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SUMMARY:Between the Pages: Artist Book Workshop
DESCRIPTION:In Between the Pages\, you’ll step into the world of handmade artist books\, where words and images come together. Each month\, create your own one-of-a-kind book using handmade papers\, collage\, drawing\, painting\, found materials and personal stories. Inspired by a new theme each month\, you’ll explore simple bookmaking techniques and let your imagination lead the way. No writing or bookmaking experience required—just curiosity and a willingness to experiment. \nJoalida Smit is a Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist who lived and worked in London (UK) and Cape Town (SA) for the past 20 years. She pivoted to full time artist during COVID and now runs an art studio at The Gorton Center working on large scale canvases. Currently she is exploring innovative ways to incorporate art in the psychology work of personal transformation.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/between-the-pages-artist-book-workshop-november/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261113T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261113T193000
DTSTAMP:20260902T175504Z
CREATED:20260901T160058Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260902T175504Z
UID:20007534-1794591000-1794598200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Dry Clay Flower Sculpture with Dandelion Gallery & Studio
DESCRIPTION:This introductory workshop will guide participants through creating dimensional floral sculptures using air-dry clay while exploring shape\, texture\, botanical forms\, and sculptural techniques. Participants will have the opportunity to personalize their flowers and create a finished piece that reflects their individual style. \nAges 10+
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/dry-clay-flower-sculpture-with-dandelion-gallery-studio/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261201T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261201T190000
DTSTAMP:20260804T172931Z
CREATED:20260804T172931Z
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UID:20007408-1796144400-1796151600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Holiday Felt Ornaments
DESCRIPTION:Turn felt scraps into festive treasures in this creative holiday workshop. Give colorful wool offcuts a second life while making handmade ornaments you’ll enjoy for years. Create unique decorations your tree\, gift wrapping wreaths or seasonal displays around your home.  \nThis beginner – friendly class introduces simple needle felting techniques in a relaxed  and and welcoming setting. First\, you’ll learn how to shape and layer wool fibers. Then\, you’ll add details and texture to bring each ornament to life. Mix colors\, experiment with designs and create4 decorations that reflect your personal style.  \nAlong the way\, you’ll discover how small felt scraps can become beautiful holiday keepsakes. Whether you prefer classic ornaments or whimsical designs\, you’ll leave with several one-of-a-kind creations. All materials are provided. Just bring your creativity and enjoy a cozy afternoon of festive crafting.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/holiday-felt-ornaments/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Age,Art,Classes
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261202T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261202T170000
DTSTAMP:20260818T182931Z
CREATED:20260818T182931Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T182931Z
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SUMMARY:After School Art Club with Lezlie
DESCRIPTION:Do you have a budding artist in the family? Give their creativity room to grow in this engaging after-school art class designed specifically for students in Grades 1–4! \nEach class is thoughtfully structured to balance artistic freedom with meaningful learning. We begin with a free-draw session\, allowing students time to warm up\, express themselves\, and get their creative energy flowing. From there\, we dive into the world of art history by introducing an “Artist of the Day”—a renowned or influential figure whose work provides the inspiration for that day’s project. \nStudents will explore various artistic movements\, mediums\, and styles from around the world\, helping them gain a broader understanding of art and its cultural significance. With guidance and encouragement\, they’ll create their own artwork inspired by the featured artist\, putting their personal spin on classic techniques while developing new skills and confidence. \nThe class wraps up with group clean-up\, an age-appropriate art discussion that encourages observation and expression\, and a fun “draw-a-long” activity to reinforce what they’ve learned in a playful and supportive way. \nMore than just an art class\, this is a space where young artists can explore\, reflect\, and connect with the wider world through creativity. It’s a perfect opportunity for self-expression\, experimentation\, and cultivating a lifelong appreciation for the arts and global perspectives.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/after-school-art-club-with-lezlie-december-2/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261202T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261202T173000
DTSTAMP:20260824T164101Z
CREATED:20260824T164101Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T164101Z
UID:20007499-1796227200-1796232600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Teen Draw & Paint with Joalida Smit
