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Glossary of Programs by Bash & Design Gallery 

Welcome to our studio! On this page you will find brief description and samples of students' work for each class. It's a great way to see what program suits you or your little one's interests. We suggest starting with Painting & Drawing. Never been to our studio and want to check out a class? No problem, register by drop in for any class and our professional team will make a suggestion after meeting you if needed. When registering for a drop in, please register for at least 4 consecutive sessions to truly benefit from our uniquely structured classes. Have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out!

 There’s More at Bash & Design Gallery — A Community That Grows With You

 

At Bash & Design Gallery, we offer so much more than ongoing art programs — we’re a creative home, a cultural heartbeat, and a place where people of all ages reconnect with beauty, purpose, and each other.

 

In a city where education is too often undervalued, we choose to believe in something bigger. Being “unranked” doesn’t mean we’re uneducated — it means we must take education into our own hands. By making space for creativity, you fill your life with meaning, heritage, and lasting joy.

 

Whether your child is already in sports five days a week…Art brings balance. For active kids, it’s a chance to slow down, reset their minds, and explore a different side of themselves. Sports build discipline and teamwork — but art develops self-awareness, creative thinking, and emotional expression. Together, they create a powerful foundation.

For teens — even those set on becoming doctors…

Learning to draw and observe sharpens the same skills needed in medicine: attention to detail, visual memory, hand-eye coordination, and focused observation. Whether you’re reading X-rays, understanding anatomy, or stitching with precision, those skills matter. Art also builds emotional intelligence — essential when working with people. Even if their future isn’t in the arts, it’s a smart piece of the puzzle.

And for adults…Picking up a new skill isn’t just a fun hobby — it’s how we stay sharp, creative, and connected. Life’s too busy to only be about work and errands. Exploring something like art adds curiosity, confidence, and conversation to your life. It keeps your brain healthy and your identity interesting — not just to others, but to yourself. Because being well-rounded doesn’t stop when we grow up.

 

Here’s what else you’ll find at Bash & Design:

 

  • One-time workshops for all ages

  • Art camps during school breaks and holidays

  • Paint & Sip nights (yes — we’re licensed!)

  • Family art days

  • Specialty fine art workshops with Masha

  • Holiday-themed sessions (handmade gifts, decor, and festive fun!)

  • Creative networking events & mixers

  • Art birthday parties & private events

  • Student exhibitions — both in-studio and around the city

  • Pop-up markets and original artwork for sale

​Sunday Art Explorers for ages 5-7 
Available: Sunday 2hrs class

Best For: Young artists who love making things with their hands, first-time students, or returning creatives who enjoy fun weekend projects.

Purpose: Introduce foundational art skills in a playful, structured environment while building creativity, confidence, and social-emotional growth.

 

What to Expect:

This 2-hour Sunday class is packed with creative fun — from drawing and painting to clay, sculpture, cartoon design, and wearable art. Each session is thoughtfully guided so students explore real art concepts while feeling like they’re just having fun. There is art education & play time. Kids can join for one weekend (we suggest 2 consecutive Sundays) or return often — every class offers something fresh.

 

Skills They Build:

  • Fine motor skills & hand-eye coordination

  • Visual memory, composition, and problem-solving

  • Emotional expression through creative play

  • Teamwork and communication with new friends

Monthly Focus: Drawing or Painting Level 1 & 2
Available: Wednesdays, Sundays

Ages: 9–16

Best For: Students looking to improve specific skills, new families exploring the studio, or anyone who prefers short-term, themed art experiences.

A flexible, month-to-month deep dive into Drawing or Painting, helping young artists build core techniques without repeating projects.

 

What to Expect:

Each month focuses on a single discipline — either Drawing or Painting — with four themed sessions led by professional instructors. Students can join for just one month or stay enrolled long-term for continuous growth. Great as a stand-alone experience or as a way to earn hours toward apron levels.

Choose Your Track:

  • Drawing Month: Explore sketching, shading, proportion, and imaginative illustration using graphite, charcoal, and colored pencils.

  • Painting Month: Learn to sketch, mix colors, and paint landscapes, still lifes, and more with acrylics and palette knives.

Skills They Build:

  • Strong foundation in drawing or painting techniques

  • Creative planning, observation, and visual problem-solving

  • Personal expression and project follow-through

  • Confidence in tools like charcoal, Prismacolor, acrylic, and palette knives

Art Explorers – Your First Art Program
Available: Monday, Saturday

Ages: 5–7

Best For: First-time students, young kids who love crafting, painting, and making fun art projects in a structured yet playful setting.

