Embark on a creative journey with our engaging class designed for preschool kids ages 3-5! This dynamic program combines visual art, music, and movement to inspire young minds and bodies. Through hands-on activities and interactive experiences, children will discover the joy of self-expression and unleash their artistic potential. From exploring colors and shapes to dancing to different rhythms, this class offers a holistic approach to early childhood development. Join us and watch your child’s imagination soar as they create, sing, and dance their way through a world of creativity and fun!
February 5th-April 30th
$110
Wednesdays 6:00-6:45pm
Instructors: Stormie Cannistraci, Gwen Msolomba, Annie Parlock, and Justine Zimmerman
In this 9-week intensive art class designed for kids ages 7-12, young artists will embark on an exciting journey into the captivating world of printmaking. Through hands-on activities and creative projects, students will learn various traditional and contemporary printmaking techniques. From linocut to monoprint to collograph, this class offers a comprehensive exploration of different relief printmaking methods. Students will experiment with texture, color, and composition as they bring their imaginative ideas to life on paper. By the end of the course, participants will have a strong foundation in printmaking and a collection of unique art pieces to showcase their newfound skills and creativity.
February 15th-April 12th
Saturdays 9:30am-12:00pm
Instructors: Norman Ed & Theresa Schram
From Drawing to Sculpture: A 9-week Intensive Class for Teens
Join our 9-week intensive class designed for artists ages 13-18 where we help turn your creative ideas into stunning reality! This class focuses on the exciting journey of transforming 2D artwork into captivating 3D sculptures. From learning the fundamentals of design to mastering sculpting techniques, you’ll explore the art of bringing depth and dimension to your creations. Our artists in residence will guide you through the process, encouraging your creativity and pushing your skills to new heights. Immerse yourself in a dynamic and hands-on learning environment, where you’ll unleash your artistic potential and see your visions come to life in tangible form. Elevate your artistic expression and discover the thrill of sculpting in this innovative and engaging class.
February 15th-April 12th
Ages 13-18
Saturdays 1:00pm-3:30pm
Instructors: Colleen Albright, Erika Broas, & Norman Ed
$275 or $255 for BW Members
Thursdays February 6-27 from 5:30 – 7 PM
In this engaging art class designed for kids ages 7-12, young artists will dive into the exciting world of comic book creation. Through fun and interactive activities, students will learn the basics of character development, visual storytelling, and illustration techniques that are essential for creating their own comic book masterpieces. From brainstorming ideas to bringing their characters to life on paper, this class offers a creative space for kids to unleash their imagination and explore the art of visual storytelling. By the end of the course, students will have the skills and confidence to create their very own comic book that showcases their unique style and creativity. Join us for a dynamic and inspiring journey into the world of comic book creation!
Instructor: Matt Lamb from Hero Works Publishing w/special guests
$90 or $85 for BW Members
Explore the fascinating world of animals through art in this engaging class designed for students ages 7-12. Over a span of four weeks, young artists will discover the joy of drawing various animals using four different mediums. From folk art styled birds to a chunky acrylic panda to a crayon resist giraffe, explore the versatility of each medium and unleash your creativity in depicting the beauty of wildlife on paper. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, this class will provide a fun and educational environment to enhance your drawing skills and ignite your passion for art. Join us on this exciting artistic journey as we bring the animal kingdom to life on canvas!
March 6th-March 27th
$90 or $85 for BW Members
Instructor: Theresa Schram
Colorful Creations: Exploring Dyeing Techniques for Kids
This art class is specially crafted for budding artists ages 7-12, offering a fun and interactive exploration of various dyeing techniques. From the traditional batik method to the intricate pysanky designs, children will delve into the vibrant world of colors and patterns. Through hands-on activities and step-by-step guidance, young participants will learn how to create their own masterpieces using these unique dyeing techniques. Join us for an exciting journey into the art of dyeing and unleash your creativity in a colorful and imaginative way!
April 3rd-April 24th
Thursdays 5:30-7:00
$90 or $85 for BW Members
Instructor: Theresa Schram
Framing Futures: Portfolio Development & Critique Studio
Dive into the world of art with our engaging portfolio development class designed for students ages 13-18! This hands-on course emphasizes the importance of showcasing your unique artistic voice through a well-curated portfolio. Students will explore various mediums while honing their skills in the critique process, learning to give and receive constructive feedback to elevate their work. Additionally, we will cover essential techniques in matting and framing, ensuring that each piece is presented professionally. Join us to enhance your artistic abilities, build confidence, and prepare a standout portfolio that reflects your passion and creativity!
