In this dynamic art lesson, students will step away from traditional realism and explore the expressive potential of charcoal in creating non-realistic portraits. By experimenting with bold marks, abstract shapes, and exaggerated features, students will learn how to use charcoal to convey emotion, personality, and mood through abstraction and creative interpretation. This lesson encourages students to break free from the constraints of realism and tap into their imaginations to create a portrait that is uniquely their own! 

Please note, Museum admission is not included in the workshop price, but you can enjoy The New Children's Museum at a discount! On the day of your workshop, each attendee may purchase one (1) admission ticket for 50% off. 

Important Details:  

• Workshop Duration: This workshop is 90 minutes.
• Location: The workshop takes place in our brand-new art studio, Artopia: NCM Creative Studios, located inside The New Children’s Museum at 200 W. Island Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101.
• Please plan to arrive around 20 minutes early for parking and check-in.
• Check-in at the Artopia entrance on Union Street & Island Ave (please note: this is NOT the Museum’s main entrance).
• Drop-Off & Pick-Up:
• A guardian may drop off the participant at the start of class.
• For safety purposes, only adults listed during registration with a matching photo ID may pick up participants.
• Parking:
• Limited Museum garage parking is available for $20 per car ($10 for NCM Members and EBT/WIC/SNAP cardholders).
• Additional public parking lots and metered spaces are nearby.
• ABM Parking (450 2nd Ave.) offers a 2-hour discount with code 8792 (exclusions apply, including Padres games).
• Public Transportation: The Museum is accessible via the MTS Trolley Green Line and MTS Bus.
• Museum Admission:
• Workshop participants receive 50% off same-day Museum admission.
• This discount applies only to the participant; additional guests must purchase admission at the Museum Welcome Desk at the standard rate.
• Participants under 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult to explore the Museum.
• Questions? For any questions about this workshop, please reach out to us at [email protected].