Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

Drop-in Figure Drawing
2025-10-01 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-10-15 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-10-29 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago)
Immerse yourself in a three-hour drawing session set in an untutored environment at the Windgate Art School. This dynamic experience will feature a variety of timed poses with draped and undraped models, providing an excellent opportunity for first-time students and experienced artists alike to hone their skills.
Students must be 18+ to attend, as the session may use the undraped model. An instructor will moderate the session and be available for critiques and questions upon request.
Students are encouraged to bring their own materials or purchase materials from the AMFA Museum Store. Recommended materials are graphite drawing pencils, charcoals, and a kneaded eraser. Basic drawing materials will also be available.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Photo: Iwan Baan.

Art For Two: Glass Hummingbirds (SOLD OUT)
2025-10-03 18:00 - 21:00
Learn how to create a vibrant and colorful glass hummingbird using the technique of flame-working glass over a torch flame.
Under the expert guidance of a skilled glass artist, you will learn the process of sculpting a delicate hummingbird, from shaping the beak and body to crafting the wings. You will work with a variety of colorful glass rods, using the torch to melt and manipulate the material to form the bird’s features.
Art For Two is the perfect one-night class experience for two where you each take home a finished piece. Class materials, a charcuterie board, and refreshments are included, no skills required – just come ready to create, unwind, and add some artistic spark to your evening.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Art For Two: Coin Rings (SOLD OUT)
2025-10-03 18:00 - 21:00
Learn how to shape metal as you make a custom-sized ring from a vintage silver coin.
Art For Two is the perfect one-night class experience for two where you each take home a finished piece. Class materials, a charcuterie board, and refreshments are included, no skills required – just come ready to create, unwind, and add some artistic spark to your evening.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Rings by Jann Greenland.

Votive Candle Holder Workshop
2025-10-04 09:00 - 12:00
Craft a beautiful and functional votive candle holder from rich, solid dark walnut—an elegant hardwood known for its deep color and fine grain.
In this hands-on woodworking workshop, you will learn how to safely use a drill press to create precise openings for votive candles and explore techniques for sanding and sealing the wood to bring out its natural beauty. The finished piece will serve as a stunning centerpiece or handmade gift, radiating warmth and craftsmanship.
No experience is necessary, and all materials are provided.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Woodwork by Liz Koerner.

Bead Setting Workshop (SOLD OUT)
2025-10-04 10:00 - 13:00
Learn the precision and artistry of bead setting in this focused jewelry-making workshop. An expert jeweler will guide you through the process of securely setting small stones using traditional bead setting techniques.
Instruction will cover tool selection, surface preparation, layout, drilling, bur work, and using gravers. With hands-on practice and expert guidance, you will develop the skills needed to create refined and professional-looking settings that add sparkle and dimension to your metalwork.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Artwork by Lucas Pointon.

Drop-in Printmaking
2025-10-08 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-10-22 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-11-12 18:00 - 21:00
Experiment with printmaking during this three-hour drop-in experience at AMFA’s Windgate Art School. Open to beginner and experienced artists alike, it’s a great way to learn a new art form or work independently on your own projects.
An instructor will moderate the session and be available for critiques and questions upon request.
Students are encouraged to bring their own materials or purchase materials from the AMFA Museum Store. Recommended materials are a carving block, five-piece cutters and stamp carving tool, and high-quality paper. Basic printmaking materials will also be available.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Photo by Rachel Cobler.

Woodturned Bottlestopper Workshop
2025-10-09 18:00 - 21:00
This one-session workshop offers an excellent introduction to woodturning – perfect for beginners or those looking to try something new.
You will learn fundamental woodturning techniques, including proper tool handling, methods for shaping wood, and essential lathe safety practices. After a brief demonstration, students will practice these techniques hands-on before creating two unique wine bottle stoppers to take home.
With step-by-step guidance from an expert woodturner, participants will gain confidence in using the lathe and exploring their creativity.
No prior experience is necessary, and all materials are provided!

