General Painting _ Afsaneh Michaels_ Beginner to Advanced _December 9 - January 20_ Tuesdays_ 9:30am-12:30 pm _Studio 1
2025-12-30 09:30 - 12:30, 2026-01-06 09:30 - 12:30, 2026-01-13 09:30 - 12:30, 2026-01-20 09:30 - 12:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Gateway Art Studio 1, 1001 Golden Rain Road, Walnut Creek, CA, CA, 94595, United States
General Painting- Landscapes, Still life, Portraits, Abstracts. sketches, photos, etc.
Beginner to advanced
December 9 – January 20, 2026
Tuesday 9:30-12:30 pm
Studio 1
This painting course introduces you to the painting process and the common stages and techniques that artists follow to create a work of art. This process can vary greatly depending on the artist, the medium and the subject matter.
You learn and follow the process starting with conception of an idea or an inspiration, gathering references, designing and composing your canvas or painting surface, selecting materials and colors, and executing the painting by sketching and blocking. Each stage is described and explained by the instructor.
Beginners, always start painting from still life set ups in the studio and will do several still life paintings before choosing their own subject matter.
Intermediate and advanced artists may paint several paintings and use more advanced techniques as well as their own subjects and learn to identify the techniques of choice and perhaps develop a style. Any subject of choice is allowed from still life to landscapes, or abstracts.
Come with your existing setup with colors, brushes, pencils, and other tools plus your
sketchbook and canvas. The first class will include a discussion of materials and supports/painting surface (canvas, paper or boards). For questions please email the instructor.

Watercolor with Kathleen Stumpfel_January 6 - February 17, 2025 _ Tuesdays _9 am- 11:30, _ Studio 2
2026-01-06 09:00 - 11:30, 2026-01-13 09:00 - 11:30, 2026-01-20 09:00 - 11:30, 2026-01-27 09:00 - 11:30 | Gateway Art Studio 1, 1001 Golden Rain Road, Walnut Creek, CA, CA, 94595, United States
Do you want to paint in watercolor?
This class will show beginners, even if you have never painted in watercolor, the techniques to use with paint and water. The goal is to have fun with the creative process. We will have step-by-step projects with short demonstrations and plenty of time to paint a variety of subject matter including florals, still lifes, and landscapes. Most importantly, this class will give you a start in the creative process needed for your art. This seven-week session will meet on Tuesday mornings in Studio 2 from January 6 to February 17 for $120. For Non-Rossmoor Residents the class fee is $140. Priority will be given to Rossmoor Residents. Suggested materials will be emailed before the start and discussed in the first class. Bring any watercolor materials you already have.

January 6 – February 17, 2025
9 am- 11:30, Studio 2
Tuesday
Maximum spaces – 13
Price for members – $120
Price for non-members – $140

Painting Momentum with Anna George_ Jan 6 - Feb 24 _ Tuesdays_ 1-4pm_ Studio 2
2026-01-06 13:00 - 16:00, 2026-01-13 13:00 - 16:00, 2026-01-20 13:00 - 16:00, 2026-01-27 13:00 - 16:00 | Gateway Art Studio 1, 1001 Golden Rain Road, Walnut Creek, CA, CA, 94595, United States
Painting Momentum
Jan 6 – Feb 24 Tuesdays 1-4pm
Studio 2
Welcome to a comfortable place to jump-start your art alongside other painters like you.
I am often by your side at your easel helping you engage, facilitating our working studio, and celebrating art-making. For me it’s like home, in which my promise is to give you constant, practical support as you paint what you love. You’ll be nailing the fundamentals—whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time or have a degree in fine art.
Inside this warm, creative space we tackle essentials that make paintings work but we keep the mood light. There is room to explore. You might experience the class as a friendly, collaborative workshop. Have a specific technique problem? Suggest I demonstrate? Let’s navigate this.
For fourteen years I’ve seen great growth and feel pride in my students. I suggest starting with 8×10 photo, something clean, simple, elegant. Work in oils, acrylics, or watercolor, abstract or representational.
I’m here to share what I know and seek to know after making a living selling my art, from galleries and exhibitions here in the U.S to shows in Italy. Since then I’ve loved being a sherpa to many over the years here in Rossmoor. Fun and success are capped off with our own in-house show, displaying our work-in-progress and finished pieces, talking together about them, and enjoying a table laden with deliciousness.
If you’re new to painting you’ll receive a materials list that offers guidance on paint brands, brush types, etc. Join Painting Momentum by first becoming an RAA member ($10) at rossmoorart.com and then register for the class. Do this early. Call me at 925.783.9000 or email anna.silks@gmail.com with any questions. Let’s make some art.
Want to see my work? You can find my abstract and representational pieces at annageorgeartist.com and annageorgeonline.com (silk work). Ask me about work I’m showing locally. Find one of my larger pieces (Tuscany) at Rossmoor’s Creekside Grill inside above the fireplace.

