Event Details
How humans perceive shapes relies on both visual perception and higher cognition. Understanding how those processes work together reveals strategies artists can use, as well as ways we all appreciate and interpret artworks. Using drawing, we’ll explore how the retina works, optical illusions, droodles, and insights from the Impressionists. All levels welcome.
Please note:
- This workshop will take place on Zoom.
- Open to students age 16 and up.
- Supply List: Preferred drawing materials such as pencil or pen, eraser, and paper or sketch book. Color is optional for this class.
About the Instructor:
Rachel Mirus is a teaching artist, nature writer, and lifelong learner. Her passion is to inspire observation, experimentation, and creativity in students of all ages through her visual art, writing, and teaching. Originally trained in biology, she has worked in research labs and museums across the country, including the California Academy of Sciences and the Harvard Museum of Natural History. She continues to teach online for the Harvard Museum of Natural History, in person for Vermont nature centers and arts organizations, and has been a resident artist at public schools in Vermont and New Hampshire. Rachel actively practices the skills of learning by pursuing skills she’s bad at, including Celtic harp, belly dance, and Abenaki language.
Tuition: $36 Members, $40 Non-Members
Please contact the Program Manager at sarah@artspacema.org for any accommodations or to inquire about tuition assistance.
Registration & Communication Policy:
All registrations are first come, first serve. Upon registration you will receive an email receipt. A detailed course confirmation will be sent via email no more than three days prior to the workshop or class.
Cancellations:
A $25 processing fee applies to all cancellations
- Full refunds less the cancellation fee up to four days before the class begins
- No refunds are available less than four days before the class begins. This allows our staff, faculty and other students to have adequate time to prepare. If you can’t make it to the class, feel free to send a friend in your place.
- No partial refunds, make ups, or pro-rated classes are offered for student absence.
ArtSpace reserves the right to cancel classes and workshops. If a class is cancelled, all students receive a full refund. In case of teacher absence or inclement weather, the class will be rescheduled.
| Venue | online |
| Starts | Sat Jun 6 2026, 10:00am EDT |
| Ends | Sat Jun 6 2026, 12:00pm EDT |