New Mexico Art League
                  Art School ∙ Gallery 


 
 
 
 

 

Adult Classes

Upcoming events

    • 04/19/2025
    • 05/24/2025
    • 6 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    Do you love to paint and draw? Are you interested in studying art in college or becoming a profes-sional artist one day? Join artist and teacher, Susan Roden, for a comprehensive, skill building course covering many areas of study in two and three dimensional art. Students will have fun exploring multiple painting, drawing and design projects, and finish with artwork that could be included in a portfolio for admission to a university art program. As well as making your own work, you will look at and learn from artists of the past and present to fuel your own unique art. Come ready to ask questions, share ideas and create. This is a no-pressure environment where all levels are welcome. Individual guidance and constructive feedback will be give. Please sign up early; space is limited.

    Materials List



    • 04/27/2025
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Art League Studios
    • 8
    Register

     The New Mexico Art League holds Sunday Life Drawing Sessions each week with either a clothed or nude model.

    We will begin with quick warm-up poses so artists can capture the figure in motion and move to extended poses during the 3 hour session. These drawing sessions are open to artists of all levels. Artists should bring their own materials and drawing surface. Easels and drawing benches are provided for your use. 



    These sessions do require advance registration.  


    Please check your calendar! Payment is not transferable or refundable.

    Please sign up early; each group is limited to 10 artists.

    Payment must be made at the time of registration in order to hold your place.

    Without payment your place will be cancelled.

    • 04/30/2025
    • 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    • Art League Studios
    • 10
    Register

     - SOLVENT FREE STUDIO -

    The New Mexico Art League now holds Wednesday Life Drawing Sessions each week with a  different classical nude pose.

    We will begin with quick warm-up poses so artists can capture the figure in motion and move to extended poses during the 3 hour session.

    These drawing sessions are open to artists of all levels. Artists should bring their own materials and drawing surface. Easels and drawing benches are provided for your use. 

    These sessions do require advance registration.  

    Please check your calendar! Payment is not transferable or refundable.

    Please sign up early; each group is limited to 10 artists.



    Payment must be made at the time of registration

    in order to hold your place.

    Without payment your place will be cancelled.

    • 05/04/2025
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Art League Studios
    • 9
    Register

     The New Mexico Art League holds Sunday Life Drawing Sessions each week with either a clothed or nude model.

    We will begin with quick warm-up poses so artists can capture the figure in motion and move to extended poses during the 3 hour session. These drawing sessions are open to artists of all levels. Artists should bring their own materials and drawing surface. Easels and drawing benches are provided for your use. 



    These sessions do require advance registration.  


    Please check your calendar! Payment is not transferable or refundable.

    Please sign up early; each group is limited to 10 artists.

    Payment must be made at the time of registration in order to hold your place.

    Without payment your place will be cancelled.

    • 05/07/2025
    • 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    • Art League Studios
    • 10
    Register

     - SOLVENT FREE STUDIO -

    The New Mexico Art League now holds Wednesday Life Drawing Sessions each week with a  different classical nude pose.

    We will begin with quick warm-up poses so artists can capture the figure in motion and move to extended poses during the 3 hour session.

    These drawing sessions are open to artists of all levels. Artists should bring their own materials and drawing surface. Easels and drawing benches are provided for your use. 

    These sessions do require advance registration.  

    Please check your calendar! Payment is not transferable or refundable.

    Please sign up early; each group is limited to 10 artists.



    Payment must be made at the time of registration

    in order to hold your place.

    Without payment your place will be cancelled.

    • 05/11/2025
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Art League Studios
    • 10
    Register

     The New Mexico Art League holds Sunday Life Drawing Sessions each week with either a clothed or nude model.

    We will begin with quick warm-up poses so artists can capture the figure in motion and move to extended poses during the 3 hour session. These drawing sessions are open to artists of all levels. Artists should bring their own materials and drawing surface. Easels and drawing benches are provided for your use. 



    These sessions do require advance registration.  


    Please check your calendar! Payment is not transferable or refundable.

    Please sign up early; each group is limited to 10 artists.

    Payment must be made at the time of registration in order to hold your place.

    Without payment your place will be cancelled.

