nisda-cms

NGCF Scholarship

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:38:18 GMT

NANTUCKET GOLF CLUB SCHOLARSHIP FOR YEAR-ROUND NANTUCKET STUDENTS

Ages 5–19

The mission of NISDA’s Youth Scholarship program is to encourage the participation of Nantucket Island youth in our Summer Arts program. To be eligible for a scholarship, young people must be enrolled in year-round schooling on-island. These grants are made possible by the generous support of the Nantucket Golf Club Foundation. . Their support is very important to us at NISDA and is greatly appreciated by island children and their families.

Island Children + Youth 5+ and Teens up to 19 are eligible for a NGCF NISDA Arts Scholarship for any arts program offered at NISDA June - September 2026. Students must live on island year round and attend school on Nantucket.

How to Register for Programs and the Scholarship:

Register Kinder, Youth and Teens (teens are invited to join adult programs) and indicate that you are eligible for the NGCF Scholarship (100% underwritten by the NGCF) by using the Coupon Code: NGCF-100. Complete your registration as usual.

All submitted NGCF registrations will be evaluated and confirmed. Funding is limited and the programs are first come first served. You will receive a confirmation of your enrollment.

Please contact Laura at: nisdaartsnantucket@nisda.org with any questions regarding registration.

Beginning Technique in Oil Painting

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 09:07:40 GMT

BEGINNING TECHNIQUE IN OIL PAINTING
In the Studio with Ian Torney

Two 3 day sessions: Sign up for one or both.
Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

Instructor:
Ian Torney (read bio)

Days // Times:
Session I: July 14, 15 + 16
Session II: July 21, 22 + 23
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday // 9:30 am–12 noon

Tuition per Session:
$ 250 (all material are included)

Students will learn the basic fundamentals of technique in oil painting, and will create both abstract and observational imagery. This course is open to both Teens and Adults, and is open to both the novice or experienced artist.

Intro to Painting with Acrylic

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 09:03:31 GMT

INTRO TO PAINTING WITH ACRYLIC

In the Studio with Michael Frassinelli

Two 3 day sessions: Sign up for one or both.
Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

Dates + Times:
July 28, 29 + 30

August 4, 5 + 6
9:30 am–12 noon

Tuition:
$250 per session

Instructor:
Michael Frassinelli (read bio)

This studio course will take students through the basics of painting with acrylic paint. Designed primarily for beginners – more advanced students can receive additional one on one coaching. The course will take place in the studio or on a covered outdoor deck at NISDA. A list of materials to gather will be provided by the instructor prior to the beginning of the course. All basic materials provided by NISDA.

Check out Michael’s website: michaelfrassinelli.com

Sailor’s Valentine: Rescued and Found Material

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 08:13:56 GMT

SAILOR’S VALENTINE: MIXED MEDIA

In the Studio with Michael Frassinelli

3 Day Workshop
Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

Dates + Times:

August 11, 12 + 13
1–3:30 pm

Tuition:
$250

Instructor:
Michael FrassinellI (read bio)

3 Days of Creative Assemblage inspired by Nantucket's Sailor's Valentine! Considering the traditional design of the Valentine, we will approach it with a modern sensibility and combine upcycled materials to create unique and personal statements.

Bring your own "found" treasure if you like. NISDA will have lots of bits and pieces for your use.

Penny Hanson

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 09:33:52 GMT

NISDA STAFF

PENNY HANSON

Penny Hanson received her BFA from Iowa State University in May of 2008. Metals, ceramics, painting, and fibers were her foci along with a BS in psychology as well.

Handbuilding is her preferred area of interest in ceramics. Prior to moving to MA, Penny has taught several different classes at a local student art center at Iowa State and has taken many ceramics classes. She has been teaching hand building for the past 2 summers at NISDA on Nantucket.

When she isn't teaching, she is the woman chiropractor and enjoys walking her dog, Dalilah all around the island especially the beach. Dalilah is a 12 year old white poodle and she has a 4 year old little brother who is a bearded dragon called Kevin. Penny stays very active in her community with volunteering at the Nantucket Elementary School, Nantucket Pride, as well as The Nantucket Island Fair.

Color Theory in Glaze

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 10:21:38 GMT

COLOR THEORY IN GLAZE:
A FOUR DAY WORKSHOP

Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

Dates + Times:
July 10, 17, 24, 31
Fridays: 12:30–2:30 pm

Instructors:
Helen Mills (read bio)

Tuition per 4 week session:
$225 (includes materials + firings)

Delve deeper into the world of glaze. We will learn about glazes, oxides, underglazes, and slips. We will understand what these materials are and how they might interact so that we can start to truly design our surfaces with a more accurate idea of what they will look like once fired. No Prior experience needed.