DESCRIPTION:THEMES: HOLIDAY MAGIC\nCome hang out in a space where creativity comes alive. Artist and educator Joalida Smit invites teens to join her ongoing art class at the Gorton Center. This class is all about exploring\, experimenting\, and finding your own artistic voice. From the start\, the studio feels welcoming\, inspiring\, and full of possibility. \nFirst\, students ages 11 to 17 get to try out a wide mix of materials. They might begin with drawing or painting\, and then move on to mixed media. As they experiment\, they gain confidence. Little by little\, they start developing a style that feels uniquely their own. \nOn top of that\, Joalida’s teaching style makes this class stand out. Instead of rigid\, step-by-step lessons\, her approach is flexible and student-focused. She meets each young artist right where they are. Maybe your teen sketches all the time. Maybe they’ve never touched a paintbrush before. Either way\, Joalida gives encouragement and guidance to help them grow. \nHands-On Experience\nNext\, comes hands-on practice. Students work with graphite\, charcoal\, acrylics\, watercolor\, ink – you name it. They mix materials\, test new techniques\, and see what happens. Because of this\, every class feels fresh and exciting. \nAnd here’s the best part: the goal isn’t to finish identical projects. Instead\, the focus is on exploration\, creativity\, and storytelling. Students learn how to express themselves\, share their ideas\, and bring imagination to life. As a result\, they walk away with more than just artwork. They leave with stronger skills\, bigger confidence\, and a deeper connection to their creativity. \nFinally\, this class gives teens a safe\, supportive space to take risks\, try new things\, and grow as artists. Step by step\, they discover the joy of creating something that’s truly their own. \nSo\, why not join Joalida in the studio? It’s a place where individuality is celebrated\, creativity flows\, and every teen has a chance to shine. \nAll materials are provided\, so students can fully immerse themselves in the process without the need to bring supplies. Ages: 11 – 17 \nSkill Level: Intermediate to advanced – Prior art experience and a sincere interest in art are required. \nNote: This is an art development class\, not a recreational after-school club. Students are expected to take their art practice seriously and to respect the shared studio space. Teens who cannot adhere to the expectations of the class may be asked to leave. \nJoalida Smit is a Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist who lived and worked in London (UK) and Cape Town (SA) for the past 20 years. She pivoted to full time artist during COVID and now runs an art studio at The Gorton Center working on large scale canvases. Currently she is exploring innovative ways to incorporate art in the psychology work of personal transformation.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/teen-draw-paint-with-joalida-smit-december-2/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261203T161500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261203T173000
DTSTAMP:20260817T154038Z
CREATED:20260807T183701Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260817T154038Z
UID:20007438-1796314500-1796319000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Everything Can Be Art with Vee Gunn
DESCRIPTION:Each week\, children discover a world of mixed-media materials. They’ll work with upcycled clothing and fabrics\, pre-loved crockery\, beads\, buttons\, ribbons\, and more. Then\, they’ll transform these unexpected materials into artworks and keepsakes they’re proud of. \nTo begin\, every session includes a friendly\, guided lesson. That way\, no one ever feels stuck. After that\, there’s plenty of room to experiment\, make choices\, and follow their imagination. There’s no single “right” way to create – and that’s the whole point. \nMost importantly\, our club is relaxed and encouraging. Mess is welcome\, and every idea is worth exploring. Along the way\, children build real confidence. They learn not only how to make things\, but also how to trust their own creativity. \nAs a result\, they begin to see the world a little differently. Suddenly\, an everyday object can be full of possibility. Something old or forgotten can become something beautiful and new. \nIt’s creative\, hands-on\, and a little bit magical. At the same time\, it introduces big ideas about imagination\, resourcefulness\, and caring for our planet. By giving old things new life\, children discover just how much can be created from what we already have. \nEach week\, your child will leave with something they made themselves. Even better\, they’ll leave with a growing belief that they are an artist. \nNo experience needed. No pressure to be “good.” Just bring curiosity – we’ll supply the rest. \nAges 7 – 13
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/everything-can-be-art-with-vee-gunn-december/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261204T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261204T200000
DTSTAMP:20260812T182211Z
CREATED:20260812T181926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260812T182211Z
UID:20007448-1796410800-1796414400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Palette & Pours: Paint Your Pet
