Oil Painting with Andrea Gianchiglia — July–August 2026
2026-07-14 10:00 - 12:30 (America/New_York) | A Maker’s Circle Studio, 8 Hacklebarney Road, Pottersville, NJ, 07979, United States
About the Class
Oil painting has a richness that no other medium quite matches — and this summer, you’ll learn to use it with intention. Artist and instructor Andrea Gianchiglia leads this 6-week series designed to build real, foundational painting skills from the ground up.
Each session focuses on core techniques: color mixing, light and shadow, composition, brushwork, and understanding your materials. You’ll work from photographs — either Andrea’s curated selection or images from your own collection — so your work stays personal and meaningful. Every week includes a live demo tackling a specific challenge, whether that’s subject matter, technique, or a particular painting element. You can use the demo as a direct exercise or as a reference while continuing your own project — the pace is yours to set.
This is an opportunity to study with an instructor experienced in oil painting in an intimate, small-group setting. Whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time or looking to sharpen skills you already have, Andrea meets you where you are.
Tuesdays, July 14 – August 18 | 10am–12:30pm | 6 sessions | All levels welcome
Materials

Oil paint colors — Titanium White, Viridian, Burnt Sienna, Yellow Ochre, Sap Green, Alizarin Crimson, Phthalo Blue, Cadmium Yellow, Ultramarine Blue, Cadmium Red
Optional: Portland Warm Grey and Portland Cool Grey (made by Gamblin), Ice Blue (Richeson Shiva Series), Kings Blue by Michael Harding
There are many brands to choose from. The instructor recommends Winsor & Newton or Grumbacher. Winsor & Newton has two quality grades: Professional Artist and student grade. The student grade is called Winton. The instructor recommends the Artist grade — the quality is better, though the price is slightly higher.
Acrylic paint — one tube of Yellow Ochre
Palette (used for mixing paint). The instructor will go over different types of palettes in class. If you’d like, you can wait until the first class to decide which type you prefer (use a paper palette pad in the meantime). A large wooden palette or a piece of clear glass also works great.
Palette box — Used to store your wet palette after class and between painting sessions. Available at Michaels — it is a Tupperware-like box with a blue top and white bottom.
Turpenoid (small container)
Liquin by Winsor & Newton — Find this in the “mediums” section.
Brushes — A variety of sizes recommended. Synthetic brushes are suggested for beginners. Brush variety packs with assorted sizes are available in the brush section.
Palette knife — Metal is preferred over plastic.
Surface to paint on — The instructor will demonstrate various surfaces in class. To start, a canvas board or stretched canvas is recommended. Size is up to the student; the instructor suggests 11″ x 14″ to 16″ x 20″.
Sketchbook and sketching supplies — pencils, charcoal, erasers, etc.
Small containers for painting medium — Art stores sell small metal cups that attach to your palette; Mason jars work great as well. Please bring two — one for the Liquin and one for the Turpenoid.
“The Masters” brush cleaner & preserver — a small tub of brush cleaner in a beige-colored container.
Any questions? Email Andrea at andrea@agillustration.com.
Cancellation Policy
Students cancelling at least one week prior to the start of class will receive a full refund. Within one week of the start date, tuition is non-refundable, as we must cover materials and instructor costs.

jacqueline pankuck

The Power of Pastels with Andrea Gianchiglia— July–August 2026
2026-07-14 13:00 - 15:30
About the Class
This pastels class will offer exposure to one of the most expressive mediums in an artist’s toolkit. This 6-week series with Andrea Gianchiglia is your chance to really dig into what they can do. Each week builds on the last, with Andrea guiding you through a fresh challenge designed to push your skills forward.
Discussions and demos cover the full range of what makes pastel work sing: color theory, proportion, drawing fundamentals, texture, and layering. Andrea walks through each concept step by step, so whether you’re relatively new to pastels or coming in with some experience, you’ll leave every session with something concrete to show for it — and something new to think about.
This pastels class is a rare opportunity to spend six weeks in focused study with an experience instructor, in the kind of small, serious-but-relaxed class environment that actually lets you grow. Spots fill fast.
Tuesdays, July 14 – August 18 | 1pm–3:30pm | 6 sessions | All levels welcome
Materials

A great starter set is Prismacolor NuPastels. The minimum recommended set is 36 count. Surfaces are important for pastels. Pastelmat by Clairefontaine is recommended — a variety pack in several colors in 9″ x 12″ is encouraged.
Other great pastel brands (optional): Unison, Terry Ludwig, Sennelier.
Cancellation Policy
Students cancelling at least one week prior to the start of class will receive a full refund. Within one week of the start date, tuition is non-refundable, as we must cover materials and instructor costs.

jacqueline pankuck

Art In Action Summer Teen/Tween Camp with Andrea Gianchiglia (3 day camp, July 22-24)
2026-07-22 09:00 - 13:00
3 day camp: 7/22-24
Art in Action: A Creative Summer Studio (Ages 10–15)

This summer camp is designed for young artists who want to explore how art is made. Through guided demonstrations and hands-on projects, campers will work in a variety of subjects including plein air drawing and painting, still lifes, landscapes, and basic perspective.

