The Workshop Program provides fee-based, artist-led classes in materials such as glass, steel, fiber, and stone.

In an effort to maintain accessibility, 4 full scholarships will be awarded to students in the Fall 2026 season. Additionally, High Desert Locals receive a 10% discount on most workshops.

One scholarship seat will be awarded in the following classes:

Introduction to Kiln-Formed Glass Casting with Heidi Schwegler: September 18-20, 2026

Documentation for Artists with Sarah Lyon: September 20 & 27, 2026  

Repair Retreat with Claire Beaumont: November 13-15, 2026

Introduction to Welding with Ethan Primason: December 5-6, 2026

Fall Scholarship Applications will open on May 1, 2026. Applications are due on June 19, 2026 at 5 pm PST.

Cancellation Policy for Workshops: Students must notify YVML of cancellation 30 days before the start date of the workshop for a refund (with the exception of credit card fees). No credit or refunds will be given within 30 days.

Intro to Welding: June 13-14, 2026

9 am - 4 pm

with Ethan Primason ethanprimason.com

In this two-day workshop, learn the fundamentals of MIG welding steel. Welding processes include a complete explanation of how to use a MIG welder, welding specific types of joints, cutting with a metal chop saw, grinding with angle body grinders, and a thorough explanation of safety procedures. On the second day, students are encouraged to make a small object such as a candle or incense holder in order to practice all of the techniques covered on day one.

$295

Introduction to Kiln-Formed Glass Casting: June 16-18, 2026

Day 1: 9 am - 4 pm, Day 2: 8 am - 12 pm, Day 3: 2 pm - 5 pm

with Heidi Schwegler heidischwegler.com

Join us in-person as we take you through each step of the lost wax casting process. Silicone and alginate mold making is also included. Learn the basics of lost wax kiln-casting by transforming found objects into Bullseye glass. Students will learn the essentials for mold-building, wax finishing, material calculation, color mixing, and the theory behind firing schedules.

$425

Introduction to Welding: September 5-6, 2026

9 am - 4 pm

with Ethan Primason ethanprimason.com

In this two-day workshop, learn the fundamentals of MIG welding steel. Welding processes include a complete explanation of how to use a MIG welder, welding specific types of joints, cutting with a metal chop saw, grinding with angle body grinders, and a thorough explanation of safety procedures. On the second day, students are encouraged to make a small object such as a candle or incense holder in order to practice all of the techniques covered on day one.

$295

Flat to Form: Sewing for the Body, September 11-13, 2026 

9am - 4 pm

with Kristen Jean Wheatley kristenjeanwheatley.com

In this 3-day course, students will learn the fundamentals of garment construction for both everyday wear and artistic practice. We’ll explore basic pattern drafting and construction techniques to create clothing that fits the body with intention. Participants will practice hand and machine sewing to learn seaming, darting, and finishing skills that become incorporated into well-made garments. The class will also consider and discuss clothing as a creative medium by examining its roles in costume and artistic performance. Students will develop a simple garment with attention to both fit and purpose.

This course is appropriate for beginners. Students should bring at least 3 yards of non-stretch fabric. Bringing a sewing machine is recommended, but not required.

$350

Introduction to Kiln-Formed Glass Casting: September 18-20, 2026

Day 1: 9 am - 4 pm, Day 2: 8 am - 12 pm, Day 3: 2 pm - 5 pm

with Heidi Schwegler heidischwegler.com

full scholarship available

Join us in-person as we take you through each step of the lost wax casting process. Silicone and alginate mold making is also included. Learn the basics of lost wax kiln-casting by transforming found objects into Bullseye glass. Students will learn the essentials for mold-building, wax finishing, material calculation, color mixing, and the theory behind firing schedules.

$425

Documentation for Artists, September 20 & 27, 2026

9 am - 4 pm

with Sarah Lyon sarahlyon.com

full scholarship available

This workshop offers practical techniques for photographing artwork using digital cameras, lighting, and seamless backgrounds.  Participants will learn lens and camera settings, lighting methods, and post-processing skills to produce professional-quality images suitable for galleries, online displays, or prints. We will also explore simple methods to take better photos with the equipment that you have, such as your phone, using only natural light. The session covers adapting photography techniques for different art forms, framing and composition to best showcase artwork details. Attendees will have hands-on opportunities to photograph their own work (sculpture or 2D). By the end, you'll gain confidence in capturing high-quality, accurate images of your artwork and connect with other artists!