DESCRIPTION:Settle in for Palette & Pours – a relaxed\, adults-only painting class where creativity and connection come easy. In this coastal-inspired session\, we’ll paint a lighthouse scene\, capturing the glow\, color and calm of the shoreline. \nThis isn’t your typical art class. It’s a chance to unwind\, sip\, and enjoy a creative night out. As you paint\, you’ll ease into the rhythm of the brush\, letting go of the day and enjoying the process as much as the finished piece. \nWhether you’re new to painting or have some experience\, you’ll feel right at home. Local artists Sandie Bacon and Lezlie Lenz guide you step by step\, offering tips and encouragement while leaving room for your personal style. \nBy the end of the evening\, you’ll head home with your own lighthouse painting – a peaceful reminder of a night well spent. \n \nOf course\, no Palette & Pours night would be complete without a glass in hand. All painting materials are included\, along with complimentary wine to enjoy while you work. Prefer something else? Bring your favorite beverage and sip as you create. \nSo grab a friend\, bring a date\, or come solo and make new connections. Either way\, you’ll leave with more than just a painting – you’ll walk away with memories\, laughter\, and maybe even a brand-new hobby. \n*All wine will be included. Guests are also welcome to bring their own if they would like!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/palette-pours-paint-your-pet-december/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261205T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261205T110000
DTSTAMP:20260817T155338Z
CREATED:20260814T175601Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260817T155338Z
UID:20007469-1796461200-1796468400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Holiday Crafting: Centerpiece and Velvet Garland
DESCRIPTION:Festive Holiday Crafting\nGet into the holiday spirit with a fun and creative morning of festive crafting! Make two beautiful handmade decorations to bring warmth and color to your home all season long. \nStart by creating a charming wooden centerpiece for your holiday table. Fill it with fresh seasonal greens and add your own creative touches. The finished centerpiece holds a candle and makes a beautiful addition to your holiday décor. You can also give it as a thoughtful handmade gift. \nNext\, create a luxurious velvet chain garland in rich\, vibrant colors. Choose a style that fits your holiday décor and add a festive touch to your mantel\, staircase\, doorway\, or another favorite space. \nThis workshop offers a relaxed and creative way to celebrate the season. Follow along with easy guidance\, enjoy time with fellow makers\, and have fun bringing your ideas to life. \nNo experience is needed\, and we provide all materials. Just bring your holiday spirit and creativity! Leave with two beautiful decorations you can enjoy throughout the winter. \nLouise is an Irish textile designer with over 30 years of experience in the fabric world. A self-proclaimed textile guru\, she loves creating\, teaching\, and sharing the creative process with others. Always learning and exploring new ideas\, Louise is passionate about inspiring others to discover the joy of textiles and creativity.  \n 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/holiday-centerpiece-and-velvet-garland/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261208T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261208T193000
DTSTAMP:20260629T193112Z
CREATED:20260629T140910Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260629T193112Z
UID:20007334-1796752800-1796758200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Art Impact Project: Snow Globe
DESCRIPTION:As we close out 2026\, join Art Impact Project: Snow Globes and come create your own utopian “world” with this 2D drawing project. \nHow do you imagine your future world?  How would you like to see the planet exist?  What makes it your “perfect world?”  Reflect on these questions and leave with a fun drawing! \nAll supplies provided.  Ages 11+ \n \nThis class is free\, but spaces are limited and participants must pre-register.  \nCelebrating their tenth anniversary\, Art Impact Project is a local 501c(3) with a mission of enhancing emotional wellness through creative expression.  They partner with organizations such as schools\, treatment facilities\, libraries\, and other community spaces throughout Lake County\, to facilitate art programming with a focus on better mental health.  Providing a supportive\, small group setting\, Art Impact Project guides participant step-by-step through the creative process so everyone can experience the benefits of art.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/art-impact-project-snow-globe-dec-8/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Age,Art,Classes
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261208T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261208T200000
DTSTAMP:20260817T154907Z
CREATED:20260806T165632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260817T154907Z
UID:20007423-1796754600-1796760000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Postcard Project: Christmakwanzakah
