Fun, affordable training and instruction! Now registering for summer and fall 2010!
Held in Seattle on the University of Washington campus.
Classes and workshops in drawing and painting, writing, acting, filmmaking and more
Acting classes ~ Art classes ~ Film classes ~ Photoshop classes ~ Writing classes ~ Private instruction

Welcome to Classesandworkshops.com! This web page has information about several Seattle-area classes and workshops,
which are sponsored by the UW's ASUW Experimental College and the Wonder School, and are held on the U.W campus in Seattle.
To sign up, click the course title or call. Questions? Call 206-420-1309 or drop us an email This page was updated on 7/25/10.
To be added to our email list, just drop an email and let us know.

SEATTLE ART CLASSES ~ Drawing for beginners ~ How to Draw People ~ Acrylic painting ~ Cartooning ~ Artist's Way
SEATTLE FILM CLASSES ~ Filmmaking 101 ~ Let's make a movie ~ It's time to write your screenplay
SEATTLE WRITING CLASSES ~ It's time to write your screenplay ~ Writing fiction & short stories
SEATTLE ACTING CLASSES ~ Beginning acting ~ Beginning Acting 2 ~ Let's make a movie
SEATTLE COMPUTER CLASSES ~ Photoshop for Beginners ~ Final Cut Pro for Beginners
Private lessons ~ Team-building classes ~ FAQ ~ Policies ~ Sign up ~ Contact

Upcoming Classes!
For more information, or to sign up, click the course titles below

Acting classes!
Beginning acting
Acting is fun! In this class, you'll learn how to create characters, memorize dialogue, use your voice, body and emotions as acting tools, and perform short scenes onstage. Plus: warmups, theater games, improvisational acting, scenework and monologues, tips for auditioning, and information about Seattle's theater scene. Great for total beginners! Instructor has directed stageplays, shorts and feature films. His movies have played at international film festivals. Now registering for fall quarter! Mondays, 7-9:30 pm, October 18-November 15 (five meetings) Tuition: $150 More info/sign up now

Beginning acting 2
A follow up class for those who've taken beginning acting, and would like to learn more. A fun day of acting and performing, long and short form improv games, and more. Now registering for fall quarter! Saturday August 21, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (one meeting) Tuition: $99 More info/sign up now

Let's make a movie
In this class we'll create and film a short independent movie from scratch. Students are free to act in it, help write or choose a script, and help out on crew. (You can choose how you want to participate.) Everyone is welcome no previous acting or filmmaking experience is necessary. Now registering for fall quarter! Tuesdays, 7-9:30 pm, October 13-November 10 (five meetings) Tuition: $150 More info/sign up now

Art classes!
Drawing for absolute beginners
Anyone can draw... this means you! In this class, we'll work through a number of exercises designed to train your eye, hand and imagination to work together. It's fun, easy, interesting, is guaranteed to improve your drawing, and may change the way you see the world around you. Nothing to buy; all materials provided. Most students notice striking improvement in their artwork by the second or third meeting. Now registering for fall quarter! Saturdays, October 16-November 6, 9-10:45 am (four meetings) Tuition: $99 More info/sign up now

How to Draw People
In class, you'll learn how to draw realistic, recognizable faces and figures, using an easy step by step method, even if you've never drawn before. We'll start out by drawing some figures based on simple underlying shapes, then add details and shading. Plus: action, proportions, how to draw realistic, recognizable faces, facial expressions, and techniques for getting a good resemblance when drawing from life or photos. (This course combines our popular classes, "Figure Drawing" and "How to Draw Faces," into one streamlined four-week course.) "Absolute beginners" welcome. Now registering for fall quarter! Saturdays, October 16-November 6, 11 am-12:45 pm (4 meetings) Tuition: $99 More info/sign up now

