What we’re about
The Alliance for the Arts (AFTA) is proud to provide unique and plentiful opportunities to create, experience and collaborate on art in all forms of expression. AFTA is committed to breaking down barriers to access the arts and increasing awareness about the role of the arts in stimulating workforce development and helping bridge the digital divide, developing cultural appreciation, and attaining positive mental and physical health, among many other benefits.
At AFTA we believe that the arts serve as a strong foundation for individuals and the community, and our mission reflects that. We know that the arts can be the inspiration for learning, collaborating, creating and understanding. Art is where we can all be unique while being the same: It is cathartic and uniting, and at AFTA, all are welcome to find and pursue their creative path.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Acrylic Painting with Pat Smelkoff: May Day BasketAlliance for the Arts, Fort Myers, FL$75.00
Registration is required prior to taking this class: CLICK HERE!
Celebrate the spirit of spring with a creative twist! In this cheerful, beginner-friendly painting class, you’ll learn how to paint a charming May Day basket filled with vibrant spring flowers using acrylics. Guided step-by-step by an experienced instructor, you’ll explore basic acrylic techniques, brushwork, and color mixing while capturing the playful essence of May Day traditions. Whether you’re new to painting or just looking for a seasonal project, this class is the perfect way to welcome spring with color and creativity.
All materials are provided. Just bring your imagination—and maybe a friend or two!
- Instructed Life Drawing – Gestural & Structural Approach To The Figure (18+, BegAlliance for the Arts, Fort Myers, FL$165.00
Registration is required prior to taking this class: CLICK HERE
This three week class is designed for beginner to advanced students. You will see and draw by understanding and personally translating the subject instead of just copying. Francesco’s one-on-one assistance and feedback ensure beginners students understanding and keep advanced and returning students engaged and challenged.
Francesco will start each class with a 1/2 hour drawing demonstration, the student will then apply the notions learned in drawing a live model for 2.5 hours. One-on-one assistance and feedback will be provided upon request from the student.
Lesson Topics Will Include
* Introduction to gesture drawing
* Essential forms to construct the human figure
* Cross-contour lines and landmarks to help give the figure volume and perspective
* Connecting volumes, volumes overlaps and foreshortening
* Core shadows versus cast shadows. Sighting and clocking angles
* Weight distribution
* Simplified idea of anatomySupply List
* two charcoal pencils 2B
* 1 White plastic eraser
* 1 Kneaded eraser
* 1 18″x 24″ newsprint pad – 100 sheet
* Blending stumps assorted sizes 4 pc.
* No oils, solvent or fixatives are allowed in the class - Character Illustration using Procreate and Photoshop (Ages 16+)Alliance for the Arts, Fort Myers, FL$130.00
Registration is required prior to taking this class: CLICK HERE!
This is a four week class-meet four Wednesdays.
Looking to learn how to design your own characters and creatures? Or maybe you’re looking for some new tricks or inspiration to better your own artwork? Whether you’re a skilled user or a complete newbie to digital art programs, this class is perfect for you!
We’ll go over everything: how to use Procreate to make our very own character concepts and designs; what goes into creating appealing and interesting characters; and different methods and styles when designing our characters!
