Community Education & Professional Education
Convenient learning options for curious creatives, professionals, and degree-seekers.
Expand your career skills and options.
Advance your professional skills, pivot your career, or pursue competitive graduate degrees while building valuable creative connections for future collaborations. Our non-degree Professional Practice offerings are taught by industry experts and structured to make MICA’s rigorous art and design instruction accessible to working adults.
Cultivate your creative interests.
Explore new skills or deepen your practice with access to MICA’s specialized resources and equipment and personalized support from our experienced artist-instructors. You’ll get hands-on experience that results in finished pieces and plenty of interactive critique and feedback along the way.
Professional Practice
Intermediate
Intermediate Illustrator
Thursdays, May 29 - Jul. 10, 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
ONLINE: This course explores advanced Illustrator techniques for artists and designers. Topics include complex vector drawing, advanced typography, custom brushes, gradient meshes, 3D effects, and efficient workflow strategies. Students will also learn how to integrate Illustrator with Photoshop and InDesign for professional design projects. New features and best practices will be covered. This course will be taught online using Zoom & Canvas, with Adobe Creative Suite access included for the duration of the course.
Cost: $450
Register TodayRandy Morgan
Community Education
Beginner
Workshop: Portfolio Refinement
Saturdays, Jun. 21 - Aug. 9, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
This course helps aspiring art students, ages 18-23 build a strong portfolio while developing personal ideas beyond a specific style. Through various materials and techniques, students explore balance, contrast, and key visual elements applicable across all mediums. Includes a MICA portfolio review, art school requirements, digital portfolio creation, and professional development.
Cost: $600
Register Today
Community Education
Beginner
Digital Photography Workshop
Sundays, Jun. 15 - Aug. 3, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
This workshop introduces the fundamentals of digital photography using both cell phones and DSLR cameras. Students will explore composition, lighting, and camera settings to capture compelling images. The course also covers basic editing techniques in Photoshop, including cropping, color correction, and retouching, to enhance and refine photographs. Perfect for beginners, this hands-on class will help students develop technical skills and a creative eye for photography.
Cost: $600
Register Today
Community Education
Beginner
Plein Air Painting Workshop
Mondays, Jun. 30 - Aug. 4; 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Explore the art of painting outdoors in this hands-on plein air workshop. Designed for artists of all levels, this workshop focuses on capturing the beauty of natural light, color, and atmosphere in real-time. Learn essential techniques for working quickly and effectively in changing outdoor conditions, including composition, color mixing, and brushwork. With guidance from an experienced instructor, participants will gain confidence in their ability to create expressive landscapes while enjoying the inspiration of the great outdoors.
Cost: $450
Register TodayDuane Lutsko
Community Education
Beginner
Mining the Museum: Painting Seminar & Workshop
Sundays, Jul. 12 - Aug. 2; 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
This fast-paced painting workshop blends art history seminars, museum visitis with in-depth critique of current work, and collaborative discussions on advancing artistic practice. Participants will analyze historical and contemporary painting techniques and explore the materials and methods therein. Techniques explored will include, imprimatura and grisaille, glazing, wet-on-wet alla prima, and layering with impasto. Participants will gain hands-on experience in a variety of techniques and receive constructive feedback to explore strategies for elevating their art. Perfect for artists seeking growth, inspiration, and connection within a supportive creative community.
Cost: $300
Register TodayDuane Lutsko
Professional Practice
Intermediate
Intermediate Photoshop
Wednesdays, May 28 - Jul. 2; 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
ONLINE: This course dives deeper into Photoshop’s tools and techniques for artists, designers, and photographers. Topics include working with layers and masks, blending modes, non-destructive editing, compositing, typography effects, and in-depth generative AI features. Students will refine their workflow, explore creative projects, and develop a stronger command of digital image editing. This course will be taught online using Zoom & Canvas, with Adobe Creative Suite access included for the duration of the course.
Cost: $450
Register TodayRandy Morgan
Professional Practice
Beginner
Adobe Generative AI with Photoshop, Illustrator & InDesign
Monday, Jun. 2, 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
ONLINE: Explore image creation in this 3-hour, hands-on workshop using generative AI (artificial intelligence) with Adobe Firefly in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign and Adobe Express. Learn to use text to create unique images, add or remove objects, fill or expand images, generate vector graphics, patterns, shape fills and create incredible text effects. Tips and techniques for editing generated images and graphics will be covered, as well as file formats. This workshop will be taught online using Zoom & Canvas and Adobe Creative Suite with Creative Cloud account access is included for the duration of the workshop. Prerequisite: Basic knowledge of computers is required for all computer-based workshops and classes. Recommendation: A mouse is recommended instead of using a trackpad for digital input for this workshop.
Cost: $99
Register TodayRandy Morgan
Community Education
Beginner
Workshop: Shadow Puppetry and Visual Storytelling
Tuesdays, Jun. 3 - Jul. 8; 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
This workshop explores narrative storytelling through shadow puppetry and other 3D mediums. Students will learn design planning and explore mechanisms and construction techniques for creating shadow puppets, from simple cut paper to those with moving parts. During this workshop, students will make two shadow puppet acts.
