Thunderbird Arts Center, in partnership with the City of Phoenix, is a satellite location of Phoenix Center for the Arts, serving our North Phoenix communities. The facility opened to the public in the fall of 2016, and began offering classes for adults and youth year-round.
Students can register for a variety of art classes at this location, including: Ceramics, Mosaics, Painting & Drawing, Photography, Printmaking, Mosaics, Youth Art, and more!
Note: Click the “Sign Up” button at the bottom of a class description to register through the Center’s Mindbody registration platform. A Mindbody account is required to register for classes at the Center. Questions about registration or financial aid? Call (602) 254-3100 or email frontdesk@phoenixcenterforthearts.org to speak to a Patron Services Associate to speak to a Patron Services Associate.
Prior to arriving for in-person classes, students are required to digitally sign our Student Agreement.
Address:
Thunderbird Arts Center
1106 E. Grovers Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85022
(located in the building behind the Mountain View Community Center)
Hours of operation:
Our hours vary based on class schedules. Please contact our office to confirm the weekly hours.
Phone:
(602) 293-3267
Fun & Easy Acrylic Painting (Thunderbird - 4 weeks)
Date: February 03, 2026 6:30 pm - February 24, 2026 8:30 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 7/12
Students or Guardians must bring ID to the first class.
Description: Great for beginners and intermediates. Step-by-step follow along tutorial to produce a completed painting in 2 hours! Always room to personalize/modify your art piece. Always fun! 4 weeks
Materials: All materials will be provided.
Prerequisites: None
Ages: 16+
Cost: $85.00
Basic: Learning to Paint the Head
Date: February 03, 2026 6:00 pm - March 03, 2026 8:45 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 6/10
Description: This is a fundamental class designed to teach you how to paint the head using oils. We will explore the process of transforming a live model into a two-dimensional representation. This class serves as a crucial skill for cultivating realism or abstracting portraits. We will sharpen your observational abilities, enhance your eye-hand coordination, examine the planes of the face, use simple value system and uncover proportions using a simple color palette. This class provides practical experience in painting the head, guiding you through the process of developing portraiture.
Materials: Oil Paints: Cadmium Red , French Ultramarine, Viridian , lemon yellow, Yellow Ochre, Burnt Sienna, Ivory Black, and Titanium White. termloid, container clean brushes, oil brushes vary of size: 20,12, 6, 16, rages, canvas boards/ canvas paper(with board), 9 x 12 to 11 x 17
Prerequisite: Recommended but not required: Use of Oils painting objects, basic drawing portraits
Duration: 5 weeks
Ages: 16+
Cost: $160.00
Fun & Easy Acrylic Painting (Thunderbird - 4 weeks)
Date: February 04, 2026 6:30 pm - February 25, 2026 8:30 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 6/12
Students or Guardians must bring ID to the first class.
Description: Great for beginners and intermediates. Step-by-step follow along tutorial to produce a completed painting in 2 hours! Always room to personalize/modify your art piece. Always fun! 4 weeks
Materials: All materials will be provided.
Prerequisites: None
Ages: 16+
Cost: $85.00
Painting exercises: WATER LILIES
Date: February 09, 2026 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 1/10
Students or Guardians must bring ID to the first class.
Instructor: Hristi Wilbur
Description: Three-hour acrylics workshop with a focus on landscape painting. The project is inspired by the famous water lilies of Claude Monet in Giverny, France. The step-by-step instruction will cover color mixing and the small, overlapping brushstrokes typical for Impressionist painting. All materials provided.
Materials: None
Duration: 3 Hours
Prerequisites: None
Ages: 16+
Cost: $50
Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop for Photographers (Online)
Date: February 12, 2026 6:00 pm - March 05, 2026 8:00 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 8/9
Description: Adobe Lightroom has become the go-to program for digital photographers. It allows us to do all the enhancements and more with just a few clicks or adjustment of sliders. Photoshop remains the program of choice for complex designs and pixel level control. However both programs are made to work together for photographers to enhance and improve their images. This is what the class is all about. For the new user Bill will show how to import and start working with images right at the first class in Lightroom. If you have been using Lightroom but are finding it frustrating, Bill will show you how to setup your folders and work with collections for a more effective workflow. He will also show how to use Presets, create beautiful Black and White images from color files, and create prints from your images. If needed he will show how to send your image to Photoshop for that final touch of creativity. If you are a pro or just want to work on all of your images from your camera then this class is for you.
Materials: Computer with Zoom. Camera and Mike is also helpful
Duration: 4 Weeks
Prerequisites: Computer Link with Zoom
Ages: 18+
Cost: $100.00
Impressionism in Acrylics (Thunderbird)
Date: February 18, 2026 6:00 pm - March 25, 2026 9:00 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 8/10
Description: In this class we will utilize the main elements of impressionistic painting: capturing the flickering light, use of vibrant colors and variety of brushstrokes. We will paint without black! The projects will cover nature landscapes, cityscapes, and lake site (waterscape). We’ll discuss some of the best examples from the masters of Impressionism and translate their artistic philosophy and technique to painting landscapes today.