Clay Wheel + Handbuilding Workshop

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 13:22:10 GMT

CLAY WHEEL + HAND BUILDING WORKSHOP

Beginner to Intermediate

Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

Dates + Times:
June Session: June 1- 24
 July Session: July 6-29 
August Session: August 3-26
September Session: September 7-30

Monday + Wednesday

4–6:30 pm

Instructors:
Penny Hanson + Helen Mills

Tuition per 4 week session:
$650 (+ Clay #25 box/$65 includes glaze + fire)

Learn or expand your knowledge on the clay process as we explore techniques of wedging, throwing, trimming, slab, coil, extruding, pinching and glazing. This will be a flexible class with a combination of group demonstration and personalized instruction. As these basic forms and techniques become second nature, you will be able to make more complex forms with confidence and curiosity. The final week will be dedicated to surface treatments and a variety of glazing strategies.

Students purchase Clay #25 from NISDA.

Clay Wheel I

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 11:41:49 GMT

CLAY WHEEL I

Beginner to Intermediate
Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

Dates + Times:
Session 1: July 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30

Session 2: August 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25, 27

Tuesday + Thursday 9:30 am-12 noon

Instructor:
Helen Mills (read bio)

Tuition per Session:
$650 (+ Clay #25/$65 includes glazes and firing)

No prior experience needed. All are welcome. We are able to adapt techniques to fit every body of any age or skill level.

Learn or expand your knowledge on the clay process as we explore techniques of wedging, throwing, trimming, and glazing.

Clay Wheel II

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 13:09:09 GMT

CLAY WHEEL II

Beginner to Intermediate
Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

Dates + Times:
Session 1: July 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30

Session 2: Aug. 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25, 27

Tuesday + Thursday Afternoon Studio 1 pm–3:30 pm

Instructor:
Helen Mills (read bio)

Tuition per Session:
$650 (+ Clay #25/$65 includes glazes and firing)

Take your basic wheel throwing skills to the next level with Helen Mills. Students with a basic knowledge of centering, trimming, etc. will expand their repertoire of forms. Demonstrations will include throwing of vase shapes, plates, lidded forms.. There will be an additional emphasis on developing a personal aesthetic and exploring surface design.

Students purchase Clay #25 from NISDA.

Clay Handbuilding I

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 17:24:15 GMT

CLAY HANDBUILDING I

Beginner to Intermediate
Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

Dates + Times:
June Session: June 8, 15, 22, 29

July Session: July 6, 13, 20, 27

August Session: August 3, 10, 17, 24

Mondays 4–6:30 pm

Tuition per session:
$350 (+ Clay #25/$65 includes glazes and firing)

Instructor:
Penny Hanson (read bio)

Handbuilding is the art of using our hands and simple tools to create clay objects.

Drawing Technique: The Fundamentals

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 09:52:10 GMT

DRAWING TECHNIQUE
Beginner and Intermediate
Adult
(Teens are invited to enroll)

Dates + Times:
June 29 + 30 // 6:30-8:30 pm

August 10 + 11 // 6:30-8:30 pm

August 17, + 18 // 6:30-8:30 pm

August 24 + 25 / 6:30-8:30 pm

Tuition:
2 Day Workshop: $120

4 Day Workshop: $240

Instructor:
Sophie Cross (read bio)

Begin your drawing journey this summer! Unlock the fundamental principles of representational art mastering the essential skills of line, form, value, and composition.
Students will work from still life setups and the clothed human form. Designed to challenge and inspire. Through carefully curated arrangements of diverse objects, from organic forms to intricate textures students will develop the ability to arrange objects effectively and create a sense of space and composition. Our well-lit studio provides an ideal setting for focused study. Individualized instruction from experienced faculty will guide you through each stage of the drawing process. Explore various drawing materials, including graphite, charcoal, and pastel to achieve a range of effects. This course is suitable for all skill levels.

All materials are provided. Feel free to bring any favorite materials or a journal of your own as well .

Kinder Artists // Ages 5-9

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 16:51:08 GMT

KINDER ARTISTS

Sail Around the World
Explore World Cultures!
Ages 5-9

Let’s have fun as we use stamp printing, paint, paper mache, sculpture, clay, collage, kites, masks, puppets + costumes to create and learn!

Dates + Times:
June 22–August 28 2026
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

Tuition per week:
5 days: $400

3 day week Monday, Wednesday + Friday: $250

9:30 am - 12 noon

Young Artists find a sense of wonder, new ways to express themselves, explore the natural environment and communities around the world through mythology, folktales, traditional arts and crafts, movement and sound!

Register for a week or register for more!