Cost: $300
Register TodaySam Grossman
Community Education
Beginner
Workshop: Shake It Up!
Tuesdays, Jun. 24 - Jul. 22, 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Are you in search of a new artistic direction, or looking for ways to delve further into your existing imagery? Summer could be the perfect time to try something new in the studio. In this 5 week workshop, we’ll explore techniques designed to break habits and expectations that might be holding our practices back. Through a series of formal, material, and interactive prompts, students will produce a range of studies that will culminate in two finished projects. Expect a lighthearted, experimental, and supportive environment with plenty of feedback. We hope you’ll join us!
Cost: $375
Register TodayElizabeth English
Community Education
Beginner
Workshop: Object and Story
Thursdays, Jun. 26 - Jul. 31; 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
The objects that populate our material world are powerful storytellers. They can embody personal, family, and cultural narratives, and have much to reveal about qualities of time and place. In this multimedia workshop, we will engage found objects to discover their capacity to tell stories and create futures. Connecting with others in a supportive, reflective environment, you will start a personal portfolio of responses to an object of your choosing.
Cost: $375
Register TodayElizabeth English
Community Education
Beginner
Open Studio Model Sessions
Sundays, Jun. 1 - Aug. 3; 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.; or Mondays, Jun. 2 - Aug. 4; 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.;, Saturdays May. 31 - Aug. 9; 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.; or Tuesdays Jun. 3 - Aug. 5; 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.;
Sessions are offered for those who want to draw or paint from the live figure. Each section includes two models—one for quick poses for sketching and one for sustained drawing or painting. A class coordinator will ensure the quality of each session.
Cost: $150
Register TodayMax Cortes
Professional Practice
Beginner
Workshop: Illustrating in Procreate
Mondays, Jul. 7 - Aug 4., 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
ONLINE: Unlock your creative potential and dive into the world of digital art with Procreate. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, designer, or hobbyist, this course will guide you through the fundamentals of Procreate, empowering you to create stunning digital illustrations and paintings on your iPad. This class will help you gain a comprehensive understanding of how to use various brush types, layers, blending modes, color palettes, and advanced features like time-lapse recording of your work. This course requires Procreate on the iPad and an Apple pencil is highly recommended.
Cost: $375
Register TodayTrish Moore
Community Education
Beginner
Painting by Design: The Language of Art
Wednesdays, Jul. 2 - Aug. 6, 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
This course explores the intersection of the design principles and expressive creativity in oil painting. Learn to craft dynamic compositions using the language of rhythm, movement, and directional flow. Harness the expressive, mark-making potential of painting to orchestrate texture, shapes, and color into compelling visual narratives. The course takes a deep dive into the workings of the language of visual art. It will combine studio practice with seminar discussions to foster a rich dialogue on the concepts and techniques that use the elements of art to articulate the principles of design. Students will present their work in an open critique format, gaining insights from peers and
refining their artistic voice. Ideal for those seeking to invigorate their understanding of painting as a thoughtful, intentional process.
Credit: 1.5
Cost: $765
Duane Lutsko
Professional Practice
Beginner
Illustration Workshop: Graphic Novels and Comics
Tuesdays, Jun 17. - Jul. 29, 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
ONLINE: Starting with the development of compelling storylines, students in this workshop will create unique characters and hone their skills in engaging readers through sequential illustrations, storytelling, and imagery. Throughout the workshop, students will enhance their abilities in both drawing and imaginative character and story creation, fostering creativity and self-expression.
Register Today
Professional Practice
Beginner
Creating your Personal Brand In Canva
Tuesdays, Jul. 1 - Aug. 5; 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
ONLINE: Unlock your creativity and build a brand that truly represents you! This hands-on course goes beyond generic templates, guiding you through designing a logo, developing a cohesive brand identity, and shaping your business vision—all using Canva. You’ll learn how to customize designs to reflect your unique style, stand out in your industry, and create a brand that feels authentically yours. Whether you’re starting fresh or refining an existing brand, this course will help you craft a professional, one-of-a-kind look without needing advanced design skills.
Cost: $450
Register Today
Community Education
Beginner
Painting Workshop: Painting the Figure
Saturdays, Jun. 28 - Aug. 9, 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
In this workshop, students will explore the fundamentals of figure painting, from ink wash to acrylic. Through rhythm, unity, balance, and contrast, they will learn to create dynamic compositions that guide the viewer’s eye beyond the focal point. Each session includes painting from a live model, emphasizing visual pathways and key observational techniques.
Cost: $450
Register Today
Professional Practice
Beginner
Workshop: How to Frame Your Work
Saturdays, Jul. 12 - Aug. 9, 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Learn how to professionally frame your own artwork in this hands-on workshop! This course covers the basics of selecting the right frame, cutting and mounting mats, and assembling your piece for a polished, gallery-ready presentation. Whether you’re framing drawings, prints, or photographs, you’ll gain practical skills to enhance and protect your artwork with confidence.