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Bottle stoppers by Kim Fifer.

Art For Two: Small Planter with Natural Impressions
2025-10-10 18:00 - 21:00
Create a small, floral-themed planter that brightens up any space or countertop. Learn how to decorate your planter from an expert ceramic artist by pressing leaves, stems, and greenery into the soft clay.
Art For Two is the perfect one-night class experience for two where you each take home a finished piece. Class materials, a charcuterie board, and refreshments are included, no skills required – just come ready to create, unwind, and add some artistic spark to your evening.
Your creations will be glaze fired and ready for pick up approximately four weeks after the class.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Pottery by Jenn Perren.

Gallery Drawing Workshop
2025-10-11 14:00 - 17:00
Immerse yourself in art and drawing during this hands-on workshop designed to explore artistic techniques and styles! This workshop offers a unique opportunity to creatively work in the galleries and gain insight from an artistic professional in AMFA’s Windgate Art School.
Our experienced instructor will lead you through the AMFA galleries and use artwork as inspiration to create a personalized work of art. Develop your drawing skills while deepening your understanding of creating line, shape, texture, and space.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Art For Two: Pottery on the Wheel (SOLD OUT)
2025-10-17 18:00 - 21:00
Learn how to throw pottery on a wheel!
Art For Two is the perfect one-night class experience for two where you each take home a finished piece. Class materials, a charcuterie board, and refreshments are included, no skills required – just come ready to create, unwind, and add some artistic spark to your evening.
Your creations will be fired and ready for pick up approximately four weeks after the class.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.

Art For Two: Still Life Paintings
2025-10-17 18:00 - 21:00
Experience the art of acrylic painting and learn how to create a colorful still life! An expert intsructor will lead you step-by-step to explore the interplay of color and texture as you develop skills and bring your artistic vision to life on canvas.
Art For Two is the perfect one-night class experience for two where you each take home a finished piece. Class materials, a charcuterie board, and refreshments are included, no skills required – just come ready to create, unwind, and add some artistic spark to your evening.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Art For Two: Candle Votives with Natural Impressions
2025-10-24 18:00 - 21:00
Create a set of floral themed ceramic candle votives! Learn to decorate the clay from an expert ceramic artist by pressing soft clay into a textured mold that has patterns of leaves, stems, and greenery.
Art For Two is the perfect one-night class experience for two where you each take home a finished piece. Class materials, a charcuterie board, and refreshments are included, no skills required – just come ready to create, unwind, and add some artistic spark to your evening.
Your creations will be fired and ready for pick up approximately four weeks after the class.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Experimental Drawing Workshop
2025-10-25 10:00 - 13:00
Explore drawing in new and imaginative ways with renowned artist Clark Valentine. Learn to build a strong foundation in drawing fundamentals, such as line, shape, value, and composition, while experimenting with a wide range of materials and techniques.
Through mixed media approaches including ink, charcoal, collage, and unconventional tools, push the boundaries of traditional drawing. This workshop is perfect to develop your skills, spark creativity, and dive deep into expressive and meditative mark-making.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Artwork by Clark Valentine.

Seasonal Floral Design Masterclass with Shane Connolly (SOLD OUT)
2025-10-25 14:00 - 17:00
Join royal floral designer Shane Connolly as he demonstrates his sustainable approach to floral design, offering inspiration and guidance to help you create your own seasonal arrangements with confidence.

This programming is provided in partnership with P. Allen Smith’s Moss Mountain Farm and the Little Rock Garden Club.

About Shane Connolly

Connolly is a renowned floral designer and ambassador for sustainable floristry. His clients range from public institutions like the Victoria & Albert Museum, the Royal Academy of Arts, and the National Portrait Gallery in London, to a veritable “who’s who” in British society.

He is perhaps best known for his public work for The Royal Family. His most recent commission was The Coronation of Their Majesties The King and Queen at Westminster Abbey in 2023. He also designed the flowers for their marriage at Windsor Castle in 2005 and for the wedding of The Prince and Princess of Wales in 2011.

