New Mexico Art League upcoming events

Discover Origami with Laura Metzler (Saturday) (08/01/2026)

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Practice the art of observation, precision, and design. Origami isn’t just paper folding… it’s an experience in spatial thinking, pattern, and craftsmanship. Learn traditional techniques while creating two beautiful projects in this beginner-friendly workshop.

Explore the Japanese art of paper folding with Laura Metzler. Learn basic Origami terminology, then practice some folds by creating a beautiful double lotus and an intricate pinwheel cube. Beginners welcome!

All materials provided.

Laura Metzler’sinterest in Origami began when she was 8 years old and received several Origami books from her aunt who had lived in Japan as a child. Laura recently retired after 24 years with the Albuquerque/Bernalillo County Public Library. She taught Origami classes throughout her library career and she continues to teach Origami at the Public Library. Laura also teaches Origami at Manzano Mesa Multigenerational Center and La Vida Llena Retirement Community.

Sunday Afternoon Life Drawing - No Instruction (08/02/2026)

Sun, 02 Aug 2026 19:00:00 GMT

The New Mexico Art League holds Sunday Life Drawing Sessions each week with either a clothed or nude model.

We will begin with quick warm-up poses so artists can capture the figure in motion and move to extended poses during the 3 hour session. These drawing sessions are open to artists of all levels. Artists should bring their own materials and drawing surface. Easels and drawing benches are provided for your use.

These sessions do require advance registration.

Please check your calendar! Payment is not transferable or refundable.

Please sign up early; each group is limited to 12 artists.

Payment must be made at the time of registration in order to hold your place.

Without payment your place will be cancelled.

Introduction to Figure Drawing in Graphite and White Chalk Pencils on Toned Paper with Tony Ryder (Monday through Friday) (08/03/2026)

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Days begin with a two-hour demonstration, during which Tony talks about what and how he’s drawing and how he’s thinking while he draws. Students draw from the model for the remainder of the day while Tony works with each in turn, offering individualized advice. Participants learn a refined, articulate, "long pose" drawing style, working on a single drawing for the week, and focusing on patience, craft and observation.

The traditional art of figure drawing, from the Renaissance until the present day, incorporates two major areas of study, one outward, visible and practical, having to do with how to draw, and the other inward and theoretical, having to do with what we draw: our awareness of visual experience. The quality and grace of a draftsman’s work are based on these two factors.

MATERIALS LIST

STUDIO ETIQUETTE

COURSE OUTLINE & DAILY SCHEDULE

Anthony Ryder is an able and energetic instructor with forty years of experience as a teacher of drawing and oil painting from life. His unique instructional style combines careful personal attention to each student with in-depth class demonstrations. He studied for six years in New York and France with the renowned oil painter Ted Seth Jacobs. He has taught at the Art Students League of New York, New York Academy of Art, Ecole Albert Defois, Studio Escalier, Gage Academy, BACAA, and numerous other schools. He is the owner and principal instructor of The Ryder Studio school (theryderstudio.com) in Santa Fe, NM, and the author of The Artist's Complete Guide to Figure Drawing, published by Watson-Guptill in 2000.

Introduction to Figure Drawing in Graphite and White Chalk Pencils on Toned Paper with Tony Ryder (Monday through Friday) (08/04/2026)

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 15:00:00 GMT

MATERIALS LIST

STUDIO ETIQUETTE

COURSE OUTLINE & DAILY SCHEDULE

Introduction to Figure Drawing in Graphite and White Chalk Pencils on Toned Paper with Tony Ryder (Monday through Friday) (08/05/2026)

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 15:00:00 GMT

MATERIALS LIST

STUDIO ETIQUETTE

COURSE OUTLINE & DAILY SCHEDULE

Introduction to Figure Drawing in Graphite and White Chalk Pencils on Toned Paper with Tony Ryder (Monday through Friday) (08/06/2026)

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 15:00:00 GMT

MATERIALS LIST

STUDIO ETIQUETTE

COURSE OUTLINE & DAILY SCHEDULE

Introduction to Figure Drawing in Graphite and White Chalk Pencils on Toned Paper with Tony Ryder (Monday through Friday) (08/07/2026)

Fri, 07 Aug 2026 15:00:00 GMT

MATERIALS LIST

STUDIO ETIQUETTE

COURSE OUTLINE & DAILY SCHEDULE

Sunday Afternoon Life Drawing - No Instruction (08/09/2026)

Sun, 09 Aug 2026 19:00:00 GMT

The New Mexico Art League holds Sunday Life Drawing Sessions each week with either a clothed or nude model.

