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 us.
Upcoming Sessions
August 7 | Block Printing Inspired by Andy Warhol
Whether it was cans of soup or flowers, cleaning supplies, or bananas, Andy Warhol turned everyday objects into art. Inspired by this, we’ll make block prints in bright colors and tiled patterns with guidance from artist Laura Brown. Bring an everyday object to use as inspiration (a photo will do), and experience the power of printmaking: repetition! After carving a block, experiment with printing it in a tiled pattern–just like a Warhol print. You’ll leave class with your very own prints and hand-carved blocks, as well as resources for continued printing at home.
August 10 | Drawing from the Collection
Practice your hand at drawing, inspired by works from Mia’s expressionist and impressionist galleries. Teaching artist Sophia Weisensel will lead you through the foundations of drawing to create your own piece of artwork with an emphasis on color choice, layering, and blending technique. Visit the galleries to sketch your artwork and spend time in Mia’s studio experimenting with pastels to bring your work to life.
August 14 | Criticism as Dialogue
Works of art have always existed alongside critical language and conversations of appreciation. This workshop, led by museum educator and independent art curator William “Billy” Gustavo Franklin Torres, offers you an opportunity to have an open dialogue with fellow classmates, engage in constructive criticism, and handle complex conversations about art. Learn guidelines and principles of art criticism, and then practice applying them to famous artworks from Mia’s collection.
September 6 | Cyanotype
Explore the vibrant photographic process of cyanotypes with teaching artist Janae Alyse! This historic technique uses UV light to create detailed prints on surfaces. First, learn the basics of making cyanotypes by creating a test strip and transferring a print to paper. Then experiment with multiple objects, exposure times, and techniques to create a custom set of four greeting cards. The result of cyanotype printmaking is magical and one of a kind. Note: Wear clothing you don’t mind being exposed to cyanotype chemicals.
Tickets on sale August 6.
September 14 | Crop Art
Everyone’s a blue-ribbon winner when you make crop art together! Join crop artist and educator Marta Shore to learn the basics of crop art using seeds, grains, and more. You’ll leave class with your own piece of Minnesota-themed crop art, perfect for keeping the spirit of the state fair alive year-round. Marta Shore is the Assistant Superintendent for Crop Art and Scarecrow at the Minnesota State Fair this year and a self-described crop art evangelist.
Tickets on sale August 14.