Watercolor Demo-Art Studio 1
2026-01-07 13:00 - 14:00 | CA
Watercolor Demo
January 7, 2026

Time: 1:00 pm
Place: Art Studio 1, Gateway

Samantha McNally

Samantha will present a watercolor demonstration followed by a coffee reception.
Samantha McNally is an award-winning professional watercolor artist whose works are collected and appreciated across the country. Known for her realism and delicacy in capturing floral and nature-inspired subjects. McNally also teaches watercolor to students online and is a past president of the California Watercolor Association.
She is an artist member of the Benicia Plein Air Gallery and the Main Strret Arts Gallery in Martinez and is on the boards of Valley Art Gallery in Walnut Creek and the Lamorinda Arts Alliance. McNally studied art at Ramapo College and Ridgewood School of Art in New Jersey, and the School of Visual Arts in New York City. She further honed her eye for creating finely detailed work during her 15-year career as an embroidery designer in the NYC garment district.

Soiree-Ellen Bulf-7pm Fireside Gateway
2026-01-07 19:00 - 21:00 | CA
Soirée Guest: Ellen Bulf Watercolorist

The Rossmoor Art Association invites residents and their guests to an evening where art, conversation, and community meet.
The Fireside Room will glow with color and creativity as Rossmoor resident Ellen Bulf’s work is featured at the RAA’s Artist Soirée. A gifted watercolorist with a quietly remarkable life story, Bulf will exhibit a substantial body of her work and sit down in conversation with artist and instructor Anna George. The event is free and open to all.
The evening begins with a relaxed stroll along a sweeping, curved gallery wall filled with Bulf’s paintings. Guests are encouraged to mingle, enjoy light refreshments, and take time with the art before the program begins. The formal conversation between Bulf and George will explore Bulf’s unexpected path to art—from a childhood in Palo Alto with no art on the walls, through decades as a clinical laboratory scientist, to the moment she walked into an adult education art class and realized, “These are my people.” Following the discussion, Bulf will welcome audience questions and comments, offering rare insight into both her work and her journey.
All Rossmoor residents and their guests are warmly invited. No reservations are required. Opportunities to experience both the art and the artist in one room are rare, and the evening promises to be a lively and engaging evening. For questions, contact art instructor Anna George at (925) 783-9000.
To learn more about RAA classes, events, exhibitions, and membership—just ten dollars annually—visit rossmoorart.com and discover the vibrant creative life flourishing in Art Studios 1 and 2 and beyond.
thanks-Kathleen

Intermediate/Advanced Watercolor Painting_ Ronald Pratt_ Thurs _ 12:30pm to 3:00pm _ Jan 8th to Mar 12th _Studio 1
2026-01-08 12:30 - 15:00, 2026-01-15 12:30 - 15:00, 2026-01-22 12:30 - 15:00, 2026-01-29 12:30 - 15:00 | Gateway Art Studio 1, 1001 Golden Rain Road, Walnut Creek, CA, CA, 94595, United States
Intermediate/Advanced
Watercolor Painting
Winter 2026
Ronald Pratt
Rossmoor Activities Center, Painting Studio 1
Winter is a time where we can become moody and down-trodden. The weather is chilly and the days are short. We all need that special spark to bring some light and joy into our lives. Maybe a well-lit studio surrounded by fellow artists can be just what the doctor ordered to brighten your day and inspire your soul. So come join us and have some fun with watercolor painting.
The Rossmoor Art Association is offering a class on Thursday Afternoons designed for motivated watercolor painters with some background in the basic techniques of the medium. A creative, social atmosphere is a great way to stimulate your creative juices. This class focuses on improving basic painting fundamentals while concentration on design and composition in watercolor painting. People will be encourage to explore their own creativity thru class projects. This is a fun class that encourages the freedom of expression while developing your design skills in a fun and relaxing environment.
This watercolor painting class will be at the Rossmoor Activities Center, Painting Studio 1 on Thursday Afternoons from 12:30pm to 3:00pm. This 10 week class will run from Jan 8th to Mar 12th at a cost of $160. For Non-Rossmoor Residents the class fee is $180. Priority will be given to Rossmoor Residents. Brings your art supplies to the first class.
To register go to the Rossmoor Art Association Website and click on classes on the header bar. Scroll down until you come to Intermediate/Advanced Watercolor Painting with Ron Pratt and follow the instructions to enroll. The class maximum is 20 students due to space limitations so get your registration in to reserve your seat in the class.
To see Ronald’s Watercolors go to www.ronaldpratt.com. Please direct questions to Ronald at ronpratt14@gmail.com or call him at (510) 366-7740. Further information on all RAA activities can be found at www.rossmoorart.com.