Acrylic painting for beginners
In this enjoyable introductory class, aimed at folks who've never painted before, you'll learn how to mix and blend colors, use brushes, and paint some simple objects. You'll learn a few basics about color theory and composition, and how to paint using acrylics. We'll then move on to paint things like trees, mountains, clouds, rocks, and still lifes, using an easy step-by-step method. Even if you don't know an artist's brush from a toothbrush, you'll have fun, learn a lot, and get off to a good start. Now registering for fall quarter! Sundays, October 17 through November 7, 12:30 pm-2:30 pm (4 meetings) Tuition: $99 More info/sign up now

Cartooning
Cartooning is fun! In this class, you'll learn how to create your own cartoon characters, and draw them from different angles. Whether you're interested in drawing Manga comics, superheroes, or characters like Garfield, Cathy or Doonebury, this class will help. Plus: comic books, newspaper strips, and how to make money as a cartoonist. Now registering for fall quarter! Sunday, October 17 through November 7, 10 am-11:45 am - (4 meetings) Tuition: $99 More info/sign up now

The Artist's Way
This class, based on the life-changing book by Julie Cameron, is for anyone looking for ways to overcome a creative block and free up his or her creativity. It's not just for visual artists; the concepts and exercises are also helpful to writers, musicians, people considering career changes, folks who "wish they were artists," and those who are looking to reconnect with their intuition and spend their lives in a more meaningful and creative way. Now registering for fall quarter! Sundays, 10/17-11/7, 3 p.m.-5 p.m. (four meetings) Tuition: $99 More info/sign up now

Film and video classes!
Filmmaking 101: All the basics
Want to learn the basics of filmmaking, but not ready to spend $30,000 for film school? This class can teach you what you need to know. You'll learn how movies are made (the three stages of production, and what needs to be done during each stage); the differences between standard and high def camcorders, consumer, prosumer and pro models, and how to find a camcorder that has the features you need, at a price you can afford; how to use camera angles, including closeups, medium shots, to tell your story; how to record high quality audio; how to set up lighting to give your movie a more professional look; how to get your movies into film festivals; and more. Now registering for fall quarter! Saturdays, October 16 through November 6, from 2 pm-4 p.m. (four meetings) Tuition: $150 More info/sign up now

Let's make a movie
In this class we'll create and film a short independent movie from scratch. Students are free to act in it, help write or choose a script, and help out on crew. (You can choose how you want to participate.) Everyone is welcome no previous acting or filmmaking experience is necessary. Now registering for fall quarter! Tuesdays, 7-9:30 pm, October 13-November 10 (five meetings) Tuition: $150 More info/sign up now

Documentary filmmaking
You don't need a fancy camera or a lot of money to make a documentary. You just need a camcorder, a microphone and some lights, and knowledge of how to go about it. In this class you'll learn how to plan and organize your documentary; how to set up and film interviews; how to get good audio and lighting under field conditions; how to record video and audio in the field. Plus, tips about film festivals and distribution. Now registering for summer quarter! Sunday August 22 only, 10 am-5 pm (1 meeting) Tuition: $125 More info/sign up now

Computer classes!
Photoshop for Beginners
Photoshop is fun! In this easy introductory class, you'll learn the key elements of the program, including layers, filters, cropping and rotating photos. Plus: copying and pasting, coloring artwork, and more. Class includes several hours of group instruction (demonstration, not handson), PLUS one FREE hour of handson private instruction (a $75 value). Now registering for fall quarter! Fridays, 7 p.m.-9:15 p.m. October 22-November 5 (three meetings) Tuition: $125 More info/sign up now

Final Cut Pro for Beginners
How to use the popular software program Final Cut Pro to scan in video footage from a camcorder and assemble it into professional-looking movies. Now registering for summer quarter! Fridays, 7 p.m.-9:15 p.m. - August 13-August 27 (3 meetings) Tuition: $125 More info/sign up now

