Events

This drawing class is designed for adults, both beginners and those with some experience, to explore the fundamentals of drawing and develop their artistic skills in a supportive and encouraging environment. Drawing hones your ability to see and accurately represent the world around you. You'll learn essential drawing techniques, including line work, shading, perspective, composition, and more!  Whether you're a complete beginner or have some drawing experience, this class is tailored to help you improve your skills and confidence. 
All supplies, instruction and encouragement provided.

Business of Show Business – Virtual Seminar
Date: Tuesday, May 7th
Time: 6:30–8:30 PM
Virtual (Flyer attached)
FREE to the community

Taught by international performer, LA-based actor, and producer Aidan Park, this seminar is a must for anyone curious about working in the entertainment industry—or ready to take their first steps toward a career in the arts.
In this one-of-a-kind session, Aidan shares insights on:
• How to break into professional show business
• How to create a personal brand that stands out
• What actually happens during casting
• Smart strategies for finding an agent or manager
• Industry-standard expectations you need to know

We've heard the requests from the community and are thrilled to announce our slab-building TEAPOT workshop just in time to celebrate Mother's day weekend or just because it sounds fun! We will mix creativity with pleasure as we unwind from a busy week, enjoy happy hour drinks, spend time with community artists and most importantly hand-build a unique piece of pottery. Perfect for beginners to intermediate potters! By the end of the evening your piece will be left behind to be bisque fired once completely dry! 
Look for an email telling you to come back in to finish your piece during our business hours (about 2 weeks). 
Glazing instructions and guidance will be available when you return.

$50.00 Per Participant

Create a brilliant work of stained glass artistry! 
In this 5 to 6 hour workshop, students will learn the basics of stained glass. Techniques being taught include: cutting, grinding, foiling, assembling, soldering, finishing, and the proper safety steps to take along the way. Students will have pre-drawn designs, a variety of colors to choose from, and leave at the end of the workshop with a unique, completed Stained Glass Cat!

Breathe in the fresh mountain air—on canvas! This class invites students to capture the serene beauty of the Rockies, painting expansive alpine views bursting with wildflowers. Learn to layer colors, create depth, and bring fields of blossoms to life in a soft, flowing style. Whether you're new to landscapes or a nature-painting pro, this session is a peaceful and joy-filled way to spend the afternoon. Join Jeff Chudy as he leads you step-by-step through a creative mountain escape. Open to all skill levels—just bring your love for nature and paint!

A perfect line captures the essence of a subject. I simplify the complex by finding the perfect line that defines a face or figure. Capturing who a person is with a clean line, who a person becomes with a swirl. Lines that transform a personality. Shape-shifting.
The outline of the face from the cheek down to the chin, the line of a body from the shoulder to the hip, a smile, how the hair falls, embracing body and soul. Less is more. I take away details to emphasize the beauty of each curve. My task as an artist is to find the perfect line and capture it.

Summer Theatre Camp DYT Company Middle School and Up $375
JUNE 2nd through JUNE 20th MONDAY - THURSDAY 1pm - 4pm
Performances FRI - SUN June 20th-22nd

DYT Company members will spend the days taking their theatre knowledge to the next level by working on voice and movement techniques, script analysis, theatre discussions, participating in theatre games and skill exercises, and adding to their performance tool belt. These skills will be put to the test by rehearsing for a full scale production on the final weekend.
SHOW TITLE TBD Instructor : JASON LYTHGOE
Performances June 20th - 22nd Fri 7pm, Sat 7pm, Sun 2pm *Possible Saturday Matinee show at 2pm

Summer Theatre Camp DYT JR Company 3rd-5th Grade $375
JUNE 2nd through JUNE 20th MONDAY - THURSDAY 9am - 12pm
Performances FRI - SUN June 21st-23rd

DYT JR Company members will be able to hone their performance skills with this in-person performance camp. JR Company members will spend the days working on theatre skills such as voice and movement techniques, terminology, character development, and memorization techniques all using stage games and theatre exercises. Students will put these skills into practice by rehearsing for a performance on the final weekend. SHOW TITLE TBD
Performances June 21st - 23rd Fri 7pm, Sat 7pm, Sun 2pm *Possible Saturday Matinee show at 2pm

All aboard for an artistic adventure! This dynamic acrylic painting class highlights the legendary Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Students will learn to portray the powerful steam engine as it chugs through rugged canyons and lush mountain terrain, complete with swirling smoke and vintage detail. With bold colors and lively brushstrokes, this class brings history and motion to life on canvas. Hop into a seat with your guide, Jeff Chudy, as he walks you through each step. No matter your level, you’re welcome on this scenic ride!

