Friday, July 27, 2012

Anime Day this Sat / Anime Club

AUBURN ANIME DAY

SATURDAY, JULY 28th from 2:00 - 6:00 p.m.

From The Gnu’s Room Announcement:
“an·i·me  (n-m) n.
: a style of animation originating in Japan that is characterized by stark colorful graphics depicting vibrant characters in action-filled plots often with fantastic or futuristic themes.  Japanese, animation, short for animÄ“shiyon, from English.  First Known Use: 1988  (www.merriam-webster.com)

Join us on Saturday at Pebble Hill (The Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts & Humanities), 101 S. Debardeleben Street, for a celebration of the art of anime. Festivities begin at 2:00 p.m. and include a trivia contest, a panel discussion of cosplay, a screening of some short features, and prizes awarded for best costumes.  Refreshments will be available and you can register to win a 3-day pass to Kami-Con.  There is a $5.00 admission for this event.”

NOTE FROM MISS LAURIE:  I believe The Gnu’s Room is co-sponsoring this event since they are the ones whom I received this notice from.  I was assured that this event would be family-friendly.



Anime Club


I will be starting an anime, manga, comic/graphic novel club at The Gnu’s Room.   I am excited that an anime parent is willing to help me with this new endeavor.  I am taking input from current and former students and parents. 

We will be having a sign-up sheet at the Auburn Anime Day this Saturday.  If you would like to be advised of the Anime Club events please send me an e-mail; when a name for the club is settled on then the club will have a blog, website or Google group.

NOTE TO ANIME FANS:  The club will be for 10 to 18 year old.   It will be for fans of anime/manga, comic books and graphic novels.  I am looking for suggestions for names for the club and then the members will vote on the one they like best.  We will also have a contest to design a club mascot.


Brenden Designs - Custom art work, mural painting, and art instruction

Friday, June 1, 2012

Artscapes 2.5 Gallery Show pick-up


If your child participated in the Artscapes 2.5 mini Gallery Show then you can pick up his/her artwork this Monday, June 4th from 5:15-ish to 5:45 pm at the Jan Dempsey Center (JDCAC).  I will have a table and be seated just inside the front entrance of the center.  I do have a class ending at 5pm so it may take me a few minutes to transition.  I should be able to be at the table by 5:15 pm and plan on staying at least 1/2 hour.  If cannot make it by 5:45 and would like me to stay a bit later, please let me know.
 
If you cannot come by this Monday, please send me a text or email and we will arrange another time.  Please do not come during my classes as I will be working with other students.  If  we cannot arrange a convenient time I can mail your artwork back to you (if you pay for shipping) or we might be able to arrange for you to pick it up from the front office staff at the JDCAC.


I took pictures of the show and when I post them I will send out a link to the pictures and/or movie.  It will probably be later in the month before I have time to do this.

Brenden Designs - Custom art work, mural painting, and art instruction

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Staying Connected

How to stay in the loop



Staying in the loop with Miss Laurie & Brenden Designs is easy.

My website has lots of information about my classes, community events and links to other places.  I will be adding more content including projects you can do at home.  Unfortunately I can no longer afford to pay for a website, so some content is being moved to other sites.  (These include my blog and You Tube). 


Need to get in contact with me?  The quickest way is to call or text me on my cell phone.  I have moved to an unlimited plan so you can call or text me anytime.  If you don’t need an answer immediately, you can e-mail me.


I updated my computer so I lost most of my e-mail contacts.  That’s why I’m moved to a blog to let you know what’s new in my world.  By subscribing to my blog you can stay up to date on upcoming classes, change your e-mail address whenever you want, plus get cool tips and tricks.


Like Facebook or Twitter?  Join me on there as well.




Brenden Designs - Custom art work, mural painting, and art instruction

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Artscapes 2.5 Gallery Show


Brenden Designs


cordially invites you to
visit an art exhibit at

The Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center’s

Children’s Gallery


May 22 – May 29, 2012

to view
Artscapes 2.5

A gallery show which features artwork by students of Laurie Brenden.

The exhibit will showcase artwork from children 5 to 15 years old.

Viewing Times:
Monday – Friday from 8 am to 9 pm
Closed on Saturday & Sunday

The Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center is located on
222 East Drake Avenue in Auburn, Alabama.

