A fresh take on creativity for 2026
Hands-on creative learning returns to the Newport Visual Arts Center this month, with a wide-ranging schedule of classes, workshops and open studio sessions designed for artists of all skill levels. The winter lineup runs through March and includes multi-week courses, immersive weekend workshops and flexible studio time for independent exploration.
Artists interested in three-dimensional work can enroll in “Ceramic Hand Building,” a six-week course taught by Chasse Davidson that runs Wednesdays from January 14 through February 18. The class introduces foundational clay techniques including pinching, coiling and slab building, guiding students through the entire ceramic process from clay preparation to surface decoration and glazing. Participants will create functional tableware, vessels and sculptural forms while developing both technical skills and creative confidence.
Mosaic artist Charlotte Van Zant-King will lead “The Art of Mosaics,” a three-week evening workshop held on Thursdays beginning January 8. Participants will design and assemble a finished mosaic using clay tile, glass and mixed materials, learning cutting, composition and grouting techniques along the way. The class emphasizes hands-on learning and personal expression, with students leaving with a completed piece ready for display.
Printmaking artists have multiple opportunities to engage with the medium this winter. “Printmaking in the Sun,” taught by Helen Abe-Ichien on February 5 and 6, introduces a non-toxic alternative to traditional etching using sunlight and water to develop images on light-sensitive polymer plates. In addition, “Open Studio: Printmaking” sessions will be held on January 13 and 20 and February 10 and 17, allowing artists to work independently while accessing presses, tools and instructor support from Cheryl Horton, Christina Carlsen or Abe-Ichien.
Painters and mixed-media artists will find several offerings focused on both technique and creative exploration. “Mandala Drawing and Painting,” taught by Rena Ekmanis on January 24, explores sacred geometry and watercolor methods through a calming, meditative approach to image-making. “Unbound Brush,” led by Robin Berry on February 14, combines intuitive drawing with watercolor, gouache and acrylic, encouraging expressive mark-making and color harmony in a relaxed, pressure-free environment.
Landscape painters can participate in “Bold Landscapes in Oils,” a one-day workshop taught by Khara Ledonne on March 7. The class focuses on dramatic value contrasts inspired by Oregon’s natural bridges, with students working on prepared panels and aiming to complete a finished painting in a single session.
Ongoing artistic development is supported through “Open Studio: Water Media Painting” sessions led by Robin Berry on January 29 and February 19 and 26. These sessions offer a welcoming space for community, peer learning and self-directed work for artists using watercolor and other water-based media.
Registration for all winter classes is now open, and scholarships may be available for those for whom cost is a barrier to participation.
The Newport Visual Arts Center is located at 777 NW Beach Drive. For more information, go to coastarts.com or call 541-265-2787.