Your browser is not optimized for viewing this website.

More information »

Monthaven Arts & Cultural Center

Filter by Category



Digital Classes

in Semester Winter/Spring 2024

Digital Animation Fundamentals: Beginner Class

$176

with Derris Dabbs

Calendar Current session started Mar 12, 2024 at 4:30 pm, runs for 8 weeks

Embark on a thrilling journey into the dynamic world of animation with our "Digital Animation Fundamentals" Beginner Class. Tailored for aspiring animators aged 9 and above, this course provides a hands-on introduction to the fundamentals of digital animation, guiding students through the exciting process of bringing characters and stories to life on the screen.

Course Highlights:

Introduction to Animation Software: Dive into the digital animation landscape with an introduction to industry-standard software. Learn the basics of navigation, timeline management, and essential tools to kickstart your animation journey.

Understanding Keyframes: Master the fundamental concept of keyframes—the building blocks of animation. Learn how to set key poses to create smooth and fluid motion in your digital creations.

Character Design for Animation: Explore the art of character design with a focus on animation principles. Understand how to create characters that are visually appealing and easily adaptable to various movements and expressions.

Animating Expressive Characters: Delve into the nuances of character animation. From facial expressions to body language, learn how to infuse life and personality into your characters, making them relatable and engaging.

Introduction to Timing and Spacing: Uncover the secrets of timing and spacing in animation. Gain insights into the pacing of movements, creating a sense of weight, and establishing realistic motion in your digital projects.

Storyboarding Basics: Develop essential storytelling skills through the art of storyboarding. Learn how to plan and visualize your animation sequences, ensuring a cohesive and compelling narrative in your projects.

Principles of Squash and Stretch: Explore the foundational principle of squash and stretch to add flexibility and elasticity to your animated characters. Understand how this technique contributes to the overall visual appeal of your animations.

Introduction to 2D Animation Techniques: Gain hands-on experience with 2D animation techniques. From frame-by-frame animation to tweening, learn different approaches to creating captivating motion in your digital artwork.

Animating Simple Scenes: Apply your newfound skills to create simple animated scenes. Learn how to synchronize movements, refine timing, and bring your creative ideas to life through engaging animations.

Showcase Your Animated Creations: Conclude the class with a showcase where you can proudly present your animated creations to your parents and showcase the progress you've made throughout the course.

Join us for the "Digital Animation Fundamentals" Beginner Class, where the magic of animation comes to life through hands-on learning, expert guidance, and a supportive community of fellow aspiring animators.

Member discount: 10 percent

Animation Mastery: Advanced Techniques and Creative Innovation

$176

with Derris Dabbs

Calendar Current session started Mar 14, 2024 at 6:30 pm, runs for 8 weeks

Have you ever wondered how your favorite animated movies and TV shows are made? Interested in learning how to make your 2D art come to life? Step into the forefront of digital animation with our 8-week advanced-level course tailored for experienced animators and digital artists ages 9 and up seeking to elevate their craft to new heights. Participants will immerse themselves in cutting-edge techniques and digital tools, exploring the dynamic intersection of technology and artistic expression.

*This class is intended for individuals with a basic understanding of digital drawing tools and techniques. Participants should have completed an introductory digital drawing course or have equivalent experience.

Course Objectives:

  • Storyboarding and Scene Composition
  • Keyframe Animation
  • Frame-by-frame Animation
  • Script Writing for Animation
  • Draftsmenship in Digital Art
  • Dynamic Figure Drawing
  • Facial Expressions
  • Anatomy in Stylization

Animation Mastery is a dynamic and collaborative space where experienced digital animators come together to explore the cutting edge of animation technology. Join us for an exhilarating journey where you'll push the boundaries of creativity and emerge as a master of digital animation, ready to shape the future of animated storytelling.

iPads and Apple Pencils are provided by the MACC, but you are welcome to bring your own.  

This class will be repeated every 8 weeks with all NEW projects and skill building. 

Please note classes will not be held during Spring Break, March 18th - 22nd.

Member Discount: 10 percent

Digital Art Fundamentals: Beginner Digital Drawing Class

$88

with Jess Duke

Calendar Current session started Apr 15, 2024 at 4:30 pm, runs for 4 weeks

Students ages 9 and up will dive into the basics of digital drawing, learn about digital tablets, stylus controls and navigating the popular drawing software Procreate to acquire a solid foundation for a seamless transition into the digital art space.

Course Highlights:

Understanding Digital Tools: Explore the diverse array of digital brushes, pens, and tools available in digital drawing software. Learn how to use these tools effectively to create lines, shapes, and textures with precision.