Brenden Designs’ Classes for Summer 2012


Brenden Designs’ Classes for Summer 2012

New classes titles appear in red bold type!

- AGES: 6 & up –
Private Art Lessons / Semi-private Art Lessons
·         Class Description: Artist and educator, Laurie Brenden offers private and semi-private art lessons in addition to her group classes each quarter.  A private lesson is for one student.  Semi-private lessons are for two students; the students can be siblings, family members, friends, etc.  These lessons are available by appointment only and spaces are limited!  Please contact the instructor directly for more information or to sign up for private art lessons.
·         Day & Time:  Contact the instructor to arrange.
·         Class Fee: Private lessons: $80.00 (for 6, 1 hour sessions) plus $20.00 materials fee; Semi-private lessons: $60.00 per student (for 6, 1 hour sessions) plus $20.00 materials fee           


- Adults, 16 & up –
Creative Doodling
·         Type of Class:  Mixed media
·         Class Description:  Everyone doodles.  Learn how to take a simple doodle and by adding some imagination turn it into a fun and exciting work of art.  We will use some warm-up exercises and have some basic drawing instruction to get us started then it will be time to turn on the doodling and get creative! Small group instruction.  All supplies are included.  For more information, please contact the instructor.
·         Day & Time:  Monday through Friday, 1:30 to 3 pm
·         Dates:  7/9 to 7/13
·         Class Fee:  $65.00 (includes all supplies)

The Art of Calligraphy
·         Type of Class:  Pen and ink
·         Class Description:  In an age of computer generated fonts, do you ever yearn for something more?  We will explore the common calligraphy styles and learn to develop our own hand letting. "Calligraphy trains not only your eye and hand, but your mind as well." - Margaret Shepherd.  We will use Shepherd’s book Learn Calligraphy in class and each participant will receive a copy of the book. Small group instruction.  All supplies are included.  For more information, please contact the instructor.
·         Day & Time:  Mondays, 1 to 3 pm
·         Dates: 6/11, 6/25, 7/16, 7/30
·         Class Fee:  $75.00  (includes all supplies & a copy of the book for each participant)

- AGES: 4 to 8 –
Paint Adventures
·         Type of Class:  Mixed media
·         Class Description:  Explore new and fun ways to paint by becoming a Paint Adventurer!  Students will explore creativity and imagination while making unique painting projects including bubble prints, doodle straws, sand painting and more.  Skill Level, Basic: No prior experience needed. Small group instruction.  All supplies are included.  For more information, please contact the instructor.
·         Day & Time:  Monday through Friday; 3:30 to 5 pm
·         Dates: 7/9 to 7/13
·         Class Fee: $55.00 (includes all supplies)

Kids Can Paint: Expressionism
·         Type of Class:  Painting
·         Class Description:  Expressionism is exciting paintings full of emotions.  In this class students will explore the artwork of six famous expressionists, and then use their works as a springboard to explore art and creativity.  Each artist will have an “inspiration” piece based on their style, use of color, etc.  However, each student will be encouraged to explore his or her own artistic style and create their own unique work of art.  Skill Level, Basic: No prior experience needed. Small group instruction.  All supplies are included.  For more information, please contact the instructor.
·         Day & Time:  Monday through Friday; 3:30 to 5 pm
·         Dates: 7/16 to 7/20
·         Class Fee: $55.00 (includes all supplies)


- AGES: 8 to 12 –
Basic Drawing
·         Type of Class:  Drawing
·         Class Description:  Anyone can draw!  Lean how to draw with pencils by taking this course.  In this class you will learn basic drawing techniques.  We will be covering line, shape and form.  Skill Level, Basic: No prior experience needed. This class is HIGLY recommended before taking other drawing classes. Small group instruction.  All supplies are included.  For more information, please contact the instructor.
·         Day & Time:  Monday through Friday; 1:30 to 3 pm
·         Dates: 6/4 to 6/8
·         Class Fee: $55.00 (includes all supplies)