These sessions do require advance registration.

Please check your calendar! Payment is not transferable or refundable.

Please sign up early; each group is limited to 12 artists.

Payment must be made at the time of registration in order to hold your place.

Without payment your place will be cancelled.

Design Your Own Mandala with Pamela Barcita (Tuesday - Thursday) (08/11/2026)

Tue, 11 Aug 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Discover the art of designing your own original mandala in this engaging three-day workshop. Learn how artists use symmetry, pattern, color, and composition to create balanced and expressive circular designs inspired by traditions from around the world. Pamela will introduce the history and symbolism of mandalas before guiding you through brainstorming, sketching, planning your composition, and developing your design. You’ll receive individual instruction as you transform your ideas into finished artwork in the drawing or painting medium of your choice. Throughout the workshop you’ll explore design principles, experiment with pattern and color, receive personalized feedback, and participate in a supportive group critique. You’ll leave with your own original mandala, new artistic skills, and the confidence to continue creating on your own. All experience levels are welcome

Materials List

Design Your Own Mandala with Pamela Barcita (Tuesday - Thursday) (08/12/2026)

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Materials List

Design Your Own Mandala with Pamela Barcita (Tuesday - Thursday) (08/13/2026)

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Materials List

Painting with Crayons with Mikaela Guggino (Saturday) (08/15/2026)

Sat, 15 Aug 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Create a nature-inspired painting using crayons in a whole new way! In this hands-on workshop, you'll use a specialized heated tool, the Encaustic Stylus Pro, to transform ordinary crayons into a vibrant painting medium and create a miniature work of art on a 4" x 4" panel. The workshop begins with a brief introduction to the history of wax painting, followed by guided practice with essential techniques, color blending, layering, and composition. Using provided images of flowers and leaves, or your own favorite nature photograph, you’ll learn how to translate an image into a finished painting rich with color and texture. Designed for beginners and experienced artists alike, this class offers a fun and approachable introduction to an unexpected medium while building skills that can be applied to future creative projects.

All materials are provided by the instructor for a $10 materials fee, to be paid directly to instructor at the workshop.

Please note, hot wax can aggravate those with sensitive lungs. A fan will be going in the background to promote ventilation, and masks will be offered to attendees.

Please wear close-toed shoes.

Artist Bio:

Mikaela Guggino is a local, emerging artist who specializes in encaustic and manuscript painting. She received her BA in Studio Art and MA in Art History from the University of Denver (DU), where she studied encaustic art with Deborah Howard. Mikaela has had the opportunity to TA an encaustic course at DU and teach encaustic workshops around New Mexico. Mikaela’s art explores themes of art history and compassion, seeking to understand current events and to empower through artmaking. To learn more, follow her on social media, @mgartbee.

Sunday Afternoon Life Drawing - No Instruction (08/16/2026)

Sun, 16 Aug 2026 19:00:00 GMT

The New Mexico Art League holds Sunday Life Drawing Sessions each week with either a clothed or nude model.

These sessions do require advance registration.

Please check your calendar! Payment is not transferable or refundable.

Please sign up early; each group is limited to 12 artists.

Payment must be made at the time of registration in order to hold your place.

Without payment your place will be cancelled.

Gel Plate Printing: From Prints to Mixed Media with Lauren Deyo (Thursday, Friday, Saturday) (08/20/2026)

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Discover the creative possibilities of gel plate printing in this hands-on workshop designed for beginners and experienced artists alike. Using acrylic paints, you’ll learn how to create vibrant, one-of-a-kind prints while experimenting with texture, layering, mark-making, and a variety of papers. As you build your collection of unique prints, you’ll explore ways to transform them into a finished mixed media artwork. This playful and inspiring workshop is perfect for anyone interested in printmaking, collage, and creative experimentation.

