Hope Studios Art Nights
Lesko Discovery Center (650 W International Airport Rd, Anchorage)
See class descriptions
With generous grant support from the University of Alaska Anchorage Center for Human Development, Hope Studios is excited to host twice-monthly Art Nights now through April 2026. These hands-on DIY workshops are designed to bring people together through creativity and self-expression. No prior art experience is required for any of the classes.
Each Art Night features a different guest art instructor and medium, offering participants the chance to explore something new in a relaxed, supportive environment. Whether you’re painting, screen-printing, or experimenting with mixed media, you’ll learn approachable techniques, enjoy a fun night out, and leave with something you made yourself. Space is limited for each class to keep the experience personal and welcoming, so we encourage early registration.
Sign up for the upcoming Art Night(s) below!
These events are sponsored by the University of Alaska Anchorage Center for Human Development through the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Art Night:
Needle-Felting
February 6, 2026
5:30 – 7:30pm
$20 per participant
Art Night:
Bleach Painting
February 20, 2026
5:30 – 7:30pm
$30 per participant
Art Night with Judy: Needle-Felting
February 6, 2026
5:30pm – 7:30pm
$20 per participant
Class Description
Learn the art of needle felting and create a textile portrait inspired by Alaska cotton blossoms. In this guided beginner-friendly class, participants will learn essential needle felting techniques while creating a framed textile portrait of cotton blossoms to take home.
The class will include an introduction to materials and tools, how to layer and apply wool roving onto a felt base, and step-by-step guidance using a needle felting tool as you build your design.
Class size is limited to 10 participants. All materials and tools are included.
Featuring Guest Art Instructor: Judy Potts
The class will be led by guest art instructor, Judy Potts. Judy is a lifelong Alaskan and has been a DSP with Hope Studios for about six years. She has 10 years of experience in needle-felting and fiber arts, and gets great pleasure teaching and watching people light up with the knowledge of new art techniques.
Art Night: Bleach Painting
February 20, 2026
5:30pm – 7:30pm
$30 per participant
Class Description
Join this hands-on Art Night where you'll learn the art of bleach painting and transform a plain black hoodie into a one-of-a-kind wearable piece with your own design. Using simple tools and techniques, you’ll discover how bleach can be used like paint to create bold designs, soft gradients, lettering, and patterns on fabric.
No prior art experience is needed. This event is designed for beginners and experienced creatives alike. The instructor will walk you through safety basics, design planning, and step-by-step application so you leave with both new skills and a finished hoodie with your own design on it.
Class size is limited to 10 participants. All materials and tools are provided, including a hoodie, bleach, tools, and protective supplies.
Featuring Guest Art Instructor: Denali Ray
This class will be led by Denali Ray, a Community Engagement Specialist with Hope and long-time artist. Denali loves to learn different art mediums and espeically enjoys being able to wear her own designs. This will be her first time teaching an art class and she is very excited.
