Creative Arts

Start from the very beginning! Students will gain hands-on experience with their cameras as they learn digital camera operation and photographic principles. Class includes a discussion of basic composition principles. Bring a digital camera (charged or with fresh batteries), and its manual to class. Instructor: Walter Calahan. Enroll early; class size limited to 12. 

In this cozy, creativity-focused course, students learn how to transform fleece fabric into beautiful, personalized blankets using decorative crochet edging. After learning foundational techniques in weeks 1–2, students explore a new edging pattern each week, building confidence and creative expression. No prior crochet experience required, though it is helpful. Instructor: Londa Scott Forte. (S) 

This beginner-friendly course introduces fundamental knitting skills in a supportive, creative and moderately-paced environment. By the end of six weeks, students will complete at least two to four simple projects and gain confidence to continue knitting independently. Instructor: Londa Forte. 

Measure your own body shape in the key areas for garment making and make your chart. Make your own basic sleeveless tunic pattern including darts at the bust. Using your own fabric, cut your tunic and sew it at home. All pattern making materials provided. Instructor: Lee Andersen. (S) 

Choose patterns you have made before to manipulate and personalize. Bring your own fabric. Discuss options for adjusting fit, shape and materials. Cut out your garment(s) and sew them at home. Course concludes with a photoshoot. No class Nov 28.

Explore the beauty of the Arabic language through its writing system and artistic traditions. Students will learn the Arabic alphabet, develop accurate pronunciation skills, and practice the fundamentals of Arabic calligraphy. By the end of the course, students will be able to read, write, and appreciate the art of Arabic script. (S) (T) 

Discover the beauty and history of Chinese characters through calligraphy. Students will learn the structure and stroke order of common Chinese characters while practicing traditional calligraphy techniques. By the end of the course, students will be able to write a variety of characters with greater confidence and artistic expression. (S) 

Create two Dutch house luminaries. Pieces must slowly dry before firing. Instructor will apply a beautiful glossy linen white glaze to finish your pieces and will provide tea lights to add a touch of warmth. Wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty. Your work will be ready for pickup at HCC 3–4 weeks after the workshop. Instructor: Anna Lawson. 

Create a ceramic pumpkin. Pieces must slowly dry before firing. Instructor will apply a glossy orange glaze to finish your beautiful pumpkin to bring it to life. Wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty. Work will be ready for pickup 3-4 weeks after the workshop. Instructor: Anna Lawson. 

Bring your imagination and build a new prop each week — horns, swords, and more — while learning smart construction techniques, like adjustable fit. Perfect for makers ready to level up their costume skills. Instructor: Elyzabeth Morgan. No class Sep 11 or Nov 27.

Have you ever decided to draw a realistic object but not know where to begin? In this class for beginners, you will use graphite pencils to learn classical drawing techniques that artists use to depict the world around them. Special focus will be paid to drawing from observation but drawing from photographs will also be covered. By the end of this course, you’ll have the tools to draw anything you see! Estimated cost of materials (not included) is $25. Instructor: Kara LaRose. (S) 

Imagine turning everyday discarded items into something creative and beautiful! Students will explore materials typically recycled, donated or discarded and discuss how we perceive and value them. Study the philosophies and works of artists who purposefully reuse these items. In the final class, each student will make a weaving to frame or hang. Small frame looms, needles and other materials will be provided. Students will bring assigned items from home. (S) Instructor: Beverly Polk.

Create three one-of-a-kind ornaments. Work with porcelain (the purest and best clay) and a variety of cookie cutters, stamps, and textures to design your ornaments. Work must slowly dry before firing. Instructor will apply a glossy clear glaze to finish your creations. Wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty. Pieces will be ready for pickup at HCC 4-5 weeks after workshop. 

Enjoy creating a lap blanket with a pin loom, a weaving technique that can be used to make many other products such as blankets, purses, scarves, wall hangings, and more. Pin loom, needle and one skein of yarn will be provided. Students are welcome to bring yarn from home. ALL LEVELS WELCOME! Instructor: Beverly Polk. (S) 

Optimize the use of your smart phone camera and efficiently manage your photo collection. Move beyond a quick snapshot to create memorable images as you learn various aspects of digital photography: exposure, focus, panorama, and high dynamic range. Experiment with composition and editing to enhance images. Bring a smart phone (Apple or Android). Instructor: Walter Calahan. 

Learn the basics, how to use a sewing machine, measure your body, choose a pattern and fabric, and make a basic skirt or shorts with an elastic waist. Class suitable for beginners. Students need to bring their own sewing machine. Instructor: June Piper-Brandon. (S)

This course builds on foundational skills as students deepen observational drawing through more complex still lifes. Working in charcoal, students move from structured block-ins to a more fluid, mass-based approach, learning to simplify forms and develop unified, fully rendered drawings with greater confidence and control. (S) Instructor: Damon Hurbon. 

Our Intro to Improv course will introduce students to the fundamentals of improvisational theatre in a supportive environment. Students will learn games, scene work, and character building exercises that will improve their confidence and communication skills. The class will culminate in a student-led performance. Instructor: Bobby Hennenberg. 

Explore the fundamentals of oil painting through time-tested classical methods. This course welcomes adults of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced artists, and focuses on materials, color mixing, composition, and traditional techniques to build confidence, control, and expressive skill in oil paint. Instructor: Damon Hurbon. (S) 

Create the look of classic Baltimore Album quilts-without the time commitment of hand appliqué. Learn fabric selection, pattern adaptation, and machine appliqué techniques while making four blocks that come together as a wall hanging. Students must bring sewing machine. (S) Instructor: June Piper-Brandon. No class Nov 28.