Generations Together // All Ages

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 16:46:50 GMT

Generations Together

A Multi-Age Family + Friends Art Workshop

Celebrate creativity and good old fashioned fun of making things together while creating special memories outdoors at NISDA’s Seaview Farm!

Dates + Times:
Fridays 9:30 am–12 noon
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

August 7, 14, 21

Tuition:

Each workshop: $90 for up to 3.
Add $30 per additional guest.

Preregistration is required.

Join local and regional artists, musicians, environmentalists, and theater folk to share hands-on arts and crafts. This summer we will combine our love of world arts and culture, and the natural environment of Nantucket for inspiration.

Families are requested to provide a personal snack and beverage. All materials are supplied. We suggest that children wear unprecious clothing appropriate to the studio. Come ready to get messy!

Stone Soup – Maskmaking and Storytelling

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:35:47 GMT

STONE SOUP
MASKMAKING AND STORYTELLING

Ages 5–14

Dates + Times
June 29–July 3
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

Tuition 5 days:

$400

Instructor:
Sophie Cross (read bio)

Led by Sophie Cross, this one week workshop that will revolve around the traditional story of Stone Soup. Children will design and build masks, props, and scenery to narrate, and to illustrate this wonderful tale. The end of the week will culminate with a theatrical production of their own creation. A collaboration of Kinder and Youth artists.

Soupe au Caillou (Soup from a Stone), published by French author Madame de Noyer in 1720. The story tells of travelers who trick suspicious villagers into contributing food to a pot containing only water and a stone, resulting in a shared feast that teaches community, generosity, and collaboration.

Let’s Paint!

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 08:50:53 GMT

LET'S PAINT

A fun approach to the basics of painting!
2 Day Workshop
Youth 9–14

Dates + Times:

Session 1: July 14 + 16

Session 2: August 4 + 6Tuesday + Thursday
9:30 am–12 noon

Tuition per Session:

$150

Instructor:
Michael Frassinelli

Composition, color theory, and mark making! Bring your imagination!

All materials are provided by NISDA.

Donna Torney

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 12:54:18 GMT

NISDA STAFF

DONNA TORNEY

Donna Torney (LMHC, CZT) is a Psychotherapist in private practice. Her practice focuses on helping teens and adults to manage stress and build resiliency through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness techniques including yoga, drawing and creative journaling. She is the author of Mindfulness for Emerging Adults: Finding balance in the digital age.

Long Shed Clay

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 11:14:03 GMT

LONG SHED CLAY: 
OPEN STUDIO COMMUNITY MEMBERSHIP

Open to Artists over the Age of 18
Prior Experience needed

Days + Times:
June 1–October 31, 2026
Open Studio Hours:
Monday + Wednesday: 8 am–4 pm

Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday + Saturday: 8 am–9 pm

Tuition:
$150 per week (4 week minimum)

Additional weeks $150/wk

All participants must buy and use NISDA clay. We have Cone 06-04 Terracotta and Cone 5 B-Mix White clay bodies. #25 is $65. This fee includes glaze materials and firing fee.

Please note: Experienced potters and hand builders in clay may apply for Long Shed Open Studio privileges at NISDA. Applicants should have prior experience and be able to work independently. There is no instruction included with this program. Participants must follow studio policies and initially meet with studio techs for an orientation. Open studio members also participate in one hour of studio craft per week, such as assisting in the loading and unloading of kilns or helping to keep materials organized.

Zentangle Basics & Beyond

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 09:19:57 GMT

ZENTANGLE BASICS & BEYOND

Meditative Drawing

3 Day workshop

Dates:
July 14,15, 16
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday

9:30 am–12 noon

Instructor: Donna Torney (read bio)

Tuition: $225
Materials fee: $35

Learn the basics of Zentangle, a meditative form of drawing using structured patterns. Then expand the basics by creating your own library of “tangles” that will allow you to create unique and beautiful art.

Adult 18+ (Teens invited to apply)

Youth Clay // Ages 9-15

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 17:02:15 GMT

YOUTH CLAY

Intro to Handbuilding and the Wheel

Ages 9–14

Dates + Times:

Session 1: July 6–29 // 4 weeks

Session 2: August 3–26 // 4 weeks
Monday + Wednesday 9:30 am–12 pm

Tuition for 4 weeks:

$600

Instructor:
Helen Mills (read bio)

This workshop will introduce students to both handbuilding techniques and primary skills on the potter’s wheel. Individual attention, as well as class demonstrations will introduce us to clay as the dynamic and versatile material that it is… and everybody loves it!

Using hand building techniques such as pinch pots, coil construction, and slabs, as well as the potter’s wheel, we will build both classic ceramic forms such as vessels, tiles and plaques, and create inventive sculptural forms from their own imaginations.

