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Class Name: Better Composition; Better Art
Instructor’s Name: Sylvia A. Shanahan
Email for registration: sylviaashanahan@gmail.com
Medium: Drawing pencils, colored pencils, charcoal pencils and/or wet media
Experience Level: Beginner/Intermediate/advanced
Dates: November 18, 25, December 2 & 9, 2026
Time and Day: Wednesdays, 9 a.m. – noon
How many weeks: 4
Maximum number of Students: 15
Total Class fee to teacher ($25 per class) Payable to the teacher on the first day of class.
Additional cost for non-members: Pay $40 to QCFAPC or Join the Club for $25 per year.
Supply List: Provided by the Teacher upon Registration
If Extra Cost for Supplies Payable to the Teacher for Supplies Provided:
Class Description:
It’s been said that a strong composition can elevate even simple subject matter—and it’s true. In this class, students will explore what makes a painting or drawing feel balanced, interesting, and visually compelling. Through examples and hands-on exercises, you’ll learn how to guide the viewer’s eye, create focal points, use positive and negative space, and make stronger choices about placement, value, rhythm, and movement. Perfect for beginners and continuing students alike, this class will help you recognize the difference between an average arrangement and one that truly works, giving you practical tools you can apply to landscapes, abstracts, florals, and almost any kind of art. At the end of this class, you’ll have a valuable notebook to refer to, plus the knowledge to master new levels in your work.