Writing classes!
It's time to write your screenplay
In this class you'll learn how to write screenplays that are grounded in the traditional elements of storytelling, yet express something personal and unique without relying on simplistic formulas. We'll focus on plot, genre, story structure, and developing a style of writing that works for screenplays. Plus: pitching your screenplays, getting an agent, and script formatting. Now registering for fall quarter! Thursdays, 7-9 pm, October 12-November 2 (four meetings) Tuition: $125 More info/sign up now

Writing fiction & short stories
In this class, students will get some practice writing short stories, learn about the elements of the craft, and have opportunities to get honest feedback about their writings. The focus will be on developing our skills and learning to let the process happen easily and spontaneously. Also, tips for those who are interested in making an income from their writing.
Now registering for fall quarter! Wednesdays, October 14-November 4, 7 pm-9 pm (5 meetings) Tuition: $125 More info/sign up now

Private lessons
Private instruction is available in many of the topics on this page, as well as a few topics that aren't offered as classes: Audio for filmmakers; Lighting for filmmakers; Drawing comics and graphic novels; and Drawing storyboards. More info/set up now

Team-building classes!
If you own or manage a business in Washington state, and are looking for an enjoyable team-building or morale event for your employees, or instruction and training in one of the topics on this web page, we can help. Call 206-420-1309 or email for rates and information.
How to sign up

To sign up by phone, call 206-420-1309 (Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.)

To sign up online, click on the course title in the class lists above. This will take you to the CLASS PAGE. At the top of the class page, you'll see an Add to Cart button. The add to cart button will take you to a Paypal link, but you do NOT have to use Paypal for your payment; you can pay using credit card, debit card, or Paypal.

To pay using a credit or debit card: 1) Go to the class home page and click the Add to Cart button near the top of the page. 2) Click "proceed to checkout." 3) Click at the bottom where it says, "Use your Credit Card or Bank account"and enter your credit card information. Or if you'd rather use Paypal, just click the Add to Cart button then choose Paypal as your payment option.

To pay by check, download the registration form below, print it out, and mail it to the address on the form along with your check or money order. You may need to right click or option-click to download it. (Trouble downloading the form? Call us at 206-420-1309 with your address, and we'll mail you one.)

Questions or problems registering? Call 206-420-1309 or email Nilsosmar@gmail.com

Policies and procedures
Frequently asked questions

Course descriptions: Acting classes

Beginning Acting
Acting is fun! In this enjoyable class, held in Seattle (and open to everyone), you'll learn how to create characters, memorize dialogue, and use your voice, body and emotions as acting tools and perform short scenes onstage in front of other students. Plus: warm-ups, theater games, improvisational acting, information about the Seattle theater scene, how to audition. Great for beginners, and for those wanting to get back into acting after a break from it. Instructor has participated in live theater for over twenty years as an actor, playwright, producer and director, and has taught acting classes in Seattle since 1996. He is the creator of an award-winning television series, The Edge. His films have played at international film festivals. To sign up now, call 206-420-1309 or click on the course title to use the registration links on the class page. Dates, times & tuition - Go to class page

Let's Make a Movie!
In this class we'll create and film a short independent movie from scratch. Students are free to act in it, help write or choose a script, help out on crew. It's a fun way to find out what it feels like to be in front of the camera (or behind it), great for people thinking about producing movies of their own. (No previous acting or filmmaking experience necessary.) To sign up now, call 206-420-1309 or click on the course title to use the registration links on the class page. Dates, times & tuition - Go to Let's make a movie class page

Course descriptions: Art classes

Acrylic Painting for Beginners
Looking for a beginning painting class in Seattle? In this enjoyable introductory class, aimed at absolute beginners, you'll learn how to mix and blend colors, use brushes, explore forms and textures, and paint some familiar objects. Even if you don't know an artist's brush from a toothbrush, you'll have fun, learn a lot, and get off to a good start. We'll be painting with pro quality Golden brand acrylics, because they're easy to paint with, easy to learn, and are a great medium for beginners and professionals alike. (Note: You can either bring your own materials, or buy a $35 supply kit in class that includes everything you'll need.) To sign up now, call 206-420-1309 or click on the course title to use the registration links on the class page. Dates, times & tuition - Go to Acrylic painting class page