Alternative art embraces new expressions and pushes the boundaries of what is considered "art," often questioning the traditional definition and purpose of art. This summer program will explore various art-making processes, including drawing, painting, printmaking, collage and mixed media. Students will engage in practical art-making activities, experimenting with different materials and techniques to develop their skills and artistic voice. Come join Mr B in this fun filled summer class!
The Arts can improve motivation, concentration, confidence, and teamwork! You will find that here at The Durango Art Center where our classes offer enjoyable, non competitive opportunities to explore new skills and individual expression.
Scholarships are available. 

Durango Arts Center Audition Bootcamp
Date: June 9th-12th M-Th 6:30-9:30p
Cost: $250 per participant

Book the Role. Don’t Just Hope for It.
The best actors don’t always get the job—the best auditioners do.
This high-impact bootcamp will give participants the tools, confidence, and real-world insight to audition like a pro across theatre, TV, film, and commercials.
Audition Like a Pro – Learn what casting directors are really looking for
Monologue, Musical & Cold Reading Mastery – Nail sides, songs, and cold reads under pressure
Performance Confidence – Techniques to command the room and make lasting impressions
Final Showcase – Perform live for industry professionals and receive direct feedback

Express yourself through painting and develop your artistic style in this inspiring class!
Be exposed to a variety of tips, tricks, techniques and styles used in creating masterpieces,throughout history, in watercolor, acrylic, oil paints, and gauche, while working with an experienced teacher to give you guidance along the way.
Beginners are welcome!  This class is also perfect for students with previous painting experience or have taken this class before. 6 Classes, all supplies are included!
For questions or concerns, please email Deena Carney at deena@durangoarts.org. 

Come get your hands dirty as you create a unique ceramic piece of art! All materials and instruction will be included for this private clay workshop. By the end of the class your piece will be left behind to dry out and be fired twice! You can come in after the first firing to glaze your piece to your heart's desire, during our business hours Monday - Saturday 12-6pm. Look for an email telling you when your piece is ready for pick-up and use. (about 21 days) Let the fun begin!  
*Fee has already been covered

Celebrate the pets who steal our hearts! In this warm and playful class, you’ll learn to paint portraits of cats, dogs, and other beloved animals, capturing their unique personality through expressive eyes and textured fur. Whether you're painting your own pet or creating a tribute to a favorite animal, Jeff Chudy will help you bring your subject to life with charm and flair. Expect lots of laughs, color, and creativity in this joyful session. Beginners and experienced painters alike are welcome—just bring a photo of your furry muse if you have one!

Get ready to dive into the world of clay and explore the endless possibilities of creating with your hands! This exciting class for kids ages 8-11 will introduce you to three fun and creative ways to make amazing art with clay: wheel throwing, slab building, and polymer sculptures. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, this class is perfect for young artists eager to explore the tactile world of ceramics.

Each project will help build skills, foster creativity, and encourage self-expression. By the end of the class, students will have a variety of clay creations to take home, from functional pottery to imaginative sculptures, all made by their own hands!

Join us for a fun-filled, messy, and creative journey into the world of clay!

For questions please email Mr.B at ben@durangoarts.org

Scholarships Available

*students will have to return to finish their own pieces after they've been bisque fired on our glazing day on July 11th from 10-3pm or at their own convenience before the end of summer break 

Mondays will become your favorite day of the week this summer with 6 weeks of learning and conquering throwing clay on the wheel! Come join us, and be exposed to a variety of techniques and skills used in creating clay masterpieces, with an exceptional instructor, James Lutomski, to give you guidance along the way.Beginners are welcome!  This class is also perfect for students with previous throwing experience. All supplies, laughter, and inspiration included!

Create a brilliant work of stained glass artistry! 
In this 5 to 6 hour workshop, students will learn the basics of stained glass. Techniques being taught include: cutting, grinding, foiling, assembling, soldering, finishing, and the proper safety steps to take along the way. Students will have pre-drawn designs, a variety of colors to choose from, and leave at the end of the workshop with a unique, completed Stained Glass Mushroom!

Unlock your creativity and dive into the world of clay in this hands-on class designed for teens ages 12-17! In this course, you’ll explore three exciting techniques for working with clay: wheel throwing, slab building, and polymer sculptures. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, this class offers a great opportunity to develop your skills while creating unique, personalized pieces.

Through wheel throwing, you’ll learn to shape and form clay on the pottery wheel, creating everything from bowls to cups. With slab building, you’ll experiment with rolling and cutting clay to craft functional items and artistic creations. Plus, you’ll explore the world of polymer clay, sculpting imaginative and colorful figures or accessories.

