Mesa Arts Center today announced three new ways to experience its Art Studio programs: Online Art Classes, a new series of virtual summer classes; Art To Go Boxes, at-home activity boxes for purchase; and Arts in Service online, classes offered exclusively for veterans and service members. The online art class series and Arts in Service classes are open for registration beginning Monday, June 29. Art To Go Boxes are available for preorder beginning Monday, June 29, and will be available for pick-up beginning the week of July 6.

Online Art Class offerings include Clay for the Kitchen: Handbuilding, Nerikomi Clay: Intermediate Handbuilding, Watercolor Basics, Basic Sketching, Copper Foiled Bevel Boxes, Fused Glass Explorations, Figurative Sculpture: Fantasy Creatures, and Large-scale Metal Sculpture. Classes range from $65-$95 in cost.

Art To Go Boxes are $25 each and include materials needed to complete two family-friendly activities such as a ceramic wind chime, mosaic art mirror or watercolor painting, along with detailed written instructions and access to an online tutorial video. Art To Go boxes are designed for ages eight and older and no prior arts experience is required. Boxes will be available for contactless pickup.

Arts in Service online class offerings are free for veterans and service members, and include Beginning Handbuilding and Figurative Sculpture. Both class offerings are appropriate for beginners and require no previous arts experience. Materials are included with registration. Arts in Service is in its 3rd year and is generously sponsored by The Boeing Company and Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community.

Art Studios materials and services are also available for purchase for those continuing their art practice at home. Clay and porcelain are available for online purchase and pickup on site. Firing services for glass and clay are also available by appointment.

All new Art Studios offerings are available for more information on the Mesa Arts Center website at https://www.mesaartscenter.com/index.php/classes/connect-with-art-studios.

Mesa Arts Center’s campus and facilities remain closed to the public to slow the spread of COVID-19. A reopening date has not yet been determined but will be announced as soon as it is available.

By Casey Blake