Cartooning
In this workshop, you'll learn how to create your own cartoon characters, even if you've never drawn before. We'll draw humorous, simplified faces and figures, cartoon animals and more. Plus: tips for drawing comic books, graphic novels, inking, coloring, copyrighting your artwork and getting published. The instructor's artwork has been published in the U.S. and Europe. Nothing to bring or buy; all materials are provided. To sign up now, call 206-420-1309 or click on the course title to use the registration links on the class page. Dates, times & tuition - Go to Cartooning class page

Drawing for absolute beginners
Anyone can draw ... this means you! In this class we'll work our way through a number of exercises designed to train the eye, hand and imagination to work as a unit or a team. You'll learn about shapes, shading, contour drawing, negative space and more. This class provides a thorough, enjoyable, step-by-step introduction to drawing. For people who have not drawn before or would like a refresher in the basics. Instructor is a professional artist. Nothing to bring or buy; all materials are provided.To sign up now, call 206-420-1309 or click on the course title to use the registration links on the class page. Dates, times & tuition - Go to Drawing for Beginners class page

How to draw people
Anyone can learn how to draw people! In this class you'll learn how to draw faces and figures, using an easy step-by-step method. We'll start by sketching some figures based on simple, underlying shapes, then add in the details. You'll learn about proportions and foreshortening, motion and action and how to use shading to make the figure look real and three-dimensional. Plus, an easy method of drawing faces, and tips for getting a resemblance when drawing from a model or photo. No need to buy or bring any art materials; they're all provided. To sign up now, call 206-420-1309 or click on the course title to use the registration links on the class page. Dates, times & tuition - Go to Figure Drawing class page

Photoshop for Beginners
Photoshop is fun! Whether you're a total beginner, a home user or a graphics professional using Photoshop on the job, this class will help. You'll learn the key elements of the program, including scanning, layers, channels, filters, color correction and more. Class includes six hours of group instruction (demonstration, not hands-on), PLUS one FREE hour of hands-on private instruction (a $75 value) for each student, in which the instructor will meet individually with students outside of class to help with problems or individual projects. To sign up now, call 206-420-1309 or click on the course title to use the registration links on the class page. Dates, times & tuition - Go to Photoshop class page

Course descriptions: Filmmaking classes

Beginning Acting (not technically a filmmaking class, but a useful one for filmmakers to take)
Acting is fun! In this enjoyable class, held in Seattle (and open to everyone), you'll learn how to create characters, memorize dialogue, and use your voice, body and emotions as acting tools and perform short scenes onstage in front of other students. Plus: warm-ups, theater games, improvisational acting, information about the Seattle theater scene, how to audition. Great for beginners, and for those wanting to get back into acting after a break from it. Instructor has participated in live theater for over twenty years as an actor, playwright, producer and director, and has taught acting classes in Seattle since 1996. He is the creator of an award-winning television series, The Edge. His films have played at international film festivals. To sign up now, call 206-420-1309 or click on the course title to use the registration links on the class page. Dates, times & tuition - Go to class page

Documentary filmmaking
You don't need a fancy camera or a lot of money to make a documentary. You just need an idea, a good camcorder, a microphone and some lights, and knowledge of how to go about it. In this class you'll learn how to plan and organize your documentary; how to set up and film interviews; how to get good audio and lighting under field conditions; how to buy or rent the equipment you need, at the best price; how to record video and audio in the field. Plus, tips about film festivals and distribution. To sign up now, call 206-420-1309 or click on the course title to use the registration links on the class page. Dates, times & tuition - Go to Documentary filmmaking class page