MATERIALS LIST

Gel Plate Printing: From Prints to Mixed Media with Lauren Deyo (Thursday, Friday, Saturday) (08/21/2026)

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 16:00:00 GMT

MATERIALS LIST

Gel Plate Printing: From Prints to Mixed Media with Lauren Deyo (Thursday, Friday, Saturday) (08/22/2026)

Sat, 22 Aug 2026 16:00:00 GMT

MATERIALS LIST

NMAL Plein Air Day at the Albuquerque Garden Center (Sunday) (08/30/2026)

Sun, 30 Aug 2026 17:00:00 GMT

The Garden Center's beautiful demonstration gardens offer a wealth of artistic inspiration, including roses, native plants, cactus gardens, colorful perennials, winding pathways, and peaceful garden settings. Plenty of shaded locations are available throughout the grounds.

Artists working in all media are welcome. Bring your own painting, drawing, or sketching materials and enjoy a relaxed afternoon creating alongside fellow artists.

Whether you are an experienced outdoor painter or simply curious about sketching in the garden, we'd love to have you join us.

As you paint, sketch, or draw, you'll also have an opportunity to learn about the Albuquerque Garden Center's demonstration gardens and the important role they play in horticultural education and community engagement throughout Albuquerque.

Volunteers from both the Albuquerque Garden Center and NMAL will be available to welcome participants, answer questions, and help artists get oriented to the grounds.

Bring your own supplies, water, hat, sunscreen, and a portable chair if desired.

LOCATION:  Albuquerque Garden Center 10120 Lomas Blvd. NE Albuquerque, NM

Optional group photo at 1:45 p.m.

We look forward to spending a creative afternoon in the gardens with you.

"When Heaven Falls to Earth it Becomes a Garden"

https://www.albuquerquegardencenter.org/

Watercolor Explorations: Texture in Watercolor Paintings with Pamela Barcita (Tuesdays) (09/08/2026)

Tue, 08 Sep 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Discover exciting ways to add depth, interest, and expression to your watercolor paintings through the creative use of texture. Students will explore a wide variety of techniques using brushwork, specialty tools, textured paints, and mixed media materials. Each technique will be introduced through demonstrations and hands-on practice before being combined in layered, expressive effects. As students gain confidence with these techniques, they will apply them to original compositions of their own choosing, developing paintings that reflect their individual style and creative vision. The class includes instructor demonstrations, group instruction, individualized guidance, and one-on-one coaching to support artists at every stage of the process. This course is best suited for students who have some prior experience with watercolor and are ready to expand their skills through creative exploration and experimentation.

MATERIALS LIST

Pamela Barcita is a watercolor artist, an illustrator, and art teacher who recently moved back to New Mexico after many years living overseas and in other states. Her classes have included Two-Dimensional Design, Illustration, Drawing and Watercolor Painting. Pamela is the illustrator of over 25 children’s books. Pamela earned a Master’s Degree in Studio Art with an emphasis in Illustration from Marywood University in Scranton, PA in 1998. She is a member of The New Mexico Watercolor Society and the New Mexico Art League. Pamela’s watercolor paintings won several awards from the Southside Artists Association art shows in 2018-19, ranging from People’s Choice, Third, Second and First Place. And most recently she won Best of Show, New Mexico Watercolor Society, 2024.

