Owatonna Community Education

Discover the charm of watercolor through the earthy elegance of mushrooms! This beginner-friendly workshop will guide you step by step as you paint a whimsical mushroom still life. Learn foundational watercolor techniques such as wet-on-wet blending, dry brush detailing, and layering translucent color to create depth and texture. Whether you're brand new to watercolor or looking to refresh your skills, this class is a relaxed and creative space to explore your artistic side. All supplies are provided—just bring your curiosity and love for nature’s tiny wonders.

An introduction to the beauty of the soft pastel medium. Artists have been using soft pastels for centuries to create art of all types including realism, abstract, and impressionism. Soft pastels brilliant color and versatility are like acrylic and oil paints but in a dry medium. We will practice laying color down on paper before we complete a fun drawing of cows under the northern lights! All supplies are included. Please note that this class will generate dust for those that are sensitive.

How do you throw clay on the wheel? Beginners will learn how to use the wheel to create three dimensional forms and vessels. Demonstrations will cover the basics of wedging, centering, pulling, trimming, and forming functional vessels. If you are accustomed to clay, come and fine-tune your skills, learn a new technique, and challenge yourself with larger, more complex forms. Dress for a mess and wear tennis shoes. Bring your ideas, excitement, and inspiration to each class. One 25 lbs bag of clay is included. Any additional clay can be purchased from the Owatonna Arts Center. Basic glazing will be covered to finish all pieces. Call the instructor at 507-835-1192 or the Owatonna Arts Center at 507-451-0533 if you have any questions.

Want to try a new medium that has been around for a long time? Soft pastels are a dry medium composed of paint pigments and a minimum of binder. They allow the artist to build color and depth like the acrylic or oil artist but in a medium that is dry and lightly portable making this a great option for those who like to draw or paint “plein air” or outside of your home or studio. Open to anyone who wants to try soft pastels for the first or 100th time! We will review the skills taught in our Intro course and build on those skills to create an adorable snow bird. All supplies are included. Please note that this class will generate dust for those that are sensitive.