Filmmaking 101: All the basics
Want to learn the basics of filmmaking, but can't afford to spend $30,000 for film school? This class can teach you what you need to know, at a price that won't break the bank. Whether you're interested in making home movies for the fun of it, making shorts or features for film festivals, or making commercials, web videos, or promotional materials for your business.... whether you're aiming for a career as a filmmaker, or just learning about filmmaking as a hobby ... this enjoyable, information-packed course will get you off to a great start. You'll learn about:
- how movies are made (the three stages of production, and what needs to be done during each stage)
- cameras and camcorders (you'll learn the differences between standard and high def camcorders, consumer, prosumer and pro models, and how to find a camcorder that has the features you need, at a price you can afford)
- camera angles, including closeups, medium shots, and more, and how to use them to tell your stories
- how to record high quality audio, and avoid common audio problems
- all about lighting: how to use inexpensive lighting effects to dramatically improve your movies
Plus: how to hold auditions; where to find actors; how to get your movie screened and distributed; and some key information about copyright issues, release forms and more. To sign up now, call 206-420-1309 or click on the course title to use the registration links on the class page. Dates, times & tuition - Go to Filmmaking 101 class pagege

It's Time to Write Your Screenplay
In this class, you'll learn how to write a screenplay that is grounded in the traditional elements of storytelling, yet expresses something personal and unique without relying on simplistic formulas. We'll focus on plot, genre and character development, identifying and writing for your target audience and more. Plus, you'll learn how to find an agent and how to pitch your screenplay to buyers and producers. We'll wrap up with a demonstration of script formatting using Final Draft. The instructor has written and produced over thirty screenplays and teleplays, including three full-length feature films. To sign up now, call 206-420-1309 or click on the course title to use the registration links on the class page. Dates, times & tuition - Go to It's time to write your Screenplay class page

Storyboarding
Thinking about making a movie, independent film, or even a home video? It helps to start out with a storyboard (a series of rough drawings showing what you plan to film.) You don't need to be a great artist to draw a storyboard, you just need to be able to sketch well enough to get your ideas across. In this class you'll learn how storyboards work, how to use one to tell your story visually, and get some practice drawing them. To sign up now, call 206-420-1309 or click on the course title to use the registration links on the class page. Dates, times & tuition - Go to storyboarding for beginners class page

Video editing using Final Cut Pro
In this basic introductory class, aimed at beginners, you'll learn how to use the popular software program Final Cut Pro to scan in video footage from a camcorder and assemble it into professional-looking movies. Course covers basic principles, filters and effects, titles, audio, split-screen and other special effects, and exporting the finished video as a Quicktime movie. Important notes:1) Final Cut Pro runs only on Macintosh computers. If you own a P.C., I'd suggest looking for a class in Adobe Premiere instead. 2) This class is demonstration, not hands-on. That is, it's held in a regular classroom, not a computer lab. The instructor will demonstrate features of the program using a laptop hooked up to a projector. (Students with Macintosh laptops are welcome to bring them and work along with the exercises if they like) To sign up now, call 206-420-1309 or click on the course title to use the registration links on the class page. To sign up now, call 206-420-1309 or click on the course title to use the registration links on the class page. Dates, times & tuition - go to Video editing in Final Cut Pro class page

Course descriptions: software classes

Course descriptions: Writing classes

Writing Fiction and Short Stories
Writing is a natural skill that everyone can develop. In this Seattle writing class, students will write short stories and other word pieces and get feedback from the instructor and others in the class. The focus will be on developing our writing skills, finding our genuine voices, learning to let the process happen effortlessly and spontaneously. Also: information about copyrighting and getting published. Instructor is the author of a short story collection, The Hungry Time, and has also written stage plays, screenplays and magazine articles. All levels welcome. To sign up now, call 206-420-1309 or click on the course title to use the registration links on the class page. Dates, times & tuition - go to Writing fiction & short stories class page

Seattle art classes
Seattle film classes
Seattle acting classes
Seattle writing classes
Seattle software classes

Dates, times & tuition
Policies & procedures
Frequently asked questions
How to sign up

Questions or problems registering? Call or email 206-420-1309 Nilsosmar@gmail.com

Links, notes and homework for current students

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