Kids Can Paint: Basic Watercolors
·         Type of Class:  Painting
·         Class Description:  Anyone can paint!  Lean how to paint with watercolors by taking this course.  In this class you will learn basic watercolor techniques.  We will be covering color, hue & value, basic color theory and brushstrokes.  Skill Level, Basic: No prior experience needed. This class is HIGLY recommended before taking other painting classes. Small group instruction.  All supplies will be included.  For more information, please contact the instructor.
·         Day & Time:  Monday through Friday; 3:30 to 5 pm
·         Dates: 6/18 to 6/22
·         Class Fee: $65.00 (includes all supplies)

Kids Can Paint: Intermediate Watercolors
·         Type of Class:  Painting
·         Class Description:  Learn how to take the next step to make your paintings shine.  We will be covering perspective, composition and texture. We will also discuss intermediate color theory and brushstrokes.  Skill Level, Intermediate:  Student needs prior painting experience. (Taking the Basic Watercolors course is a prerequisite if the student has never taken a painting class.)  Small group instruction.  All supplies will be included.  For more information, please contact the instructor.
·         Day & Time:  Monday through Friday; 3:30 to 5 pm
·         Dates: 6/25 to 6/29
·         Class Fee: $65.00 (includes all supplies)


- AGES: 10 to 15 –
Fantasy Drawing: Mythological Creatures
·         Type of Class:  Drawing
·         Class Description:  What do fangs, fur, claws and scales all have in common?  They are important elements needed to make mythological creatures.  Learn how to draw cool supernatural creatures including dragons, centaurs, gargoyles and more.   Skill Level, Intermediate:  Student needs prior drawing experience. (Taking the Basic Drawing course is a prerequisite if the student has never taken a drawing class.)  Small group instruction.  All supplies are included. For more information, please contact the instructor.
·         Day & Time:  Monday through Friday; 3:30 to 5 pm
·         Dates: 6/4 to 6/8
·         Class Fee: $55.00 (includes all supplies)

Fantasy Drawing: Heroes & Villains
·         Type of Class:  Drawing
·         Class Description:  Need a little more action in your life?  Drawing awe-inspiring heroes and daring villains is for you.  Learn how to draw such characters as knights, pirates, ninjas, samurais and more.   Skill Level, Intermediate:  Student needs prior drawing experience. (Taking the Basic Drawing course is a prerequisite if the student has never taken a drawing class.)  Small group instruction.  All supplies are included. For more information, please contact the instructor.
·         Day & Time:  Monday through Friday; 3:30 to 5 pm
·         Dates: 6/11 to 6/15
·         Class Fee: $55.00 (includes all supplies)

Anime Drawing: Chibi People
·         Type of Class:  Drawing
·         Class Description:  Manga is the Japanese style of comics and one popular aspect of manga is the chibis.  Chibis are the super-trendy, cute and tiny people of manga.  We discuss how to turn any animated character into a chibi.  Each student will be encouraged to develop his or her own anime/manga characters and unique style of drawing.  Skill Level, Intermediate:  Student needs prior drawing experience. (Taking the Basic Drawing course is a prerequisite if the student has never taken a drawing class.)  Small group instruction. All supplies are included. For more information, please contact the instructor.
·         Day & Time:  Monday through Friday; 3:30 to 5 pm
·         Dates: 7/23 to 7/27
·         Class Fee: $55.00 (includes all supplies)

Anime Drawing: Chibi Monsters
·         Type of Class:  Drawing
·         Class Description:  Even more chibi-cuteness! Full of personality, style and pizzazz we will learn how to draw chibi creatures, popularly known as “pocket monsters”.  Each student will be encouraged to develop his or her own anime/manga characters and unique style of drawing.  Skill Level, Intermediate:  Student needs prior drawing experience. (Taking the Basic Drawing course is a prerequisite if the student has never taken a drawing class.)  Small group instruction. All supplies are included. For more information, please contact the instructor.
·         Day & Time:  Monday through Friday; 3:30 to 5 pm
·         Dates: 7/30 to 8/3
·         Class Fee: $55.00 (includes all supplies)


Brenden Designs - Custom art work, mural painting, and art instruction

Sunday, May 13, 2012


Group Art Classes – Register for Summer 2012 Classes

Register NOW for Summer 2012 Group Art Classes! Once again I’ll be offering Group Art Lessons at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center in Auburn, Alabama. You can register for these classes by going by the Dean Road Recreational Center.

