April Classes and Events at the Guild: Creativity in Full Bloom

Spring has officially arrived at the OCAG, and with it comes an inspiring lineup of classes, workshops, and creative gatherings designed to spark imagination at every level. Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush for the first time, refining your technique, or simply looking for a welcoming space to create, April at OCAG is overflowing with opportunity.

Find Your Flow: Painting, Drawing & Creative Exploration

Monotone Mischief in Watercolor: a deep dive into tones and values, helping artists master the art of monochromatic painting.
Do Your Own Thing with Instruction with Carol Colvin offers guided freedom, bring your own project and get expert feedback.
Brush & Bloom: A Watercolor Journey into Spring invites artists of all levels to explore soft washes and florals.
Drawing with Joseph Rogine and ongoing Figure Drawing sessions provide essential practice in observation, proportion, and form.

Workshops That Inspire

Mastering the Art of Framing (4/4) Learn how to professionally present your artwork with guidance from Diane Israel
Gelli Plate Do Your Own Thing (4/11) – A hands-on printmaking session focused on texture, layering, and happy accidents.
Turn Trash into Treasure (4/17) – Transform old paintings into vibrant watercolor collages
Sunday Portrait Drawing Workshop (4/19 &4/26) – A relaxed way to build portrait skills in a supportive setting.

Creativity for Kids

Weekly children’s sessions explore fun seasonal themes like Easter eggs, cherry blossoms, decorated elephants, and Earth Day
Teen artists can dive deeper in Carol Colvin’s Teen Class, where they’re encouraged to develop their own style while strengthening drawing, composition, and color skills.

Community and Connection

Yoga (Tuesdays & Fridays) offers a chance to reset and recharge before or after your studio time.
The Joyful Art Collective (4/24) is a welcoming space to connect with creativity, and simply enjoy the process
Art Book Club (4/10) brings artists together to share inspiration, ideas, and favorite resources.
“Do Your Own Thing” groups (weekday, weekend, and evening editions) offer open creative time with fellow artists

Art by Lee Stacy

April Galleries: Where Art Meets Legend

Featuring Lee Stacey in the Gallery 1

Step into the gallery and immerse yourself in the featured work of Lee Stacy, a beloved member and instructor whose presence at the Guild has inspired so many. Many of you know Lee as the guiding hand behind our Sunday Portrait Drawing Class, where artists of all levels gather to sharpen their skills and find confidence in their creative voice. His passion for teaching and dedication to our community shine through not only in his instruction, but in every piece he creates.

The Legend Comes to Life: Bob Steeler Installation

Gallery 2 and the Pop Up highlights a special art installation by Bob Steeler. Bob has worn many hats in his lifetime, but at his core, he has always been an artist. From abstract and figurative painting to a dynamic career behind the drum kit, his creative journey is extraordinary. He has performed with icons, playing alongside Jerry Garcia, and his art has been exhibited internationally.

Opening Reception – Sunday, April 12 | 1–4 PM

Join us for an afternoon of art, conversation, and community as we celebrate our April Member Show and the artists who make it possible. Wander the gallery. Meet fellow creatives. Experience Bob Steeler’s work up close. Let yourself be inspired.

Art by Bob Steeler

April Member Show: Important Dates and Details

Spring is bringing fresh creativity to the OCAG, and it’s time to start preparing for our April Member’s Show.

Artwork Receiving This Week & Extended Dates

Artwork will be accepted on Wednesday, April 1 and Thursday, April 2 (1–4 PM). All submitted work will be hung on Friday, April 3, transforming the gallery into a vibrant celebration of member creativity.

April Theme: Artist’s Choice: This month’s suggested theme is “Artist’s Choice”, giving you complete freedom to submit the work that best represents your unique voice and vision.

Submission Reminders
To ensure a smooth receiving process, please remember:
• Sign in at the binder with complete and correct information
• Entry fee is $5 for 2 pieces
• Artwork must be properly wired for hanging
• Include a clearly filled-out label/tag

Looking Ahead: Monthly Themes for 2026
Mark your calendars and start planning your next pieces—here’s what’s coming up:
• May: Familiar Faces
• June: Artist’s Choice
• July: FIFA OCAG “World Cup” (Still life/cups)
• August: Under the Sea
• September: Artist’s Choice
• October: TBA
• November: Chasing Autumn
• December: Winter Solstice

Whether you’re a longtime member or just getting started, the Member’s Show is a wonderful opportunity to share your work, connect with fellow artists, and be part of the Guild’s creative energy. We can’t wait to see what you bring into the gallery this month!

Paint Beautiful Florals in Oil This Spring

Join Debbie Kurtz for a special Floral Oil Painting Class where you’ll learn techniques for blending colors, working with materials, and creating rich textures that bring blooming florals to life. This welcoming class is perfect for both beginners and experienced artists, offering a relaxed and inspiring environment to grow your skills and explore the timeless beauty of floral painting.

Tuesdays, April 21 – May 26
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Members: $180 | Public: $200

Bring an 11” x 14” smooth canvas or gessoed panel and your oil painting materials, and get ready to create something beautiful. Spots are limited, sign up today!

We Need Sitters this Spring

OCAG thrives because of members like you, and we need volunteers to serve as “OCAG Sitters” this spring. Sitting the gallery is a wonderful way to support OCAG by welcoming visitors, connecting with fellow artists, and spending an afternoon surrounded by beautiful artwork. No heavy lifting required, just a friendly presence and a love for our creative community!

Dates Needed (1:00 – 4:00 PM):

April: 4/4, 4/11, 4/19, 4/25, 4/26

May: 5/2, 5/9, 5/16, 5/17, 5/24, 5/30, 5/31

June: 6/6,6/13, 6/20, 6/21, 6/28

If you’re available for any of these dates, please reach out to info@ocartistsguild.org . Your time and support make a tremendous difference. Thank you for helping keep our doors open and our gallery welcoming to the community!

Garden State Art Weekend
April 17–19, 2026

We are thrilled to be part of Garden State Art Weekend, a statewide celebration connecting communities through art. Join us for a weekend filled with creativity, learning, music, and fun!

Friday, April 17 features Turn Trash into Treasure, an inspiring upcycled watercolor collage workshop with Clara Sue Beym. Spend the day transforming your own watercolor paintings into vibrant new works.

Saturday, April 18 brings a full day of art and energy:

Morning Figure Drawing with an undraped model
FREE afternoon demos featuring woodturning with Cagney Archdeacon, linocut with Jo Guscott, miniatures with Diane Israel and a surprise demo with Leona Lavone
Evening Reception (4–8 PM) with art by Bob Steeler and live music by Blackwolf featuring Bob Steeler of Hot Tuna