Acrylic Painting with Marcy Wheeler_All Levels_ Jan 8- Feb 26_Thursdays 2:30pm - 5 pm_ Studio 2 _ 8 Classes
2026-01-08 14:30 - 17:00, 2026-01-15 14:30 - 17:00, 2026-01-22 14:30 - 17:00, 2026-01-29 14:30 - 17:00 | Gateway Art Studio 1, 1001 Golden Rain Road, Walnut Creek, CA, CA, 94595, United States
Wheeler’s style is warm and friendly. She focuses on individual instruction, group discussion and occasional class demonstrations. Students learn the quick and creative qualities of acrylic paints and mediums and how to turn acrylic paints into a flexible and luscious way to paint. If you are already an Acrylic Painter, deepen your practice and add to your tool belt!
Wheeler encourages students to try new tools, explore new ways of working and move toward their own style. She gives the encouragement needed to stay with a painting until it is done, perhaps exceeding the class members expectations. And she helps some students learn how to stop when it is finished! It is an engaging activity, and time flies.
“Acrylic paints are amazing! My job is to teach you to become a better painter, with a style that is your own, with the tools you need.
Join us and learn about the mediums that are essential to a rich and deep acrylic painting.”
You may be a beginner, intermediate or advanced artist. Enroll in this class and if you like it, stay in the class and keep growing. Group discussion is helpful, and your fellow painters grow to understand your process. Most days, we look at our work together at the end of class. This is optional if you need to get home! If you are a true beginner, also check out my Friday Magic of Acrylics class, but either one works.
This is an 6 session class. The class is on Thursdays 2:30-5 pm. in Studio 2. You can make up missed classes in my Friday morning class in studio 2 at 9:30 to noon.
Just let me know. Make ups should be within the current class sessions. Check out the beginning supply list in the blue section of this listing.

Beginning and Beyond Acrylic Painting with Marcy Wheeler_ Fridays_ 9:30am to Noon_January 9th to February 27th_Studio 2_ 8 classes
2026-01-09 09:30 - 12:00, 2026-01-16 09:30 - 12:00, 2026-01-23 09:30 - 12:00, 2026-01-30 09:30 - 12:00 | Gateway Art Studio 1, 1001 Golden Rain Road, Walnut Creek, CA, CA, 94595, United States
Beginners: Beginners are focused on learning how to mix colors and play with acrylic paints. The beginners will work in the heart of the class together and will be greeted with fun projects to teach them the ins and outs of color and acrylic paints, or Marcy can help you organize a project you have imagined. Bring the paints and supplies listed for beginners in the blue section in this listing. But if you don’t get everything, don’t fret, bring what you have.
More advanced Students: Ongoing or new, experienced students continue on their road as beginners, intermediate, or advanced painters, and cheer the beginners on! Learning continues with individual guidance from Marcy, as usual. We often share our work at the end of the class and learn more about our own work from the other class members.
There is a Blick’s store at 5301 Broadway in Oakland. You can order from DickBlick.com, or on Amazon.com. Marcy suggests you order 2oz tubes of paint until you commit to Acrylic Paints, but you will use more Titanium White than any other color, so it won’t be wrong to buy a 5oz tube.

Figure Lab _ Wednesdays 1-4 pm _January 21st - February 25th _ 6 sessions _Professional models _Paint, Draw, Mixed Media, your choice! No Teacher.
2026-01-21 13:00 - 16:00 | Gateway Art Studio 1, 1001 Golden Rain Road, Walnut Creek, CA, CA, 94595, United States
Figure Lab. Wednesday 1-4 pm _January 21st – February 25th_ Cost $90 for RAA Members, $120 for Guests and non-residents. A wonderful price for professional models with great staging from the Monitor. Students register for the six sessions. Artists choose their medium, Watercolor, Oil, Pen and Ink, Digital, Acrylic or Multi-media. No photos without permission, no drop-ins.
The monitor sets up the lighting and poses. The model may be costumed, draped or nude. Usually there are a few very short poses to start maybe some 10-20 minute poses and then 1-2 longer poses, as desired by class, monitor and model.
Such a Deal!