Purpose: To introduce children to the world of visual art in a fun, engaging way while developing foundational skills, creativity, and confidence.

 

Offered in Two Formats:

  • Weekday Art Explorers: A consistent creative class with hands-on projects in drawing, painting, and sculpture (no character party).

  • Saturday Art Explorers with Character Day: Weekly art fun plus a magical twist on the last Saturday of each month, featuring a themed paint party with a special guest character or princess!

 

Character Dates (Saturdays Only): Sept 27, Oct 25, Nov 23, Dec 14

Character parties are included for full-time Saturday students — others can register separately for special event pricing.

 

What We Do:

  • Draw and paint with acrylic, watercolor, and colored pencils

  • Sculpt with air-dry clay and build simple 3D forms

  • Create seasonal décor, portraits, character designs, and wearable art

  • Learn color mixing, design basics, and how to follow multi-step projects

 

Skills They Build:

  • Confidence with art tools and materials

  • Visual memory, focus, and spatial awareness

  • Social-emotional development through group projects and playful storytelling

  • Transition from simple crafts to foundational art learning

Painting & Drawing Level 1 for ages 9 -12 
Available Monday, Saturday

Ages: 9–12

Best For: Students ready to begin their art journey in a more structured, skill-based environment. Whether your child is new to Bash & Design, returning after summer camp, or simply curious to explore art more seriously — this is the place to start.

Purpose: To provide a solid artistic foundation through guided, professional instruction in painting, drawing, and mixed media, while nurturing confidence, imagination, and personal growth.

 

Who This Class is For:

  • Kids who loved our summer or pop-up camps and want to go deeper

  • New families looking to introduce art into their child’s weekly routine

  • Students seeking balance to a busy sports schedule with something creative and calming

  • Young artists ready to explore whether art becomes a passion, a therapeutic outlet, or a lifelong skill

 

What to Expect:

Art Level 1 introduces students to key techniques like proportion, shading, and perspective while working on longer, multi-step projects. Students use acrylics, watercolor, oil pastels, and more, developing patience, attention to detail, and creative confidence. Projects range from still life and portraits to character design and storytelling.

 

Every student receives personal guidance, no matter their starting point.

Painting & Drawing Level 2 for Pre teen & Teen (New Students Welcome)
Available: Monday, Thursday

Ages: Recommended for 12+

(Students ages 10–11 may be accepted with completion of Level 1 and consistent attendance)

Best For: Pre-teens and teens ready to move beyond the basics and take their art to the next level.

 

New to Our Studio?

Teens (12+) who are new to Bash & Design are welcome to start here. This is where their Level 1 journey begins — in an age-appropriate, focused setting. Every student receives individual guidance based on their experience and needs.

Level 2 is a skill-focused course for dedicated students who want to advance technically and creatively. Artists transition from guided lessons to developing original, self-directed projects with increasing independence. Students explore complex subjects, refine technique, and start building a strong body of work — all with professional coaching.

What Students Will Learn

 

  • Advanced drawing and painting methods

  • Human anatomy, perspective, and visual depth

  • Composition planning and storytelling

  • Working from observation and direct lighting

  • Developing personal style and original ideas

  • Mediums: graphite, colored pencil, acrylic, watercolor, oil pastel

  • Final project as a capstone to demonstrate mastery

Advanced Painting Level 3 (new students ages 18+ welcome)
Available: Saturday

Ages: Recommended for 13+ (Teens & Adults)

Best For: Students who are serious about painting and ready to move from guided instruction to independent, professional-level work.

 

Enrollment Requirements:

  • Students ages 10–14 must complete Level 2 and be approved via portfolio review or instructor invitation.

  • Adults (18+) are welcome to join and progress at their own pace, guided by personal goals and instructor feedback.

 

Overview:

Led by co-founder and fine art painter Masha Ermolaeva, this advanced program is designed for committed artists ready to take their skills to the next level. Instruction focuses on refining technique, developing artistic voice, and creating a cohesive body of work with professional standards in mind.

 

Teens in this class follow a structured path toward level completion, while adults receive individualized mentorship and are encouraged to explore personal creative goals at their own pace.

 

Students Will Learn To:

  • Master advanced painting techniques through demos and hands-on practice

  • Understand light, shadow, color harmony, and storytelling through visual art

  • Apply laws of perspective and proportion to real-life studies

  • Transition from guided projects to self-directed, intentional works

  • Receive and apply professional-level critique

  • Explore styles such as impressionism, surrealism, and classical genres

  • Build a portfolio ready for exhibition, sale, or school application

Mixed Media, Clay Work, and Decorative Sculpting Program Level 1 & 2
Available: Friday, Saturday

Ages: 8–12

Best For: Young artists who enjoy hands-on, 3D projects and want to strengthen their understanding of form, structure, and composition. This class is especially helpful for students in Painting & Drawing, as working in three dimensions improves spatial awareness and supports growth in traditional 2D art.

