photo of an artist painting. One hand is holding a paint brush over a canvas of yellow, blue, and green hues, and the other hand is holding a plate with paints on it.

Studio Sessions

Move over Van Gogh, there’s a new artist in town! Engage your creative side during Mia Studio Sessions.

Studio Sessions are Mia’s art classes and workshops that offer experienced artmakers and curious novices alike the opportunity to create projects inspired by Mia’s collection and special exhibitions. Each Studio Sessions class features a different subject or medium to explore, and you’ll walk away with expanded knowledge and skills, plus a personal work of art. The only prerequisites for this class are curiosity and an open mind.

Registration required. Registration opens one month in advance.

We offer a limited number of scholarships to welcome all learners to Studio Sessions; please email us for scholarship information.

Questions? Email us.


Upcoming Sessions

September 12 | Linocut Printing Inspired by Keiko Minami

Join artist Akiko Ostlund for this workshop exploring meruhen, the fairy tale aesthetic adapted and popularized in Japan in the early 20th century. Get inspired by the artwork of Keiko Minami in Mia’s exhibition, “Meruhen: Japanese Prints of Fairy Tale,” and create your own meruhen-style linocut prints using fine lines and simple colors. This class is open to all levels, and all supplies are provided.

October 24 | Fashion Illustration

It’s “Paris Couture” season at Mia! Embark on your fashion journey with this class all about fashion illustration. Led by Christopher Straub, Minnesota-based fashion designer and fan favorite from Project Runway‘s sixth season, you’ll learn the basics of capturing the drape, texture, form, and shape of couture garments, turning your fashion dreams into unique drawings. End the class with a guided tour of the exhibition “Paris Couture” (admission is included in your class fee). All materials are provided.

Registration opens September 24.

November 28 | Sashiko Embroidery

Join teaching artist Akiko Ostlund to explore the Japanese art of sashiko embroidery. Inspired by the luxurious textiles and eye-catching embroidery in “Paris Couture,” this class guides you through the basics of sashiko, touching on the historical and cultural significance of this hand sewing technique. This class includes a short, guided tour of the exhibition “Paris Couture” (admission is included with your registration fee). All materials are provided.

Note: This class works with needles and other materials that require good hand dexterity.

Registration opens October 28.

December 12 | Save the Date

More details coming soon!

January 23 | Image Transfer Monoprinting

Learn how to create layered image transfer monoprints in this hands-on workshop, led by Essence Enwere. Use a combination of techniques to explore the image transfer processes, composition, layering, and texture while developing a series of unique prints. You’ll also work with a variety of images and stencils. You’ll leave the workshop with several finished monoprints, along with the skills to continue experimenting on your own.

Registration opens December 23.