Non-Toxic Oil Painting: Modern Materials and Techniques for Confident Painting with Dick Wimberly (Tuesdays) (09/08/2026)

Tue, 08 Sep 2026 19:00:00 GMT

In this hands-on class, you'll learn safer ways to paint with oils by eliminating traditional paint thinners and using either conventional oil paints or water-mixable oils. We'll cover practical studio habits, effective painting mediums, and simple brush-cleaning methods that reduce exposure to harsh solvents. Throughout the course you'll learn: How to choose and use oil painting mediums; When and how to use water with water-mixable oils; Safe, inexpensive brush-cleaning methods; Practical differences between studio and plein air painting; and, How a simple six-color palette can streamline painting and improve color mixing. Rather than becoming overwhelmed by dozens of colors and products, you'll learn a straightforward approach that builds confidence and makes painting more enjoyable. Working with six carefully selected colors encourages thoughtful observation, cleaner color mixtures, and a more efficient painting process. Each class begins with a short demonstration and discussion, followed by plenty of time to paint with individual guidance. During the first session, you'll explore different paint types and materials and receive paint samples before beginning your own paintings using personal reference photos or a laptop. Whether you're new to oils or looking to refine your technique, you'll leave with safer studio practices, a simpler painting process, and greater confidence in your ability to paint.

MATERIALS LIST COMING SOON...

Dick Wimberly has taught painting classes and workshops for students of all ages for more than 35 years. His philosophy is simple:

"The greatest joy is watching students discover and grow into their new abilities."

Dick Wimberly is a plein air artist. He has been painting outdoors for over 40 years. He has studied with Wilson Hurley, Clyde Aspevig and Michael Lynch. Dick has taught workshops around the US, taking great pleasure in watching his students discovering and growing into their own thoughts and abilities.Dick has won numerous awards over the years and is proud of being a three time recipient of the Jeff Potter award for best landscape by a New Mexico artist at the PAPNM National Juried Members Show. Dick Wimberly served as the President of the Plein Air Painters of New Mexicoand is a member of the Oil Painters of America and of the Laguna Plein Air Painters Association. https://dickwimberly.com/

Introduction to Painting and Drawing: Finding Your Own Path with Maria Cole (Wednesdays) (09/09/2026)

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 15:00:00 GMT

The objective of this class is to acquaint students with traditional and contemporary techniques in drawing and painting that will give them the solid background needed to develop their own individual style. Class will begin with a short lecture and demonstration, after which students will explore these techniques working from still life arrangements, their own photographic material or any images of their choosing. Class will progress to the introduction of fundamental principles of design, including composition, perspective and color. There will be basic homework assignments every week, related to the themes covered in class. Students will also be strongly encouraged and receive personal guidance to develop individual projects and personal ideas. Please sign up early; class size is limited to 12 students.

New Mexico Art League upcoming events

Discover Origami with Laura Metzler (Saturday) (08/01/2026)

Sunday Afternoon Life Drawing - No Instruction (08/02/2026)

Introduction to Figure Drawing in Graphite and White Chalk Pencils on Toned Paper with Tony Ryder (Monday through Friday) (08/03/2026)

Introduction to Figure Drawing in Graphite and White Chalk Pencils on Toned Paper with Tony Ryder (Monday through Friday) (08/04/2026)

Introduction to Figure Drawing in Graphite and White Chalk Pencils on Toned Paper with Tony Ryder (Monday through Friday) (08/05/2026)

Introduction to Figure Drawing in Graphite and White Chalk Pencils on Toned Paper with Tony Ryder (Monday through Friday) (08/06/2026)

Introduction to Figure Drawing in Graphite and White Chalk Pencils on Toned Paper with Tony Ryder (Monday through Friday) (08/07/2026)

Sunday Afternoon Life Drawing - No Instruction (08/09/2026)

Design Your Own Mandala with Pamela Barcita (Tuesday - Thursday) (08/11/2026)

Design Your Own Mandala with Pamela Barcita (Tuesday - Thursday) (08/12/2026)

Design Your Own Mandala with Pamela Barcita (Tuesday - Thursday) (08/13/2026)

Painting with Crayons with Mikaela Guggino (Saturday) (08/15/2026)

Sunday Afternoon Life Drawing - No Instruction (08/16/2026)

Gel Plate Printing: From Prints to Mixed Media with Lauren Deyo (Thursday, Friday, Saturday) (08/20/2026)

Gel Plate Printing: From Prints to Mixed Media with Lauren Deyo (Thursday, Friday, Saturday) (08/21/2026)

Gel Plate Printing: From Prints to Mixed Media with Lauren Deyo (Thursday, Friday, Saturday) (08/22/2026)

NMAL Plein Air Day at the Albuquerque Garden Center (Sunday) (08/30/2026)

The Garden Center's beautiful demonstration gardens offer a wealth of artistic inspiration, including roses, native plants, cactus gardens, colorful perennials, winding pathways, and peaceful garden settings. Plenty of shaded locations are available throughout the grounds.

