideas, emotions, and energy. In this hands-on class, students will experiment with a variety of abstract styles, including the expressive movement of Action Painting, the bold simplicity of Color Field painting, the fractured perspectives of Cubism, and the clean lines and patterns of Geometric Abstraction. Through demonstrations, creative exercises, and guided projects, participants will develop their own visual language while learning about influential artists and the principles behind each approach. Perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike, this class encourages curiosity, experimentation, and creative confidence.
This class is located in the Drawing Room inside of building 50. A door code will be sent before the first day of class.
Class supplies list:
Students can use any medium, acrylics, watercolor or oils.
Vita will have some acrylics on hand, but students may want to bring their own paints (Golden, Liquitex, Nova).
Students are responsible for bringing Watercolor or oil paints and pallets if they choose to use them
Appropriate brushes, small, large, round and flat and palette knife.
options for painting surfaces:
Stretched Canvas or boards 11x14 or larger
Pad of painting paper Acrylics & Oil (https://a.co/d/04mS51Pc)
Pad for watercolor (https://a.co/d/03jX4g5A)
Abstract Painting
Wednesdays, Sep. 16 - Oct. 7, 4 weeks
Time: 6-8:30pm
Supplies not included
Beginning & Intermediate
Teaching Artist: Andres Salazar
Adults
Fees: $145.
Location: The Drawing Room, building 50
Thursdays, Sep. 17-October 8, 4 weeks
Instructor: Andres Salazar
Time: 6-8:30pm
Adults
Fees: $145.
supplies not included
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.
Explore the art of pen and ink through hands-on projects that build confidence and skill. Students begin with essential tools and classic techniques—hatching, cross-hatching, pointillism, and expressive line work—before moving into structured drawings from life and photo reference.
Along the way, you’ll learn composition, shape-building, shading, and how to add depth with optional washes or color accents.
By the end of the course, you’ll have a collection of finished ink drawings and a strong foundation in illustrative pen and ink techniques.
CLASS SUPPLIES:
Paper - mixed media, bristol, vellum, or something that is at least 96 lb weight. 9x11 or 11x14 , brands don't matter, Canson is a common one.
Ink - waterproof - Higgins would be fine. My favorite is Dr Ph Martin's Black Star
White acrylic paint - this can be Pro White, or normal acrylic paint
Brushes - small watercolor/inking type of round brushes sizes 1,2,4 in that range. Also perhaps a flat brush. They can be cheap or get fancy and get real sable
Micron Pens - These are tech pens, doesn't have to be Microns, but that's the popular brand now. Sizes of any tech pen brand 0.1, 0.3, 0.5
Crowquill pens & nibs Speedball makes a good set.
cheap plastic water/brush holder (I'm assuming you have things like this) and paper towels.
Pen & Ink Illustration, Fall 2026
Thursdays, Sep. 17-October 8, 4 weeks
Instructor: Andres Salazar
Time: 6-8:30pm
Adults
Fees: $145.
supplies not included
Fridays, Sep 11 - October 16, 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
Fall, Intro to Drawing
Fridays, Sep 11 - October 16, 2026
6 sessions
Supplies not Included
Teaching Artist: Claudia Pardo
Time: 11am-1:30pm
Adults
$200.
Thursdays, Oct. .15-Nov. 19, 6 weeks
Time: 6pm-8pm
Adults
Fees: $225.
Teaching Artist: Mona Lewis
Materials provided
An Introduction to Embroidery is a welcoming, hands-on class that introduces the basic stitches and timeless techniques of hand embroidery through the creation of a beautiful embroidered sewing book. Using natural materials—including soft wool felt, linen fabric, and fine cotton embroidery thread—you'll learn a variety of essential stitches while constructing a practical keepsake to organize your needles, thread, and other sewing essentials. Perfect for absolute beginners yet engaging enough for experienced stitchers to personalize with more intricate details, this project builds confidence, creativity, and a strong foundation for a lifetime of embroidery.
Introduction to Embroidery
Thursdays, Oct. .15-Nov. 19, 6 weeks
Time: 6pm-8pm
Adults
Fees: $225.
Teaching Artist: Mona Lewis
Materials provided
Sunday, August 16
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, August 16
Time: 10am-2pm
Teaching Artist: Laura Evans-Mills
One day class
Adults
$165.
All tools and supplies provided
5 students per class
Hand Building Ceramic Workshops
Get your hands dirty and discover how much fun clay can be! Our monthly ceramic handbuilding workshops are a relaxed, creative way to make something you'll actually want to take home. Each session features a different seasonal project, including Autumn Leaf Dishes, Pumpkin Jars, Ghosts in Costumes, Serving Bowls, and Cookie Ornaments. Whether you're trying clay for the first time or looking for a fun creative night out, these workshops are for you. No experience needed—just bring your imagination, and we'll provide the clay, tools, and guidance!
Pumpkin Jars
Sunday, Sept. 6, 10-11:30am
Fee: $35.00
All ages 6&Up
Teaching Artist: Izzy De Paz
Get your hands dirty and discover how much fun clay can be! Our monthly ceramic hand building workshops are a relaxed, creative way to make something you'll actually want to take home. Each session features a different seasonal project, including Autumn Leaf Dishes, Pumpkin Jars, Ghosts in Costumes, Serving Bowls, and Cookie Ornaments. Whether you're trying clay for the first time or looking for a fun creative experience, these workshops are for you. No experience needed—just bring your imagination, and we'll provide the clay, tools, and guidance!
Costumed Ghosts
Sunday, October. 4, 10-11:30am
Fee: $35.00
All ages 6&Up
Teaching Artist: Izzy DePaz
Get your hands dirty and discover how much fun clay can be! Our monthly ceramic hand building workshops are a relaxed, creative way to make something you'll actually want to take home. Each session features a different seasonal project, including Autumn Leaf Dishes, Pumpkin Jars, Ghosts in Costumes, Serving Bowls, and Cookie Ornaments. Whether you're trying clay for the first time or looking for a fun creative experience, these workshops are for you. No experience needed—just bring your imagination, and we'll provide the clay, tools, and guidance!
Leaf Dishes
Sunday, Nov. 8, 10-11:30am
Fee: $35.00
All ages 6&Up
Teaching Artist: Izzy DePaz
Get your hands dirty and discover how much fun clay can be! Our monthly ceramic hand building workshops are a relaxed, creative way to make something you'll actually want to take home. Each session features a different seasonal project, including Autumn Leaf Dishes, Pumpkin Jars, Ghosts in Costumes, Serving Bowls, and Cookie Ornaments. Whether you're trying clay for the first time or looking for a fun creative experience, these workshops are for you. No experience needed—just bring your imagination, and we'll provide the clay, tools, and guidance!
Serving Bowls
Sunday, Nov. 29, 10-11:30am
Fee: $35.00
All ages 6&Up
Teaching Artist: Izzy DePaz
Get your hands dirty and discover how much fun clay can be! Our monthly ceramic hand building workshops are a relaxed, creative way to make something you'll actually want to take home. Each session features a different seasonal project, including Autumn Leaf Dishes, Pumpkin Jars, Ghosts in Costumes, Serving Bowls, and Cookie Ornaments. Whether you're trying clay for the first time or looking for a fun creative experience, these workshops are for you. No experience needed—just bring your imagination, and we'll provide the clay, tools, and guidance!