Students can look to nature for inspiration, as well as look to traditional ceramics for ideas. Whether a student is interested in everyday objects such as mugs and bowls, or creating fantastical sculptures, they will acquire elementary skills… and have a great time! No previous experience is required.

All materials are provided by NISDA.

Forest Bathing (Shinrin-yoku)

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 08:59:30 GMT

Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku)

Nature Drawing + Journaling:
1 Day Workshop
Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

Dates + Times:
June 27 // 10 am–1 pm

August 15 // 10 am–1 pm

Tuition per 1 Day Workshop:
$85

Instructor:
Sophie Cross (read bio)

Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Nantucket's natural landscapes with our unique art class. This class combines the mindful practice of forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku) with the expressive Art of Nature Drawing.

Drawing in Nature

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 08:46:38 GMT

DRAWING IN NATURE

Let your creativity run wild!
Youth 9–14

Dates + Times

Tuesday, Thursday

9:30 am–12 noon
Session 1: July 7 + 9

Session 2: July 21 + 23

Session 3: August 11 + 13

Tuition:

$150 per session

Youth Artists will gain inspiration and learn from nature as they develop observational drawing skills and learn design basics from natural patterns and structures found in the landscape.

The class will immerse themselves in natural settings around the island as they study the natural world in abundance.

All materials are provided by NISDA.

Drawing Still Life: The Fundamentals

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:46:42 GMT

DRAWING STILL LIFE:
THE FUNDAMENTALS
In the Studio with Michael Frassinelli

All Skill Levels

Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

Dates + Times:
2 Day Workshop
July 27 + 28 // 6:30–8:30 pm

Tuition:
$120

Instructor:
Michael Frassinelli (read bio)

Dive into the rich tradition of still life drawing. Unlock the fundamental principles of representational art mastering the essential skills of line, form, value, and composition. All materials provided by NISDA.

Mask Making

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 08:55:11 GMT

MASK MAKING // MIXED MEDIA

2 Day Workshop
Youth 9+ // Teen 13+

Dates + Times
July 28 + 30

9:30 am - 12 noon

Tuition 2 Day Workshop:
$150

Instructor:
Michael Frassinelli (read bio)

Youth Artists will explore the fantastic 3 dimensional world of mask making, using upcycled and found materials to create unique masks! If you have your own favorite materials for this mixed-media workshop you may bring them… however NISDA can supply a wide variety of materials for you to choose from!

Decorative Stitching + Embellishment

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 10:51:55 GMT

PATCH YOUR JEANS!

Decorative Stitching + Embellishment
Ages 10–14

Dates + Times:
Dates tba
Tuesday + Thursday
1–3:30 pm

Instructor:
Mae Blackwell (read bio)

Explore the world of decorative stitching and embellishment as you refurbish and reinvent favorite items from your wardrobe.

Whether it's a favorite jean jacket, well worn blue jeans, or a blouse that needs more color and pattern, you will learn decorative stitches and appliques that will help you personalize your garments.

No previous experience is necessary. This is a fun way to acquire basic sewing techniques! Materials are provided by NISDA Each student should bring the garment they are interested in embellishing.

Oil Painting the Nantucket Landscape

Sun, 27 Jul 2025 08:32:29 GMT

OIL PAINTING THE NANTUCKET LANDSCAPE

For the Intermediate Painting Student
Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

Summer 2026 Dates + Times coming soon...

This workshop is designed for student painters with some experience working in oil looking to expand their skills and learn new techniques.

Photography: Discover Nantucket

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 09:33:45 GMT

DISCOVER NANTUCKET:
AN ADVENTURE IN PHOTOGRAPHY

Adult 18+ // All Skill Levels
(Teens are invited to register)

Summer 2026 Dates + Times coming soon...

Capture Nantucket's iconic locations in the summer evening light! Basic camera technique for landscape and seascape will be covered.

Spencer Verney

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 09:09:19 GMT

NISDA STAFF

SPENCER VERNEY

Spencer is a professional artist working in the medium of oil paint with a focus on landscapes, portraits and commissions. He studied at The Florence Academy of Art in Italy. He is affiliated with the Buck & Doe Trust, the Brandywine Conservancy, the Nantucket Conservation Foundation, the Nantucket Artists Association, and the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art.

Artists Statement:
I believe that art has the ability to transcend language, location, and demographics to connect people to place; to foster a sense of community within that place; and to develop the kind of emotional relationships that encourage education about, and exploration and preservation of, the natural land. It’s my hope that anyone who finds my work is moved by the beauty of our natural world; that they, too, feel an urgent responsibility to protect it, for generations to come.

