DRAWING CLASSES
Our once per week classes at ActonArt are presented along a guided or semi-guided demonstration model where instructors lead students through logical thinking processes and actual drawing sequences. Students work on their own artwork independently and follow the "process" as presented by the instructor. Using this instructional technique students are able to see the drawing being built as a demonstration in front of them, yet also work independently by interpreting and following the verbal and visual instructions. Most of the learning takes place as a result of the hands-on execution by each student who attempts to model their artwork after the instructor's drawing. Instructors demonstrate how to resolve problems and move through routine issues that every artist faces during projects.


WEEKLY PROJECTS
Projects are designed for each age/ability level. We try very hard to create projects that are interesting to children. Frequently we present background information on the subject matter to give students more information with the goal of engaging them even more. Students who are curious or engaged by a subject are much more likely to stay focused and pay close attention to the instructor. Typically Beginners and Basic Drawing classes feature a new project, and new subject matter each week. Intermediate level classes do have multi-week projects but the majority are single week as well.


LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Every project is created with a specific learning objective which varies according to the class level and student ages. Some projects may be identical regarding the subject matter but the learning objectives may be different depending upon age level. The learning objectives are age-appropriate and provide enough flexibility that students who fall above or below the average skill-set can still learn and benefit.


MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES
ActonArt provides necessary materials and supplies for all regular drawing classes. We use very high quality supplies that are capable of producing excellent quality results. Students are expected to have respect for the materials and supplies since they are shared by many classes.


STUDENT ARTWORK
We consider the artwork completed in class to be exercises that lead students through specific learning objectives. Many students will create stunning artwork which is clearly worthy of being seen as "fine art" but we do not recommend that students represent it as original artwork outside of the studio. All artwork produced in classes belongs to the student and they make take it home at any time.


STUDENT BEHAVIOR
ActonArt classes are designed to provide the best possible learning experience for every student. Our standards are high and we constantly measure our performance. To create and maintain this environment we must require appropriate behavior from our students. Any activity which distracts/disrupts other students in the class (including late arrival) is unacceptable. Students will always be given reasonable opportunities to modify unacceptable behavior and remain in a class. However, if students persist with classroom disruptions we have no choice but to remove them. We understand that many children have behavioral and/or learning disabilities which may influence their classroom behavior. The ActonArt experience can greatly benefit these children, and we will always try to be as flexible as possible, however we cannot allow any class to repeatedly be disrupted. Please help us to help your children by reinforcing these classroom requirements. If you have questions or concerns please speak with us.

Beginners Drawing

Recommended for ages 5.5 (Age 5 minimum) through 6.5 years — 1 Hour Class

Students must be 5 years of age at the time class begins. Children who are slightly older frequently manage this class best. We recommend that Beginners take three trimesters of class before moving to the next level (Basic A). Children at this age require time and practice to retain what they learn in class. Moving Beginner students to a higher level too quickly is likely to create anxiety and frustration. Children should be comfortable and confident in their skills before moving to the Basic A level where projects move faster and students are asked to follow learning objectives more closely.

REGISTER ONLINE

THE LEARNING OBJECTIVES for Beginners include developing various drawing skills, learning how to properly use materials, and follow general studio procedures. By teaching young children how to use and control materials properly and safely they develop habits that are carried forward. Projects at this level are designed to demonstrate to children how to organize the process of drawing and improve their results. We emphasize planning, sequencing, problem solving, and staying on task. This may all sound very methodical and business-like to an adult but it's all new to young children who quickly see dramatic changes in their drawings. And, we always offer opportunities and encouragement for children to express their personal creative insights as part of their artwork. The essence of "art," regardless of the artist's age, is a result of the skills and techniques they've mastered combined with their creativity and desire to express it.

BEGINNERS CLASSES ARE SIZE LIMITED to eight students. The studio environment is managed so children learn to accept challenges, solve problems and judge their own artwork without debilitating self-criticism. We teach students that drawing requires practice and errors are normal and expected. Not all their results will be satisfying, but they will learn and improve their skills with every project. Materials used are primarily markers, pastels and watercolor paint. Many children are ready to begin drawing with this kind of focus by the age of five, however no two children are alike and it's not possible to predict how any one child will respond. We do not accept registrations for children under the age of five without verbal confirmation from the ActonArt Program Director. Please call 978-266-1600 for more information. Placement of children in the appropriate class level is subject to Director's recommendation/approval.