He has been awarded the Royal Warrants of Appointment to both His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen in 2024 and a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to sustainable floristry in 2025. He has written five books and teaches his approach to flower design all over the world, with its roots and ethos firmly in sustainability.

Art For Two: Halloween Brooches
2025-10-31 18:00 - 21:00
Create a vibrant and colorful Halloween-inspired glass brooch using a torch flame!
Under the expert guidance of a skilled glass artist, you will learn the process of sculpting a brooch using the torch to melt and manipulate colorful glass rods.
Art For Two is the perfect one-night class experience for two where you each take home a finished piece. Class materials, a charcuterie board, and refreshments are included, no skills required – just come ready to create, unwind, and add some artistic spark to your evening.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Nevelson-Inspired Sculpture Workshop (SOLD OUT)
2025-11-01 10:00 - 14:00
Create a unique, free-standing clay sculpture inspired by the work of Louise Nevelson on view in AMFA’s Architects of Being exhibition. Students will visit the AMFA galleries to explore artworks, gathering ideas for incorporating shapes and form into a sculptural design.
Using a special black clay for this project, ceramic artist India Childress will lead you through manipulating the clay with slabs to achieve an exciting and complete artwork. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to draw inspiration from a rich collection while learning about and developing your ceramic techniques.

Architects of Being: Louise Nevelson and Esphyr Slobodkina is supported in part by the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, Alan DuBois Fund for Contemporary Craft, Ellsworth Kelly Foundation, Anita Davis, and The Jewish Federation of Arkansas.
The catalogue for Architects of Being: Louise Nevelson and Esphyr Slobodkina is supported in part by the Wyeth Foundation for American Art.

This exhibition is organized by the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.
The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
ARTWORK: Louise Nevelson (Kyiv, Ukraine (formerly Russian Empire), 1899 – 1988, New York, New York), Tide Garden IV, 1964, painted and assembled wood construction, 91 x 140 x 10 in., Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts Foundation Collection: Gift of Sidney Singer, Sr., Stephens Inc., Gerald Cramer, Martin Oppenheimer, Edward Rosenthal, and John Rosenthal. 1983.030.

Making Together: Stitching Stories
2025-11-02 13:00 - 16:00
Inspired by the art on view in Uncommon Threads in Contemporary Art, weave your personal narrative using mixed media art materials. Sew layers of colors and threads to create your story, using fabric and photography to build meaningful artwork.
Making Together offers families an opportunity to come together and create. Register now to enjoy a day full of artmaking fun with your child!

Uncommon Threads in Contemporary Art is supported in part by the Alan DuBois Fund for Contemporary Craft.
This exhibition is organized by the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.
The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.

Windgate Art School Showcase
2025-11-05 17:00 - 20:00
Step into an inspiring evening at AMFA’s Windgate Art School for a celebration of creativity, community, and conversation. Join faculty, students, and guests for a lively night filled with artwork, engaging dialogue, and artistic camaraderie. An impressive collection of pieces crafted by our talented faculty and students will be on display throughout the evening.
Whether you are an art enthusiast or a curious visitor, you are welcome to explore the studios, experience the creative energy of the Windgate Art School, and connect with the artists who bring it to life.

Windgate Art School Showcase is supported in part by the Windgate Foundation.
The Windgate Art School is generously supported in part by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported in part by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied on all classes through 2025.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Figure Drawing Workshop
2025-11-08 12:00 - 16:00
Explore masterful figurative artworks in the AMFA galleries and draw your own figurative work of art. An expert artist will lead you through the AMFA galleries to view select artworks in person, and then return to the studio in AMFA’s Windgate Art School to instruct techniques of figurative drawing in this hands-on workshop.
Working with a live model, learn how to capture form, light, shadow, and texture. This is a perfect one-day workshop for all skill levels and interests to develop figurative drawing skills!
Must be 18+ to attend, as this workshop may use an undraped model.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Art For Two: Small Dishes with Natural Impressions (SOLD OUT)
2025-11-14 18:00 - 21:00
Create a set of floral themed ceramic candle votives! Learn to decorate the clay from an expert ceramic artist by pressing soft clay into a textured mold that has patterns of leaves, stems, and greenery.
Art For Two is the perfect one-night class experience for two where you each take home a finished piece. Class materials, a charcuterie board, and refreshments are included, no skills required – just come ready to create, unwind, and add some artistic spark to your evening.
Your creations will be fired and ready for pick up approximately four weeks after the class.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Pottery by Kelly Edwards.