Materials: No materials required
Duration: 6 weeks
Prerequisites: No Experience Required
Ages: 16+
Cost: $195.00
Painting exercises: HUMMINGBIRD
Date: February 23, 2026 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 3/10
Description: 3- hour acrylic class with step-by-step instructions. Students will learn how to paint a bird, mix colors and layers with acrylic paint. All materials provided.
Materials: All materials provided
Prerequisite: No experience required
Duration: 3 hours
Ages: 16+
Cost: $50.00
Creative Music Production
Date: February 25, 2026 4:00 pm - May 27, 2026 5:00 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 6/6
Description: Have you ever wanted to make your own music like your favorite artists and producers? In Creative Music Production, students will learn how to create original songs using Soundtrap, an online Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) used by musicians around the world. This hands-on, after-school course introduces students to the basics of music production in a fun and age-appropriate way. Whether you’re brand new to music or already love experimenting with sound, Creative Music Production is a place to create, collaborate, and have fun making music!
Materials: If your prefer your own headphones, bring them.
Prerequisite: Interest in making your own music
Duration: 13 weeks
Days Off: Spring Break - 03/18/26
Ages: 11-16
Cost: $130.00
Beginning Wheel Throwing (14 Weeks - TB)
Date: February 26, 2026 1:00 pm - May 28, 2026 4:00 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 1/6
Description: Designed for Beginner and Intermediate level students who wish to begin or improve their Ceramics’s education by learning about various ceramic materials and methods of throwing on the potter’s wheel. Emphasis will be on exploring the basic throwing principles of forming and finishing cylindrical forms through instructor lead demonstrations.
Materials: Please bring your own pottery tools or purchase a 9 piece ceramics tool kit from Marjon Ceramics Supply prior to class time, an apron and hand towel. Students should expect to spend a minimum of $50.00 for materials. Clay is available for purchase in class for $30.00 per 25lbs. bag. Please bring cash.
Prerequisite: Have basic experience in hand building clay construction or wheel throwing, helpful but not necessary.
Duration: 14 weeks
Ages: 18+
Cost: $350.00
Beginning Wheel Throwing (14 Weeks - TB)
Date: February 27, 2026 1:00 pm - May 29, 2026 4:00 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 4/6
Description: Designed for Beginner and Intermediate level students who wish to begin or improve their Ceramics’s education by learning about various ceramic materials and methods of throwing on the potter’s wheel. Emphasis will be on exploring the basic throwing principles of forming and finishing cylindrical forms through instructor lead demonstrations.
Materials: Please bring your own pottery tools or purchase a 9 piece ceramics tool kit from Marjon Ceramics Supply prior to class time, an apron and hand towel. Students should expect to spend a minimum of $50.00 for materials. Clay is available for purchase in class for $30.00 per 25lbs. bag. Please bring cash.
Prerequisite: Have basic experience in hand building clay construction or wheel throwing, helpful but not necessary.
Duration: 14 weeks
Ages: 18+
Cost: $350.00
Beginning Wheel Throwing (14 Weeks - TB)
Date: February 28, 2026 1:00 pm - May 30, 2026 4:00 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 3/11
Description: Designed for Beginner and Intermediate level students who wish to begin or improve their Ceramics’s education by learning about various ceramic materials and methods of throwing on the potter’s wheel. Emphasis will be on exploring the basic throwing principles of forming and finishing cylindrical forms through instructor lead demonstrations.
Materials: Please bring your own pottery tools or purchase a 9 piece ceramics tool kit from Marjon Ceramics Supply prior to class time, an apron and hand towel. Students should expect to spend a minimum of $50.00 for materials. Clay is available for purchase in class for $30.00 per 25lbs. bag. Please bring cash.
Prerequisite: Have basic experience in hand building clay construction or wheel throwing, helpful but not necessary.
Duration: 14 weeks
Ages: 18+
Cost: $350.00
Drawing Exercise: Portrait
Date: March 02, 2026 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 5/10
Students or Guardians must bring ID to the first class.
Instructor: Hristi Wilbur
Description: 3 hour workshop dedicated to introducing beginners to drawing a human portrait. We will discuss proportion, shading and how to achieve realistic look and catch the person’s character. All materials provided.
Duration: 3 Hours
Prerequisites: No experience required
Ages: 16+
Cost: $50
Intermediate/ Advanced Acrylic Painting 5 weeks (Thunderbird)
Date: March 02, 2026 6:00 pm - March 30, 2026 9:00 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 11/12
Description: Landscapes, florals, water scenes, figure work, abstract, still life. Students take their work home each week and bring it back to work on it the following week.