Artists working in all media are welcome. Bring your own painting, drawing, or sketching materials and enjoy a relaxed afternoon creating alongside fellow artists.

Whether you are an experienced outdoor painter or simply curious about sketching in the garden, we'd love to have you join us.

As you paint, sketch, or draw, you'll also have an opportunity to learn about the Albuquerque Garden Center's demonstration gardens and the important role they play in horticultural education and community engagement throughout Albuquerque.

Volunteers from both the Albuquerque Garden Center and NMAL will be available to welcome participants, answer questions, and help artists get oriented to the grounds.

Bring your own supplies, water, hat, sunscreen, and a portable chair if desired.

LOCATION: Albuquerque Garden Center 10120 Lomas Blvd. NE Albuquerque, NM

Optional group photo at 1:45 p.m.

We look forward to spending a creative afternoon in the gardens with you.

"When Heaven Falls to Earth it Becomes a Garden"

Watercolor Explorations: Texture in Watercolor Paintings with Pamela Barcita (Tuesdays) (09/08/2026)

Non-Toxic Oil Painting: Modern Materials and Techniques for Confident Painting with Dick Wimberly (Tuesdays) (09/08/2026)

Introduction to Painting and Drawing: Finding Your Own Path with Maria Cole (Wednesdays) (09/09/2026)

Painting the Landscape in Oils with J. Waid Griffin (Wednesdays) (09/09/2026)

Learning to See Light and Color (All Media) with Master Artist David Schwindt (Thursdays) (09/10/2026)

Learning the Oil Painting Process: From Idea to Finished Work with Cynthia Inson (Thursdays) (09/10/2026)

Abstraction: Painting and Drawing (All Media) with Michael Ottersen (Fridays) (09/11/2026)

Buoyancy: Painting Water in Soft Pastels with Susan Roden (Fridays) (09/11/2026)

The Nature of Seeing: Experimental Sketchbook on the Trails with Mary Beth Woiccak (Saturday & Sunday) (09/12/2026)

Independent Study (All Media) with Alice Webb (Saturdays) - No Class on 10/3 (09/12/2026)

Teen Studio: Tomorrow's Young Artists Start Here with Susan Roden (Saturdays) (FALL Session 1: 9/12, 9/19, 9/26, 10/3) (09/12/2026)

The Nature of Seeing: Experimental Sketchbook on the Trails with Mary Beth Woiccak (Saturday & Sunday) (09/13/2026)

Watercolor Foundations: Techniques, Skills, and Confidence with Dave Cook (Mondays) (09/14/2026)

Finding Your Voice: Intuitive Expression Through Acrylics & Mixed Media (no class on 10/19) with Allison Jones Hunt (Mondays) (09/14/2026)

Watercolor Explorations: Texture in Watercolor Paintings with Pamela Barcita (Tuesdays) (09/15/2026)

Non-Toxic Oil Painting: Modern Materials and Techniques for Confident Painting with Dick Wimberly (Tuesdays) (09/15/2026)

Introduction to Painting and Drawing: Finding Your Own Path with Maria Cole (Wednesdays) (09/16/2026)

Painting the Landscape in Oils with J. Waid Griffin (Wednesdays) (09/16/2026)

Learning to See Light and Color (All Media) with Master Artist David Schwindt (Thursdays) (09/17/2026)

Learning the Oil Painting Process: From Idea to Finished Work with Cynthia Inson (Thursdays) (09/17/2026)

Abstraction: Painting and Drawing (All Media) with Michael Ottersen (Fridays) (09/18/2026)

