York Art Association
MAY 17TH | 2-4pm | All Levels | $35M $45NM
Registration Closes 5/10
Do you love watercolor painting, but find it overly restrictive and frustrating in terms of an inherent lack of flexibility in the traditional methodology of the medium? This class will demonstrate the possibilities for use of watercolor in a more flexible and “editable” manner than is typically possible – more akin to oil painting, not with a different kind of paint, but rather a different kind of painting surface.
By employing a smooth surfaced paper stock, as opposed traditional heavy-toothed watercolor paper, this allows a painting to be built up in stages and reworked numerous times. This can facilitate a “loose” approach, where roughly blocked-in color areas can be refined down to a more detailed image. Or, a more “detailed” approach is also possible, carefully developing an initially detailed image and then loosening it in later stages. The inherent flexibility of the process allows for a variety of applications in this regard.
If you are looking to free up your approach to watercolor painting, with increased latitude and workability, this class will be of interest whether you’re already an experienced practitioner or completely new to the medium.
Supply List
Suppled by YAA:
Supplied by Participant:
Brushes
Brush Cleaner
small or large tub
Tube Maintenance
Palette
Colors:
MAY 24th | 2-4pm | ALL LEVELS | $35M $40NM
Back by popular demand!
Join us for a custom paint party where you paint a masterpiece of your own pet!
In this class, you will receive a hand drawn custom coloring book style 11x14 primed canvas of one pet or favorite animal that you submit. A palette specifically for you will be provided as well as a full color copy for painting reference. You will be guided from start to finish as a class, while also having one on one time with the instructor. Everyone is welcome, no painting experience is necessary.
All Materials are supplied. Just show up ready to create!
Email your pet photos directly to Michele after registration! Please no later than May 17th 2026: michelethepainter@gmail.com
This Pop-up is NON REFUNDABLE, please reach out to the YAA if you need to cancel for any reason.
About the Instructor:
Michele Ports Gargiulo was the kid who drew on everything.
Drawing, printmaking, and painting eventually lead into custom murals and faux finishes for homes and businesses.
After accepting a position in the veterinary industry, Michele melded together her love of animals and art.
As Michele the Painter, she specializes in custom pet portraits, creating art to donate for various animal welfare programs, rescues and educational programs. With the support of her customers over $45,000 in art and funds have been donated since 2104.
In 2017, Michele was accepted into the Creative York Adult Juried Art Exhibition.
In 2018, she was selected as one of 10 Emerging Artists for the annual Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show.
Michele illustrated a children's book in 2021, entitled 'Aladdin the Superhero', about an abused pup, who through love and support became the Rescue Dog of the Year.
She began teaching Paint Your Pet events in 2014, after attending one and partnering with a local rescue.
She currently can be found locally exhibiting in galleries, attending local Makers Markets and animal related events.
Michele credits her dog S'mores for being the best art assistant ever.
www.facebook.com/michelethepainter
Friday June 5th | 5-7pm | All Levels | $20 & $25
Join us for an ongoing series of Plein Air Pop-Ups designed for artists of all levels!
Discover the joy of painting in the open air with artist Jim Starr in this welcoming Pop-up Series is perfect for artists of all levels! Plein air, a French term meaning “in the open air” refers to the practice of painting outdoors, capturing the natural light, vibrant colors, and shifting moods of the landscape in real time.
Pennsylvania in the summer offers a breathtaking palette- lush greens, wildflowers in bloom, and golden afternoon light- an inspiring setting for anyone eager to connect with nature through art.
This first session will take place at the YAA.
In this session we will go cover materials need and location details. Then we the basic techniques by painting from a photo reference. Please bring any materials you have on hand.
Each session requires individual registration, so you can sign up for as many (or as few) as you’d like.
Dates, Times and Location Information: (addresses will be provided to registered students.)
Please note: there are no rain dates. Weather-related cancellations will be announced no later than 2 hours before the start time and will be made at the instructor’s discretion, in cases of excessive rain, storms, or extreme heat. In this case full refunds will be provided. Registration will close two days before the start of the event and must be paid for in advance no payment will be taken on site.
This is an ongoing series through out the summer, so be sure to stay tuned for additional dates and locations!
June 12th | 5pm-Sunset @ Lake Redman| All Levels | $45M $50 NM
Join us for an ongoing Plein Air Pop-Up Series with artist Jim Starr, designed for artists of all skill levels. Explore the practice of Plein Air painting outdoors while capturing natural light, color, and atmosphere in real time.
While the series is geared toward painters, artists of all mediums are welcome. Each session includes instruction, live demonstrations, and personalized feedback to support your growth. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Pennsylvania’s summer landscapes, this is a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and your creative practice.
Lake Redman notes: It's a pretty view of the lake you may never have seen in a secluded location. Jim found it by accident. Remember that the area is on the East side of 83, and it is NOT where they have the paddle boats and large pavilions to picnic.
SUPPLY LIST:
Please note: there are no rain dates. Weather-related cancellations will be announced no later than 2 hours before the start time and will be made at the instructor’s discretion, in cases of excessive rain, storms, or extreme heat. In this case full refunds will be provided. Registration will close two days before the start of the event and must be paid for in advance. No payment will be taken on site.
JIM STARR achieved his dream of pursuing a career in art by earning a BFA in Art/Illustration from Carnegie Mellon University. For over 25 years, he has worked as a freelance illustrator, creating digital art for advertising, corporate, and editorial projects, including children's books. In addition to his work as an illustrator, Jim is a fine artist who regularly paints with traditional media and takes on commissioned projects.
Jim has continuously honed his skills, particularly in watercolor, through classes and workshops with master watercolorists. He is an active member of the Pittsburgh Illustrators Club and the PA Watercolor Society, and he holds Signature Membership in the Baltimore Watercolor Society.
Jim is enthusiastic about sharing his knowledge and passion for art and illustration. You can view his illustration work at jimstarr.com and his fine art paintings at jimstarrart.com.
June 12th | 5pm-Sunset @ Columbia Crossing River Trails Center| All Levels | $45M $50 NM
Columbia Crossing River Trails Center: This location offers a spectacular panoramic view from the visitors' center of the bridge over the river, perfect for painting. You can find more information about the location (plenty to do there and restrooms, too) on their website:
https://www.susquehannaheritage.org/explore-2/columbia-crossing-river-trails-center/
June 26th | 5pm-Sunset @ Kiwanis Lake| All Levels | $45M $50 NM
Kiwanis Lake: This location sits in the heart of Downtown York. This little duck pond is home to many birds, including the Great Egret and Black-Crowned Heron. The calm water and reflections create beautiful opportunities for capturing light, movement, and atmosphere.