 

Overview:

This workshop-style class introduces students to sculpture and mixed media using clay, paint, fabric, wood, and found objects. Projects include lifelike food, characters, and upcycled home décor. Students gain confidence through creative exploration and learn to solve visual problems in a tactile, engaging way.

 

Benefits:

 

  • Builds coordination, focus, and creativity

  • Encourages artistic risk-taking and experimentation

  • Enhances 2D art skills through 3D understanding

  • Optional exhibits and special projects throughout the year

 

Enrollment Note:

Recommended 4–6 consecutive sessions to complete projects. Students may occasionally be asked to bring personal or household items for their work.

 

Advanced Decorative Sculpting (Level 2)

For students who have completed Level 1 or are enrolled in another full program.

 

Overview:

A full-year creative challenge focused on real-world applications. Students collaborate on community exhibits, design for local businesses, and learn how to present and refine their work with intention.

Watch our Youtube Series from last year with Lemon Tree collaboration 

Commitment:

Level 2 is a full academic year commitment in order to participate in special end of the year projects.

Creative Painting & Drawing & Creative Mixed Media (2 separate programs) for ages 6-8
Available: Wednesday (painting & drawing), Saturday (both)

Creative Painting & Drawing

 

Ages: 6–8

Best For: Young artists ready to build foundational skills in drawing and painting. Recommended for students who have completed our Art Exploring program or are eager for more structure and technique.

 

Overview:

This class introduces essential fine art concepts like color theory, composition, brush control, and sketching techniques. Students explore a range of subjects — from still life and landscapes to cartoons and movie-inspired art — using materials such as acrylics, watercolor, and colored pencil.

 

Through playful, step-by-step projects, students gain confidence, focus, and technical skills while developing their artistic voice. This class also builds the habits and vocabulary needed to prepare for our Level 1 programs, typically around age 8+.

 

What They’ll Learn:

 

  • Fundamentals of drawing, painting, and composition

  • Color mixing and seasonal palettes

  • Art genres like still life, portraits, landscapes, and character art

  • Visual storytelling and creative thinking through familiar themes

 

 

Creative Mixed Media

 

Ages: 6–8

Best For: Young makers who love hands-on projects and working with clay, sculpture, and found materials. A natural pairing with Creative Painting & Drawing for a full artistic foundation.

 

Overview:

Creative Mixed Media helps young artists explore the world of 3D art through clay, collage, building, and decorative projects. Students work with their hands to develop shape, structure, texture, and spatial awareness — all while building strength, coordination, and confidence.

 

Projects are playful yet skill-building, encouraging students to problem-solve and create unique, display-worthy pieces they’re proud of. This is also the recommended first step for students interested in joining our exhibition-based sculpting programs in the future.

What They’ll Learn:

 

  • Clay sculpting, texture-building, and 3D form

  • Balance, symmetry, and structure

  • Collage, layering, and upcycling techniques

  • How to translate 2D ideas into dimensional creations

Why Take Both?

Painting & Drawing develops fine motor skills, focus, and storytelling.

Mixed Media strengthens muscles, spatial thinking, and creativity.

 

Together, these programs give young artists the variety, repetition, and hands-on experience they need to grow into confident, capable creators. Working in both 2D and 3D prepares them not just for our Level 1 courses — but for a lifelong love of art.

Sunday Personalized Art Experience (Great for portfolio development)
Available: Sunday

Ages: 8+ (adults welcome)

Best For: Independent-minded students, weekend creatives, returning artists continuing a project, or anyone looking for flexibility with professional guidance.

Purpose: To offer students creative freedom within a structured environment, with individualized support from instructors to build real skills at their own pace.

 

What to Expect:

Start each 2-hour session with a 20–30 minute demo that introduces a new tool, style, or technique — then choose your own adventure. Students can select from a curated library of projects, work on a self-directed piece, or bring in their own reference (ages 12+).

 

Options Include:

 

  • Pick from instructor-curated projects

  • Start something new or continue a past work

  • Get one-on-one guidance on your personal ideas

  • Work on pieces for your art portfolio or school application

 

Skills They Build:

 

  • Technique refinement and tool exploration

  • Creative decision-making and visual storytelling

  • Confidence in working independently with guidance

  • Studio habits like composition planning, cleanup, and pacing

Oil & Acrylic Foundations
Available: Thursday

Recommended Ages: 15+ & Adults

Best For: Teens and adults ready to take fine art seriously and explore classical painting techniques through structured, skill-based learning. A strong next step for Level 2+ students seeking more focused, long-term growth.