Art For Two: Pottery on the Wheel
2025-11-14 18:00 - 21:00
Learn how to throw pottery on a wheel!
Art For Two is the perfect one-night class experience for two where you each take home a finished piece. Class materials, a charcuterie board, and refreshments are included, no skills required – just come ready to create, unwind, and add some artistic spark to your evening.
Your creations will be fired and ready for pick up approximately four weeks after the class.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
The Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2026.

Tool Making for Clay Workshop
2025-11-15 10:00 - 13:00
Create and design a customized wooden tool to use for forming and shaping your clay artwork. Use basic woodworking techniques to carve, cut, and sand a hard wood into a personalized, long-lasting tool for your studio.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Tools by Kim Arcega.

Glass Holiday Tree Workshop (SOLD OUT)
2025-11-15 10:00 - 13:00
Create beautiful glass holiday trees to decorate your home or give away as gifts!
Learn all about the fundamentals of glass fusing – such as glass cutting, snipping, and layering – to make geometric shapes and form each design.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Glasswork by Andy Sandage.

Slobokina-Inspired Abstract Painting Workshop
2025-11-15 10:00 - 13:00
Explore the groundbreaking artwork featured in AMFA’s exhibition Architects of Being and immerse yourself in the world of Esphyr Slobodkina during this exciting workshop.
Learn about Slobodkina’s abstract paintings and investigate how to organize a painting through composition. Using acrylic paint on canvas, students will experiment with composition, focusing on line, shape, and color to create a dynamic painting.
Whether you are new to abstract painting or looking to deepen your understanding, this workshop provides a hands-on opportunity to express your own artistic vision while looking at masterful works of art by Esphyr Slobodkina.

Architects of Being: Louise Nevelson and Esphyr Slobodkina is supported in part by the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, Alan DuBois Fund for Contemporary Craft, Ellsworth Kelly Foundation, Anita Davis, and The Jewish Federation of Arkansas.
The catalogue for Architects of Being: Louise Nevelson and Esphyr Slobodkina is supported in part by the Wyeth Foundation for American Art.

This exhibition is organized by the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.
The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Making Together: Jewelry & Textile Fusion
2025-11-16 13:00 - 16:00
Create a necklace using jewelry making techniques inspired by the functional fashion on view in Architects of Being: Louise Nevelson and Esphyr Slobodkina. Learn how to fashion a chain and clasp that adorns colorful felted and silk ribbon accessories.

Making Together offers families an opportunity to come together and create. Register now to enjoy a day full of artmaking fun with your child!

Architects of Being: Louise Nevelson and Esphyr Slobodkina is supported in part by the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, Alan DuBois Fund for Contemporary Craft, Ellsworth Kelly Foundation, Anita Davis, and The Jewish Federation of Arkansas.

The catalogue for Architects of Being: Louise Nevelson and Esphyr Slobodkina is supported in part by the Wyeth Foundation for American Art.

This exhibition is organized by the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.

Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.

Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Making Together: Clay Gingerbread Houses
2025-11-16 13:00 - 16:00
Celebrate the season with a creative clay project perfect for families looking to make holiday memories through art!
Team up and build your very own clay gingerbread-style house. Learn simple hand-building techniques like slab construction and decorative stamping to create your cozy clay cottage. Once assembled, you will add charming, personalized details.
Projects will be kiln-fired and ready to take home as a special keepsake.
Making Together offers families an opportunity to come together and create. Register now to enjoy a day full of artmaking fun with your child!

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
