Creativity 101

explore the core principles of creativity

THURSDAYS January 22 - February 12

6:00p.m. - 8:00p.m.

AGES: 16+

INSTRUCTOR: Robert Smith

These classes on artistic creativity can help you start your own creative journey or provide a much needed boost for current artists in a creative rut. The series of four sessions will explore the core principles of creativity. This series can be taken as a drop-in or all four.

COST: $40 GVA Member/ $46 Non-Member

Biography: Robert Smith taught visual arts for the past 31 years in middle school, high school and technical college classrooms. When not in the studio, he likes spending time with his wife and two sons. His interests beyond art include cooking, fishing, and travel. He now enjoys teaching at GVA.

MATERIALS (see note below)

  • Sketchbook (mixed media high quality paper  9” x 12”) 

  • Drawing pencil

  • Art Eraser

  • Black Pen

  • Black Sharpie

  • Colored Pencils

  • Watercolor Set

    *Materials are provided, but please bring a sketchpad, drawing pencils, and other materials that you may have. Shared materials will be provided for those who don’t have them.

from $40.00

SESSION 1: l Artistic Muses

Starting with inspiration the first class will explore a variety or inspirational sources such as collaboration, brainstorming and exploring a variety of muses. The studio session will examine the creative process and historical sources of creativity. Students will experiment with a variety of media while exploring a variety of artistic muses.

SESSION 2: l Exploring Experimentation

The second class will examine experimentation. The many facets of experimentation such as technique, aegis, and style will be explored. The studio session will explore a variety of media, techniques, and styles that can provide endless artistic inspiration.

SESSION 3: l Routine to Revelation

The third meeting will analyze the importance of practice and routine in the creative journey. Practice and routine explores the need for the artist to embrace failure as an essential part of the creative process. The importance of consistency and perseverance in art. Finally, routine as the route to revelation. The studio session will explore the practices of a diverse group of historical and contemporary artists and their approaches to the creative process.

 SESSION 4: l Let Go of Perfectionism

The final session will explore the importance of mindset in the creative journey. It has been said that perfection is the enemy of the good. Learning to let go of perfectionism is a step toward greater creativity in art production. Seeing all things with a fresh perspective is not only refreshing but an essential tool for creative thinking. Lastly, living in the moment provides an environment for creativity to grow. The final studio will examine a variety off creative exercises that will both promote and recharge your creativity.