Saturday: In this introductory class, student will gain a basic understanding of history, techniques, tools and styles of Western marbling. Students will get hands on experience of all aspects of marbling from paper priming and preparatory mixing of water medium and paints, to the creation of classic patterns. Specific attention will be given to learning how to obtain particular designs using a diverse array of rakes and combs. Students will have ample time for experimentation with guidance from the instructor.
 
Sunday: In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to create a cloth- or paper-covered case binding and attach it to an existing paperback book or blank journal. Along the way, you’ll be introduced to essential bookbinding tools and techniques—no prior experience required. Bring a paperback book you’d like to rebind or a blank journal along with your marbled paper from Saturday’s workshop to work with. All tools and materials will be provided.

Saturday and Sunday, September 27 and 28 
10 am – 4 pm

Instructors: Pietro Accardi and Bobby Lee
Adult (16+) | All levels:

A clamsehll box, is a type of protective packaging and storage solution typically used for valuable or delicate items such as books, documents, artwork, photographs or other valuable objects. The design of a clamshell box resembles the shape of a clamshell and consists of two hinged halves that open and close like a book. Students will work closely with the instructor to create a custom designed box and basic tips and tricks of box making will be shared during the construction of the box. All materials are provided.

Saturday, October 4
10 am – 5 pm

Instructor: Pietro Accardi
Adult: (16+) | All levels

Join us for a creative summer journey inspired by Garden: A Musical Field Journal, Musica Sierra’s original children’s album celebrating the seasons of a garden and the cycles of life. In this hands-on class, students will explore nature journaling, poetry writing, and visual art while creating their own illustrated field journal based on a song from the album. Guided by teaching artist Monica Pang and Lindsay McIntosh, Juilliard alum and founder of Musica Sierra, young artists will deepen their connection to nature, music, and themselves through joyful exploration and artistic expression.

About Musica Sierra: Musica Sierra is a nonprofit performing arts organization based in Sierra County, California. Its mission is to enrich the cultural experience of rural communities through world-class, year-round performances and music education that are accessible, inclusive, and deeply connected to nature. Through innovative programs like the Musical Headwaters series and Musical Field Journals, Musica Sierra bridges environmental literacy with the visual and performing arts to inspire the next generation of creative, compassionate, and environmentally conscious citizens.

Monday – Friday, October 6 – 10
9 am – noon

Instructor: Monica Pang and Lindsay McIntosh
Ages: 7 – 11 | All Levels

Kids ages 7– 11 will have fun playing on the Museum’s iPad Pros as they work on story-boarding, character design and animation in this 5 day summer camp. Students will also have an opportunity to explore and sketch using the iPads in the Museum’s galleries while looking for inspiration for their own work. A snack and all materials are included with registration.

Monday – Friday, October 6 – 10
9 am –  noon

Instructor: Mars Pancoast
Ages: 7 – 11 | All levels

Teens ages 12 – 15 will explore their creativity in this Creative Drawing Camp! This exciting and hands-on camp is designed to spark imagination while teaching the fundamentals of art. Students will explore color theory, character design, and basic art forms in a fun and supportive environment. Through guided lessons, engaging activities, and plenty of creative freedom, campers will develop their drawing skills while expressing their unique ideas. All supplies and a mid-camp snack will be provided.

Monday – Friday, October 6 – 10
1 – 4 pm

Instructor: Angellise Lobato
Ages: 12 -15 | All Levels

Kids ages 7 – 11 will have fun exploring the tactile nature of clay.  Instruction will encompass basic hand building, throwing on the wheel, and sculpture.  In this 5 day camp, students will learn about the basics of pottery, glazing and the transformation of their pieces from the heat of kiln. This will be a fun and educational class.  All works will be fired in the Museums’ kiln. Snack and materials are included.

Monday – Friday, October 6 – 10
8:30 am – noon

Instructor: Karen Vetter
Ages: 7 – 11 | All levels

In this hands-on silversmithing workshop, you’ll learn the essential techniques to create your own unique pendant from start to finish. Under the guidance of the instructor, you’ll cut metal using a jeweler’s saw, refine the shape through filing and sanding, and learn how to solder sterling silver onto a copper base. You’ll explore texturing methods to give your piece character, attach a bail for hanging, and finish with professional polishing techniques to bring out the shine. No prior experience needed and all materials provided.

 Note: There will be a 30 minute break for lunch.

Saturday, August 2
10 am – 4:30 pm

Instructor: Jill Atkins
Age: Adult (16+) | Beginner and Intermediate

Join us for a whimsical needle felting workshop where you’ll create your very own charming sheep, topped with a festive floral hat!
Perfect for beginners, this class will introduce you to the basics of needle felting using wool and curly sheep locks. With step-by-step guidance, students will learn how to sculpt and shape your fluffy friend from start to finish—no experience necessary. All supplies provided.

Thursday, August 14
5 – 8:30 pm

Instructor: Lynn Short
Age: Adult (16+) | All Levels

This class teaches fundamental painting techniques with a focus on composition using the Loomis grid. Students will learn to structure their artwork effectively by applying the grid to improve balance, proportion, and focal points. Through guided exercises, you’ll refine your understanding of shapes, values, and color harmony, developing more dynamic and well-composed paintings.

Saturday and Sunday, August 23 and 24
9 am – 2 pm

Instructor: Dan Helzer
Age: Adult (16+) | All Levels

• Supply list: Show email confirmation at Nevada Fine Arts for a 10% discount.

  • 5 – 7 Canvas Boards 16×12 or smaller
  • Palette Knife
  • Palette
  • Paper Towels
  • Selection of bristle brushes (small, med and large)
  • Assortment of brushes.
  • Palette knife, paper towels and a few canvas boards, 8×10 or bigger.

  Paint Colors:

  • Cobalt Blue
  • Ultramarine Blue
  • Alizarin Crimson
  • Black
  • Cadmium Red Light
  • Cadmium Yellow or Hansa Yellow
  • Burnt Sienna
  • Titanium White

  For Oils: Gamsol, turpentine or walnut oil for use as a brush medium or cleaner.

Join us for a creative summer journey inspired by Garden: A Musical Field Journal, Musica Sierra’s original children’s album celebrating the seasons of a garden and the cycles of life. In this hands-on class, students will explore nature journaling, poetry writing, and visual art while creating their own illustrated field journal based on a song from the album. Guided by teaching artist Monica Pong and Lindsay McIntosh, Juilliard alum and founder of Musica Sierra, young artists will deepen their connection to nature, music, and themselves through joyful exploration and artistic expression.

About Musica Sierra: Musica Sierra is a nonprofit performing arts organization based in Sierra County, California. Its mission is to enrich the cultural experience of rural communities through world-class, year-round performances and music education that are accessible, inclusive, and deeply connected to nature. Through innovative programs like the Musical Headwaters series and Musical Field Journals, Musica Sierra bridges environmental literacy with the visual and performing arts to inspire the next generation of creative, compassionate, and environmentally conscious citizens.

Monday – Friday, August 4 – 8
9 am – noon

Instructor: Monica Pang and Lindsay McIntosh
Ages: 7 – 11 | All Levels