For over a decade, my compositions have advocated for the profound importance of our natural world by focusing on preserved lands and protected water sources in both Pennsylvania’s Brandywine River Valley region and Nantucket, Massachusetts. Alongside my ongoing work, I’ve painted commissions for the Nantucket Conservation Foundation, the Nantucket Historic Association, the Brandywine Conservancy, the Buck and Doe Trust, and the Cheshire Land Preservation Fund, each with the mission to raise conservation awareness and promote the stewardship of natural resources among their respective communities.

Laura Herhold

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 09:12:43 GMT

NISDA STAFF

LAURA HERHOLD

Laura Herhold attended the Silvermine College of Art and the Art Institute of Boston before earning her degree in Ceramics at RISD. She also did graduate work at Lesley University in “Integrated Teaching Through the Arts.” Throughout her work life she has been engaged in the creative world, whether it be studio life, teaching, or as part of a design/business collaboration. In her mind it all flows together, one strand informing and supporting another. The greatest reward of art making is the realization of one’s creative thinking. Her students will be coached through skills & techniques, encouraged to lean into their intuition and imagination as they engage in the work.

Laura has taught clay, nature drawing, and 3D design to children and adults. She has produced mixed media drawings, made vessels, sculptures and mobiles, and shown her work. She has written grants and entered urban art installation competitions. She has designed and built theatrical sets, renovated five houses, designed and built out a restaurant, made quilts, and made Halloween costumes – including a Santa Claus outfit that has been worn for 36 years. She likes to spend time in nature. At NISDA she serves as a special-projects coordinator, a teacher, and as a member of the Board of Directors.

Mae Blackwell

Thu, 29 May 2025 10:01:09 GMT

NISDA STAFF

MAE BLACKWELL

Mae Blackwell is a native Nantucket artist who enjoys working across a variety of mediums and materials. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Simmons University, with a strong focus on photography, screen printing and textiles. She also has a strong background in Arts Administration, with experience in curating, installing and documenting exhibitions, archival work, and teaching. Mae sees art as a powerful method for community building, collaboration, connection and healing. She aims to integrate this belief in the workshops she teaches and in her day to day life, and she can't wait to share her practice with others .

Helen Mills

Tue, 27 May 2025 09:21:43 GMT

NISDA STAFF

HELEN MILLS

Coming from a large family of artists and nerds, I've settled quite happily in ceramics. Playing in the mud and creating is how I spent most of my childhood growing up in Indiana. I found a love for studying life and completed a bachelors of biology at Purdue University. Each semester I would enroll in a fine arts course for myself, and eventually I happened to reconnect with ceramics in 2020. I found that I had the patience and curiosity needed to fall in love with clay. Since then, I have been a bit obsessed with the process. It is an outlet, a self-study, a practice in discipline, and a form of expression. Creating offers us the opportunity to connect to source, connect to others, and connect to ourselves as we explore the process of bringing something to life.

Spencer Kimble

Fri, 02 May 2025 09:51:24 GMT

NISDA STAFF

SPENCER KIMBLE

Spencer Kimble is a mixed media artist based in Burlington, VT. He has studied ceramics in conjunction with printmaking from a young age. As the child of a landscape painter, Laura J. Eden, his exposure to the process of creating art in relation to the natural world began early. Often, his inspiration comes from time spent fishing, birding, and working as a botanist. He has studied at Honey Hill Pottery, Iskra Print Collective, University of Vermont Pottery CO-OP, and Burlington City Arts. This is Spencer's second year being involved with NISDA as an educator and a studio member.

Sophie Eliza Cross

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 09:01:07 GMT

NISDA STAFF

SOPHIE ELIZA CROSS

North of Boston based artist Sophie Cross is a classically trained figurative artist and mental health counselor specializing in art therapy. She completed studies earning a BFA from the Art Institute of Boston and Lyme Academy College of Fine Arts. After graduating she spent time working at the Chelsea Foundry (Chelsea, Ma.) as a mold maker and completed a 200 hour iyengar yoga certification. With growing interest in weaving the art world with wellness, Sophie attended Lesley University earning a Masters Degree, becoming a LMHC ( licensed mental health counselor) and ATR ( therapy registered). As an LMHC and ATR Sophie runs her own individual private practice. Sophie has always made jobs out of her passions and her latest certification has been becoming a Zumba instructor, classes in the works.

Sophie is most inspired by arts from the Renaissance. She has always loved the human figure and nature, she works in both 3D and 2d using materials such as clay, wax, pencil, charcoal, colored chalks on either paper or smooth wooden boards. Sophie loves tender beauty and finding it in our world as well as offering a new way of seeing, considering the beauty in the little things, the mundane and in the perfectly imperfect.

