Young artists experiment with color mixing, brushwork, and composition to create beautiful paintings. Each class encourages creativity and self-expression while teaching foundational art techniques. (Ages 5-10)

Students explore visual storytelling through comic creation! They develop characters, panels, and narrative flow while learning composition, gesture, and expression. (Ages 8-12)

Start your morning with art, stories, and creative play! Each session begins with a short story to spark imagination, followed by a simple, guided art activity designed for toddlers and preschoolers to complete with their caregivers. Afterward, children explore a variety of open-ended art and sensory materials that invite experimentation, discovery, and joyful mess-making. Caregivers stay and create alongside their children, making each class a meaningful shared experience that encourages curiosity and creativity. 

(18 months - 5 years old)

Sometimes you just need to make something with your hands and not overthink it. In this relaxed, low-stakes workshop we’ll design and silk-screen bold, graphic imagery onto canvas tote bags. Choose from pre-made designs or create your own simple motif, then pull your own prints using professional screens and fabric ink. Expect a satisfying process, inky hands, and a functional finished piece. (Ages 16+)

Ages 18+

All DIGITAL camera types are welcome, including cell phone cameras.

This workshop introduces photography as a mindful, reflective practice. Rather than focusing on technical perfection, participants are guided to slow down, observe deeply, and create images rooted in presence and personal meaning. Through simple exercises and prompts, you'll explore light, texture, and emotion while reconnecting with the joy of seeing. Based on the Look Again methodology in which Melissa is certified. Students will leave with printed photos.

(Learn more about guest instructor Melissa)

Join Emma Stevenson Cowan for a relaxed and inspiring Open Studio experience at Emma’s Art Studio in downtown Bethesda. This is your time to slow down, explore, and create in a welcoming, thoughtfully designed space.

A curated selection of high-quality materials will be available, including acrylic paints, watercolors, and collage supplies. Whether you’re continuing a personal project or starting something new, Emma will be there to offer guidance, encouragement, and artistic insight as needed—without the pressure of a structured class.

Perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike, this open-format session invites you to make art at your own pace in a calm, creative community setting.

Come make art, experiment, and reconnect with your creative practice. Ages 16+

Young artists experiment with color mixing, brushwork, and composition to create beautiful paintings. Each class encourages creativity and self-expression while teaching foundational art techniques. (Ages 5-10)

Students explore the art of illustration while developing their own unique drawing style! They’ll learn techniques for character design, composition, gesture, expression, and visual storytelling while creating polished, imaginative illustrations. (Ages 11-16)