    • 05/16/2025
    • 05/18/2025
    • 3 sessions
    • Online Zoom Course
    • 0
    Registration is closed

    Come in from the garden and pick up your paint brush! Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to work with award winning botanical illustrator and artist, Marjorie Leggitt. Joining you from her studio in Boulder, Marjorie will show you how to capture the gestural lines and transient color of spring flowers whether you're inside or outside! Starting with demos and drawing exercises, discover the simple lines, basic shapes and geometric forms that build the foundation for your sketches. Learn how to capture values and shadows before the light changes and apply simple watercolor layers to create that colorful spark. Have fun as you follow the twists and turns of a flower using expressive line work while developing solid techniques that will make future sketching and painting a breeze. Before you know it, you'll be out in the garden again filling your sketch book with nature's floral bounty. Please sign up early; class size is limited.



    Materials List

    • 06/03/2025
    • 06/06/2025
    • 4 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    So you've got the basics of painting down and now you'd like to push your representational work to a new level, a bit more out of the box — maybe even more loose and edgy. Michelle will guide you carefully (and at times even recklessly) down this fun and exciting path—no small brushes allowed in this class! We will paint several still lifes paintings each day, full of color, creative expression, and contemporary design. We will explore quick bold application of paint as well as the use of vibrant color.  You will leave this class with a whole new perspective on what is possible in your oil paintings. Painters at all levels are welcome, from beginner to advanced.  Michelle is an oil painter but all mediums welcome.  Email instructor with any questions, MichelleChrisman78@gmail.com.  

    Please sign up early; class size is limited.

    Materials List
    • 06/09/2025
    • 06/13/2025
    • 5 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    Get ready to shift into high gear with this high-energy summer workshop focused on quick, intuitive strategies for creating abstract art. Over the course of the week, you’ll explore the power of speed as you choose to work in painting, drawing—or a fusion of both. Your goal? To tap into raw emotion, fleeting memories, spontaneous process, and unfiltered thought.

    In this class, speed isn’t just a technique—it’s the theme. Our motto: "Paint or draw first, think later." Let go of overthinking and lean into instinct. Abstraction thrives when you trust your gut, and sometimes the most compelling work comes from impulse, not deliberation.

    No matter your natural pace, you’ll be encouraged to loosen up, move fast, and break free from tired habits. Running shoes and headbands optional—but a readiness to push your practice into the fast lane is a must.

    Ready to meet the bold, instinct-driven artist inside you? The countdown’s on. Let’s make art at the speed of inspiration.

    Beep beep—your inner roadrunner awaits!


    Please sign up early; class size is limited to 12 students.



    Materials List


    • 06/16/2025
    • 06/19/2025
    • 4 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    This 4-day workshop will focus predominantly on clouds and skies in the landscape. The principles of composition, color temperature shadows, brush strokes, thickness of paint, edges, philosophies of painting and centers of interest will be incorporated. You will learn why the sky is blue, why sunsets orange and yellow, how shadows take on certain hues, how to capture atmospheric perspective, and how to paint different types of clouds with an understanding of how they form. Interspersed will be lessons on how to avoid muddy colors, how to maximize the impact of the colors you use and which combinations of color please the eye. We will also explore the techniques of alla prima, multi-step painting, realism and impressionism. This course will be flexible and tailored to the students needs giving ample time to work on paintings in class. Dick will demonstrate techniques on a regular basis and whenever requested. Instruction will be constructive and positive at the level you are comfortable with. The goal is for every student to deepen his or her knowledge about painting while enjoying the learning process. Expect to have fun. Plan on producing works you will be proud of. Painting experience is recommended. 

    Please sign up early; class size is limited to 12 students. 


    Materials List
    • 06/24/2025
    • 06/26/2025
    • 3 sessions
    • main studio
    Register

    Brushwork is an artform that is ancient in its tradition, beginning with the first use of brushes in China 4000 years ago. From the established artist to the first-time painter, control of the brush is essential, and that control is the focus of this course. This 3-day workshop will concentrate on the three elements of brushwork. The brush is the magician’s wand, and if handled correctly, can create a world out of thin air. The ink is the blood; and holds the possibility of Ch’I yun, or the living spirit of a painting. And the paper is the skin; the texture that accepts the ink and absorbs the energy of the brush. It is the dance between these three, guided by the hand and heart that makes brushwork. Using traditional methods, we will learn how to skillfully control a brush; how to charge, condition and use pressure to learn the five brushstrokes, and how to translate these skills into painting the Three Friends; bamboo, pine and plum. We will also discuss composition, the many shades of grey, dry brush, wet brush, and how to be efficient yet spontaneous with each stroke. The final project is a finished scroll that you will paint.

    Please sign up early; class size is limited.

