How the Online classes work
The lessons will be available here, one per week, in the Files section of each individual class -- usually on Sunday night or Monday morning.
If we are not using a book or CD as a class text (in which case there will still be a lesson overview and homework assignments in text format for you to download each time), you'll need Adobe Reader to open them -- they're richly-illustrated .PDF files. Adobe Reader is a free program, which you can get here if you don't have it already.
Some other PDF readers don't work well with the format the lessons are saved in, so Adobe's the easiest way to go. I can't make the others work from my end, sorry - and I've
learned not to even try.
There are demos, exercises and homework in the lessons, which you'll do on your own, whenever, then upload homework either in your own blog or a graphics-hosting site like Flickr, Photobucket, Picasa or other, in order to receive feedback or direction.
It's not necessary to upload all the exercises you have completed, they're mostly for you, but I do want to see the homework. The first two lessons have quite a few exercises and you only make a painting if you want to, though, so if you have a question or problem with the exercises you're welcome to post a graphic and ask away!
My Flickr site:
I use Flickr, mostly, myself. My album is here, and I have several sets for the benefit of my students or to share art with other groups -- you're welcome to browse. I sometimes put up other small demos, either here or in my blog or in my Flickr albums.
You'll find a file in our files section with information on various graphics - hosting sites, some free, some reasonable (Flickr is free only until you have three albums or go over their limit for the month.)
* Please reduce your graphics to a reasonable size for faster downloads, especially for the convenience of those students who are still on dial-up. 500 kb is generally big enough.
You'll need a scanner or digital camera to share your work, as well as photo editing software,which comes with your scanner, camera, or computer, to reduce your images to a usable size. Photoshop Elements is also relatively inexpensive and fairly easy to use -- it's the program I use most often. (And no, I don't work for them or get a cut -- I just like the program!)
There is also a list of suggested supplies in the Files section of each individual class -- feel free to look them over and ask any questions you may have.
Then, we have discussion right on the class list -- you'll receive the URL and sign up when classes begin. Questions, answers, feedback, etc. all take place here. The other students often have answers that are as good as (or better than!) mine, so feedback is very valuable.
I try to be off line from Friday evening until Monday morning, so will respond only during the week, but you're welcome to post anything you like, whenever. I just won't be able to get back to you till Monday!
In addition, the schedule is sometimes flexible due to holidays, or when I have other deadlines or travel.
There is a Yahoogroups students list in addition to this list that's free -- alumni and new students alike are welcome to join that one, once we get underway here! We refer to it as "Kate's Coffeehouse." It's completely free, and very valuable, with monthly painting or drawing themes, feedback and sharing.
Here you'll find good friends who have met through the classes, and lovely, supportive, helpful and talented people ...
We hope you will join us! |