Each project encourages artistic growth and self-expression, allowing you to develop your own style while gaining new skills. By the end of the class, you’ll have a collection of clay creations to take home, from pottery to sculptural pieces, all made by you!

Join us for a creative, hands-on experience that will leave you inspired and eager to keep crafting!

For any questions please contact Mr.B at ben@durangoarts.org

Scholarships available 

*students will have to return to finish their own pieces after they've been bisque fired on our glazing day on July 11th from 10-3pm or at their own convenience before the end of summer break 

The Durango Arts Center is Excited to Invite All Youth Artists throughout our community, ages 1 thru 18, to submit their artwork for the 2024 Gallery Exhibit "Budding Artists!"

Please register here to show your work. Limit to 3 pieces. Artwork that is not ready to hang on a hook Will Not Be Accepted Into This Exhibit.

Grand Opening and Artists Reception, Friday, March 15th from 4:00 to 6:00pm.  Event ends April 8th. 
Gallery event is free to the public. 
After registration, you will be contacted to set up a time to deliver your artwork to the DAC.   
Thank you for sharing your work!

Please email ben@durangoarts.org or deena@durangoarts.org for any assistance.

Image creating a world where nothing is larger than your thumb! Join us for Fairy Houses, a fun, creative summer class, encouraging imagination and a connection with nature.  Fairy houses come in various shapes and sizes, from simple structures to more elaborate ones, and can resemble hobbit houses, castles, or cottages. They are typically constructed using natural, foraged materials like sticks, twigs, leaves, moss, bark, pebbles, and pinecones. These houses can be found in various locations, including gardens, yards, under trees, or even on beaches, often blending in with their surroundings. Come and join Ms. Deena and create your own Fairy House and Garden in this amazingly creative class!

The Arts can improve motivation, concentration, confidence, and teamwork! You will find that here at The Durango Art Center where our classes offer enjoyable, non competitive opportunities to explore new skills and individual expression.
Scholarships are available. 

Join us for an inspiring week of artistic exploration, personal growth, and creative development in Durango! This program is designed for young creatives, ages 12 to 17, who are eager to expand their skills and cultivate the mindset of a modern Renaissance person. Whether you're passionate about art or looking to develop new talents, this program offers a unique opportunity to explore your creativity in a fun and supportive environment.

Throughout the week, students will engage with a variety of guest artist instructors, learning a diverse range of art techniques and skills. From painting to sculpture, each day offers a chance to experiment with different mediums, allowing students to discover new artistic passions while refining their abilities.

In addition to developing artistic skills, participants will have the opportunity to explore circus skills, promoting physical coordination, mental focus, and creativity. These fun and engaging breaks offer a chance to exercise both the body and mind, fostering a well-rounded approach to learning.

By the end of the program, students will not only have developed valuable artistic abilities, but they will also leave with increased confidence, new friendships, and a deeper understanding of their creative potential. It’s the perfect environment for young artists to grow, have fun, and make lasting memories.

For more information, or if you have any questions, please contact Mr. B at ben@durangoarts.org.

Scholarships are available.

Summer Musical Theatre Camp DYT Company Middle School and Up $450
JULY 7th through JULY 31st MONDAY - THURSDAY 1pm - 4pm
Performances FRI - SUN AUGUST 1st - 3rd

DYT Company members will spend the days taking their theatre knowledge to the next level by working on voice and movement techniques, script analysis, musical theatre dance, participating in theatre games and skill exercises, and adding to their performance tool belt. These skills will be put to the test by rehearsing for a full scale musical production on the final weekend.
SHOW TITLE TBD
Performances AUGUST 1st - 3rd Fri 7pm, Sat 7pm, Sun 2pm *Possible Saturday matinee at 2pm

Summer Musical Theatre Camp DYT Jr Company 3rd-5th Grade $450
JULY 7th through JULY 31st MONDAY - THURSDAY 9am - 12pm
Performances FRI - SUN AUGUST 1st - 3rd

DYT JR Company members will be able to hone their performance skills with this in-person performance camp. JR Company members will spend the days working on theatre skills such as voice and movement techniques, character development, singing and musical theatre dance using stage games and theatre exercises. Students will put these skills into practice by rehearsing for a performance on the final weekend.
SHOW TITLE TBD
Performances AUGUST 1st - 3rd Fri 7pm, Sat 7pm, Sun 2pm *Possible Saturday matinee at 2pm

Let the wild beauty of the La Plata Mountains guide your brush in this relaxing gouache and watercolor workshop. You'll learn techniques for painting dramatic peaks, glowing skies, and layered landscapes using two distinct but complementary mediums. Discover how to create atmospheric depth and rich textures while enjoying the meditative flow of watercolor and the bold clarity of gouache. Jeff Chudy will guide you every step of the way during this scenic, soul-soothing session. All levels are welcome—come connect with nature through art!