DESCRIPTION:The Postcard Project is a creative workshop series designed to bring people together for meaningful connection and artistic expression. Over the course of four monthly sessions\, participants will create hand-illustrated and handwritten postcards to send to friends\, family\, or even strangers. Each session explores a different theme\, encouraging reflection\, gratitude\, imagination\, and authentic connection.\nThis project is about stepping away from screens and the fast pace of digital communication—and returning to something tangible\, thoughtful\, and lasting. Whether you’re an artist\, a writer\, or just someone craving deeper connection\, this workshop welcomes all skill levels and backgrounds. \n• All Materials Provided (postcard blanks\, pens\, paints\, stamps)\n• Short Creative Warm-Ups + Guided Prompts\n• Collaborative & Quiet Time to Create\n• Optional Sharing Circle at End \nChristmakwanzakah Tuesday\, December 8th\, 6:30-8:00\nHave fun\, be creative and send your own version of a holiday card. Enjoy this gift you’ll give to yourself of time\, fun and connection.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/postcard-project-christmakwanzakah/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261210T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261210T203000
DTSTAMP:20260826T210723Z
CREATED:20260824T172411Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260826T210723Z
UID:20007505-1796927400-1796934600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Between the Pages: Artist Book Workshop
DESCRIPTION:In Between the Pages\, you’ll step into the world of handmade artist books\, where words and images come together. Each month\, create your own one-of-a-kind book using handmade papers\, collage\, drawing\, painting\, found materials and personal stories. Inspired by a new theme each month\, you’ll explore simple bookmaking techniques and let your imagination lead the way. No writing or bookmaking experience required—just curiosity and a willingness to experiment. \nJoalida Smit is a Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist who lived and worked in London (UK) and Cape Town (SA) for the past 20 years. She pivoted to full time artist during COVID and now runs an art studio at The Gorton Center working on large scale canvases. Currently she is exploring innovative ways to incorporate art in the psychology work of personal transformation.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/between-the-pages-artist-book-workshop-december/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261212T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261212T160000
DTSTAMP:20260817T154838Z
CREATED:20260804T173251Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260817T154838Z
UID:20007410-1797084000-1797091200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Christmas Wet Felting Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Get into the holiday spirit with a fun and creative wet felting workshop! Children ages 9–12 will explore the colorful world of wool while learning the basics of wet felting. First\, they’ll discover how soft wool fibers can be layered and shaped. Then\, with a little water\, soap\, and hands-on creativity\, they’ll transform the fibers into a festive accessory of their own. \nEach child can choose to make a beautiful brooch or a colorful hair tie. Along the way\, they’ll experiment with colors\, textures\, and designs to make their project truly unique. Plus\, they’ll learn a new craft in a relaxed and encouraging setting. \nAt the end of the workshop\, everyone will take home a one-of-a-kind handmade accessory. Wear it throughout the holiday season or wrap it up as a special Christmas gift for someone you love! \nNo previous felting experience is needed. All skill levels are welcome\, and all materials are included. Just bring your creativity and get ready for some festive crafting fun! \nAges 9 – 12
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/christmas-wet-felting-workshop/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261215T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261215T200000
DTSTAMP:20260901T193026Z
CREATED:20260901T161905Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260901T193026Z
UID:20007535-1797354000-1797364800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Candle Making Season of Giving with Dandelion Gallery & Studio
DESCRIPTION:A festive\, holiday-inspired candle-making art social centered around creativity\, connection\, and the Season of Giving. Participants will explore candle-making and seasonal design while creating personalized candles inspired by the colors\, scents\, and spirit of the holiday season. \nAges 10+
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/candle-making-season-of-giving-with-dandelion-gallery-studio/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes,Youth
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261219T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261219T110000
DTSTAMP:20260825T190508Z
CREATED:20260825T190508Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260825T190508Z
UID:20007524-1797674400-1797678000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Kids' Art: Ornaments & Gift Tags
DESCRIPTION:Make this holiday season extra merry with a workshop filled with creativity\, laughter\, and hands-on fun! In this festive class\, kids ages 7–12 will dive into the joy of artmaking while creating their very own set of holiday treasures. Each child will design three handcrafted ornaments and a personalized gift tag. These projects are perfect for decorating a tree\, adding charm to holiday décor\, or gifting to someone special. Every piece will carry the warmth of their imagination and the pride of being made by hand. \nDuring the workshop\, children will explore a variety of artistic techniques. They’ll paint\, cut\, collage\, and experiment with mixed media. They’ll also see inspiring examples of ornament styles and design ideas. These samples are meant to spark creativity\, not limit it. With plenty of choices\, every child will have the freedom to put their own unique spin on each project. The result is artwork that feels