Adult Classes at the Walker Art Center Offer Opportunities to Learn About the World of Contemporary Art

This fall, the Walker Art Center presents two classes for adults on topics related to the understanding and appreciation of contemporary art. On Thursdays, October 5, 12, 19, and 26, 10:30 am–12 noon,

Art History 101: Art Since 1950

uses the Walker’s collection as a springboard to learning about recent art history through major movements in modern art over the last 50 years. On Tuesdays, October 31–December 12 (no class November 21), 1–3:30 pm,

The Essential Aesthetic: Drawing and Contemporary Art

examines the medium of drawing allowing students to learn to “see” like an artist and enrich their understanding of contemporary art through creative exercises and taking a closer look at the works in the Walker’s collection.

To register for these courses, call 612.375.7600 or visit learn.walkerart.org.

Art History 101: Art Since 1950

Thursdays, October 5, 12, 19, and 26, 10:30 am–12 noon
$60 ($30 Walker members)
Have you ever wondered how to understand abstract art, why a plexiglass box is considered sculpture, or where contemporary art is headed? This four-week course will examine recent art history by looking at major moments in modern art during the past 50 years. Using the Walker collection as a springboard, participants will learn about movements such as Abstract Expressionism, Pop, and Minimalism as well as the emergence of video art and the range of multidisciplinary and global perspectives in the work of today’s artists. Led by the Walker’s Lara Roy, who has taught classes at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, the Minneapolis Public Library, and the Weisman Art Museum.

The Essential Aesthetic: Drawing and Contemporary Art

Tuesdays, October 31–December 12, 1–3:30 pm (no class November 21)
$125 ($100 Walker members)
From Kara Walker’s intimate sketchbook drawings that seem to have emerged from the artist’s subconscious to Julie Mehretu’s meticulously planned and highly detailed large-scale architectural renderings, the medium of drawing is an integral part of many contemporary artists’ work. In this six-week class, you will learn to “see” like an artist and enrich your understanding of contemporary art through creative exercises and taking a closer look at works from the Walker’s collection. Using various media, including pencil, charcoal, and pastels, participants will explore contour, gesture, value, and color theory both in the classroom and in the galleries. In addition, participants will have opportunities to see pieces not currently on view in the galleries through a behind-the scenes session in the Walker’s Print Study Room. The class features in-depth tours of the exhibitions Eva Hesse Drawing and Body Politics: Figurative Prints and Drawings from Schiele to de Kooning. Led by Walker tour guide/educator Shannon Steven. Course fee includes all materials.