photo of an artist painting. One hand is holding a paint brush over a canvas of yellow, blue, and green hues, and the other hand is holding a plate with paints on it.

Studio Sessions

Move over Van Gogh, there’s a new artist in town! Engage your creative side during Mia Studio Sessions.

Studio Sessions are Mia’s art classes and workshops that offer experienced artmakers and curious novices alike the opportunity to create projects inspired by Mia’s collection and special exhibitions. Each Studio Sessions class features a different subject or medium to explore, and you’ll walk away with expanded knowledge and skills, plus a personal work of art. The only prerequisites for this class are curiosity and an open mind.

Registration required. Registration opens one month in advance.

We offer a limited number of scholarships to welcome all learners to Studio Sessions; please email us for scholarship information.

Questions? Email studioprograms@artsmia.org.

Upcoming Studio Sessions Themes

March 9 Collage Portraits
This workshop draws inspiration from Mia’s new special exhibition “Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys.” Join Mia Teaching Artist Laura Wennstrom as we explore portraiture using collage and drawing techniques to create dynamic self-portraits.

March 22 Tufting with NeekaSoDope
Learn the art and history of tufting, a modern medium that’s taking the world of textiles by storm! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll create your own 2-square-foot textured masterpiece—perfect as a gift, a keepsake, or something special for yourself.

You can choose from various templates or create your own design. Discover how tufting can convey emotions, stories, and personal memories. Learn how to thread your tufting gun, set up your fabric frame, and experiment with different tufting methods. Experiment with professional techniques to trim, cut, and finish your tufted artwork so it’s ready for display.

If you’d like to create your own design, please email the design to info@neekasodope.com one week before class.

All tufting materials are included. Due to the equipment required, participants must be at least 14 years old. Anyone younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

May 11 Still-Life Paintings
Spring is in the air! In this floral-themed workshop, Mia Teaching Artist Laura Wennstrom leads you through creating your own still-life paintings of flower arrangements. Whether your style leans realistic or abstract, you’ll explore composition, observation, and color mixing. This class is a perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day and the spring flowers in bloom. Tickets available April 11.