A fun fact about Sophie is that she grew up as a little girl here at Nisda watching her mom Laura Herhold teach, hold art critiques and have art shows. She holds fond memories attending the kinder arts program and still has many of her works from it today like a doll she made of Kathy. Generations of artists in the family continue with Sophie’s son Paxton, a budding comic illustrator who loves a good superhero. It warms Sophie’s heart to share the magic of Nisda and see Paxton now take his turn attending the kinder arts program and enjoying everyone’s beloved island.

Linda Nathan

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 07:19:04 GMT

NISDA STAFF

LINDA NATHAN

Linda Nathan is a lifelong student, teacher and school leader (www.lindanathan.com). She continues to coach in public schools and teach emerging leaders. As a teenager, she apprenticed with a production potter inEngland and now makes wheel-thrown functional pots.

TheBreezesPottery and at Cambridge’s Annual Open Studios and posts her work on instagram @thebreezespottery . Proceeds go to support democratic causes. Currently, she is making one hundred fifty different vases for her daughter’s upcoming wedding celebration.

She sells her work on Etsy https://www.etsy.com/shop/

Ian Torney

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 07:17:06 GMT

NISDA STAFF

IAN TORNEY

Ian Torney is an artist, an arts educator and administrator, and an exhibition curator. Mr. Torney has been teaching in the Visual Arts for over four decades – he began his career as a Teaching Fellow at the Hotchkiss Summer School, followed by five years at the Pomfret School and 21 years at St. Paul’s School, where he served as both the Fine Arts Director and Arts Division Head. He joined the faculty at his alma-mater Milton Academy in 2012 to teach in the Visual Arts and served for 10 years as the department Chair – he currently serves as the Nesto Gallery Director.

Additionally, Mr. Torney served for five years as the Co- President of the Independent School Art Instructors Association, and remains on the leadership council of the Art Association of New England Preparatory Schools. Mr. Torney has mentored countless arts students and peers – his students have garnered numerous regional Art All-Scholastic honors every year, and have won five Gold and one Silver national medals.

Mr. Torney is also a practicing, professional landscape painter who exhibits his work annually – he is a member of the Copley Society of Art in Boston, and is represented by the Hurricane Mountain Design Gallery of North Conway, NH. In 2025 Mr. Torney was honored as the Massachusetts Art Education Association as the Independent School Arts Educator of the Year; and in 2026 he has been honored as the National Art Education Association Eastern Secondary Schools Arts Educator of the Year.

See more at www.iantorneyart.com .

Michael Frassinelli

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 07:12:06 GMT

NISDA STAFF

MICHAEL FRASSINELLI

Michael Frassinelli studied art at the University of Connecticut, with a focus on design and sculpture, receiving his BFA in 1986. He has been a prop maker, set designer, mask-maker, free-lance artist and ship’s carpenter, and has worked with a variety of people, from Berkeley California's Shotgun Players and The San Francisco Ballet and to Vermont’s Bread and Puppet Theatre, a German theater production company, and a Balinese mask-carver. Although he has worked in a variety of art mediums over the last 40 years his recent work from the Legend of the Pianistas series which includes sculpture made entirely out of piano parts and photorealistic cabinets of curiosity. Since 2002, Frassinelli has taught at the Dana Hall School in Wellesley, Massachusetts, where he is Chair of the Visual Arts Dept. and Director of the Dana Hall Art Gallery.

Manioucha Krishnamurti

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 07:10:21 GMT

NISDA STAFF

MANIOUCHA KRISHAMURTI

Manioucha Krishamurti is a Ceramic Artist. She is featured in The Artist’s Guild in Woodstock and Dean & DeLuca, NYC. Manioucha has taught ceramics for many years and lives half the year on the island of Nantucket.

Cyanotype + Solar Printing

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 09:25:21 GMT

CYANOTYPE + SOLAR PRINTING

1 day workshop

Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

This workshop is for those interested in alternative photographic printing techniques.

Betsy Sibley

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 09:25:42 GMT

NISDA STAFF

BETSY SIBLEY

Elizabeth (Betsy) Sibley is a practicing artist and teacher. In addition to receiving her MA, MFA in Fiber at UWM she has studied with many Fiber/Textile artists throughout the country. Her own recent work utilizes computer images, rescued materials in addition to stitchery to create personal imagery. Betsy is a familiar face at NISDA.

