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Spend five focused Wednesdays developing observational drawing with Cynthia Keefe at Creative 360 in Midland. Small classes, tailored instruction, and practical demos make this an efficient stop for visitors or locals wanting to sharpen skills.
Spend five focused Wednesdays developing observational drawing with Cynthia Keefe at Creative 360 in Midland. Small classes, tailored instruction, and practical demos make this an efficient stop for visitors or locals wanting to sharpen skills.
Book with Creative 360
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Operated by Creative 360 · Midland, Michigan
Creative 360’s five-week Drawing ONLY course with Cynthia Keefe unfolds on Wednesday afternoons in downtown Midland, Michigan. Located at 5501 Jefferson Ave, this concentrated series runs June 17, 24, July 1, 8 and 15 with two-hour sessions (1:00–3:00 p.m.) for ages 16 and up. Taught by Cynthia Keefe, MFA and Creative 360 co‑founder, the class guides both beginners and practiced sketchers through observational drawing fundamentals—materials, perspective, proportion, composition and shading—delivered in small, focused cohorts of just twelve students.
The room itself is part studio, part classroom: expect communal work surfaces, demonstration space and a steady flow of reference subjects, from still-life setups to quick-gesture figures. Emphasis is practical: Keefe offers tailored feedback so projects evolve to match each student’s goals, whether that means sharpening technical draftsmanship or loosening up a stiffer hand. A materials list is provided upon registration; while supplies are not included, the instructor demystifies tools and media so newcomers leave confident about what to buy next.
What makes this series stand out for visitors to Midland is its local pedigree and intimate scale. Creative 360 grew out of community-driven arts programming and Keefe’s MFA-level instruction brings studio rigor without pretension. For travelers who want a focused creative outlet between outdoor adventures—bike rides along the Tittabawassee River or a morning at nearby Dow Gardens—this class offers a low-commitment cultural stop that fits into a day trip or a longer stay.
Expect clear, immediate learning: quick perspective exercises, shading drills that reveal volume, and composition critiques that help transform sketchbook studies into finished pieces. Each session is structured to build on the last, so returning students see measurable improvement across the five meetings. Cost is $100 per session, and preregistration is required to secure one of the twelve spots.
Practical tips: bring an appetite for observation, a sketchbook if you own one, and an openness to instructor-led demos. This offering is particularly useful in summer when local galleries and outdoor public art installations are active; it also makes a thoughtful stop for creatives traveling through Michigan who want to maintain or kick-start an art practice. With hands-on guidance from Cynthia Keefe and Creative 360’s community focus, the Drawing ONLY series is a compact, skill-forward way to deepen your drawing in Midland’s welcoming arts scene.
Classes cap at twelve to ensure one-on-one coaching during exercises, and sessions are paced so students can work at their own rhythm. The instructor adapts demos for charcoal, graphite and ink, letting participants sample multiple media across the series. Whether you plan to sketch on the road or restart a stalled practice at home, this program provides a clear, supportive path to stronger observational drawing and a small creative network to sustain your work consistently.
No prior experience is required; the series is designed to welcome beginners while offering advanced options for returning students.
Materials are not included. A detailed materials list is provided upon registration so you can bring recommended supplies.
Participants must be 16 years or older to enroll.
Preregister and pay through the booking link provided with the session listing; spots are reserved on a first-come basis.
Sessions meet at 5501 Jefferson Ave, Midland, MI 48640; arrive early to set up your workspace.
Classes are capped at 12 for individualized instruction; sessions include demos, hands-on exercises and instructor critiques.
Creative 360 is a community-centered arts organization based in Midland, Michigan, offering a broad calendar of performances, classes, workshops, and volunteer opportunities. Dedicated to accessible arts education, Creative 360 runs inclusive semesters such as Artshop Clay and Artshop Painting Explorations that welcome participants of all ages and abilities, including those with disabilities. Small class sizes—typically limited to eight students for specialized hands-on art sessions—ensure personalized attention and skill development. Creative 360 presents recurring public performances including the free Sound Community Music Series held every second Wednesday, featuring classical and jazz artists like Trio Rubaton and electro-acoustic sets. The venue hosts visiting artists and special concerts such as the June performance by Michigan native Sarah Bomber. Seasonal programming includes a Summer Theatre Intensive for ages 11–17 where students audition, rehearse, and perform under a professional director, and short-term workshops like Sewing for Everyone focused on upcycling and practical skills. Community engagement is central to Creative 360’s mission: the organization operates volunteer programs that allow community members to support events and enjoy performances, and coordinates special events such as the inaugural Holiday Art Fair during Midland’s Holiday Arts Weekend. Additional offerings like Tai Chi 360 provide wellness-focused movement classes suitable for all levels. Creative 360 partners with local artists and instructors to maintain a varied, community-rooted schedule of arts experiences in Midland.
Book with Creative 360