personal\, meaningful\, and one-of-a-kind. \nThis is a guided experience\, but it is never rigid. Our instructor encourages play\, exploration\, and confidence-building. Kids are free to try new ideas\, combine different materials\, and express their individual style. Because all supplies are included\, families don’t need to bring anything except energy and holiday cheer. And best of all\, no prior art experience is necessary. Beginners are welcome\, and every participant will leave with projects they can feel proud of. \nMost importantly\, the workshop isn’t just about the final ornaments – it’s about the joyful process of creating. Kids will share in the spirit of the season\, make memories\, and build keepsakes that will last for years. This holiday class is more than an art activity. It’s a chance to celebrate together\, to embrace imagination\, and to make the holidays shine a little brighter. \nAges 7 – 12
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/kids-art-ornaments-gift-tags-december-19/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270106T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270106T173000
DTSTAMP:20260824T164339Z
CREATED:20260824T164339Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T164339Z
UID:20007500-1799251200-1799256600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Teen Draw & Paint with Joalida Smit
DESCRIPTION:THEME: WINTER WONDERLAND\nCome hang out in a space where creativity comes alive. Artist and educator Joalida Smit invites teens to join her ongoing art class at the Gorton Center. This class is all about exploring\, experimenting\, and finding your own artistic voice. From the start\, the studio feels welcoming\, inspiring\, and full of possibility. \nFirst\, students ages 11 to 17 get to try out a wide mix of materials. They might begin with drawing or painting\, and then move on to mixed media. As they experiment\, they gain confidence. Little by little\, they start developing a style that feels uniquely their own. \nOn top of that\, Joalida’s teaching style makes this class stand out. Instead of rigid\, step-by-step lessons\, her approach is flexible and student-focused. She meets each young artist right where they are. Maybe your teen sketches all the time. Maybe they’ve never touched a paintbrush before. Either way\, Joalida gives encouragement and guidance to help them grow. \nHands-On Experience\nNext\, comes hands-on practice. Students work with graphite\, charcoal\, acrylics\, watercolor\, ink – you name it. They mix materials\, test new techniques\, and see what happens. Because of this\, every class feels fresh and exciting. \nAnd here’s the best part: the goal isn’t to finish identical projects. Instead\, the focus is on exploration\, creativity\, and storytelling. Students learn how to express themselves\, share their ideas\, and bring imagination to life. As a result\, they walk away with more than just artwork. They leave with stronger skills\, bigger confidence\, and a deeper connection to their creativity. \nFinally\, this class gives teens a safe\, supportive space to take risks\, try new things\, and grow as artists. Step by step\, they discover the joy of creating something that’s truly their own. \nSo\, why not join Joalida in the studio? It’s a place where individuality is celebrated\, creativity flows\, and every teen has a chance to shine. \nAll materials are provided\, so students can fully immerse themselves in the process without the need to bring supplies. Ages: 11 – 17 \nSkill Level: Intermediate to advanced – Prior art experience and a sincere interest in art are required. \nNote: This is an art development class\, not a recreational after-school club. Students are expected to take their art practice seriously and to respect the shared studio space. Teens who cannot adhere to the expectations of the class may be asked to leave. \nJoalida Smit is a Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist who lived and worked in London (UK) and Cape Town (SA) for the past 20 years. She pivoted to full time artist during COVID and now runs an art studio at The Gorton Center working on large scale canvases. Currently she is exploring innovative ways to incorporate art in the psychology work of personal transformation.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/teen-draw-paint-with-joalida-smit-january/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270203T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270203T173000
DTSTAMP:20260824T165001Z
CREATED:20260824T164609Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T165001Z
UID:20007501-1801670400-1801675800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Teen Draw & Paint with Joalida Smit
DESCRIPTION:THEME: THE THINGS WE LOVE – PETS OR PEOPLE\nCome hang out in a space where creativity comes alive. Artist and educator Joalida Smit invites teens to join her ongoing art class at the Gorton Center. This class is all about exploring\, experimenting\, and finding your own artistic voice. From the start\, the studio feels welcoming\, inspiring\, and full of possibility. \nFirst\, students ages 11 to 17 get to try out a wide mix of materials. They might begin with drawing or painting\, and then move on to mixed media. As they experiment\, they gain confidence. Little by little\, they start developing a style that feels uniquely their own. \nOn top of that\, Joalida’s teaching style makes this class stand out. Instead of rigid\, step-by-step lessons\, her approach is flexible and student-focused. She meets each young artist right where they are. Maybe