In the summer of 2026, the abstract atelier will be exploring collage and frottage. Collage is a process of applying cut or torn paper, text, or imagery to a surface; and frottage is a technique of rubbing media on top of paper which has been placed over an uneven surface. There is no set materials list. If you have any questions, contact the instructor directly at ed_higgins@icloud.com. *No Class: 7/31.

Please bring a photo of a natural landscape special to you to class. We will use the photos to create 8x12” mosaics by simplifying the landscape and highlighting its most prominent features. Although this is a great beginner class, all experience levels are welcome. We will learn how to score, break, and snip glass down to shape and glue to our substrate. On the last day of class we will finish with grout. No experience required! All Materials/Tools provided. A material fee of $35 must be paid to the instructor on the first night of class.

Students will be working from live (clothed) models to develop and reinforce drawing skills related to the human form. Instructor Ed Higgins will provide one on one coaching and assistance Medium will be charcoal and Conté crayon. You will also need large pads of newsprint (18 x 24), kneaded erasers, and an easel (optional). Students are encouraged to tip the model at the end of each class. *No Class: 7/31.

Furred, feathered, scaled or even bald pets are beautiful! Please bring two printed copies of an 8x8inch or slightly smaller portrait photo of your pet to class. We will learn how to score, break, and snip glass and ceramics down to shape and glue to our substrate. On the last day of class we will finish with grout. No experience required! All Materials/Tools provided. A material fee of $35 must be paid to the instructor on the first night of class.

This class is a watercolor with pen and ink class for beginners, or people who need a space to pull out the watercolors that are collecting dust. Students will leave with a matted, abstract botanical/nature-based piece. We will start with a free painting approach with an emphasis on colors and patterns in nature, creating two different pieces. Working from an array of photos, art books and bouquets of fresh flowers, students will be encouraged to paint, draw, or even transfer some abstract botanical shapes and images onto their watercolors. With a supply of different sized mats, we will mix and match our pieces with the goal of everyone finding a mat for one of their pieces.

The plein air sketching class this summer is not media dependent. Working in your field journal or sketchbook, you may use pencil, ink, watercolor, colored pencils, watercolor pencils, or all of the above. We will meet at various scenic locations and parks in and around the Midcoast. The instructor will send the group an email with the meet up location prior to each class. In case of bad weather, we will meet at an indoor location. There is no set materials list. If you have any questions, contact the instructor directly at ed_higgins@icloud.com.

Turn everyday materials into something extraordinary! In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to create a unique, pocket-filled journal using an ordinary paper lunch bag. Through folding, binding, and decorating, you’ll design a one-of-a-kind keepsake perfect for writing, art journaling, memory keeping, or gifting. We’ll explore a variety of embellishment ideas—patterned papers, ribbons, tags, and more—to make each page unique. All materials are included.

This year, Ed Higgins’ plein air painting class is not media dependent. You may choose to work in oil, acrylics, watercolor, or pastel. Getting outside and painting from nature is our mission, choice of media is up to you and what you feel like working with on a particular day. We will meet at various scenic locations in and around the midcoast. The instructor will send the group an email with the meet up location prior to each class. In case of bad weather, we will meet at an indoor location. There is no set materials list. If you have any questions, contact the instructor directly at ed_higgins@icloud.com.

Discover the art of wire wrapping and create your own handcrafted jewelry in this beginner-friendly class. Students will learn essential techniques such as making loops, coils, decorative wraps, and securely setting stones without soldering. With step-by-step guidance, you’ll design and complete at least one finished piece— a pendant as below and cords/chains if you want to change it into a necklace. All materials are included, such as copper wire, jewelry pliers, natural gem stones or beads, findings, and polishing cloths. No prior experience is required—just bring your creativity! By the end of the class, you will leave with new skills, confidence in basic wire-working techniques, and a beautiful handmade piece of jewelry to take home.

Part Two: The Sketchbook Habit. Art the old school way means habituating to working in your sketchbook. There is no better repository for inspiration, nor quicker way to mastering the basics of drawing. Sadly, in the modern age, the simple joy of recording your visual ideas on paper in a bound sketchbook is becoming a lost art. With the focus nowadays on influencers, results, clicks and likes, it appears as though individual artistic development and process is taking a back seat to group consensus. Instructor Ed Higgins will help you prepare for your artistic journey by helping you discover and record your experiences through practice and persistence with real media in your sketchbook. *No Class: 7/28.