Winter/Spring 2026 Group Classes:
Wednesday Evenings (High School Teens)
Ages 14-18
When: 6 - 8 pm (4-6 students)
Cost: $240 all materials included
Session 1: Working with Ballpoint Pens
Instructors: Jack Ramsdell & Julie Duba (see Jack’s biography below)
Dates: February 18, 25, March 4 and 11
* 1 free Make-up class per session if sick or absent: March 25, 6-8 pm. This date may also be used as an add-on class for an extra $65 if more class time is desired.
Description: This class will explore the many components of handling a ballpoint pen as a tool for drawing in color. You’ll be invited to hone in especially on these 4 very important aspects of good draftsmanship:
PATIENCE practiced with the “building” process of drawing in layers.
RESTRAINT practiced to allow for a wide range in values and colors and also to avoid overworking your artwork.
RESOURCEFULNESS practiced to know how to backpedal or “hide” an error, if needed, and to ultimately achieve your desired outcome.
IMAGINATION in use to create artwork that feels uniquely yours and also promotes an inspired feeling or message.
This course will begin with using a limited number of colored pencils to learn how to “mix” colors and create more from less. Once you get a sense for how to build your drawing carefully and integrate and merge your colors in a systematic way, the BIC multi-pen will be introduced. Through watching Jack’s demonstrations and practice creating your own techniques and methods, you’ll better understand how to execute the 4 drawing aspects before working in permanent ink. In the first two classes, you’ll receive guidance about selecting your image or reference for your main project and you’ll also be shown how to modify and personalize your pens to accomplish the color scheme and outcome you are hoping to attain.
The Art Studio space & supplies will be ready and waiting for you! You’ll receive a small sketchbook & two BIC pens to use in class and to keep for your future endeavors!
A light snack and drink will also be provided in each class.
Biography for Jack Ramsdell:
Jack Ramsdell is an artist/photographer born and raised in Mystic, CT. He grew up drawing constantly. in his High School years, Jack began pursuing and experimenting with painting and photography. His passion and dedication to his artistic endeavors led him to attend The Cooper Union in the lower east side on Manhattan. This small, tight-knit College for Art and Science was the ideal school for strengthening Jack’s art skills and knowledge. Studying in New York City also allowed for many interesting photography jobs and opportunities. In 2023, Jack received his BFA from The Cooper Union. Today, Jack lives in Mystic with his dog and makes his career as a freelance photographer in his beloved hometown. Still drawing constantly, Jack also finds time to work on motorcycles, make music, travel and spend time with family and friends.
Session 2: TBD
Instructor(s): TBD
Dates: TBD
* 1 free Make up class per session if sick or absent: TBD, 6-8pm. This date may also be used as an add-on class for an extra $65 if more class time is desired.
Spring/Summer 2026
TBD
Ages 14-18
When: TBD
Session 1: Project and Medium - TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
Session 2: Project and Medium - TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
Make-up or add-on class: TBD
Cost: TBD per session, all materials included (subject to change based on medium)
Thursday Afternoons
Ages 11-14
When: 4:00 - 5:30 pm
Session 1: Project and Medium - TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
Session 2: Project and Medium - TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
Make-up or add-on class: TBD
Cost: TBD per session, all materials included (subject to change based on medium)
Summer 2026 Group Classes: Adults
TBD
Happy New Year 2026 everyone!
If you are looking for added art lessons or classes, or you are interested in commission work, please check back often as I’ll be updating my website in February or March 2026
Thank you!
Julie Duba
Class descriptions and rates for semi-private & private art lessons
Stay updated on current class offerings by checking this page and following the news page for updates
Information on semi-private & private lessons at bottom of page
Semi-Private Lessons
Semi-private lessons are for 2 individuals.
All Materials Included
Drawing:
1 hour: $40 / 1.5 hours: $55 / 2 hours: $70/ 2.5 hours: $85 / 3 hours: $100
Pastel or Watercolor:
1 hour: $45 / 1.5 hours: $60 / 2 hours: $75 / 2.5 hours: $90 / 3 hours: $105
Acrylic Painting:
1 hour: $53 / 1.5 hours: $68 / 2 hours: $83 / 2.5 hours: $98 / 3 hours: $113
Oil Painting:
1 hour: $60 / 1.5 hours: $75/ 2 hours: $90 / 2.5 hours: $105 / 3 hours: $120
Private Lessons
All Materials Included
Drawing:
1 hour: $50 / 1.5 hours: $68 / 2 hours: $85/ 2.5 hours: $103 / 3 hours: $120
Pastel or Watercolor:
1 hour: $55 / 1.5 hours: $73 / 2 hours: $90 / 2.5 hours: $108 / 3 hours: $125
Acrylic Painting:
1 hour: $65 / 1.5 hours: $83 / 2 hours: $100/ 2.5 hours: $118 / 3 hours: $135
Oil Painting:
1 hour: $75 / 1.5 hours: $93/ 2 hours: $110 / 2.5 hours: $128/ 3 hours: $145