upcoming Workshops
With the addition of Laura Cleary Williams to AVA’s staff, we can now offer a more consistent schedule of workshops, seminars, and classes focused on professional development for artists. Our upcoming offerings range from 2-hour seminars to two-day workshops, with varying prices. Please note: a minimum of three participants is required for a workshop to take place, and registration fees are non-refundable within 24 hours of the session.
September 12, 2026 from
10am-1pm
Learn how to photograph your artwork with confidence! AVA's contract photographer Anh Bao Tran-Le is leading a fun, hands-on workshop covering clean lighting, accurate color, great angles, and basic editing — all using your own camera or smartphone. No previous photography experience or special equipment required!
📍 AVA Basement Workshop Studio · 30 Frazier Ave
💰 $50/person
What to bring:
📱 A smartphone or camera you'd like to learn with
🖼️ Up to 3 pieces of artwork to photograph
💻 A laptop or mobile device for editing
🔋 Fully charged batteries and enough storage for photos
🎥 Any tripod or lighting gear you already own (not required)
For editing: Download Adobe Lightroom Mobile before the workshop — the free version is all you need. Prefer a different app? No problem. Techniques will be adaptable across platforms.
⚠️ Limited to 8 spots — register today!
PAST WORKSHOPS
Mat Cutting Workshop
May 5th, 2026 from 6-7:30pm
There's something special about learning a craft alongside your community. 🖼️ Join AVA member Candice Stuart for an intimate mat workshop in our workshop basement — whether you're framing a favorite piece or just curious about the process, this one's for you.
📅 Tuesday, May 5th | 6:00 – 7:30 PM 💰 $45/person | Only 1 seat left!
Bring your mat board and one piece of artwork — we'll handle the rest. ✨
Own Your Narrative: Crafting Your Artist Statement & Bio
March 14, 2026
AVA Members: use code MEMBER10 to receive Members discount.
March 14 | 9 AM – 4 PM (Lunch Break 12–1 PM)
Your artist statement and bio shape how curators, collectors, and audiences understand your work. This workshop focuses on strategy as much as writing — helping you articulate your ideas clearly, position your practice professionally, and develop adaptable language you can use across applications, websites, and exhibitions. Open to artists at all stages of their careers.
Demystifying Artist Residencies: tools and insight to help you apply with confidence
February 17, 2026
Artist residencies can feel intimidating, opaque, or out of reach.
They don’t have to be.
In this workshop, we’ll break down what artist residencies actually are, how to find opportunities that fit your practice, and how to apply without burning yourself out. We’ll talk about funded vs self-funded programs, work samples, project proposals, and how to decide what’s worth your time.
This session is practical, honest, and designed for artists at any stage who want clarity instead of confusion.
📅 Date: Tuesday, February 17th, 2026
⏰ Time: 5:30 - 7pm
📍 Location: AVA (30 Frazier Ave.)
💰 Cost: $35
Social Media for Artists: Building Your Professional Voice
Your online presence is often the first introduction curators, collectors, and galleries have to your work. In this beginning-friendly seminar, learn how to create a professional, cohesive digital presence across Instagram and your artist website.
Topics include:
- Crafting a cohesive Instagram grid that showcases your work
- Sharing authentic photos and Reels to connect with audiences
- Understanding how galleries and curators discover artists online
- Building a professional website that communicates your vision
Who Should Attend: Artists at any stage who want to strengthen how their work is presented online.
Seats are limited to 15 artists—reserve your seat today!
📅 Date: Tuesday, November 18
⏰ Time: 6:00–7:30 PM
📍 Location: AVA (30 Frazier Ave.)
💰 Cost: $35
🧑🏻🏫 Facilitators: Laura Cleary Williams & Mason Elmore