Unleash your creativity and discover the exciting world of mixed media art in this fun and interactive class designed for young artists aged 8 to 11! In this hands-on program, students will explore how to combine different materials and techniques to create unique works of art. Whether you love painting, drawing, or crafting, this class will show you how to blend various art forms into something new and exciting.

Throughout the course, students will experiment with a wide range of materials, such as paint, fabric, paper, clay, and even natural objects. They'll learn how to layer textures, colors, and shapes to create dynamic compositions that reflect their personal style. Each project encourages imagination and innovation, helping students develop their artistic skills while having fun.

By the end of the class, young artists will have several mixed media projects to take home, along with new skills and a greater appreciation for the endless possibilities of combining different art materials. This is the perfect opportunity for kids to express themselves creatively and discover the joy of creating art in all its forms!

Sign up today and join us for a creative adventure!

Contact Mr. B with any questions at ben@durangoarts.org

Scholarships available

Studio Art Quilt Associates, Inc. (SAQA) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote the art quilt: "a creative visual work that is layered and stitched or that references this form of stitched layered structure."

Our vision is that the art quilt is universally respected as a fine art medium. SAQA’s core values are: excellence, innovation, integrity, and inclusion.

Painting encourages children to express their thoughts and feelings, fostering creativity and imaginative thinking. In this class students will learn with step-by-step instruction how to draw, mix colors and apply brushstrokes to create masterpieces in oils, acyrlic and other water based paints.  Each session will have a different theme, inspired by a famous artist or style. If you like to paint and have fun, this is the class for you!
The Arts can improve motivation, concentration, confidence, and teamwork! You will find that here at The Durango Art Center where our classes offer enjoyable, non competitive opportunities to explore new skills and individual expression.
Scholarships are available. 

Laughter and Drawing walk hand in hand in this fun-filled class!  A cartoon is a single drawing or series of drawings that tells a joke or a silly story. Students have the opportunity to express their creativity and imagination through drawing, capturing expression, using angles to add excitement, bringing characters to life with motion, and telling a comic story.  Students will also learn about different types of pens and inks, how to hold a pen, and basic line techniques. The Arts can improve motivation, concentration, confidence, and teamwork! You will find that here at The Durango Art Center where our classes offer enjoyable, non competitive opportunities to explore new skills and individual expression.
Scholarships are available. 

Mondays will become your favorite day of the week this summer with 6 weeks of learning and conquering throwing clay on the wheel! Come join us, and be exposed to a variety of techniques and skills used in creating clay masterpieces, with an exceptional instructor, James Lutomski, to give you guidance along the way.Beginners are welcome!  This class is also perfect for students with previous throwing experience. All supplies, laughter, and inspiration included!

We are proud to announce an all-new Arts Intensive, summer program with a focus on sustainable materials. What if you were unable to purchase art supplies? In this fun-filled class, we will explore a wide range of sustainable art techniques, including paper making, charcoal drawing, mixing our own natural paints, making our paint brushes and creating our own clay. This program also offers lessons in leadership, integrity and self confidence each day Please Join Us, this is a great program to help young artists find their confidence, all the while having fun and making new friends for years to come. Scholarships Available!

Juried exhibit for Members of the Plein Air Painters of the Four Corners.
Opening Reception, September 5th, 5:00 to 7:00 PM

Founded as an informal painting group in the 1990’s.  The goal was to inspire and encourage painting enthusiasts to collaborate.  Sharing ideas and painting locations, artists could hone their skills while enjoying beautiful country. Today our painting group continues to hold true to the tradition of painting in every season.  Our beautiful oils, acrylics, watercolors, and pastels, express the joy, friendship, and admiration these artists share in the outdoors painting experience. 

This year's annual winter market is going to be bigger and better than ever but we need YOU and your beautiful work. We are seeking all media: Jewelry, 2-D and 3-D art, pottery, textiles, mixed media, hand-made clothing and toys for children, children's books by local authors/illustrators, and art that makes great gifts for everyone! The Durango Arts Center is pleased to invite all community artists, jewelers and crafters to submit their work for the "2024 Gift Gallery", Opening Friday, November 8th 5:00 to 7:00 PM. Event ends Januray 4th, 2025. Gifts for men, teens and children greatly appreciated. 

Please register here to sell your work. After registration, you will be contacted to set up a time to deliver your art to the DAC.   

