PAINT CAN PRESS


• MAY 2025 •

mCreative Common Ground


We’re drawing the outlines of our new Creative Commons neighborhood workshop, but the color, texture, and spark? That’s where you come in! Improvements are officially underway, and we can't wait to welcome you into a space designed to aid and abet your next big idea––and the next, and the next!

This may be our most event-packed newsletter yet (which is really saying something!) including quite a few new recurring programs and entirely new subjects! We've got all kinds of good stuff coming up that will keep you in the creative flow state all summer long. Grab a snack before you dive in, this edition's a real trip!

Upcoming Events

Collage Collective

Thurs. 5/29

5-7pm


Connect, create, and cut it up with other artists! Free, age-inclusive, and open to all. Bring your own supplies or use ours!

Zentangle: Fun & Games

Sat. 6/7

10am-12pm


Join us for a playful Zentangle workshop! You’ll create patterned game boards and pieces, then play a relaxing, artful game of chance.

IN Gourd Society Meetup

Thurs. 6/19

1-3pm


Join the Bloomington Patch of the Indiana Gourd Society! This free monthly meetup creates art from hard-shelled gourds. Materials provided, all are welcome!

Fourth & Rogers Block Party Fri. 6/6

5pm-8pm

Enjoy the Block Party and help us break in our new Creative Commons! Swing by for sips, socializing, and a hands-on art activity in y/our new creative space.

Art Club • June

Thurs. 6/12

5–7pm


Join us for Lego Printmaking! We’ll use blocks to stamp, stack, and create playful prints. Art Club is free and for all - materials provided!

Midsummer Magic: Handmade Grimoire

Fri. 6/20 & Sat. 6/21


Raise a glass at sunset while crafting a grimoire with handmade herbal paper. Learn bookbinding, set solstice intentions, and create space for sketches, spells, or reflections.

 

Plein Air In Practice Series

Sat. 6/28

9:30am-4pm


Join plein air painter and instructor Scott Sullivan for a monthly oil painting series designed to build your skills step by step—through guided instruction, hands-on demos, and time in the field.


This is more than just a class—it’s a chance to learn the art of outdoor painting with someone by your side who’s been there, done that, and packed the right brushes.


Each session offers a welcoming structure for both beginners and those looking to refine their approach, with real-world practice built right in.

Sessions begin in the Creative Commons workshop with a demonstration, discussion, and technique exploration.


From there, the group will travel to a nearby outdoor location for an afternoon of painting on site. You’ll get expert insight into how to build a composition, manage your materials, work efficiently with changing light, and avoid common beginner pitfalls—all with the encouragement and feedback of a skilled guide.


Whether you drop in for a single session or follow the full arc of the series, this is a rare opportunity to explore plein air painting in a way that’s approachable, supportive, and deeply rewarding!


Participants are welcome to bring their own materials, purchase a supply kit, or rent a plein air easel from Bloomington Fine Art Supply.

 

Coming Soon : Live Model Sessions

Coming this fall, we’re thrilled to introduce not one but two recurring live model series: Apparel and Anatomy.

Our Apparel Series features expressive poses, stylized outfits, and costumed characters. It celebrates the art of observation with fully clothed models and a focus on gesture, shape, and storytelling.

The Anatomy Series offers an opportunity to study the nude human form in all its complexity. Rooted in tradition, these quiet, focused sessions invite artists of all experience levels to deepen their perspective and sharpen their skills.

Coming Soon : Atelier Series

Beginning in August, Rebecca Woodward will lend her extensive art and teaching experience as we launch a recurring after-school program for students ages 13–18 who are ready to grow their skills and deepen their creative practice.



Meeting three times per month, After School Atelier will take place on Wednesday afternoons through the fall semester.


This series is rooted in the traditional atelier teaching method—an approach that emphasizes technical drawing, observational study, and progressive skill-building through mentorship.


Rebecca will be offering an on-site demonstration in the Creative Commons during the Fourth and Rogers Block Party. Come say hello, ask questions, and observe her technique at the easel!

We’re equally excited to announce a companion offering for adults:


After Hours Atelier. Also led by Rebecca Woodward, this evening series is designed for adult learners who want to return to the fundamentals, build confidence in their technique, or reconnect with their creative voice in a focused, welcoming environment.


Rooted in the same traditional atelier principles, After Hours Atelier emphasizes observational drawing, design, and skill development through guided exercises and individualized feedback.


Whether you’re picking up a pencil for the first time in years or looking to strengthen your foundation, this series will offer structured support, artistic momentum, and a strong sense of community—without the pressure of formal schooling.


Stay tuned for fall session dates and registration details!


See you in the next edition!