Expressions is offered as a series of three individual six-week studio sessions taught by Randy Wilhelm. Each session focuses on a different medium and can be taken on its own. Students may register for one, two, or all three classes, depending on their interests and availability. Because each session is a standalone offering, registration is required for each class separately.
Classes are not drop-in; students should plan to commit to the full six-week session. All classes meet on Thursdays from 3:30–5:30 pm. Most supplies are provided. If a class requires additional materials, a supply list will be noted in the course description.
Each session is limited to 10 students, so early registration is encouraged. A limited number of scholarships are available. Interested families are encouraged to inquire as soon as possible by calling 208-263-6139 or emailing poacasst1@gmail.com
Drawing in Charcoal
6-Week Workshop
January 22 - February 26
2 Hours per Week - 3:30 - 5:30 PM
Discover the expressive power of charcoal in this immersive six-week drawing class designed for teens. Students will explore a range of charcoal materials—vine, compressed, pencils —while learning how to create bold contrasts, subtle shading, and dynamic textures. Through guided demonstrations and hands-on practice, they’ll develop essential drawing skills such as observational accuracy, value control, gesture drawing, and composition.
Each week builds on itself. Each drawing will be done from real life observation or photographic reference. (not reference of someone else’s artwork). Students will experiment with additive and subtractive techniques, blending tools, and recycled materials. Charcoal is a great medium to really understand the key to successful painting, light and shadow.
Perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike, this class encourages confidence, curiosity, and personal style. By the end of the course, each student will have a series of finished charcoal drawings and a deeper understanding of traditional drawing techniques.
Supply list
A drawing by the student to share with instructor and class.
5-10 paper grocery bags
1-3 pieces flattened cardboard (some available in class. Just ask us!)
Watercolor/dyes, Pen & Ink Exploration
6-Week Workshop
March 12 - April 23 (No class on April 2 for Spring Break)
2 Hours per Week - Thursdays 3:30 - 5:30
Unlock the expressive possibilities of watercolor, dyes, and pen-and-ink illustration in this creative six-week course. Students will learn how to combine loose, colorful washes with detailed line work to create dynamic mixed-media artwork. students will learn essential watercolor techniques and some just for fun. And most importantly, when to incorporate them. Techniques such as glazing, creating texture with salt and alcohol, experimenting with vibrant dyes, and developing confident ink lines using crow quill pens and brushes.
Through guided demos and individual projects and photographic reference, students will explore topics like character and creature design, botanical illustration and illustrative storytelling. Along the way, they’ll build their art skills in composition, clocking in your drawing, color story telling, and various pen and ink techniques.
No prior experience is required—just curiosity and a willingness to experiment, make mistakes and get out of your comfort zone.
Papier-Mâché Sculpture Studio
6-Week Workshop - April 30 - June 11
2 Hours per Week
Dive into the fun and tactile world of papier-mâché in this imaginative six-week sculpture class. Students will learn how to build sturdy armatures, layer papier-mâché for strength, and shape expressive forms using simple materials like paper, paste, cardboard, and mixed-media embellishments.
Throughout the course, we’ll explore a variety of techniques—sculpting with foil and wire bases, creating smooth and textured surfaces, painting and finishing sculptures, and adding decorative details. Projects may include masks, creatures, or more personalized projects, allowing students to develop both technical skills and personal creativity.
This hands-on, mess-friendly class encourages experimentation and problem-solving as students transform everyday materials into unique works of art. By the end of the workshop, each student will complete at least one finished sculpture and gain confidence in 3D art-making.