Fundamental Drawing Techniques: Master fundamental drawing techniques such as sketching, line art, and basic shading. Develop a keen eye for proportions, perspectives, and shapes as you lay the groundwork for your digital art journey.

Color Theory Basics: Delve into the principles of color theory, discovering how to choose and blend colors to create visually appealing digital artwork. Explore the impact of color on mood and composition.

Layer Management and Editing: Learn the ins and outs of layer management, an essential skill in digital drawing. Understand how to organize your artwork into layers, make non-destructive edits, and experiment with different elements independently.

Introduction to Digital Composition: Explore the basics of composition, focal points, and visual storytelling. Understand how to arrange elements within your digital canvas to create engaging and aesthetically pleasing artwork.

Community and Support: Join a supportive community of fellow beginners and art enthusiasts. Share your progress, ask questions, and connect with others who are on the same creative journey.

Whether you're a complete novice or have some traditional art experience, our Beginner Digital Drawing Class is your gateway to unleashing your creativity in the digital realm. Join us as we explore the exciting world of digital art and help you take your first steps toward becoming a digital drawing maestro!

This class will repeat every 4 weeks with all NEW projects and skill building.

iPads and Apple Pencils are provided by the MACC, but you are welcome to bring your own.  

Member discount: 10 percent. 

Digital Illustration: Beginner/Intermediate - Wednesdays

$88

with Derris Dabbs

Calendar Current session started Apr 24, 2024 at 4:30 pm, runs for 4 weeks

This beginner/intermediate digital illustration class for students ages 9 and up is an exciting and comprehensive course designed to introduce aspiring artists to the world of digital illustration using Procreate and iPads. Throughout this course, students will have the opportunity to create illustrations based off of their favorite characters.

Students will pursue the following learning objectives:

  • Learn the fundamentals of digital art, including the use of digital tools.
  • Explore different digital art mediums such as painting, drawing and illustration.
  • Explore various techniques specifically tailored for digital art such as color theory, composition, shading, and texturing.
  • Improve lineart, line quality, and solid drawing techniques.
  • Learn how to convey a message through art.
  • Understand composition and visual storytelling.
  • Understand how to mock up book and/or magazine spreads, which includes book covers and spines and digital layout. 

No prior experience in digital art is required. This class is suitable for both beginners and intermediate students with some artistic background who are eager to explore digital art techniques.

This class is a stepping stone to our advanced digital classes. All digital students must take this class before taking other digital classes unless they have previous digital experience.

iPads and Apple Pencils are provided by the MACC, but you are welcome to bring your own.

This class will repeat every 4 weeks with all NEW projects and skill building.

Member discount: 10 percent

Mastering Digital Artistry: Advanced Digital Drawing Class

$88

with Jess Duke

Calendar Next available session starts May 7, 2024 at 4:30 pm, runs for 4 weeks

Dive into the dynamic realm of digital art with our Advanced Digital Drawing Class, designed for aspiring artists seeking to elevate their skills to new heights. This immersive 4-week course is tailored for students ages 13 and up with a solid foundation in digital drawing, aiming to refine techniques, explore advanced tools, and unleash the full potential of digital creativity. 

This class is intended for individuals with a basic understanding of digital drawing tools and techniques. Participants should have completed an introductory digital drawing course or have equivalent experience.

Course Highlights:

Advanced Techniques Exploration:

Delve into advanced digital drawing techniques, including shading, lighting, texture mapping, and intricate detailing. Learn how to create stunning visual effects that bring your digital artwork to life.

Digital Brush Mastery:

Uncover the secrets of digital brushwork by exploring a variety of brushes, customizing settings, and mastering the art of brushstroke manipulation. Understand how different brushes contribute to style and visual impact.

Composition and Layout Design:

Elevate your artwork by delving into the principles of composition and layout design. Explore how to effectively use space, balance elements, and guide the viewer's eye through intentional arrangement.

Advanced Layer Management:

Develop a deep understanding of layer management, blending modes, and layer effects to enhance the depth and complexity of your digital creations. Learn to create multi-layered compositions with precision and efficiency.

Digital Anatomy and Character Design:

Take your character design skills to the next level by studying digital anatomy and honing your ability to create expressive, dynamic characters. Explore advanced posing, facial expressions, and character storytelling.

Digital Painting Workshops:

Engage in hands-on digital painting workshops, where you'll apply advanced techniques to create impressive digital paintings. Receive personalized feedback and guidance from experienced instructors to refine your approach.

Portfolio Development:

iPads and Apple Pencils are provided by the MACC, but you are welcome to bring your own. 

This class will repeat every 4 weeks with all NEW projects and skill building. 

Member discount: 10 percent. 





Forgot password?
Staff Log In