Continuing Arts Education

Norwich Free Academy's School of Visual and Performing Arts School is committed to life-long arts education and appreciation for students and adults.

Our continuing arts education programs offer opportunities beginning at an early age, and continue through high school, and adulthood. The school introduces children and adults to various genres of artistic expression. Mixed media, painting, design, printmaking, watercolor, observational drawing, clay, jewelry, and metalworking are some of the many elements of visual arts classes. Performing Arts junior theater classes explore the basics of theater and stage performance, and adult education classes explore various visual and material arts.

Classes meet throughout the school year on weekends and in evening sessions. Student classes culminate with exhibitions of artwork and performance.

For more information, contact Sarah LeFrancois, Head of the NFA School of Visual & Performing Arts, at 860-425-5784.

Adult Programs

Introduction to Watercolor

This class is for beginners or those looking to advance their skills. It will be an introduction to the fundamentals and basic techniques of watercolor painting. There will be a mixture of demonstrations, exercises, discussion and feedback. They will have learned the skills and knowledge to continue on their artistic journey.

INSTRUCTOR: Sarah Vertefeuille

FEE: $225

PLACE: Bradlaw Building (rm. 8229)

TIME: 5:30-8:30 pm

DATES: Tuesdays, September 16 - October 21, 2025

Block Printing Workshop

Discover the art of block printing in this hands-on beginner class. Learn how to design, carve, and print your own images using linoleum blocks. Explore techniques for transferring designs, selecting tools, and applying ink to create unique prints on paper or fabric. Students can hand make cards, textiles, and more. Perfect for anyone looking to combine creativity with craftsmanship—no prior experience required.

INSTRUCTOR: Natalie Grayson

FEE: $225

PLACE: Bradlaw Building (rm. 8226)

TIME: 9 am - 12 pm

DATES: Saturdays, September 20 - October 11, 2025

Screen Printing Workshop

Learn the fundamentals of screen printing in this creative, hands-on class. From preparing screens and transferring designs to applying ink and making crisp prints, you’ll explore the full process step-by-step. Experiment with colors, layers, and textures to create bold, original prints on paper or fabric. No prior experience needed—just bring your ideas and curiosity.

INSTRUCTOR: Natalie Grayson

FEE: $225

PLACE: Bradlaw Building (rm. 8226)

TIME: 9 am - 12 pm

DATES: Saturdays, October 25 - November 15, 2025

Jewelry Open Studio

An open studio for current students, alumni, and adults who have experience in the Metals studio and are comfortable working independently. In a collaborative and creative setting, the open studio is a great opportunity to continue working on your jewelry designs. Assistance with design and fabrication will be provided as needed. The class is limited to 14 students.

**All materials provided. (Sterling silver and stones to be purchased by the student)

INSTRUCTOR: Sarah Nash

FEE: $275

PLACE: Bradlaw Building (rm. 8012)

TIME: 5-8:30 pm

DATES: Mondays, October 6 - November 17, 2025

Student Art Programs

Saturday Morning Art - Grades 1-8

Saturday Morning Art - Grades 1-8

Saturday Morning Children’s Art (SMCA) offers students, grades 1 – 8, the opportunity to experience the arts, have fun creating, challenge their imaginations, and meet new friends. Students take classes taught by experienced artists to explore a variety of media and techniques, including drawing, painting, photography, pottery, and more. There are 3 different sessions where students will experience different projects and mediums throughout each session. No session will be the same or repeat projects.

AGE: Children in grades 1- 8
DATES/FEE:

Session 1: September 6 - November 15, 2025 (no class Oct. 18) $150
Session 2: December 6 - February 14, 2026 (no class Dec. 27) $150
Session 3: March 7 - May 16, 2026 (no class on Apr. 18) $150

(Fees include the cost of supplies)

TIME SLOTS: A: 8:45 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
B: 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

PLACE: Norwich Free Academy - BRADLAW BUILDING

*If paying by check, your registration will not be complete until payment is received.

**Need-based payment plans are available upon request. For more information, please contact Sarah LeFrancois, Head of the Visual & Performing Arts Department, at lefrancoiss@nfaschool.org.

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Continuing Arts Education

Adult Programs

Introduction to Watercolor

Block Printing Workshop

Screen Printing Workshop

Jewelry Open Studio

Student Art Programs

Saturday Morning Art - Grades 1-8