 

Overview:

Modeled after the European atelier tradition, this program blends classical technique with personalized guidance. Students begin with acrylic studies to develop control, layering skills, and brushwork confidence. Once ready, they are gradually introduced to oil painting — a medium that requires precision, patience, and mastery of foundational methods.

 

Why Acrylics First?

Acrylics help students:

 

  • Build brush control and layering techniques

  • Practice blending and color mixing without the complexities of oil

  • Gain confidence before transitioning into a slower, more demanding medium

 

What You’ll Learn:

 

  • Proportion, value, and shape design

  • Edge control and color transitions

  • Observational studies and traditional exercises

  • Gradual transition into oil painting fundamentals

  • Independent projects supported by one-on-one mentorship

 

Structure & Approach:

Students begin with instructor-led demos and small-scale exercises, progressing into personal pieces as their skills grow. Instruction is tailored to each artist’s experience level and goals, whether you’re just starting or refining advanced techniques.

 

Recommended Commitment:

To fully benefit, we suggest 4–6 consecutive sessions for focused progress and a smooth transition from acrylic to oil. This consistency allows for skill development, ongoing critique, and deeper exploration.

Self-Directed Studio Time
Available every day during business hours. If you’d like to come in at a specific time that isn’t listed on the schedule, feel free to reach out — we’re happy to adjust it if possible.

Self-Directed Studio Time

 

Ages: 8+

Best For: Independent young artists who want extra time to create personal work, explore ideas, or prepare for showcases in a relaxed, studio-style environment.

 

Overview:

This is not a traditional class — it’s a guided open studio session where students work independently on projects of their choice. It’s ideal for those who want to build confidence, apply techniques from other classes, or simply enjoy uninterrupted creative time.

 

What to Expect:

  • Independent project time with light instructor support

  • First session includes a short tutorial and guided practice

  • Students work at their own pace and choose their own subject matter

  • Instructor check-ins and feedback provided as needed

  • Great for developing personal style and creative decision-making

  • Recommended for students preparing for exhibitions or building portfolios

 

Why It Matters:

  • Reinforces skills from structured classes

  • Builds independence, focus, and creative ownership

  • Offers valuable time for art showcase preparation

  • Encourages deeper exploration and long-term growth

 

Important Notes:

  • Not eligible for level advancement hours unless paired with a structured class

  • Ideal when combined with Painting & Drawing or Mixed Media

  • Space is limited — reservations for drop-ins must be made at least 24 hours in advance

  • Students are responsible for taking home finished work

  • The studio is not liable for damage to stored artwork

 

Included Supplies:

  • Paper, acrylics, watercolor, colored pencils, and tools provided

  • Canvas and clay are available for an additional supply fee

     

    • Canvas: $5–$10 depending on size

    • Clay: $5 (4oz) or $10 (8oz)

  • All supply charges will be confirmed with parents before purchase

Cartoon & Anime Programs Ages 8-13 | Character Art (Anime/cartoon) & Visual Storytelling Level 2 Ages 12-17 (Thursdays only)
Available: Monday, Thursday, Saturday

Cartooning & Anime for Ages 8-13 Levels 1 & 2

Ages: 8–13

Best For: Animation lovers, creative storytellers, and kids who are drawn to anime, cartoons, video games, and comics.

Cartooning & Anime class is often the first stop for kids who show interest in art — and we love that! It feels familiar, it’s fun, and it speaks their language. If cartoons, anime, and gaming characters are what spark their creative curiosity, we welcome them with open arms. Many students begin their artistic journey here and, over time, naturally grow into painting, drawing, and exploring more traditional fine art techniques — because they start to understand that traditional skills only make their character art stronger.

What to Expect:

Artists follow a step-by-step process to create their own characters, build scenes, and explore visual storytelling. Tools include pencils, micron pens, alcohol-based markers, watercolor, and acrylic paint.

The advanced cartooning course is designed for students who are ready to move beyond basic sketching and into fully developed character creation. Artists will explore anatomy, proportions, storytelling, and style development — all while working on personal, self-directed projects inspired by anime, manga, and comics.

 

What Students Will Learn:

 

  • Build expressive, well-proportioned characters

  • Interpret visual references into original designs

  • Develop story-driven characters with backstories and emotion

  • Apply advanced sketching and inking techniques

  • Strengthen their own unique artistic style

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