Join author-illustrator and art instructor Joan Waites for a class using picture books as an introduction to famous artists and illustrators! Each class will include a picture book reading, brief introduction to the featured artist, and an art lesson incorporating basic art fundamentals and use of different art materials. This class will focus on the art of Henri Matisse, using Joan’s book A Purr-fect Painting: Matisse’s Other Great Cat. The class will be introduced to the artist and his work. Students will learn to paint their own Matisse inspired gold fish painting using ink and watercolor.

This class is for children ages 7-9 who love to try new art forms! 

All supplies and art smocks will be provided.

Joan Waites is a published children’s book author-illustrator and art teacher for children (and adults) in and around the D.C. metro area. Prior to Covid restrictions, she operated her own art teaching studio (Purple Crayon Studio) where she taught classes for children ages 5-13 for ten years. She is also a former adjunct faculty member of The Corcoran Museum’s Schools’ Aspiring Artists programs. Joan is currently teaching on a freelance basis at various locations.

Click HERE for more classes, for a variety of ages, with Joan.

This class requires at least 4 participants.

If you need assistance registering, please check out these step-by-step instructions, video tutorial or call (202) 549-4172 for assistance.

Hill Center is dedicated to making our programming equitable and accessible to all. If cost, accessibility, or other obstacles are a barrier to attending a program, please contact programs@hillcenterdc.org and we will be happy to work out a solution.