Kathy Kelm

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 09:18:47 GMT

NISDA STAFF

KATHY KELM

Kathy Kelm is NISDA’s Founding Director. Rhode Island School of Design, BFA/Fine Arts. RISD Assistant Professor; Textiles, Art-in-Environment, Art Ed; Cultural Expressions: Interdisciplinary Curriculum at Providence Campus and founded Nantucket RISD Summer Session 1973 – 1978 which birthed Nantucket Island School of Design & the Arts, founded in 1978 through affiliation with Mass Art Boston. In 1973, with Larry Cronin, began 1st Sand Castle Day, orchestrated NISDA’s program facility rentals: Islander homes for housing, Public High School classrooms, Academy Hill, Coffin School, Historic Association’s Lightship Nantucket, to purchase of 71 Washington Street Artist Residency cottages, Seaview Farm Dairy Barn, Long Shed and gifting of 55 Wauwinet property and house for Residency.

Denese Allen

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 09:16:41 GMT

NISDA STAFF

DENESE ALLEN

Denese Allen has been an island resident since 1991. Her very first job on Nantucket was at NISDA and she has been involved in the school ever since, as an instructor, consultant and on the Board of Directors. Although art is her passion, she has used her creativity to better the island though many venues – including the world of printed media.

Recently she has been instrumental working as a consultant for NISDA as Project Manager for all of NISDA’s Historic Restoration projects including re-building a silo, moving a Heifer Barn and re-locating & restoring the Artist Residency Cottages. Denese is a Certified Zentangle™ Teacher (CZT), and she incorporates her zen-drawing of patterns into her favorite form of art-making in her mixed media pieces. With the philosophy that there are no mistakes, only opportunities, she believes that everyone is an artist, and that what’s important is the creative process of art-making – with the finished product being just an added benefit.

Eve Wetlaufer

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 08:59:00 GMT

NISDA STAFF

EVE WETLAUFER

Eve Wetlaufer, who in addition to being a professional potter, has dedicated her life to animal welfare and environmental justice earning an advanced degree in Animal Studies at NYU. She is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Art Therapy.

Larry Cronin

Sun, 16 Feb 2025 09:08:33 GMT

NISDA STAFF

LARRY CRONIN

Nantucket Water Gardens and Nantucket Photography; Photo documenta6on of RISD – NISDA Nantucket Programs. Suppor6ve anchor to NISDA’s founder, overseer of NISDA School and Residency Building through the decades.

Art Workshop Parties

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 10:44:59 GMT

CREATE A SPECIAL DAY!

Art Workshop Parties
@ Nisda’s Dairy Barn Studios + Meadow
for kids + other adventurers

$400 for 90 minutes // up to 8 participants
Additional participants at $50 each // maximum 12 in total.

All art materials are provided

For more information regarding scheduling:
Contact us at nisdaartsnantucket@nisda.org or 508-228-9248

Tutorial Instruction

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 09:35:32 GMT

TUTORIAL INSTRUCTION

Upon Request

You may arrange tutorials with our NISDA faculty. Tutorials can be for individuals and groups of Adults, Teens, Youth or Families. Scheduling is dependent on instructor and/or studio availability.

Please call 508-228-9248 or visit NISDA office to inquire. Pricing based on number of participants.

Adam Mallin

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 10:12:05 GMT

NISDA STAFF

Adam Mallin

Adam completed his studies at Sarah Lawrence College, double majoring in computer science and artificial intelligence. While there Adam also obtained a master's degree in education. He has taught kindergarten, advanced computers, constructed smart houses, trained service dogs, lived and traveled in Israel .

Recently Adam began working with drones, initially collaborating with local municipalities to outfit them with equipment for search and rescue operations, as well as providing flying instruction and installation services.

At Nisda Adam will lead a workshop introducing the techniques necessary to use the drone in an artistic fashion, documenting locations, events and recreational travel.

Experience:
FAA AUV – Certified Operator of Unmanned Aircraft; Diverse background across Education, Technology and services for Community Benefit; Independent photographer and Media Specialist

Technical Skills:
IT & Media, Software, Drone Operation, Aerial Photography, Videography, Real Estate Media, Public Safety Drone Training, Film making

Drone Photograph from Artistic Expression to Drone Media Specialty Marketing and Professional Operational Needs.

IT Director/Instructor, International School in Stavanger, Norway

Taught and designed innovative computer curriculum, Church Street School, NYC, NY

Israeli Kibbutz Therapeutic Horseback Riding Instructor

Animal assisted therapy and received training as a service dog trainer. Canine training and behavior for adults to Guided at-risk youth training to rehabilitate shelter dogs. A commitment that continues today.

nisda-cms

NGCF Scholarship

NANTUCKET GOLF CLUB SCHOLARSHIP FOR YEAR-ROUND NANTUCKET STUDENTS

Ages 5–19

How to Register for Programs and the Scholarship:

Beginning Technique in Oil Painting

BEGINNING TECHNIQUE IN OIL PAINTING In the Studio with Ian Torney

Two 3 day sessions: Sign up for one or both. Adult 18+ (Teens are invited to register)