Materials: All materials will be supplied by instructor.
Prerequisite: My beginner painting class, or another beginner painting class
Duration: 5 weeks
Ages: 16+
Cost: $150.00
Fun & Easy Acrylic Painting (Thunderbird - 4 weeks)
Date: March 03, 2026 6:30 pm - March 24, 2026 8:30 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 11/12
Students or Guardians must bring ID to the first class.
Description: Great for beginners and intermediates. Step-by-step follow along tutorial to produce a completed painting in 2 hours! Always room to personalize/modify your art piece. Always fun! 4 weeks
Materials: All materials will be provided.
Prerequisites: None
Ages: 16+
Cost: $85.00
Fun & Easy Acrylic Painting (Thunderbird - 4 weeks)
Date: March 04, 2026 6:30 pm - March 25, 2026 8:30 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 12/12
Students or Guardians must bring ID to the first class.
Description: Great for beginners and intermediates. Step-by-step follow along tutorial to produce a completed painting in 2 hours! Always room to personalize/modify your art piece. Always fun! 4 weeks
Materials: All materials will be provided.
Prerequisites: None
Ages: 16+
Cost: $85.00
Figure Thursday
Date: March 05, 2026 9:30 am - March 26, 2026 12:00 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 10/10
Description: This is a relaxing class suitable for various skill levels, aimed at those who wish to practice figure drawing want occasional guidance. This course is ideal whether you want to draw independently or seek guidance. Our practice will enhancing your observational skills, improving eye-hand coordination, and improve style. At the start, we will focus on what is essential to draw first, what to prioritize, and what details to add later in the process, different drawing techniques. Then you will have independent practice, pop up challenges(you may or may not want to try) , and tutor available for feedback. We will remind ourselves to be patient and recognize that regular practice is key, understanding that visible progress can often be slow and imperfect, as we are constantly evolving.
Materials: Drawing pad 11 x 14 or bigger, pencils vine charcoal, knead eraser, sand paper fine, white eraser, drawing board optional.
Prerequisite: Guided Figure Drawing Practice
Duration: 4 weeks
Ages: 18+
Cost: $120.00
Drawing Exercise: Perspective
Date: March 09, 2026 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 7/10
Instructor: Hristi Wilbur
Description: 3 hour workshop with main goal to introduce students to linear and aerial perspective, as well as shading. To achieve the illusion of space we will do a step-by-step drawing of mostly architectural objects. Important art terms like horizon, vanishing point will be discussed, as well as the difference between one-, two- and three-point perspective.
Materials: No materials required
Duration: 1 day
Prerequisites: None
Ages: 16+
Cost: $50
Getting a Grip on your Digital Camera (Thunderbird)
Date: March 10, 2026 6:00 pm - March 24, 2026 7:30 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 9/9
Students or Guardians must bring ID to the first class.
Description: If your digital camera has been the bane of your creative expression or you just want to start taking better images, then this class is for you. Bill will help you understand both the creative settings of your camera and show you how to create better images. You are encouraged to bring a camera to class and Bill will help in getting your camera set up for getting the shots you want. This class will also help you get better photos even with your cell phone.
Materials: Should have a camera or cell phone for photos
Prerequisite: None
Duration: 3 weeks
Ages: 16+
Cost: $55.00
Please arrive 15 minutes before class begins.
Painting exercises: WATERCOLOR LANDSCAPE
Date: March 16, 2026 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 8/10
Description: 3-hour workshop with a step-by-step instruction. We will explore working with watercolors and applying linear and aerial perspective in painting a landscape. All materials provided.
Materials: All materials provided
Prerequisite: No experience required
Duration: 3 hours
Ages: 16+
Cost: $50.00
Expressive Painting Studio: Oil and Acrylic (TB 11 weeks)
Date: March 16, 2026 5:30 pm - May 25, 2026 8:30 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 6/6
Description: This open-level painting class is designed for students of all experience levels—from beginners picking up a brush for the first time to advanced painters refining their skills. Working in either oil or acrylic paint, students are free to choose their own subject matter using photos or reference materials that inspire them.
The class emphasizes creative freedom while building strong painting fundamentals. Students will receive individualized guidance on composition, color mixing, brushwork, layering, and developing depth and texture. Beginners will gain confidence through step-by-step support, while more experienced painters will be encouraged to push their style, experiment with techniques, and deepen their personal artistic voice.
This class is ideal for artists who enjoy a relaxed, studio-style environment, value one-on-one feedback, and want the flexibility to paint what they love—whether it’s portraits, landscapes, still life, or abstract work. Come explore, experiment, and grow as a painter at your own pace while being supported and inspired in a creative community.
Materials: Bring a reference photo of what you would like to work on
Prerequisite: No Previous Experience Required
Duration: 11 weeks
Ages: 16+
Cost: $325.00