STEAM

The COMO’s Youth and Teen STEAM program is designed to inspire curiosity and creativity in young minds through a dynamic blend of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Offering hands-on workshops and activities, this program encourages participants to explore real-world challenges while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, students engage in projects that promote teamwork and foster a love for learning. Whether through robotics, coding, art, or environmental science, the STEAM program provides a supportive and enriching environment where youth and teens can discover their passions and build confidence in their abilities.

The COMO offers vibrant youth art programs designed to spark creativity and nurture artistic expression in children and teens. Our programs cater to various age groups and skill levels, providing a supportive environment where young artists can explore a wide range of mediums and techniques.

Participants will engage in hands-on activities, including painting, drawing, sculpture, and mixed media, guided by experienced instructors who foster creativity and innovation. Each session emphasizes the importance of experimentation and personal expression, allowing students to develop their unique artistic voice.

In addition to enhancing technical skills, our youth art programs promote collaboration and community-building through group projects and exhibitions. Young artists will have the opportunity to showcase their work, encouraging confidence and pride in their accomplishments.

The COMO offers a variety of personalized and group pottery classes in our studio for both youth and adults. We also provide private lessons, Sip ‘n’ Spin pottery socials, and the Stonington Independent Potters program for experienced potters seeking to practice their art outside the classroom.

Youth Pottery on the Wheel [Ages 9-15]

In this class, students will explore throwing on the wheel, handbuilding, and glazing as they learn and practice creating with clay. By the end of the session, your child will have a wonderful portfolio of finished works. No prior experience is required.

Private Pottery Lessons [All Ages]

Private lessons are 120-minute, one-on-one sessions available for beginner to advanced potters. Students can work on a variety of specific projects with an instructor. Group lessons are offered at the same base fee, with an additional $75 per person to cover clay costs.

The COMO offers engaging youth theatre programs designed to inspire creativity, confidence, and collaboration among young performers. 

Our programs cater to various age groups and skill levels, providing a welcoming environment for all participants to explore the world of theatre.

Through acting workshops, rehearsals, and performances, students will develop essential skills such as character development, improvisation, and stage presence. Our experienced instructors guide participants in exploring various aspects of theatre, from script interpretation to technical production, ensuring a well-rounded experience.

In addition to building individual talent, our youth theatre programs emphasize teamwork and communication, fostering a sense of community and friendship among participants. Whether your child is a seasoned performer or new to the stage, our programs encourage self-expression and a love for the arts.

The COMO offers engaging Adult STEAM programs designed to inspire creativity and foster lifelong learning in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. These programs provide a unique opportunity for adults to explore diverse topics through hands-on workshops, classes, and collaborative projects.

Participants can delve into a variety of subjects, from digital arts to pottery, and our experienced instructors guide each session, encouraging participants to experiment, innovate, and develop new skills in a supportive environment.

In addition to enhancing technical expertise, Adult STEAM programs promote community connection and networking among like-minded individuals.

Whether you’re looking to pick up a new hobby, expand your professional skills, or simply explore your creative side, our programs offer a welcoming space for all.

The Stonington Community Center offers a vibrant array of art programs designed for adults looking to explore their creativity, enhance their skills, and connect with fellow art enthusiasts. Our classes cater to all levels, from beginners to advanced artists, and provide a supportive environment to foster artistic growth.
Participants can choose from a variety of mediums, including painting, pottery, drawing, and mixed media. Led by experienced instructors, each program emphasizes hands-on learning and personal expression, allowing individuals to develop their unique artistic voice.
Whether you’re looking to unwind with a relaxing painting session, dive into the technical aspects of pottery, or experiment with innovative art techniques, our adult art programs provide the perfect opportunity to unleash your creativity. Join us to create, learn, and connect with others in a welcoming community that celebrates art and self-expression.

WATERCOLOR EXPLORATIONS WITH MYSTIC MUSEUM OF ART

• Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m

In partnership with the Mystic Museum of Art, join artist educator Carol Mann to learn how to paint in watercolor. MMoA educators bring unique perspectives, skills, and expertise, and we are excited to offer Watercolor Explorations, the first of many collaborative art programs at the Stonington COMO’s Makerspace.

Watercolor is a versatile, expressive medium that is easy to learn but can take a lifetime to master. Students will learn to create a garden or nature journal, illustrate a travel diary, or design one-of-a-kind greeting cards. This class covers the basics of laying flat and graded washes, achieving the right pigment-to-water ratio, and using various tools and techniques to create texture and interest. Students will use still life and landscape as subject matter while reviewing fundamental principles of composition and color. All supplies are provided, although participants may want to bring a small paper pad for notes and preliminary sketches. This class is suitable for beginners and intermediates—no prior experience required.

• Member: $220.00

• Non-Member: $250.00

The COMO offers a vibrant array of adult pottery programs designed to inspire creativity, enhance skills, and foster a sense of community among participants.

Our pottery classes cater to various skill levels, from beginners to seasoned potters, providing a welcoming environment for all. Participants will have the opportunity to learn techniques in ceramics, including wheel throwing, hand-building, and glazing, while creating unique, expressive works of art.

Bench Time

Included in all adult pottery classes, weekly bench time is available on Saturdays from 1 to 3:30 p.m. This unstructured time allows students to practice their skills in the studio on a first-come basis, limited to six students at a time. Please note that bench time is not instructor-led.

Clay

Clay is not included in the class price. First-time students are required to purchase clay during registration.

Pottery with Justin [Ages 16+]

This class focuses on the joys of ceramics, open to all skill levels. You will learn the fundamentals of throwing on the wheel, hand-building, and glazing, ultimately creating a portfolio of finished work. Classes meet on Tuesdays from 3-5:30 p.m. or 6-8:30 p.m. and Thursdays from 12-2:30 p.m.

• Member: $315.00
• Non-Member: $345.00

Adult Wheel Thrown Pottery [Ages 16+]

Designed for both beginners and those looking to refine their skills, this class meets on Thursdays from 6-8:30 p.m. Participants will explore wheel throwing, forming basic shapes, and glazing techniques.

• Member: $315.00
• Non-Member: $345.00

Sip ‘n’ Spin Pottery Workshop

Enjoy a relaxing evening with your favorite beverage as you watch a professional wheel-throwing demo. Then, try your hand at creating your own piece on the pottery wheel or through hand-building. Clay and firing for three pieces are included. Ages 21+ only.

Independent Pottery

Offered year-round, the Independent Pottery program is for selected potters who wish to work independently in the studio.
Participants have access to the studio at various times throughout the week and on weekends. Please note that the COMO Pottery Studio is intended for hobbyists, and production for sale outside of the COMO is prohibited.

The COMO’s adult theatre program offers a welcoming and creative environment for individuals to explore the performing arts.

Whether you’re a seasoned actor or new to the stage, the program encourages self-expression, collaboration, and artistic growth. Participants have the opportunity to engage in various aspects of theatre, from acting and directing to set design and production.

The program fosters community connection, creativity, and confidence, providing a platform for adults to develop their theatrical skills while contributing to dynamic local productions.