Class: Pop-Art Typographic Paintings

Students will explore the vibrant world of Pop Art by turning letters, numerals, and phrases into bold graphic art. Drawing inspiration from iconic artists such as Robert Indiana, Jaspers Johns, Mel Bochner, Keith Haring and Ed Ruscha, you will experiment with layout, focal points, and color contrast to turn language into a striking canvas. Using strong, simple, geometric shapes, vibrant color palettes, and monumental letters, students will design and paint their own artwork that combines visual design with personal meaning.

Using acrylics, masking techniques, and precise brushwork, you’ll master how to achieve crisp, clean lines and hard-edge shapes that make your design pop off the wall. Whether you choose a meaningful quote, a lucky number, or a single impactful word, you’ll walk away with a high-contrast, professional-looking piece of graphic art ready to display.

This is an explorational class for all levels – beginners to advanced – everyone is welcome to come and make art with us. All supplies are included, but feel free to bring your own supplies you’d like to experiment with. Before class, you might want to think about what letter(s), word(s) or phrase(s) you want to use in your artwork.

About Mary Olsen:
Mary Olsen is a working artist driven by a belief that art instruction is an integral part of a quality education. Mary founded Art Start NW to bring enrichment into Edmonds Public Schools. That mission expanded with the creation of Graphite, a physical home for artists to work in their preferred medium, collaborate and show their work. Mary’s commitment to making Edmonds a center for visual art inspires teachers, Art Start NW staff and visitors every day.

When: February 17 & 24, 2027 (2 evening sessions)
Time: 6:00PM – 8:00PM
Cost: $110
Ages: Adults 18+
Instructor: Mary Olsen
Supply Fee: All supplies included
Location: Graphite Arts Center, 202 Main St., Edmonds, WA 98020
Pre-registration required

Class fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. Register early! If there are less than 6 people in a class, the class could get canceled and your money will be refunded.

Questions? Contact workshops@graphiteartscenter.org