Using only pencils, explore drawing the human head focusing on shape and proportions. Pencils are dry media of varying softness that assist with the representation of shadows that help to build forms. Open to all skill levels-no experience necessary. Estimated cost of basic materials (not included) is $25. Instructor: Pat Flaherty. (S) 

Turn meaningful keepsakes into a one-of-a-kind quilt. Learn how to stabilize T-shirts, print photos onto fabric, and incorporate memorabilia and found objects to create a quilt that preserves your memories in one beautiful piece. Students must bring machine to class. Instructor: June Piper-Brandon. (S) 

Create a comfortable, custom-fit coat or jacket using furnishing fabrics, denim, and knit scraps. Basic patterns, denim bias trim, and expert color guidance is provided, so your finished garment looks polished, expressive and uniquely you. Instructor: Lee Andersen. 

This class explores how textiles have long been used to express identity, culture, and personal stories. Students examine historical and contemporary examples, develop their own themes and symbols, and learn hand-stitching techniques to bring their narratives to cloth. Open to beginners and experienced stitchers seeking new creative challenges. (S) Instructor: Cynthia Gossage. No class Nov 24.

Prepare a durable floor mat and learn materials, image-making methods, and clean design techniques. Create or choose an image, pick your colors, design repeating edge motifs, paint your mat, and seal it for long-lasting wear. A practical, creative class for functional art lovers. Instructor: June Piper-Brandon. 

Many artists plan initial concepts by sketching with pens, but intricate and expressive illustrations can also be created using pen and ink as the sole medium. Picasso and Dali experimented with pen and ink throughout their careers. Pen and ink is still commonly seen in comic books, medical illustrations, and fantasy drawings. Learn the basics of pen and ink with particular focus on mark-making, use of line, composition, and contrast. Estimated cost of materials is $30. Instructor: Kara LaRose. (S). No class Nov 24.

Pottery courses are offered at two levels. Monday class is for beginners. Discover new techniques to shape beautiful creations. Learn about glazing, hand building and advanced decorating methods. This is not a wheel class. Materials fee covers clay, paints, tools, and glazes. Students are responsible for purchasing additional materials, if desired. Class is nine weeks. Enrollment limited, please register early. (S). No class Sep 21, Oct 12, Nov 11, or Nov 23.

For students with basic sewing experience, this course focuses on constructing a button-up shirt with sleeves and a collar. Learn how to take body measurements, select the right pattern size, and build essential garment-making skills through hands-on practice. Students need to bring their own sewing machine. Instructor: June Piper-Brandon. No class Nov 25.

In this cozy, creativity-focused course, students learn how to transform fleece fabric into beautiful, personalized blankets using decorative crochet edging. After learning foundational techniques in weeks 1-2, students explore a new edging pattern each week, building confidence and creative expression. No prior crochet experience required. Instructor: Londa Scott Forte. (S). No class Nov 28.

Learn to transform orphan blocks, scraps, and reclaimed textiles into a unique quilted Frankenbag. Explore improvisational patchwork, quilting basics, color play, and essential materials while constructing a fully lined, customizable tote. Ideal for confident beginners and seasoned sewists ready to turn treasured remnants into functional art. Please bring sewing machine. Instructor: Sarah Barnes. (S) No class Nov 24.

This beginner-friendly class helps new sewists understand and confidently use their sewing machine. Students learn setup, threading, bobbin use, tension, presser feet, and basic stitches, building the skills needed to start sewing with ease — perfect for beginners or anyone returning to sewing. Students must bring sewing machine. Instructor: June Piper-Brandon. 

This class explores the spiritual and artistic traditions behind mandalas and guides students in hand-stitching their own. Beginners and experienced stitchers learn to draft personal patterns, use embroidery stitches, and incorporate beads, all while slowing down and enjoying a mindful creative process. (S) Instructor: Cynthia Gossage. 

Bring your UFOs (unfinished objects) and pieces needing alterations and transform them into bold, original wearable art. Combine abandoned projects, learn from fellow makers, and tap into Lee’s wildly creative mind-she’s only a thousand mistakes ahead of you! A playful, skill-building class for curious, fearless creators. Instructor: Lee Andersen. No class Nov 28.

Join us on a journey through one of the most important and influential periods of music history. The class will feature a significant number of masterpieces and several “hidden gems” that should be in the spotlight. Beyond listening to music, we will explore the influence of the other arts, culture, society, history, and the composers. Prepare to hear music that will evoke a wide range of emotions. You might need to bring a hanky with you for this class!

Join this vocal ensemble which performs traditional and contemporary choral literature. Also available as a one-credit course (MUSP-131). 

Bring your guitar to this group class open to students of all ability levels, and build a fundamental understanding of the basics of music reading and guitar playing. The main focus is the discipline of classical guitar technique and style with emphasis on note reading and individual development. Some instruction will be offered in other styles of guitar music as well. Students will be grouped with others of similar guitar experience. Instructor: Bruce Casteel. No class Nov 27. 

Join us as we pull back the curtain on a Sunday Tchaikovsky’s Pathétique concert with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. Attend a pre-concert talk and discussion with an HCC Performing Arts faculty member and discover the tragic beauty of Barber’s Adagio for Strings, Adams’ On the Transmigration of Souls, and Tchaikovsky’s famous symphony, conducted by Marin Alsop. The following weekend head over to the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall and meet your class for the concert, plus an exclusive backstage tour. *Concert ticket (@$45) must be purchased separately. Additional information will be sent upon registration. To ensure concert seating with the class, please register as early as possible. $59 includes the $50 registration fee.