Basic Drawing

Basic Level A — Recommended for ages 6 (min) to 7.5 — 1 hour class
Basic Level B — Recommended for ages 7.5 through 9 — 1 hour class

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Basic Drawing introduces students to a structured drawing process which includes learning how to "see to draw," plan and follow through. The class projects are designed to guide students toward developing drawing skills while encouraging personal expression and creativity. While many of the projects are guided, each student is allowed and encouraged to work with his or her own vision and produce a unique finished piece. As in all ActonArt classes there is no critique, commentary or competition and students are asked to assess their own work. In this safe environment students learn that they can follow their instincts, explore new ideas and take chances in their work without fear of criticism. Placement of children in the appropriate class level is subject to Director's recommendation.

Children under the age of 6.5 may NOT be registered in Basic drawing classes without permission from the director.

BASIC DRAWING — LEVEL A
These classes are intended for students who are either: moving up from Beginners drawing; or 6.5 to 7.5 years old and new to drawing classes; or occasionally even older but less confident in their skills.

BASIC DRAWING — LEVEL B
These classes are intended for students who are either: moving up from BASIC DRAWING LEVEL A; or 7.5 through 8.5 years old and new to ActonArt Drawing classes; or occasionally older but less confident in their skills.

Intermediate Drawing

Intermediate Level A1 & A2 — For ages 9 (minimum) & Up — 1.5 Hour class
Intermediate Level B — For ages 13 & Up — 1.5 Hour class


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Intermediate drawing offers a continuing focus on visual training, planning and process. These older students seek both naturalistic realism and an opportunity for creative expression. Class projects develop visual perception and drawing skills while exposing students to a wide variety of techniques and media. Subject matter may include: animals, landscape, still life, the human form, as well as various artists and art periods. Students will be encouraged to develop their own style and creative approach.Placement of students in the appropriate class level is subject to Director's recommendation.


INTERMEDIATE DRAWING — LEVEL A1 AND A2
These classes are intended for students who are:

• 9 years old at a minimum, and moving up from BASIC DRAWING LEVEL B,
• or, 10 to 13 years old and new to drawing classes,
• or older and less confident in their skills, INCLUDING ADULTS.
• A1 Students are first year students at this level. Projects are specific and predominantly guided.
• A2 Students are second year students at this level. Projects are less specific and loosely guided. Frequently brief demonstrations replace instructor guidance and students work independently.

NOTE: INTERMEDIATE A CLASSES ARE DIVIDED INTO TWO LEVELS, A1 and A2 ACCORDING TO STUDENT EXPERIENCE.

• STUDENTS MOVING UP FROM Basic B, or coming in as a new student without prior ActonArt experience should join an A1 class.

• STUDENTS WITH A FULL YEAR or more of experience at the Intermediate A level should join an A2 class. This assumes they can fully engage with projects and use all available class time without rushing to completion. Students who routinely finish early and state that they are "done" should not be in this class level.


INTERMEDIATE DRAWING — LEVEL B1 AND B2
These classes are intended for students who are:

• moving up from INTERMEDIATE DRAWING LEVEL A2,
• or, 13+ years old and looking to develop more independent drawing skills,
• or older and less confident in their skills, INCLUDING ADULTS.
• B1 Students are first year students at this level. Projects are specific and predominantly unguided.
• B2 Students are second year students at this level. Projects are non-specific and unguided. Frequently brief demonstrations replace instructor guidance and students work independently.

NOTE: INTERMEDIATE B CLASSES ARE DIVIDED INTO TWO LEVELS, B1 and B2 ACCORDING TO STUDENT EXPERIENCE.

• STUDENTS MOVING UP FROM Intermediate A2, or coming in as a new student without prior ActonArt experience should join an B1 class.

• STUDENTS WITH A FULL YEAR or more of experience at the Intermediate B1 level should join a B2 class. This assumes they can work completely independently both in terms of drawing and composing their artwork as well as developing and choosing a subject with consideration for the assigned learning objective.