Gorton Center

Beginner Graphite Pencil Art
2025-11-03 13:00 - 15:30 (America/Chicago) | Gorton Center, 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045
Fundamentals of Pencil Drawing: From Observation to Finished Work
This course is a clear and approachable introduction to pencil drawing. It is designed for beginners, but it also supports artists who want to refresh and strengthen their skills. Pencil drawing is both accessible and expressive. Through this class, you will gain confidence and learn techniques to create drawings that feel realistic and engaging.
Each session has two main parts. First, you will practice drawing what you see. To do this, we will use observational exercises, often with simple still life setups. Step by step, you’ll train your eye to notice shapes, proportions, light, and shadow more accurately.
Next, you will move from practice into a finished drawing. In this second part, you’ll learn how to plan a composition, layer shading, and add detail and texture. These steps will help bring your artwork to life.
As the course continues, you will build a strong foundation. You’ll grow more comfortable with line, form, value, and perspective – the essential elements of drawing.
Experienced Artists Welcome
If you already have some experience, you can join too. You’ll have the option to focus on a personal project or rendering. Along the way, I’ll give you individual feedback and guidance. This support will help refine your technique and strengthen your creative vision.
In short, this class offers structure, practice, and encouragement. Whether you are brand new to drawing or ready to sharpen your skills, you’ll find a welcoming space to grow as an artist.
SUPPLIES TO BE PURCHASED BY THE PARTICIPANT: – Can be order thru Blicks Art Supply, Amazon, etc.
9 x 12 Drawing Paper*
9 x 12 or larger sketchbook
Drawing pencil set (range 6B-4H)
Kneaded Eraser
Set of blending stumps
12” Ruler

Philip Schorn – P Schorn Studio – Botanical Color Pencil Artist His botanical renderings are not scientific studies of plant specimens. They are artistic interpretations of plants. He notices shapes, light, and shadows in the ground around him. He often focuses on a single detail – an individual leaf, a flower, or a small fragment of earth. In this way, he brings those details to life. He has worked with colored pencil for several years and has taught the art for the past three.
Philip is currently teaching online from his home since March. He teaches online color pencil classes for other art studios/galleries, private classes and Facebook demos. He has published two books featuring his art and techniques and has done a number of outdoor shows, group and individual exhibitions.
Philip’s process of making a rendering with the detail that he wants to have requires a significant amount of time. Sometimes he uses other media, such as ink, watercolors or pastels.
Philip is a member of the Color Pencil Society of America, Grayslake Arts Alliance and the Lake County Art League. His studio is located in Grayslake.
Email: phil@nullpschornstudio.com FB: pschornstudio/

After School Art Club with Lezlie
2025-11-05 15:30 - 17:00
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!
Each 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.
Students 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.
The 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.
More 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.

Teen Draw & Paint with Joalida Smit
2025-11-05 16:00 - 17:30
Draw & Paint with Joalida
Please Note DATES –

Wednesday, November 5
Wednesday, November 12
Tuesday, November 18
Tuesday, November 25

Come 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.
First, 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.
On 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.
Hands-On Experience
Next, 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.
And 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.
Finally, 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.
So, 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.
All materials are provided, so students can fully immerse themselves in the process without the need to bring supplies. Ages: 11 – 17
Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced – Prior art experience and a sincere interest in art are required.
Note: 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.
Joalida 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.

Palette & Pours: Hiroshige
2025-11-07 19:00 - 21:00
Palette & Pours: Hiroshige, Japanese Landscape – A Wine & Paint Night for Adults
Get ready for Palette & Pours – a lively, adults-only night where art and wine flow together! This isn’t your average painting class. It’s a chance to laugh, sip, and let your creativity shine.
This session’s theme, Hiroshige, Japanese Landscape, sets the stage for bold colors and expressive brushwork. Best of all, you’ll have plenty of freedom to add your own twist, so no two paintings will ever look the same.
But this evening is about more than just technique. Art has a way of relaxing the mind and lifting the spirit. With each brushstroke, you’ll let go of stress and slip into a creative flow. Whether you’re an experienced painter or picking up a brush for the very first time, you’ll discover just how joyful and freeing painting can be.
And don’t worry – you won’t be alone. Talented local artists Sandie Bacon and Lezlie Lenz will guide you step by step, making sure you feel supported while still encouraging your personal style. You’ll learn, laugh, and create at your own pace. By the end of class, you’ll have an original painting you’ll be proud to take home.
Of 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.
So 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.
*All wine will be included. Guests are also welcome to bring their own if they would like!