Intro to Painting with Acrylic

INTRO TO PAINTING WITH ACRYLIC

In the Studio with Michael Frassinelli

Sailor’s Valentine: Rescued and Found Material

SAILOR’S VALENTINE: MIXED MEDIA

In the Studio with Michael Frassinelli

3 Day Workshop Adult 18+ (Teens are invited to register)

Penny Hanson

NISDA STAFF

PENNY HANSON

Color Theory in Glaze

COLOR THEORY IN GLAZE: A FOUR DAY WORKSHOP

Adult 18+ (Teens are invited to register)

Clay Wheel + Handbuilding Workshop

CLAY WHEEL + HAND BUILDING WORKSHOP

Beginner to Intermediate

Adult 18+ (Teens are invited to register)

Clay Wheel I

CLAY WHEEL I

Clay Wheel II

CLAY WHEEL II

Beginner to Intermediate Adult 18+ (Teens are invited to register)

Clay Handbuilding I

CLAY HANDBUILDING I

Beginner to Intermediate Adult 18+ (Teens are invited to register)

Drawing Technique: The Fundamentals

DRAWING TECHNIQUE Beginner and Intermediate Adult (Teens are invited to enroll)

Kinder Artists // Ages 5-9

KINDER ARTISTS Sail Around the World Explore World Cultures! Ages 5-9

Let’s have fun as we use stamp printing, paint, paper mache, sculpture, clay, collage, kites, masks, puppets + costumes to create and learn!

Generations Together // All Ages

Generations Together

A Multi-Age Family + Friends Art Workshop

Celebrate creativity and good old fashioned fun of making things together while creating special memories outdoors at NISDA’s Seaview Farm!

Stone Soup – Maskmaking and Storytelling

STONE SOUP MASKMAKING AND STORYTELLING

Ages 5–14

Let’s Paint!

LET'S PAINT

A fun approach to the basics of painting! 2 Day Workshop Youth 9–14

Donna Torney

NISDA STAFF

DONNA TORNEY

Long Shed Clay

LONG SHED CLAY: OPEN STUDIO COMMUNITY MEMBERSHIP

Open to Artists over the Age of 18 Prior Experience needed

Zentangle Basics & Beyond

ZENTANGLE BASICS & BEYOND

Meditative Drawing

3 Day workshop

Youth Clay // Ages 9-15

YOUTH CLAY

Intro to Handbuilding and the Wheel

Ages 9–14

Forest Bathing (Shinrin-yoku)

Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku)

Nature Drawing + Journaling: 1 Day Workshop Adult 18+ (Teens are invited to register)

Drawing in Nature

DRAWING IN NATURE

Let your creativity run wild! Youth 9–14

Drawing Still Life: The Fundamentals

DRAWING STILL LIFE: THE FUNDAMENTALS In the Studio with Michael Frassinelli

All Skill Levels

Adult 18+ (Teens are invited to register)

Mask Making

MASK MAKING // MIXED MEDIA

2 Day Workshop Youth 9+ // Teen 13+

Decorative Stitching + Embellishment

PATCH YOUR JEANS!

Decorative Stitching + Embellishment Ages 10–14

Oil Painting the Nantucket Landscape

OIL PAINTING THE NANTUCKET LANDSCAPE

BEGINNING TECHNIQUE IN OIL PAINTING
In the Studio with Ian Torney

Two 3 day sessions: Sign up for one or both.
Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

3 Day Workshop
Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

COLOR THEORY IN GLAZE:
A FOUR DAY WORKSHOP

Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

Beginner to Intermediate
Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

Beginner to Intermediate
Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

DRAWING TECHNIQUE
Beginner and Intermediate
Adult
(Teens are invited to enroll)

KINDER ARTISTS

Sail Around the World
Explore World Cultures!
Ages 5-9

STONE SOUP
MASKMAKING AND STORYTELLING

A fun approach to the basics of painting!
2 Day Workshop
Youth 9–14

LONG SHED CLAY: 
OPEN STUDIO COMMUNITY MEMBERSHIP

Open to Artists over the Age of 18
Prior Experience needed

Nature Drawing + Journaling:
1 Day Workshop
Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

Let your creativity run wild!
Youth 9–14

DRAWING STILL LIFE:
THE FUNDAMENTALS
In the Studio with Michael Frassinelli

Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

2 Day Workshop
Youth 9+ // Teen 13+

Decorative Stitching + Embellishment
Ages 10–14

For the Intermediate Painting Student
Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)

DISCOVER NANTUCKET:
AN ADVENTURE IN PHOTOGRAPHY

Adult 18+ // All Skill Levels
(Teens are invited to register)

Summer 2026 Dates + Times coming soon...

1 day workshop

Adult 18+
(Teens are invited to register)