Learn magic tricks with Coins and Cards from Durango's own

MYSTO THE MAGI!
All tricks gleaned from Mysto's own magical repertoire!
All supplies included!
Manual dexterity required!
Wednesday Nights at 6:30pm for 6 weeks for $155
April 23 - May 28th in the DAC Studio

Durango is forever a place of beauty, adventure, art, music, parking problems, flannels, dogs, and bikes!

The Durango Arts Center is pleased to invite all community artists to submit their work for the 2025 Community Art Exhibit, "That's So Durango!"  Opening reception, April 11th, 5:00 to 7:00 PM.  Event ends May 24th. Please register here to show your work.  Limit to 3 pieces. Artwork that is not for sale or professionally presented and ready to hang, Will Not Be Accepted into this Exhibit.
Gallery event is free to the public. 
After registration, you will be contacted to set up a time to deliver your art to the DAC.   
Thank you for sharing your work!

Exhibit Entries must arrive at the Durango Arts Center no later than Tuesday, April 8th, 5:00 PM

Grand Opening - Friday, April 11th, 2025 - 5:00 to 7:00 PM

Exhibit hours Tuesdays through Saturdays from 12:00 to 6:00 PM

Exhibit Closing Celebration Saturday, April 26th, 2025 12:00 to 6:00 PM

Thank you for sharing your Artwork!

Express yourself through painting and develop your artistic style in this inspiring class!
Be exposed to a variety of tips, tricks, techniques and styles used in creating masterpieces,throughout history, in watercolor, acrylic, oil paints, and gauche, while working with an experienced teacher to give you guidance along the way.
Beginners are welcome!  This class is also perfect for students with previous painting experience or have taken this class before. 8 Classes, all supplies are included!
For questions or concerns, please email Deena Carney at deena@durangoarts.org. 

Mondays will become your favorite day of the week (Yes, you did read that right)!  In this fun-filled muddy class, students will focus on two modes of creating functional ware and sculpture, through hand building and wheel-throwing. Learn the entire clay process and see what it takes to become a successful potter, with two amazing instructors by your side in a non-judgemental, artistic environment.
* space is limited to accommodate a small student to teacher ratio. 10 Monday Classes. For questions or concerns, please contact Ben Dukeminier at ben@durangoarts.org

Come join Mr B for 7 weeks of creativity in an open studio artistic environment where students will discover different mediums that promote creativity and encourage experimentation. This is a great program to help young artists find their confidence, all while having fun and making new friends for years to come.
For questions, please email Mr.B, at ben@durangoarts.org.
Scholarships are available. 7 Classes. 

The DAC Clay Club for Kids, offers a vareity of ceramic projects including a weekly clay challenge! Learn the entire clay process of reclaiming, building, glazing and firing. Come join Mr B for 7 weeks of clay and creativity! 

This is a great program to help young artists find their confidence, all the while having fun and making new friends for years to come.
For questions, please email Mr.B, at ben@durangoarts.org.
Scholarships are always available. 7 Classes. 

Art gives meaning to our lives and helps us understand our world. Join us for Making the World a Better Place Through Art! Students will explore drawing, painting, sculpture and much more! The Arts can improve motivation, concentration, confidence, and teamwork! You will find that here at The Durango Art Center where our classes offer fun, non competitive opportunities to explore new skills and individual expression.
For questions, please email Deena Carney at deena@durangoarts. Scholarships are available. 7 Classes. 

DYT Company (Middle School and Up)
Wednesdays 4pm - 6pm 1/8/2025 - 5/18/2025
Students will work on taking their theatre performance skills up to the next level by making up the principal cast of the DAC DYT mainstage production in May. Along with rehearsing for the show, the cast will polish and work on their theatre skills through lessons and exercises geared towards character development, vocal qualities and techniques, Improv, focus, and physical movement.

Performances scheduled FRI-SUN MAY 16th,17th and 18th. SHOW TITLE TBD
***EXTRA Rehearsals will be added for TECH and for putting the two classes together close to the May show*** Registration fee : $425 Instructor : Anita Burleson

DYT Jr Company (3rd-5th Grade)
Tuesdays 4pm - 5:30pm 1/7/2025 - 5/18/25
Students will work on the fundamentals of theatre with lessons and exercises to work on specific performance skills such as character development, voice and movement, expression and emotion, and more! The JR CO will be a part of the DAC DYT mainstage show in May.

Performances scheduled FRI-SUN MAY 16th,17th and 18th. SHOW TITLE TBD
***EXTRA Rehearsals will be added for TECH and for putting the two classes together close to the May show*** Registration fee : $375 Instructor : Anita Burleson