$120 or $110 for BW members
Instructor: Norman Ed
Dive into the vibrant world of comic book creation in this engaging art class designed specifically for teens! Over the course of this workshop, students will explore the fundamentals of visual storytelling through visuals, character development, and panel layout. Participants will learn essential drawing techniques, inking styles, and digital tools to bring their unique narratives to life. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, this class encourages creativity and collaboration, culminating in a mini comic book that each student can proudly showcase. Unleash your imagination and discover the power of comics as a dynamic form of expression!
March 5th-March 26th
Wednesdays 5:00-7:00
$120 or $110 for BW Members
Instructor: Matt Lamb from Hero Works Publishing w/special guests
Discover the world of metalworking in this engaging art class tailored for teens ages 13-18. Students will explore the fundamentals of metalworking techniques while unleashing their creativity to bring 2D creatures to life. From learning how to shape and mold metal to adding intricate details, this class offers a hands-on experience for aspiring young artists to hone their skills and express their unique artistic vision. Join us on a journey of imagination and craftsmanship as we transform raw materials into stunning works of art. No prior experience required – just a passion for creativity and a desire to explore the exciting world of metalworking.
$120 or $110 for BW Members
Instructor: Erika Broas
Kulani – West African Dance Class
Stay tuned for upcoming dates
Ages 5+
Join Kulani for West African Dance fun! Ms Gwen and Ms Holly continue to bring West African Dance to the Johnstown Community. Your children ages 5 and up will learn the art of dance, and drumming, as passed down from generation to generation in Western Africa. These instructors traveled to Guinea and have been sharing what they learned from their amazing Guinean teachers since 2014.
All kids ages 5 and up are welcome, a $5 donation per session is recommended, but not required.
Mindfulness and Arts
Making a difference in your classroom
Our Mindfulness and Arts Initiative seeks to engage youth within local schools and community organizations by employing the Mindful Schools curriculum coupled with arts. Through the application and practice of The Mindful School’s curriculum, we aim to provide an outlet for behavioral, emotional, academic, and social growth and support. Programming is held at your school/organization, or at the BOTTLE WORKS.
The Mindful Schools (mindfulschools.org)
What is mindfulness? Mindfulness is the quality of deliberate attention, of bringing purposeful awareness to one’s experience.
What are the benefits of mindfulness?
Over thirty years of research demonstrates that mindfulness improves:
- Emotional Intelligence
- Decision-Making Skills
- Academic Achievement
- Body and Thought Awareness
- Impulse Control
- Stress Management
- Improved Focus
- Compassion towards others and self
Log on to http://www.mindfulschools.org in order to find out more. Mindfulness and Arts Program: This Mindfulness and Arts program teaches mindfulness tools while engaging students in the joy of arts. We use the Mindful School curriculum to teach youth how to improve decision-making skills, impulse control and stress management. Among others, the lessons include: mindfulness of breath, mindfulness of emotion, mindfulness of thought, mindful eating, compassion toward self and others, and body awareness. The art lessons will provide students with practice and applicability by utilizing the learned mindfulness skills. Students will engage in many various forms of art that may include drumming, creative writing, watercolor, zentangle, and clay. This programming can be tailored for any grade. We are looking to partner with schools and community organizations, as students would benefit.
The in-classroom Mindfulness and Arts Program is an eight- or sixteen-week program that occurs twice weekly.
For more information, contact Holly Lees, BOTTLE WORKS Mindfulness and Arts Facilitator, at hlees@bottleworks.org or 814.535.2020.
What are people saying?!?
“Students were made aware of ways to maintain self-control which is extremely important today. Also, it is quite beneficial for students to have the strategies presented to fight stress. I think students partially enjoyed the art lessons that related well to the mindfulness teachings.”Mr. Roberts 6th grade teacher at Conemaugh Valley Elementary“I definitely will use mindfulness tools for the rest of my life” ~ 6th-grade student“Thank you for teaching me how to keep my body calm. I especially like how we used mindful breathing.”
~ 5th-grade student“Mindfulness helps with situations. When I’m mad, I use mindful breathing”~6th-grade students
Please note that the Bottle Works engages in photography and recording of programs and events for its own print and online publication/promotional purposes. Staff and volunteers will make every effort to notify members of the public when filming and/or photography is taking place. Please notify a staff member/volunteer if you do not want to be photographed or filmed.