    Materials:

    Students will need an ink stone, ink stick, and Happy Dot Brush, and these may be purchased directly from Pat for $15 each at the first session if you don’t already have  them.  If you do already have these items, bring them to class with you on the first day. Additionally, on the first day of class Pat will collect a non-refundable materials fee of $20 from each student which includes practice and rice paper and all materials for the scroll.


    • 06/27/2025
    • 06/29/2025
    • 3 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    • 3
    Register

    A three-day workshop exploring approaches and techniques to paint trees and forest scenes using watercolor with John Cormier, New Mexico Watercolor Society Signature Member. Through demonstration and practice, students will learn and apply various watercolor techniques that John uses to paint his watercolors including wet-in-wet approaches, pouring, mark-making, brush technique, and lifting. Instruction will include various ways to create textures to represent leaves and foliage. Workshop will include demonstration and discussion on granulation in watercolors including pigment properties and ways to encourage granulation if desired. Instruction will also include overview of design, color story, layout, approaches to realizing vision, mood and atmosphere, materials, and set-up. Students will create paintings using the techniques demonstrated and learned in the class. Some watercolor painting experience is beneficial to understanding and applying the techniques in this workshop. Please sign up early; class size is limited.

    Materials List
    • 06/30/2025
    • 07/02/2025
    • 3 sessions
    • In the Art League Studios
    Register

    Over the course of three days, this workshop will tackle one of the most common challenges in figure drawing: hands and feet. These expressive parts of the body often define the gesture of the entire figure, and learning to draw them with confidence can transform your work.

    Through guided instruction, we’ll break down these complex forms into simple, foundational shapes, exploring both structure and gesture. You’ll learn how to see and build abstract shapes, and how to use tone to bring depth and clarity to your drawings—all within the boundaries of contour. Students at all levels welcome.  

    Sign up early; space is limited.



    Materials List


    • 07/07/2025
    • 07/11/2025
    • 5 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    In this immersive five-day workshop, we’ll dive into the vibrant intersection of landscape and abstraction using oils and/or acrylics. Through energetic mark-making and bold gestures, you’ll learn to transform natural scenes into expressive, dynamic compositions. We’ll begin with sketching and move on to create several color studies, followed by four medium to large-scale paintings—tailored to your preferred size. Whether you lean toward stylized representation, pure abstraction, or a fusion of both, you’ll be encouraged to follow your creative instincts and push your work in new directions. Throughout the week, we’ll explore canvas orientation, foundational design principles, the seven key color schemes, collaging methods, and a variety of painting techniques. Classes will include lectures, slide presentations, live demos, and, most importantly, plenty of painting time. This workshop is ideal for artists looking to energize their landscape work and embrace a more intuitive, exploratory process.


    Please sign up early; class size is limited. 


    Materials List


    • 07/14/2025
    • 07/18/2025
    • 5 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    Don’t miss the wonderful opportunity to work with Santa Fe based artist, Toby Hall, in person!In this five-day oil painting workshop, students will work from direct observation to develop a figure painting.  The course will begin with the analysis of the global light effect via a quick, abstract "poster study" exercise.  From there, students will begin by blocking-in the drawing foundation for the figure before transitioning to painting directly on a toned ground.  Both perceptual and conceptual drawing & painting strategies will be discussed and employed during instructor demos and student feedback to help reinforce the process.  Though some material techniques will be covered, the goal of this workshop is for us to focus on ideas that will help us grasp the visual experience as it applies to nature and the human form.   Please sign up early, as class size is limited to 10 students.



    Materials List
    • 07/19/2025
    • 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    Learn how to create a beautiful landscape made entirely out of wool! During this one-day session, you will learn how to needle felt a two-dimensional image.  Bring your own landscape photo for inspiration, or use one of the provided images.  Instructor and artist, Kimberly Sewell, will guide you through how to apply and mix your wools to create different shapes and textures that will result in an impressionistic piece with personality and dimension.  You will walk away from this class with two small felted “paintings” along with the tools necessary to continue felting at home.  This class is suitable for beginners (but not recommended for children).  In addition to learning basic needle felting techniques, the class will also discuss art elements and principles including: color, texture, line, shape, contrast and balance.  You can utilize these skills to further your artistic pursuits regardless of medium. Please sign up early; class size is limited.

    Materials:  All materials will be provided and the materials fee is included in the workshop price.


