Fundamental Painting Class: Exploring the Elements of Art (May/June 2026)

Join Art Educator Maryam Moshiry for a 6-week painting class, in-person at the Triton Museum in Santa Clara!

NOTE: No class May 28

Enter into a beginner-level/intermediate-level painting class designed to introduce students to the foundational elements of art while fostering their ability to articulate and analyze visual language. The class is aimed at individuals interested in developing a strong artistic foundation, whether for personal expression or as a stepping stone to more advanced techniques.

Objectives:

• Introduce students to the fundamental elements of art: line, shape, form, space, color, value, and texture.
• Develop a visual vocabulary to describe and analyze artworks.
• Build confidence in applying artistic concepts to creative projects.
• Encourage experimentation and personal expression through structured practice.

Required Materials:

Please bring your own:

• Drawing Paper Pad or Mixed-Media Paper Pad
• Apron (optional)

Curriculum Outline

1. Introduction to the Elements of Art: Definitions and visual examples.
2. Line and Shape: Exploring contour, gesture, and geometric vs. organic shapes.
3. Form and Space: Creating depth through perspective and volume.
4. Color Theory: Understanding hue, value, saturation, and color relationships.
5. Value and Texture: Techniques for rendering light, shadow, and surface quality.
6. Integrative Practice: Combining elements to create balanced compositions.
7. Final Project: Individual creative piece demonstrating the learned concepts.