"Fruit Flowers Food"_ Still Life with Carol Tarzier_Thursdays Jan 22nd – Feb 26th_ 10am-1:30_ Studio 2_
2026-01-22 10:00 - 13:30, 2026-01-29 10:00 - 13:30 | Gateway Art Studio 1, 1001 Golden Rain Road, Walnut Creek, CA, CA, 94595, United States
Fruit Flowers Food
Bay Area artist Carol Tarzier is offering “Fruit Flowers Food” a Still Life painting course. Class meets on Thursdays January 22nd – February 26th in the Rossmoor Art Association Studio Two. Students work from still life objects beginning with fruit. Demos are presented weeks 1, 3, and 5 and begin with fruit and move into colorful desserts/flowers. Students create multiple smaller finished paintings. The last class is a final critique.
“Fruit Flowers Food” is about using simplifying the value structure and creating shapes of value and color that build the painting. We begin with color mixing and composition, and move into light and paint handling/edges. The class focuses on with masses and values and loosening up paint handling to create an energetic piece.
Oil or acrylic painters welcome. Oil painters please use odorless thinner only.
Carol Tarzier has taught painting for many years at the Academy of Art University. Her paintings have been represented in national shows and museums, including the Salon International at the Greenhouse Gallery, the Haggin Museum, Oil Painters of America Western Regional Exhibition and at the California Art Club’s Gold Medal Show. Carol is represented by Studio Gallery in San Francisco and MK Contemporary in Santa Cruz.
The class is limited to 15 students, and pre-enrollment is required. For questions email carol@tarzier.com. View examples of Carol’s work at www.tarzier.com.

Mixed Media Design Workshop with Lidia Turner_Saturday January 24_ 10:00 am- 2:30 pm_Studio 1
2026-01-24 10:30 - 14:30 | Gateway Art Studio 1, 1001 Golden Rain Road, Walnut Creek, CA, CA, 94595, United States
Mixed Media Design Workshop
Lidia Turner, Instructor
Saturday, January 24, 2026
Studio 1
10 am-2:30pm
(1/2-hour break for light lunch, brought by students).
Maximum spaces: 20
$60 for members
$80 for non-members

Description:
In this hands-on workshop, explore the infinite visual expressions that can be created using Mixed Media! Mixed media combines contrasting color paints and textures, building interesting structures using layering techniques, acrylic paint, and found objects. Each student will design and make their compositions during the workshop.
Lidia will guide you step-by-step with demonstrations that enable you to create a surprising artwork using simple tools and techniques.
You will create a figurative or abstract painting while you enjoy seeing everyday tools in a new and creative context. This workshop will enhance the creativity of those who don’t have any artistic background, as well as those seasoned artists who have not yet discovered the amazing world of mixed media.
Teacher will provide acrylic paint, brushes and other materials.
You should come to class with the following materials:
2 or 3 12”x16” canvas or similar size wood panels (buy them in Amazon, Michael’s, etc.)
A pair of scissors
Optional: Only If you have at home please bring: any magazines or shreds of fabric. Decorative napkins, tissue paper, corrugated cardboard.
Beads, stones, mosaics, old jewelry pieces, chains, etc.
Bring to class your enthusiasm and willingness to discover your artistic talent! By the end of the session, you will understand that creativity has no boundaries, and that you have developed your skills to embrace new techniques and to create amazing art.
Lidia Turner, Instructor
I was born in Uruguay, South America. From an early age, I demonstrated a love for the visual arts, especially, fashion and interior design. I got my Master’s Degree in Architecture in Uruguay, where I worked on home designs. I immigrated to Los Angeles with my family in 1985 and started a teaching career. I also wanted to pursue my passion for design, color, and form, so I studied Graphic Design at UCLA.
Art is a vehicle through which I discover my inner self. My compositions are created using different materials and textures, like metal, and pieces of fabric, as well as natural elements like cardboard, sand, and coffee. The combination of powerful textures and intense contrast of color and materials, represent my diverse background and define my approach to life. Every piece I create, represents a memory, a feeling, or an experience that remains inside my soul.
Cell: (818) 512-7179
Email: lidia.turner07@gmail.com

Instagram: lidia.turner.art