Cost: $375
Register Today
Professional Practice
Beginner
Graphic Design Workshop: Brand Identity
Sundays, Jun. 15 - Aug. 3; 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
ONLINE: In this course, students will learn the fundamentals of branding, including designing logos, color schemes, and brand guidelines. They’ll work on creating a unique brand identity for a business or project, applying design principles to communicate a brand’s message and personality.
Cost: $600
Register TodayPatricia Moore
Community Education
Beginner
Painting Workshop: Visual Narratives
Thursdays, Jul. 3 - Jul. 24; 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
This fast-paced painting workshop empowers artists to craft compelling visual narratives and uncover recurring themes in their work. Through focused exercises and discussions, participants will explore techniques to create paintings that evoke emotion, spark conversation, and clearly communicate ideas. Ideal for artists seeking to refine their vision and build a cohesive, impactful body of work.
Cost: $300
Register Today
Community Education
Beginner
Illustration for Young Readers
Mondays, Jun. 2 - Aug. 4, 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to key elements and techniques required for crafting captivating illustrations for young readers. Discover the art of visual storytelling in children’s books and learn how to create illustrations that seamlessly connect with the narrative. Students will learn the nuances of designing characters and conveying facial expressions that capture the emotions and personalities of your story’s protagonists.
Credits: 1.5
Cost: $765
Anusha Raichur
Community Education
Beginner
Drawing Workshop: Drawing the Figure
Tuesdays, Jun. 3 - Jul. 8, 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
In this workshop students will work through a progression of drawings that explore how different approaches to the figure can address mood, spirit, intensity, viewpoints, and emotion. Students will learn how to successfully portray the human body with dramatic form, mass, volume and tonality. While investigating the human form, students will use charcoal, conte crayon graphite and ink to produce a portfolio of figure drawings that range in style from traditional to more contemporary and conceptual approaches.
Cost: $450
Register TodayTeresa Nicolella
Professional Practice
Beginner
Workshop: Digital Illustration
Wednesdays, Jun. 25 - Aug. 6; 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
ONLINE: This hands-on workshop explores the fundamentals of digital illustration using industry-standard tools. Students will learn to create dynamic illustrations with vector and raster techniques, refine their linework, apply color and shading, and experiment with textures and effects. Perfect for artists and designers looking to develop their digital drawing skills, this workshop provides practical techniques and creative inspiration. No prior experience required!
Cost: $525
Register Today
Priyanka Kumar
What our students
are saying
“I actually love the remote delivery. I still have access to the instructor and peers, but I don’t have to cart all my painting supplies (and wet canvases) back and forth every week!”
“Superb balance of information, demonstration, peer sharing, and hands-on application.”
“I most liked the lectures and class critiques. The teacher is a master at eliciting class participation and gleaning the important points of the lessons through the works.”
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FAQs
Are payment plans available?
Payment plans are available. Please contact the Office of Open Studies for more information and to set this up: (410) 225-2219 or openstudies@mica.edu.
How will I access the software needed for the class?
Once enrolled, you will receive a MICA email with a link to your Student Getting Started Guide. Please check the email that you used to register for the course or workshop.
To note: The email you receive once you are enrolled will also include login instructions to access tools and software necessary for your class such as Canvas, Adobe Creative Cloud, Zoom, and Google Drive.
I'm interested in taking a class in person. What are the COVID-19 related guidelines?
We are in Operational Mode 5 to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable educational experience with MICA. See Operational Mode 5 webpage for more information; this info will also be included in the Getting Started Guide with your registration confirmation email. Masks are encouraged, but not required.
I’m not sure if this class is for me. How can I talk to someone?
Contact the Office of Open Studies at (410) 225-2219 or openstudies@mica.edu
How will I interact with classmates if I choose an online course?
Classes will be held synchronously via Zoom, where peer and instructor discussions and critiques will be conducted.
I am registering for a Community Education course. How will I get my materials?
A materials list will be provided by the Faculty for the first day of class for students registered and enrolled in the course. Please check the guide to view materials recommended and/or required prior to the start of your class to ensure you acquire them in time. Materials will also be available to purchase through the MICA Art Store at https://shop.mica.edu/art-supplies/.
I see this course is for credit. What’s this for?
Students enrolled in this course also receive non-degree credits. Some teachers may be able to apply these credits towards renewals of teaching certifications.
Will I be on zoom the entire time during my online class?
Class format and “zoom time” will be structured to accommodate the needs of each class.
What time zone are the courses held?
All courses and workshops are scheduled for an EST time zone.
What if I need to drop the class, how can I get a refund?
Please fill out this form to drop the course you are enrolled in and then submit a written request for a refund to openstudies@mica.edu including your full name and course information before the start of the second class.
When will courses be announced?
Summer 2025 Community Education and Professional Education will open for registration in early February. Visit openstudies.mica.edu/adult-courses to learn more.
Questions?
Contact Us
Office of Open Studies
Baltimore, MD 21217
openstudies@mica.edu