your teen sketches all the time. Maybe they’ve never touched a paintbrush before. Either way\, Joalida gives encouragement and guidance to help them grow. \nHands-On Experience\nNext\, comes hands-on practice. Students work with graphite\, charcoal\, acrylics\, watercolor\, ink – you name it. They mix materials\, test new techniques\, and see what happens. Because of this\, every class feels fresh and exciting. \nAnd here’s the best part: the goal isn’t to finish identical projects. Instead\, the focus is on exploration\, creativity\, and storytelling. Students learn how to express themselves\, share their ideas\, and bring imagination to life. As a result\, they walk away with more than just artwork. They leave with stronger skills\, bigger confidence\, and a deeper connection to their creativity. \nFinally\, this class gives teens a safe\, supportive space to take risks\, try new things\, and grow as artists. Step by step\, they discover the joy of creating something that’s truly their own. \nSo\, why not join Joalida in the studio? It’s a place where individuality is celebrated\, creativity flows\, and every teen has a chance to shine. \nAll materials are provided\, so students can fully immerse themselves in the process without the need to bring supplies. Ages: 11 – 17 \nSkill Level: Intermediate to advanced – Prior art experience and a sincere interest in art are required. \nNote: This is an art development class\, not a recreational after-school club. Students are expected to take their art practice seriously and to respect the shared studio space. Teens who cannot adhere to the expectations of the class may be asked to leave. \nJoalida Smit is a Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist who lived and worked in London (UK) and Cape Town (SA) for the past 20 years. She pivoted to full time artist during COVID and now runs an art studio at The Gorton Center working on large scale canvases. Currently she is exploring innovative ways to incorporate art in the psychology work of personal transformation.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/teen-draw-paint-with-joalida-smit-february/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270303T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270303T173000
DTSTAMP:20260824T164904Z
CREATED:20260824T164828Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T164904Z
UID:20007502-1804089600-1804095000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Teen Draw & Paint with Joalida Smit
DESCRIPTION:THEME: PETS & PUPPIES\nCome hang out in a space where creativity comes alive. Artist and educator Joalida Smit invites teens to join her ongoing art class at the Gorton Center. This class is all about exploring\, experimenting\, and finding your own artistic voice. From the start\, the studio feels welcoming\, inspiring\, and full of possibility. \nFirst\, students ages 11 to 17 get to try out a wide mix of materials. They might begin with drawing or painting\, and then move on to mixed media. As they experiment\, they gain confidence. Little by little\, they start developing a style that feels uniquely their own. \nOn top of that\, Joalida’s teaching style makes this class stand out. Instead of rigid\, step-by-step lessons\, her approach is flexible and student-focused. She meets each young artist right where they are. Maybe your teen sketches all the time. Maybe they’ve never touched a paintbrush before. Either way\, Joalida gives encouragement and guidance to help them grow. \nHands-On Experience\nNext\, comes hands-on practice. Students work with graphite\, charcoal\, acrylics\, watercolor\, ink – you name it. They mix materials\, test new techniques\, and see what happens. Because of this\, every class feels fresh and exciting. \nAnd here’s the best part: the goal isn’t to finish identical projects. Instead\, the focus is on exploration\, creativity\, and storytelling. Students learn how to express themselves\, share their ideas\, and bring imagination to life. As a result\, they walk away with more than just artwork. They leave with stronger skills\, bigger confidence\, and a deeper connection to their creativity. \nFinally\, this class gives teens a safe\, supportive space to take risks\, try new things\, and grow as artists. Step by step\, they discover the joy of creating something that’s truly their own. \nSo\, why not join Joalida in the studio? It’s a place where individuality is celebrated\, creativity flows\, and every teen has a chance to shine. \nAll materials are provided\, so students can fully immerse themselves in the process without the need to bring supplies. Ages: 11 – 17 \nSkill Level: Intermediate to advanced – Prior art experience and a sincere interest in art are required. \nNote: This is an art development class\, not a recreational after-school club. Students are expected to take their art practice seriously and to respect the shared studio space. Teens who cannot adhere to the expectations of the class may be asked to leave. \nJoalida Smit is a Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist who lived and worked in London (UK) and Cape Town (SA) for the past 20 years. She pivoted to full time artist during COVID and now runs an art studio at The Gorton Center working on large scale canvases. Currently she is exploring innovative ways to incorporate art in the psychology work of personal transformation.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/teen-draw-paint-with-joalida-smit-march/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
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