  • Where: The Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center (334) 501-2963
  • Registration Dates: NOW until May 25, 2012
  • Register At: Dean Road Recreational Center Hours: 8 am to 5pm (334) 501-2930
  • Class Term: May 28 to August 3, 2012
  • Who: children 4 to 15 years old (Younger or older students are allowed with instructor’s permission.)



Brenden Designs - Custom art work, mural painting, and art instruction

Sunday, March 18, 2012

Group Art Classes – Register for Spring 2012 Classes

Register NOW for Spring 2012 Group Art Classes! Once again I’ll be offering Group Art Lessons at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center in Auburn, Alabama. You can register for these classes by going by the Dean Road Recreational Center.
 Where: The Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center (334) 501-2963
 Registration Dates: NOW until March 30, 2012
 Register At: Dean Road Recreational Center Hours: 8 am to 5pm (334) 501-2930
 Class Term: January 5 to March 2, 2012
 Who: children 4 to 15 years old (Younger or older students are allowed with instructor’s permission.)


~ CLASSES FOR SPRING 2012 ~

Kids’ Can Draw: Wild Animals
Type of class: Drawing class
Class Description: Grrrrrrowl! Wouldn’t you like to know how to draw wild creatures?!? Included will be lions, giraffes, elephants, crocodiles, kangaroos, and other awesome animals. Some basic drawing skills will be covered. Skill Level, Basic: No prior experience required. Small group instruction. All supplies are
included.
Ages: 6 – 9 years old (Younger or older students are allowed with instructor’s permission.)
Day & Time: Mondays, 3:30 to 5:00 pm
Dates: April 2 to May 21, 2012 (8 weeks)
Class fee: $80.00 (includes all supplies)

Kids’ Can Do: Oil Pastels
Type of class: Pastel class
Class Description: Do you like color and expressing yourself? make bold, expressive works using chalk pastels. this class is not only vivid and fun, but very messy. Skill Level, Basic: No prior experience needed. Small group instruction. All supplies are included
Ages: 4-8 years old (Younger or older students are allowed with instructor’s permission.)
Day & Time: Wednesdays, 3:30 to 5:00 pm
Dates: April 4 to May 23, 2012 (8 weeks)
Class fee: $80.00 (includes all supplies)

Anime Drawing: Shoujo
Type of class: Drawing class
Class Description: Manga is a Japanese style of comics. In this class, we will learn how to draw the characters of Shoujo. Each student will be encouraged to develop his or her own anime/manga characters and unique style of drawing. Skill Level, Intermediate: Student needs prior drawing experience (taking the Basic
Drawing course is a prerequisite if the student has never taken a drawing class). Small group instruction. All supplies are include
Ages: 10-15 years old (Younger or older students are allowed with instructor’s permission.)
Day & Time: Fridays, 4:00 to 5:30 pm
Dates: April 6 to May 25, 2012 (8 weeks)
Class fee: $80.00 (includes all supplies)


Brenden Designs - Custom art work, mural painting, and art instruction

Private Art Lessons - Register for Spring 2012 Classes

Registration is now open! If you are interested in taking Private Art Lessons with me during the Winter term, please let me know ASAP! Remember that returning students will have first priority; students who have been with me the longest get placed first. Then if I have any room I will place other returning students and new students.
I have already been fielding a lot of calls from new people who are interested in private & semi-private lessons, so if you are interested let me know as soon as you can! You can either call or e-mail me.

Description: Artist and educator, Laurie Brenden offers private and semi-private art lessons in addition to her group classes each quarter. A private lesson is for one student. Semi-private lessons are for two students; the students can be siblings, family members, friends, etc. These lessons are available by appointment only and spaces are limited! Please contact her directly for more information or to sign up for private art lessons.
 Where: The Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center (334) 501-2963
 Registration Dates: NOW until March 30, 2012
 Register At: Dean Road Recreational Center Hours: 8 am to 5pm (334) 501-2930
 Class Term: March 26 to May 18, 2012

If you would like to register for the Spring term I will need the following information:
o When you would like to start.
o How many weeks you would like to sign up for. I recommend 6-8 weeks.
o The top 3 times and days that work best for you. (I can’t guarantee that you will get in on of your first choices.)
o What medium & unit you (or your child) is interested in.
o Remember that you have to work around my schedule as well and that I also have another part-time job tutoring online.

Brenden Designs - Custom art work, mural painting, and art instruction