Creative Arts
Architecture
From sketches to structures, here’s an introduction to a fascinating career that you can really build on. You’ll study essential concepts of construction and design, touring Madison’s neo-classical state capital and structures by Wisconsin’s own Frank Lloyd Wright. Course highlights include the opportunity to study and develop blueprints based on your own architectural ideas.
Classic Photography* (Beginner and Advanced)
Here’s a skill you can really develop. Study the truly artistic approach to taking pictures in this exciting hands-on course. Learn the basics of lighting, f-stops and composition. You’ll use black-and-white film to experiment with the different ways that a camera can record light and shadow, detail and depth of field. Once you have an understanding of the camera itself, work on perfecting your photographer’s “eye” for unforgettable shots and special scenes worth capturing on film. Please note: Some darkroom and studio time outside of regular class is required, and students must supply their own 35-mm cameras.
Digital Photography* (Beginner and Advanced)
Photography has evolved more dramatically than any other art form, and digital technology has revolutionized how we take pictures. This hands-on course will introduce you to both the basics of taking great digital pictures and advanced tricks for making them even more creative and compelling. You’ll learn how to crop images, adjust color and contrast, and save your work as a great keepsake of your ACA experience! Whether you hope to shoot fashion models and rock stars, capture images of rare animals in the wild or just want to take good vacation photos, this course is picture perfect! Please note: Some studio time outside of regular class is required, and students must supply their own cameras.
Introduction to Culinary Skills*
Find your inner Emeril! Everyone should know his or her way around the kitchen. In this appetizing course, students get comfortable with cuisine and understand that preparing food is a delicious art. You’ll learn gourmet tricks and tips that are sure to satisfy. For your final project, you’ll really get cooking, preparing special meals for fellow ACA students and staff. Bon appetít!
Drawing & Painting*
Start scribbling and splattering! Our instructors will work one-on-one with both basic and advanced students in ACA’s trademark small interactive classroom environment. You’ll learn how to use pencils, charcoal sketches and watercolors to express your creativity and unleash your inner Picasso.
Fashion Design*
Do you know the work of Donna Karan, Ralph Lauren and other top designers? This exciting design class will help you hone your fashion sense and express yourself at the same time! You’ll learn how to combine colors, shapes, fabrics and textures to create a look that’s all your own. You might start the next fashion craze!
Instrumental Music: Guitar, Piano, Drums*
This course meets anyone’s musical goals, whether you’re an accomplished player or you’re picking up an instrument for the first time. Semi-private instruction with experienced musicians will help you learn the basics or take your playing to the next level. Guitar, piano, keyboards, drums – or instruction in almost any other instrument – is available, so don’t forget to pack your “axe”!
Modern Dance
Expand your dance repertoire and introduce yourself to modern movement. Whether you’re an experienced dancer or just curious about contemporary dance, this course will take you through the rhythms and motion particular to modern dance, with its influences as diverse as today’s pop music, jazz piano, African drumbeats and even a bit of ballet. Enjoy the freedom of movement and interpretive exploration modern dance reveals!
Pottery*
Get your fingers dirty and play with some clay in this truly hands-on course! Both beginning and experienced students learn to create fine pottery in a hands-on way. Your artistic vision can be realized through low- and high-fire-glazing techniques, hand building and wheel skills. When it’s over, you’ll have a unique piece of personal art to take home.
*A supplemental supply or lab fee will apply.