    • 07/21/2025
    • 07/25/2025
    • 5 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    Join us for a hands-on creative workshop where you’ll design and craft your own nature journals—perfect for capturing your outdoor adventures, quiet backyard moments, or favorite trailside discoveries. You'll learn how to create beautiful, functional journals in either accordion-style or stitched book-bound form. In this workshop, we’ll explore how to bring your pages to life through mindful observation, expressive pen and pencil sketches, and creative watercolor techniques. Beyond drawing, we’ll delve into how to weave in personal reflections, seasonal notes, pressed flowers, or found objects. Bring along any small natural treasures or memorabilia to turn your journals into meaningful keepsakes or thoughtful gifts. You’ll leave the workshop with 2–3 handmade journals and plenty of inspiration and techniques to keep filling them, season after season. 


    Materials List
    • 07/28/2025
    • 08/01/2025
    • 5 sessions
    • In the Art League Studios
    Register

    Join watercolor painter Dave Cook in this workshop exploring techniques of sketching travel photos in watercolor to create colorful compelling watercolor images.  Whether your interest is colorful landscapes, city-scapes, water-scapes, gardens & parks, or people, we will review basic drawing, design and composition principles using pencil, pen with ink, and watercolor.  By studying light values and practicing simple watercolor brushstroke techniques, you will improve your self-confidence and learn how to immediately achieve striking high contrast images. We will produce finished color sketches of our travels to enhance our cherished memories.

    You will enjoy learning how to discover and express your inner creativity.  Each class will include progressive instruction and demonstrations, with time for individual student painting, with positive feedback. This course is useful for students at any level, although prior ability to draw and sketch is recommended. 

    Please sign up early; class size is limited to 12 students.


    Materials List



    • 08/04/2025
    • 08/07/2025
    • 4 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    Break away from traditional realism and dive into the expressive world of color with artist Susan Roden. In this four-day workshop, you'll explore pastel techniques that channel the spirit of Wolf Kahn—where bold, vibrant hues meet atmospheric landscapes.

    Through a series of demos, guided exercises, and small studies, you’ll experiment with emotional expression using exaggerated lines, a limited contrasting palette, and intentionally distorted forms. The workshop will culminate in the creation of a larger pastel piece that reflects your own inner vision.

    Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, this workshop offers a supportive environment for creative exploration. Class size is limited to 12 participants to ensure personalized guidance.


    Materials List



    • 08/08/2025
    • 08/10/2025
    • 3 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    Are you ready to take your creative career to the next level? Join Albuquerque artist Allison Jones Hunt for an intensive 3-day workshop designed to equip you with the essential tools for a thriving art business. This workshop goes beyond the canvas, focusing on the crucial aspects of presenting and promoting your work. We'll begin by exploring your artistic identity, crafting a compelling artist statement that truly reflects your vision and connects with your audience. Next, we'll delve into the art of presenting your work, from using photography to capture high-quality images, understanding framing techniques, and knowing when to leave your work unframed. Finally, we'll navigate the world of social media, email newsletters, and websites, learning how to effectively promote your art without sacrificing your creative energy. Discover practical strategies for building your online presence, connecting with collectors, and managing your marketing efforts. This workshop is perfect for artists of all levels who are ready to take control of their careers and share their art with the world. Learn how to articulate your unique perspective and present yourself with confidence. All materials provided, feel free to bring a notebook and pens to take notes. Please sign up early, as space is limited.


    • 08/11/2025
    • 08/15/2025
    • 5 sessions
    • Art League Studios
    Register

    Would you love to learn new ways to create dynamic, visually exciting art? Come and learn the secrets of compositional design with all kinds of interesting materials in this playful, yet information-packed workshop! Exploring the limitless potential of collage and mixed media, artists will make their own set of unique, colorfully-textured collage papers and experiment with an exciting array of mixed media collage techniques. Bring your own images, patterned papers, fabric scraps, etc. to use or share. Layering, tearing, and surface development combined with exciting materials such as acrylics, found objects and ink will inspire creative play and pure FUN!  Students will come away with new ideas for material possibilities and conceptual inspiration. Students at all levels are welcome. Materials:  All materials provided for a $45 materials fee, which will be paid directly to Lea on the first day of class. Please be sure to bring lunch, an apron and your imagination!


    Please sign up early; class size is limited.


    Materials List

Gallery Hours: 10 am to 4 pm Tuesday - Saturday  505-293-5034

3409 Juan Tabo Boulevard NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87111     Map It  

Mailing address: P.O. Box 16554, Albuquerque, NM 87191                              

Join us on Facebook   fb logo  and on Instagram 
                     Subscribe to our e-Newsletter                        
copyright New Mexico Art League
Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software