$150

Introduction to Kiln-Formed Glass Casting: October 2-4, 2026

Day 1: 9 am - 4 pm, Day 2: 8 am - 12 pm, Day 3: 2 pm - 5 pm

with Heidi Schwegler heidischwegler.com

Join us in-person as we take you through each step of the lost wax casting process. Silicone and alginate mold making is also included. Learn the basics of lost wax kiln-casting by transforming found objects into Bullseye glass. Students will learn the essentials for mold-building, wax finishing, material calculation, color mixing, and the theory behind firing schedules.

$425

Introduction to Glass Fusing: Kiln-Formed Plate and Coaster
October 17, 2026

9am - 1pm

Instructor to be announced

Students will be introduced to Bullseye glass, tools, and equipment while learning the basics of glass cutting, slumping, frit and stringer application, kiln operation, and glass design. Each student will create an 8-inch plate and a smaller tile or coaster. Projects will be fired after class and available for pickup a few days later. Works can also be shipped for a nominal fee. No previous glass experience is necessary.

$150

Introduction to Stone Carving: October 23-25, 2026

9am - 4pm

with Cara Chan

Explore the art of stone carving in this three-day workshop, using alabaster—a soft, luminous stone known for its beautiful colors and patterns. Ideal for all skill levels, this hands-on class covers the use of traditional tools like hammers, chisels, rasps, and files to carve, sand, and polish your own sculpture. 

Starting from a sketch, maquette, or abstract imagination, students will learn essential techniques and leave with a finished piece and the skills to continue carving at home. Tools are provided, but students must bring their own stones.

No prior experience is necessary—just curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to get dusty.

$395 

Texture and Surface for Steel: November 6-8, 2026

9 am - 4 pm

with Kento Saisho http://www.kentosaisho.com 

In this three-day workshop, students will get a crash course in MIG welding with steel before diving into some unorthodox techniques that focus on creating unexpected textures and surfaces. Students will learn how to safely use a MIG welder, cut, and grind metal. Then we’ll move into alternative ways of welding with steel rod, sheet metal, and other forms of metal including mesh, scrap and wire. We will also explore patinas, paint, and other surface treatments including electro-etching. Students will be encouraged to utilize these techniques to create a small object, like a container, candleholder, or sculpture.

$550

Repair Retreat: November 13-15, 2026

9 am - 4 pm

with Claire Beaumont @foreverywear_

full scholarship available

Join us for a transformative three-day Repair Retreat, where you'll learn the skills to bring new life to your worn garments and become part of a group focused on sustainable reuse. This workshop is designed for participants who want to deepen their knowledge of garment repair through hands-on demonstrations and individual work time. We’ll start with demos on machine darning, patchwork, knit mending, and zipper repairs. Throughout the weekend, you'll have ample time to work on your own projects, receive personalized guidance, and leave with practical skills you can apply at home. Whether you're a novice or a sewing enthusiast, this retreat offers a welcoming space to learn, create, and rebuild your favorite garments with care and creativity.

$350

Writing for Art Applications:

November 14, 2026 9 am - 4 pm

November 21, 2026 1-on-1 45 min session

with Frank Montesonti frankmontesonti.com

Are your application materials dusty, uninspired, or in need of updates? Bring them in! In this workshop, we will review principles of strong art writing and then share and critique each other's statements. The workshop will be led by poet/writing studies professor Frank Montesonti. Frank has helped many artists compose or revise their artist statements and applications for competitive residencies around the country. Artist statements will be the focus, but you may also bring in statements of purpose for individual artist grants, cover letters for art-related jobs, or teaching statements. On the second day, students will come in for scheduled 45 minute one-on-one editing sessions with Frank.

$150

Quilt in a Weekend: November 21-22, 2026

9 am - 4 pm

with Panda Landa  https://pandalandastudio.com

A two day class to learn the basics of improvisational patchwork and how to put together your first quilt! In this two day quilting class we will learn about the radical histories of quilt making, learn to use the sewing machine to create beautiful improvised patchwork, and put our layers together to make a crib size quilt.

$225

Intro to Welding: December 5-6, 2026

9 am - 4 pm

with Ethan Primason ethanprimason.com

full scholarship available

In this two-day workshop, learn the fundamentals of MIG welding steel. Welding processes include a complete explanation of how to use a MIG welder, welding specific types of joints, cutting with a metal chop saw, grinding with angle body grinders, and a thorough explanation of safety procedures. On the second day, students are encouraged to make a small object such as a candle or incense holder in order to practice all of the techniques covered on day one.

$295