Students will experiment with watercolor, acrylic, colored pencil, and mixed media, while learning practical skills like color mixing, layering, mark-making, and artistic decision-making. Each day balances clear instruction with creative freedom, encouraging curiosity, confidence, and personal style.
This camp welcomes growing artists, with an emphasis on exploration, progress, and enjoying the creative process.

Kids Art Camp: Art Sampler - Ages 5–9 (3 Days, July 22-24 )
2026-07-22 09:00 - 13:00
Join Vanessa Lopez for a fun and creative 3-day art camp designed to let kids explore and experiment! Young artists will sample a variety of materials including paint, clay, paper mâché, and more. This process-driven camp focuses on creativity over perfection, encouraging kids to explore, take risks, and enjoy making art. With plenty of freedom to express themselves, each child’s imagination leads the way—no experience needed, just curiosity and enthusiasm!
Cancelation Policy: Cancelations made at least 2 weeks before camp begins, will be refunded. Within 2 weeks, tuition is non-refundable.

Art In Action Summer Teen/Tween Camp with Andrea Gianchiglia (3 day camp, August 12-14)
2026-08-12 09:00 - 13:00
3 day camp: 8/12-14
Art in Action: A Creative Summer Studio (Ages 10–15)

This summer camp is designed for young artists who want to explore how art is made. Through guided demonstrations and hands-on projects, campers will work in a variety of subjects including plein air drawing and painting, still lifes, landscapes, and basic perspective.

Students will experiment with watercolor, acrylic, colored pencil, and mixed media, while learning practical skills like color mixing, layering, mark-making, and artistic decision-making. Each day balances clear instruction with creative freedom, encouraging curiosity, confidence, and personal style.
This camp welcomes growing artists, with an emphasis on exploration, progress, and enjoying the creative process.

Art Sampler Camp with Vanessa Lopez - Ages 5-9, August 12-14
2026-08-12 09:00 - 13:00

Art Sampler Camp with Vanessa Lopez - Ages 5-9, August, 19-21
2026-08-19 09:00 - 13:00
Join us for a fun and creative full week art camp, Monday–Friday, designed to let kids explore and experiment! Young artists will sample a variety of materials including paint, clay, paper mâché, and more. This process-driven camp focuses on creativity over perfection, encouraging kids to explore, take risks, and enjoy making art. With plenty of freedom to express themselves, each child’s imagination leads the way—no experience needed, just curiosity and enthusiasm!
(Ages 5–9)
Aug. 19-21
9 am – 1 pm
Cancelation Policy: Cancelations at least 2 weeks prior to start will be refunded. After that, tuition is non-refundable.

Master Watercolor Workshop with Alvaro Castagnet - September 18-20
2026-09-18 09:00 - 16:00
Understanding The Four PIllars:
We are thrilled to welcome internationally acclaimed, master watercolor painter, Alvaro Castagnet to A Maker’s Circle this September. Widely regarded as one of the world’s leading watercolor artists, Alvaro is known for his bold, passionate, and deeply expressive approach to painting. His workshops are immersive, inspiring, and—above all—fun.
This multi-day workshop offers students a rare opportunity to learn directly from Alvaro as he shares not only how he paints, but why a painting works.

This workshop is an intense 3 days of inspiration, hard work and productive learning…6 Hours of class each day – a break for lunch.
Alvaro begins with philosophical introduction and then follows by a simple “one go” demonstration
The demo will focus on bold composition with understanding of the 4 Pillars.
You will learn how to make quick decisions and simplify your subject to achieve the most impact. We will discuss Color relationships, tonal range, forms & shapes and edges.
Participants will then paint until we break for lunch
Alvaro will assist and advise on works in progress.
Participants are asked to start a second painting for the afternoon session, after Alvaro’s 2nd.demonstration. Alvaro will supervise participants until the end of each day.
Every participant will go home not only feeling great with their achievement, realizing how much they have learned after having so much fun, and with a clear understanding of the strength and weakness of their paintings.
What to Expect
Alvaro will begin with an introduction to watercolor that explores the philosophical side of painting—what truly makes a painting come alive. From there, the workshop unfolds organically, guided by demonstrations, discussion, and hands-on practice.
Over the course of the workshop, Alvaro will cover essential watercolor concepts, including:

Wet-on-wet technique
Wet-on-dry technique
Lost and found edges
Color mixing and blending
Understanding and using strong value ranges

Students will watch Alvaro complete both simple, one-go demonstrations and more complex paintings, gaining insight into his decision-making process at every stage.
Over 6 hours of painting each day, Alvaro will spend generous time walking among the students, in our two adjacent light filled studio rooms, offering individualized, thoughtful, and encouraging guidance to help each painter strengthen their work and make the most of every painting opportunity.
Important: Painting will take place primarily in the studio; however, weather permitting, Álvaro may lead sessions outdoors for plein air painting. Participants should therefore be prepared to paint both indoors and outdoors.
A Note on Alvaro’s Teaching Style
This outline is offered as a general guide only. Alvaro is a true free spirit and does not follow a rigid formula. His teaching responds to the energy of the group, the paintings in front of him, and the moment itself—making each workshop a unique and memorable experience.