Buoyancy: Painting Water in Soft Pastels with Susan Roden (Fridays) (09/18/2026)

Independent Study (All Media) with Alice Webb (Saturdays) - No Class on 10/3 (09/19/2026)

Teen Studio: Tomorrow's Young Artists Start Here with Susan Roden (Saturdays) (FALL Session 1: 9/12, 9/19, 9/26, 10/3) (09/19/2026)

Watercolor Foundations: Techniques, Skills, and Confidence with Dave Cook (Mondays) (09/21/2026)

Finding Your Voice: Intuitive Expression Through Acrylics & Mixed Media (no class on 10/19) with Allison Jones Hunt (Mondays) (09/21/2026)

Watercolor Explorations: Texture in Watercolor Paintings with Pamela Barcita (Tuesdays) (09/22/2026)

Non-Toxic Oil Painting: Modern Materials and Techniques for Confident Painting with Dick Wimberly (Tuesdays) (09/22/2026)

Introduction to Painting and Drawing: Finding Your Own Path with Maria Cole (Wednesdays) (09/23/2026)

Painting the Landscape in Oils with J. Waid Griffin (Wednesdays) (09/23/2026)

Learning to See Light and Color (All Media) with Master Artist David Schwindt (Thursdays) (09/24/2026)

Learning the Oil Painting Process: From Idea to Finished Work with Cynthia Inson (Thursdays) (09/24/2026)

Abstraction: Painting and Drawing (All Media) with Michael Ottersen (Fridays) (09/25/2026)

Buoyancy: Painting Water in Soft Pastels with Susan Roden (Fridays) (09/25/2026)

Independent Study (All Media) with Alice Webb (Saturdays) - No Class on 10/3 (09/26/2026)

Teen Studio: Tomorrow's Young Artists Start Here with Susan Roden (Saturdays) (FALL Session 1: 9/12, 9/19, 9/26, 10/3) (09/26/2026)

Watercolor Foundations: Techniques, Skills, and Confidence with Dave Cook (Mondays) (09/28/2026)

Finding Your Voice: Intuitive Expression Through Acrylics & Mixed Media (no class on 10/19) with Allison Jones Hunt (Mondays) (09/28/2026)

Watercolor Explorations: Texture in Watercolor Paintings with Pamela Barcita (Tuesdays) (09/29/2026)

Non-Toxic Oil Painting: Modern Materials and Techniques for Confident Painting with Dick Wimberly (Tuesdays) (09/29/2026)

Introduction to Painting and Drawing: Finding Your Own Path with Maria Cole (Wednesdays) (09/30/2026)

Painting the Landscape in Oils with J. Waid Griffin (Wednesdays) (09/30/2026)

Learning to See Light and Color (All Media) with Master Artist David Schwindt (Thursdays) (10/01/2026)

Learning the Oil Painting Process: From Idea to Finished Work with Cynthia Inson (Thursdays) (10/01/2026)

Abstraction: Painting and Drawing (All Media) with Michael Ottersen (Fridays) (10/02/2026)

Buoyancy: Painting Water in Soft Pastels with Susan Roden (Fridays) (10/02/2026)

Teen Studio: Tomorrow's Young Artists Start Here with Susan Roden (Saturdays) (FALL Session 1: 9/12, 9/19, 9/26, 10/3) (10/03/2026)

Watercolor Foundations: Techniques, Skills, and Confidence with Dave Cook (Mondays) (10/05/2026)

Finding Your Voice: Intuitive Expression Through Acrylics & Mixed Media (no class on 10/19) with Allison Jones Hunt (Mondays) (10/05/2026)

Watercolor Explorations: Texture in Watercolor Paintings with Pamela Barcita (Tuesdays) (10/06/2026)

Non-Toxic Oil Painting: Modern Materials and Techniques for Confident Painting with Dick Wimberly (Tuesdays) (10/06/2026)

Introduction to Painting and Drawing: Finding Your Own Path with Maria Cole (Wednesdays) (10/07/2026)

LOCATION:  Albuquerque Garden Center 10120 Lomas Blvd. NE Albuquerque, NM