What You’ll Leave With
Participants consistently leave Alvaro’s workshops feeling energized, confident, and inspired. You can expect to go home with:

A deeper understanding of watercolor
Clear insight into the strengths and weaknesses of your work
New tools to approach future paintings with confidence
And the satisfaction of having learned a tremendous amount while having a lot of fun

Alvaro Castagnet workshops are highly sought-after and beloved by painters at all levels. We are honored to host him and look forward to an unforgettable experience this September at A Maker’s Circle.

Cancelation Policy: refunds will be given as follows:

4 weeks before – full refund
3 weeks before – 50% refund
2 weeks before – non-refundable

ALVARO’S LIST OF MATERIALS
PAINTS:

◻ Lunar Black
◻ Cobalt Blue
◻ Sepia
◻ Hansa Yellow Deep
◻ Burnt Sienna Light
◻ Yellow Ochre
◻ Pyrrol Red
◻ Neutral Tint
◻ Viridian
◻ Lavender (DS or Holbein)
◻ Alvaro’s Caliente Grey (DS)*
◻ Alvaro’s Fresco Grey (DS)*
*Daniel Smith

SUGGESTED PAINTS (not indispensable)

◻ Titanium White
◻ Jaune Brilliant #1
◻ Pyrrol Orange (Daniel Smith)
◻ Cobalt Teal Blue or Green Turquoise Light
◻ Lunar Blue

BRUSHES:
Please bring the best you can afford.

Preferable, round big, MOP shape and pointed brushes sable or squirrel
suggested brushes
#10, 6, 4, 2, 0, 00, 000, 5/00 and 10/00) – 1 Flat brush at least 2 ” wide
1 rigger or needle point for fine details and lines (like Alvaro’s #8, #10, #6 or #4)
Small synthetic brushes # 4, 5, 6 (for fine detail work)

PAPER:
For workshops, it is best to use from 1/4 to 1/2 sheet size, but of course, you can paint, in any size you feel comfortable. Alvaro will mostly demonstrate in 1/2 sheets.

It is critical to use quality watercolor paper that is 100% cotton. The brands, Baohong, Arches, Saunders Waterford are great – 300 grams/140 lb Rough Texture, off white
Alvaro uses: 1/2 Sheets = 56x38cms (22x14in). 1/4 Sheets = 38x28cms (14x11in).

ADDITIONAL ITEMS:
Sponges, towel, tissues, water container, masking tape, 2b –6b pencil, water spray bottle. Painting boards & lightweight easel for outdoor painting workshops (weather permitted). And lots of good sense of humor!!

www.facebook.com/AlvaroCastagnet
instagram: @alvaro.castagnet

Dan Marshall: Plein Air in Beautiful Kennebunk, Maine
2026-09-24 09:00 - 16:30
This incredible 3 1/2 day workshop will bring us all to gorgeous Kennebunk, Maine at the best time of the year to be there, September! The weather is gorgeous and the scenery is ever more spectacular from coastal vistas, rocky beaches and harbors to the quaint town Kennebunk itself , we will explore it all with Dan.

Each day Dan will teach through 2, 1 hour demos as a road map for instruction. While Dan’s demos will give you a clear path of the process, you are more than welcome to choose to paint your version of the scene. The workshop emphasis is always on giving you the tools to make confident, creative decisions in your own work. You’ll receive personal, one-on-one guidance throughout.
We will have a first session on Thursday, September 24, 2025 starting at 9am and we will paint each day through the morning of Sunday September 27.
You will need to book your own lodging but there are many options from hotels, to b&bs to AirB&bs to choose from. We will be painting in and around Kennebunk so staying in the general area will be fine.
Spots will fill fast for this wonderful trip so please book soon.

Guest Artist, Marc Folly: 4 Day Watercolor Workshop, Nov. 2-5 (9am-4pm)
2026-11-02 09:00 - 16:00
Marc Folly is an international, award-winning artist who’s approach to watercolor is unique to him. His students benefit greatly from seeing the medium through his eyes.
He is a lover of strong lights and deep, powerful colors, Marc Folly is inspired by unusual subjects with complex and textural elements that often stem from the more mundane aspects of his encounters. Whether it be in urban or industrial, he strives to reveal imprints of human labor in various types of workshops. He captures the evidence of thought and process as they appear within cluttered and seemingly messy spaces devoted to creation and transformation.
This workshop is appropriate for students who have had some experience with watercolors. A materials list will be provided after signup.

A list of some lodging options can be found here. Just scroll to the bottom of the page.
https://shop.marc-folly.com/fr/
